Read what people think about The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester, and write your own review.
The Professor and the Madman A Tale of Murder, Insanity, and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary
by Simon Winchester
Hardcover: Jan 1998,
256 pages.
Paperback: Jul 2005,
288 pages.
Rated of 5
by Elizabeth Very Interesting
This book is excellent for any word lover, but is a bit stilted and detailed.
It was very clever how the author put a page from the dictionary as the beginning of each chapter and the subject of that chapter dealt with the word.
From page 220..."The total length of type--all hand-set, for the books were done by letterpress, still discernible in the delicately impressed feel of the inked-on paper--is 178 miles, the distance between London and the outskirts of Manchester."
Dr. Minor, the madman, was an interesting character and the perfect person to "write" the English Oxford Dictionary...the professor, (Professor Murray) was perfect as well. You feel sorry for Dr. Minor in his circumstances, but rejoice at what he did.
His death and burial are described as this: From Page 219..."Dr. William Minor, who was among the greatest of contributors to the finest dictionary in all the English language, died forgotten in obscurity, and is buried beside a slum."
It isn't of high interest, but keeps you reading because of the history.
I was wavering between a 2 and a 3 but am going with a 3/5 rating.
Rated of 5
by Sam Staying Power
It's a relatively small book, appealing and lackluster simultaneously.
You will never forget the mechanics of how the OED was created, you will ruminate endlessly regarding the innovations of a madman, and you will be glad you read the book.
You will not gravitate to the edge or your seat or stay awake nights reading it. But, you will not forget it.
Rated of 5
by Millie The Surgeon of Crowthorne
I was fascinated from the first page. In 1978 I treated myself to a complete set of the OED (13 volumes) and have used it ever since and have always been amazed at the wealth of information for every word including the first instance of its use and changes in the spelling, but gave no thought to the editor or compilers. What a delight to read, not only a history of the project but the compelling tale of the sad, brilliant, flawed mind of one of its chief contributors and his journey from America to Broadmoor. My copy of the book was published under the title above and the subtitle is 'A Tale of Murder, Madness and The Oxford English Dictionary' I loved it, will read it again and have recommended it to my book group.
Rated of 5
by eliendriel Who Knew the Dictionary Could be So Much Fun?
I read this book on a whim, and could not put it down. If you liked the style of "Manhunt," or "Devil in the White City," then you'll love this book. The author takes the historical development of the Oxford English Dictionary, focuses the sub-story on one incredibly unique and interesting event in the dictionary's creation, and spins a true tale that is engrossing and enlightening. I had no idea that a dictionary could be so exciting! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a good, intellectual read.
Rated of 5
by CHizy the professor and the mad man
This book sucks. it talks too much about stuff that is unrelated to the story of the two protagonists. there are times when it goes off topic so far that the reader forgets what the main point or the plot is. I do not recommend this book to not-boring people.
Rated of 5
by Mike H
An excellently written account of the making of the OED and the lives of Dr. Murray and Dr. Minor. Some criticize the book for being too simple at times, overly-exaggerated, or boring. However, a book about the dictionary and the characters behind its making is not suitable for all crowds. Also, this book is everything it was intended to be: a quick, easy read that captivates the reader's mind in an interesting story while informing the reader of the making of the OED. Not a masterpiece, but it is definetely a must read for philologists and those who like quick reads. However, note that it isn't a fact-ridden account (some people seemed to have wanted the book to be a boring biography).
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