Gordon S. Jackson

I received an early review copy of this book. This is not a book I would typically have on my to read list, so I am very grateful it fell into my lap. I loved it. I wouldn't say I am "word snob" but I do love to analyze how things affect one another. This book delved deep into how versatile our language is and how it affects our world from relationships to politics to entertainment to academia. I learned a lot while reading this book which is always a bonus. The author was funny as well. I show more wasn't expecting to laugh so much at a book about language and words, but the author was clever and I loved his use of the footnotes. I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever corrected another on their words or who has ever wondered "where'd that word come from?". And now I realized I have never been so self conscious about my grammar in a book review before, lol. show less

When I saw Meet the Dog Who Didn’t Sh*t on Librarything Early Reviewers I didn't know what to expect, I just loved the title. After reading it, I can honestly say I loved the entire book. In fact, this may be my all-time favourite book about words perhaps, at least partly, as a Canadian, similar to the author who is from S. Africa, I am always stumbling somewhere between American and proper spelling. Seriously, whatever possessed Americans to drop the u from so many words...sorry, a pet show more peeve of mine.

Anyway (if I can be permitted to use a meaningless word as explained in the book) in case you're wondering, the title was the result of a misunderstanding between the author and a co-worker. Also, I have to say, I still refuse to accept that ‘irregardless’ is a word and don’t care if it has been begrudgingly accepted by Merriam-Webster, it is just wrong.

So to sum up, this is one fun informative read and I enjoyed it immensely. For anyone who loves words and many of the the quirks of the English language or just wants to know when to properly use who or whom (and who or whom doesn’t), this is the book for you. show less

Enjoyed immensely. Good references for more info or to follow up. Could have been "dry" material but the author's humor and everyday examples kept me engaged. I would recommend it to anyone who values words and reading. If you are writing this is a must-read. Saw some of my own English language issues and found his corrections spot on and succinct! Enjoyable and educational.

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?

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 show more 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. show less