Meet The Dog That Didn't Sh*t by Gordon S Jackson

 

Meet The Dog That Didn't Sh*t
Gordon S Jackson
4 Stars

Pages: 259
Genre: Non Fiction
Published: 13 Jan 2022
Publisher: Black Rose Writing

Publisher's Blurb

This set of personal reflections on English words is based partly on the author's background as a South African who grew up immersed in British English. But his odd encounters with American English (one of which leads to the book's title) are only one aspect of this blog-like compilation.

Entries range from odd words, like the term for using cheese to predict the future, to problems with using spell check; from famous last words to tongue twisters; and from blunders caused by typos to a baby's first words.

This expansive collection is suffused with a quirky sense of humor and numerous personal reflections — on a pun heard in high school that resonates sixty years later and the author's stand on preserving the meaning of “notorious.”

Several jokes (including one about onomatopoeia) add to brightening the reader's journey, as does his introduction to the non-existent but intriguing Ms. Lillian Mountweazel. More seriously, he reflects on the pros and cons of politically correct language and offers concluding thoughts on the importance of choosing and using words carefully.

Review

How do I write a review of a book that sets out to educate the average person on the dos and don'ts of the English language without falling foul of the author's rules?

Will my review be regarded as meaningless if I break any of the cardinal rules that Mr Jackson goes to great lengths to explain.

I'm desperate to avoid cliches like the plague.

I love words and I love this compilation of mini essays on the meaning and use of words and the various types of words that intrigue and entertain.

I read this from cover to cover in one sitting but it is just as easy to dip into when the fancy takes you. My only gripe is that it was all over far too soon.

An excellent (great, superb, sublime) collection of word related facts and trivia.

The Author

I retired from 32 years as a professor and administrator at Whitworth University (Spokane, Wash.) in 2015.

My two newest books were released in November: my third satirical novel, about a church’s mission trip that goes badly wrong, and a light-hearted book about words and language. They are titled “The Mission Trip to San Pedro 2” and “Meet the Dog that Didn’t Sh*t—101 Reflections on Words and Their Magic.”
One reviewer said the novel is “A hilarious and eye-opening look behind the scenes at a feel-good mission trip that goes horribly wrong. Or does it? Gordon Jackson strikes at the importance of getting international missions right and challenges the motives and methods of the sending church today.” 

Here’s the link: https://wipfandstock.com/9781666731842/the-mission-trip-to-san-pedro-2/

Then there’s “Meet the Dog.” One reviewer described it as “A joyful, light-hearted romp through a lifetime of collecting, exploring and sharing the wonderful world of words.” Another said, “Like a master confectioner with an endless supply of ingredients, Gordon Jackson has created a broad and irresistible selection of treats for word lovers.” [Gordon pauses for head swollen with pride to subside.]

Some of you will be grateful to know that the book has an entry on “Whom,” a word Calvin Trillin said is intended to make everyone sound like a butler.

You can read more here: https://www.blackrosewriting.com/humor/meetthedogthatdidnt

___________________________________________________________

If you have a book you'd like to be featured on the blog you can submit it by emailing torchwood1968@gmail.com 

or by contacting me on Twitter https://twitter.com/kevin_cannon

Fancy becoming a book reviewer - check out Reedsy Discovery and earn $25 for your first review

_______________________________________________________________________