‘Enlightening, delightful’ Arthur der Weduwen, author of The Library

Why don’t  eleven  and  twelve  end in -teen? The rest of our counting system sits in neatly arithmetical sets of ten, so why do these two rulebreakers seem so at odds with the numbers that follow them?

Admittedly, that’s probably a question that might never have occurred to you. But if you’re even remotely interested in the origins and oddities of language, it’s likely also a question you’re now intrigued to know the answer to.  Nor is it the only question: take a moment to think about how our language operates and even more spring mind. Why do these letters look the way they do? Why are some uppercase and others lowercase? Why are these words in this order? How are you understanding what these seemingly arbitrary shapes and symbols mean, while doubtless hearing them read to you in a voice inside your head? And what is this question mark really doing at this end of this sentence?

Books explaining the origins of our most intriguing words and phrases have long proved popular, but they often overlook the true nuts and bolts of language: the origins of our alphabet and writing system; grammatical rules and conventions; the sound structure of language; and even how our brains and bodies interpret and communicate language itself.  Why Is This a Question?  is a fascinating and enlightening exploration of linguistic questions you’ve likely never thought to ask.

‘Every page will make you stop, think and wonder.’ James Hawes, author of The Shortest History of England

‘Enthralling, with a riveting “who knew?” moment on nearly every page.’ Caroline Taggart, author of Humble Pie and Cold Turkey

Sometimes we all need a little reminder that it’s going to be okay… Open The Cabinet of Calm to discover a comforting word that’s equal to your troubles.

The Cabinet of Calm has been designed to be picked up whenever you need a moment of serenity. Just select the emotion listed that reflects whatever you’re feeling and you’ll be offered a matching linguistic remedy: fifty-one soothing words for troubled times.

These kind words – alongside their definitions and their stories – will bring peace, comfort and delight, and provide fresh hope.

Written with a lightness of touch, The Cabinet of Calm shows us that we’re not alone. Like language, our emotions are universal: someone else has felt like this before and so there’s a word to help, whatever the challenge.

So much more than a book of words, The Cabinet of Calm will soothe your soul and ease your mind. It’s the perfect gift.
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From inside The Cabinet Of Calm…

‘RESPAIR’: a word for a renewed or reinvigorated hope, or a recovery from anguish or hopelessness.

‘WORLDCRAFT’: a collective term for the unique skills, wisdom and experience that an older person has amassed in their lifetime.

‘MELIORISM’: the belief that all things, no matter how bad, can always be improved – given enough determination from people willing to improve them.

‘SYMMACHY’: the act of joining or working together to produce a stronger force than could ever be managed individually – especially in order to overcome something that affects us all.