The Dictionary of Lost Words

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams is a poignant exploration of language, identity, and the silent struggles of women in a changing world. Set against the backdrop of the Oxford English Dictionary's creation, it follows the life of Esme, a motherless girl who finds solace in the world of words.

The Plot

As Esme grows up surrounded by her father's work, she stumbles upon a forgotten word that ignites her curiosity and sets her on a path of discovery. Driven by the desire to collect lost words that hold emotional resonance, she embarks on a secret project to create her own dictionary. Throughout her journey, she grapples with the societal challenges of her time, including the impending Great War and the fight for women's suffrage. Esme's quest becomes a vehicle for understanding her own identity, while also highlighting the power of language to both connect and separate us.

Themes

• Identity and Belonging: Esme's exploration of lost words serves as a metaphor for her search for self.
• Language and Power: The narrative delves into how language shapes our experiences and societal roles.
• Resilience: The backdrop of war and suffrage frames the personal struggles and triumphs of women in that era.

"Words are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives." – A reflection on the story's central theme.

Readers who appreciate the intricacies of language and the depth of character development may also enjoy Williams' other works, as well as novels like The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.