Book of New Zealand Words

Author: Dr Dianne Bardsley
Illustrator: John Reynolds
Hardback - Te Papa Press $44.99 

This elegant, expert, and up-to-date book contains over 1,500 samples from New Zealand’s distinctive vocabulary.I have been avidly reading it over the past weekend - some of my favourites include: bonzer,corker, go crook, mana munch, othersider, poozler,Southland slippers, stonkered, tukus.

For the first time since Harry Orsman's 1997 Dictionary of New Zealand English here are fresh New Zealandisms and examples of their use, from both historical and contemporary sources and all areas of New Zealand life.

Elegant, expert and right up-to-date, the Book of New Zealand Words contains an informed and engaging introduction offering real insight into the development of New Zealand English, the distinctive influence of the Maori language, and the connections between society, the media, and the words we use. The author explores where we really get our words - from politics, food, sports and recreation to common and colloquial sources, and more. 

Specially illustrated by the artist John Reynolds, with works from his masterpiece Cloud and all-new page art that draws on Bardsley's definitions, the Book of New Zealand Words is also beautifully typeset and beautifully designed. It is an indispensable reference for all those interested in words, one which I found utterly fascinating and am very glad to have on my bookshelf.