Let's be clear: this isn't a novel with a plot. A Desk-Book of Errors in English is exactly what the title says—a reference book. Published in 1909, it's a long alphabetical list of words and phrases that people commonly misused back then. Frank H. Vizetelly, a lexicographer and editor, acted as a kind of language referee. He'd point out a mistake, like saying 'between you and I,' explain why it was wrong (it should be 'between you and me'), and then give the correct usage. He tackles everything from pronunciation ('heighth' is wrong, it's 'height') to word choice ('loan' is a noun, don't use it as a verb—say 'lend' instead). It's a snapshot of the rules that defined 'proper' English at the turn of the 20th century.

Why You Should Read It

Reading this today is a trip. It's fascinating for two big reasons. First, you get this immediate sense of connection. You'll nod along, thinking, 'Yep, my boss still says that wrong,' or 'My English teacher drilled that into me.' It shows that the grammar wars aren't new. Second, and more fun, are the rules that now seem totally outdated or even wrong by modern standards. Vizetelly rails against words like 'contact' being used as a verb or 'broadcast' being anything but a farming term for scattering seeds. Today, those uses are completely standard. It's a brilliant, concrete lesson in how language evolves. The 'errors' of 1909 are sometimes the accepted norms of today.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect little book for word nerds, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good 'well, actually' debate about language. It's not something you read cover-to-cover, but it's a fantastic book to dip into for ten minutes at a time. You'll come away with fun trivia, a bit of historical perspective, and maybe a little more humility about the 'right' way to speak. If you think English is a fixed set of rules, this book will gently (and sometimes humorously) prove you wrong.