Delightful Book about Idioms

Title: A Hog on Ice and Other Curious Expressions

Author: Charles Earle Funk

Reviewer: Richard Sesek (educator, wantrepreneur)

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Topic/Intent of book: This book is a delightful and scholarly exploration of the origins of scores of English idioms and expressions. Charles Earle Funk investigates the stories behind phrases that have become so common we rarely stop to question where they came from and others that you may not have heard of. The intent is both educational and entertaining, offering readers a richer understanding of language history and culture.

I selected this book because: This book was given to me a graduation gift by Dr. Jim Carnahan, my advisor for my master’s degree at Illinois. I recently revisited this book because a doctoral student, Savannah Maples, was unaware of the origins of some common expressions, such as “prancing about like an ale house rat” [modern version: jumping around like a crack house rat] or “as crooked as a snake on a staircase.” I leant my copy to them and they have been sharing expressions with others daily since! While those two expressions are not specifically covered in this book, many others are.

Recommendation: Definitely. This book is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy language, history, trivia, and storytelling. It is especially useful for educators, communicators, public speakers, and anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of idiomatic expressions. Because each entry is short and engaging, it works well as a reference book or as a casual read.

Major lessons from this book: I enjoy books that illuminate the history and structure of language, especially those that uncover the origins of everyday expressions. This book offers an engaging combination of linguistics, folklore, and cultural insight. The origins of expressions often reveal past customs, trades, beliefs, and humor. Sometimes the meanings of expressions evolve over time and even take on meanings and connotations opposite of the original meanings.

Some expressions and idioms are based on myths or widely shared apocryphal stories, while others may be based on actual events. Idioms often carry cultural and historical clues hidden in plain sight. Understanding where expressions originate improves our appreciation for how language evolves. This book enhances creativity by encouraging deeper exploration into word/expression origins and their impacts on communication and culture.

Book Inspirations: This book renewed my appreciation for how expressions shape communication and how subtle idiomatic choices can influence clarity, tone, and engagement. It also inspired me to incorporate more linguistic context into my teaching and presentations, helping others recognize the richness and complexity of everyday language.