What do you think?
Rate this book
Once Upon a Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids—Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories
Where do words come from?—Teaching kids ages 9 to 12 vocabulary through word origins
The English language is made up of words from different places, events, and periods of time. Each of those words has an exciting story to tell us about where, when, how, and why they came about. Once Upon a Word is packed with easy-to-understand definitions and awesome word origin stories. With this dictionary for kids, you can understand the history and meaning of English words, improve your vocabulary and spelling, and learn to play with language.
Explore how weird words like gnome , fun words like zombie , and common words like caterpillar came to exist. Discover why some words sound funnier than others (like cackle , sizzle , and twang ) and why some groups of words start with the same few letters (like hydrate , hydrogen , and fire hydrant ). In this dictionary for kids, there's a whole world of English words to uncover!
This unique dictionary for kids
See how the English language evolved with this colorful dictionary for kids.
The English language is made up of words from different places, events, and periods of time. Each of those words has an exciting story to tell us about where, when, how, and why they came about. Once Upon a Word is packed with easy-to-understand definitions and awesome word origin stories. With this dictionary for kids, you can understand the history and meaning of English words, improve your vocabulary and spelling, and learn to play with language.
Explore how weird words like gnome , fun words like zombie , and common words like caterpillar came to exist. Discover why some words sound funnier than others (like cackle , sizzle , and twang ) and why some groups of words start with the same few letters (like hydrate , hydrogen , and fire hydrant ). In this dictionary for kids, there's a whole world of English words to uncover!
This unique dictionary for kids
See how the English language evolved with this colorful dictionary for kids.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2020
193 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
Jess Zafarris
6 books66 followersJess Zafarris is an author and speaker whose work primarily addresses words and language, but also social media, advertising, communications, and TTRPGs. She’s the author of Once Upon a Word (2020), Words from Hell (2023), and Useless Etymology (2025). A former content director for Writer’s Digest, Adweek, and Ragan Communications, she now joyfully discusses word origins on TikTok and Instagram, cohosts the podcast Words Unravelled, and runs the blog Useless Etymology. She is an adjunct professor at Emerson College, Editor-at-Large for Ragan and PR Daily, a contributor and social media partner for Dictionarycom, a regular speaker for Writer's Digest, and a writer at Indie Agency News. She produces and hosts events including PR Daily’s Social Media Conference. She even dabbles in horror fiction occasionally. Her work and insights have appeared in NPR, The New York Times, The Guardian, Harper’s, and BBC World Service.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 28, 2025
The English language is a twisty beast.
Once Upon a time, a word was born.
Words are picked up from all sorts of countries, time periods and languages and then are funneled into English.
When you understand the history and meaning of the words you use, you also gain a better understanding of language - and the world!This word-origin guide provides an in-depth look and explanation into some of the oddest English words.
Included in this book is a chart of word roots, prefixes and suffixes as well as a little bit about where the months got their names.
And, of course, it defines a plethora of words - from common ones to obscure - including their origin stories.
At the beginning of each letter for the alphabet was a fabulous little drawing to brighten up the dictionary.
There were SO many fun word origins - for example, the word "molar" (your back teeth) likely came from the latin word for millstone (for grinding grain into flour).
And the sound effect for laugh used to be hlihhan in Old English (before we settled on hahaha)!
AND ghost came from the Old English word gast which was often used to mean "breath".
As a huge fan of highly detailed books focused on the mundane and obscure - I adored this one! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the author considers doing an idiom sequel!
A huge thank you to the author and Rockridge Press for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
March 8, 2020
This is an amazing word origin guide for kids, but adults will love it too.
From Aardvark to Zombie, the book tells you how each word originated, and gives a fun and educational anecdote about each word.
I found this entertaining and learned a lot, even as an adult. One sample: The word "pants" came from an Italian comedic character called Pantaloun, who wore snug red tights over his skinny legs!
Learn where the words, Zombie, Umpire, Husky, and many more come from, with historic, educational, and sometimes amusing stories accompanying each one.
If you want to be entertained while improving your vocabulary, no matter what your age, you will enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book from Callisto Media. My review is voluntary.
From Aardvark to Zombie, the book tells you how each word originated, and gives a fun and educational anecdote about each word.
I found this entertaining and learned a lot, even as an adult. One sample: The word "pants" came from an Italian comedic character called Pantaloun, who wore snug red tights over his skinny legs!
Learn where the words, Zombie, Umpire, Husky, and many more come from, with historic, educational, and sometimes amusing stories accompanying each one.
If you want to be entertained while improving your vocabulary, no matter what your age, you will enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book from Callisto Media. My review is voluntary.
February 16, 2020
Way more fun than your ordinary dictionary!
While I'm hardly the younger reader this book is aimed at, I enjoyed this book immensely. Anyone with an interest in words - whatever their age - will likely feel the same.
I especially love the words that used to mean something else entirely. For example, "bully" used to mean sweetheart in the 1500s. (Fun fact!) And I loved sharing with my ukelele-playing 10 year old that the word for her instrument comes from the Hawaiian for "leaping flea"!
I found myself saying "How interesting!" and "So cool!" repeatedly while I was reading this one! I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
While I'm hardly the younger reader this book is aimed at, I enjoyed this book immensely. Anyone with an interest in words - whatever their age - will likely feel the same.
I especially love the words that used to mean something else entirely. For example, "bully" used to mean sweetheart in the 1500s. (Fun fact!) And I loved sharing with my ukelele-playing 10 year old that the word for her instrument comes from the Hawaiian for "leaping flea"!
I found myself saying "How interesting!" and "So cool!" repeatedly while I was reading this one! I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
February 13, 2020
This is a fun and helpful book for better understanding the meaning of words. It has charts of Greek and Latin roots, as well as, charts of prefixes and suffixes. There are also dictionaries of where words come from. This book will be a good recourse for our homeschooling family. Thank you NetGalley for a complimentary arc to review.
November 22, 2021
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
We. Love. This. Book! Once Upon a Word has made my son curious about words and their origins, and I love how kid-friendly the content is.He's a little bummed when certain words aren't listed, but it's a minor quibble. For example, he wanted to know where the word violin came from, but it goes from villain to virtuous. We just read about vampire and venom instead! Edit 03/04/20: A kind person pointed out that violin is located on page 250! It's in a separate section for music.
Once Upon a Word started a game we've dubbed Name That Word. One of us will read a definition, and everyone else will guess what the word is. It makes the monsters think and come up with words they might not normally use, or they learn something new (always a good thing). Jacob and I will make silly guesses, or say something to get them going in the right direction, if they're having trouble. We have a lot of fun with it! The definitions usually contain the word, or some variation of it and its origins, so we say "blank" to make it a little more challenging (at least during the first round).
The illustrations in this book are also fantastic! There aren't a lot of them, but I really like what's there! The book is pleasing to look at and enjoyable to flip through. It snags your attention and makes you want to stop on certain pages (there's one for each letter). I'm really happy I had an opportunity to read and review Once Upon A Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids--Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories, and recommend it for families that have children interested in words and language (or just people that like knowing where things come from).
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Amazon | Pinterest
We. Love. This. Book! Once Upon a Word has made my son curious about words and their origins, and I love how kid-friendly the content is.
Once Upon a Word started a game we've dubbed Name That Word. One of us will read a definition, and everyone else will guess what the word is. It makes the monsters think and come up with words they might not normally use, or they learn something new (always a good thing). Jacob and I will make silly guesses, or say something to get them going in the right direction, if they're having trouble. We have a lot of fun with it! The definitions usually contain the word, or some variation of it and its origins, so we say "blank" to make it a little more challenging (at least during the first round).
The illustrations in this book are also fantastic! There aren't a lot of them, but I really like what's there! The book is pleasing to look at and enjoyable to flip through. It snags your attention and makes you want to stop on certain pages (there's one for each letter). I'm really happy I had an opportunity to read and review Once Upon A Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids--Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories, and recommend it for families that have children interested in words and language (or just people that like knowing where things come from).
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Bloglovin' | Amazon | Pinterest
February 25, 2020
This is a fascinating collection of words, their definitions, and etymology. Every young adult should be exposed to the information contained therein. Maybe some (every) older adult should take a peek as well. It will open their eyes to the world of wonder that is our common tongue.
English is a complicated language made the more so by its many varied sources. My hat is off to any adult or older youth who tries to learn this language. It is not really a singular language but better understood as an amalgam of words and phrases from around the world. This truth clearly presents itself through these pages.
Zafarris has done the English-speaking community a tremendous service by demonstrating the rich and varied history and sources of the words which we use every day. Her work goes to show that English is indebted to virtually every tongue and tribe from around the world.
Those of us who speak this mixture of the world’s languages can on stand in amazement at the rich heritage which the world has brought to our doorstep through the gift of their words which we have in turned incorporated into our everyday vernacular.
Those xenophobic people among us need not be afraid that they will lose their heritage and uniqueness. We have already embraced the world and we are all the richer for having done so.
Upon request the publisher sent me a copy of the book to review.
English is a complicated language made the more so by its many varied sources. My hat is off to any adult or older youth who tries to learn this language. It is not really a singular language but better understood as an amalgam of words and phrases from around the world. This truth clearly presents itself through these pages.
Zafarris has done the English-speaking community a tremendous service by demonstrating the rich and varied history and sources of the words which we use every day. Her work goes to show that English is indebted to virtually every tongue and tribe from around the world.
Those of us who speak this mixture of the world’s languages can on stand in amazement at the rich heritage which the world has brought to our doorstep through the gift of their words which we have in turned incorporated into our everyday vernacular.
Those xenophobic people among us need not be afraid that they will lose their heritage and uniqueness. We have already embraced the world and we are all the richer for having done so.
Upon request the publisher sent me a copy of the book to review.
February 23, 2020
Did you know that the word "muscle" comes from the word "mouse"? In particular, it means little mouse, because when you flex your muscles it looks like you have mice running under your skin. Gnome is Greek for earth-dweller. Zombie is from the Kimbudu word nzambi, meaning "soul" and the Spanish word sombra, meaning "ghost." There are so many fun words here.
This book was a joy to read, and as the geek that I am I read it cover-to-cover. I enjoyed the chapters on food and music at the end, and the etymology of the song "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". I'd recommend it for English/language arts teachers and classrooms at the upper elementary and middle school level, and it would be fun to present a "word-of-the-day" to a class. It might be an enjoyable book for kids that have upcoming standardized tests, and feel a little "blocked" about learning vocabulary, since it's so approachable. Each letter of the alphabet has a fun illustration. Jess Zafarris is gifted in choosing interesting words in her 256-page dictionary.
Thank you, Callisto, for the review copy!
This book was a joy to read, and as the geek that I am I read it cover-to-cover. I enjoyed the chapters on food and music at the end, and the etymology of the song "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star". I'd recommend it for English/language arts teachers and classrooms at the upper elementary and middle school level, and it would be fun to present a "word-of-the-day" to a class. It might be an enjoyable book for kids that have upcoming standardized tests, and feel a little "blocked" about learning vocabulary, since it's so approachable. Each letter of the alphabet has a fun illustration. Jess Zafarris is gifted in choosing interesting words in her 256-page dictionary.
Thank you, Callisto, for the review copy!
December 19, 2020
I received an ARC of this entomology book for kids from Callisto Press in exchange for a review. It is an excellent study guide as improved vocabulary has been shown to significantly improve test scores.
February 19, 2020
This dictionary focuses on word origins to teach vocabulary through the stories and history of words. The first section explains the roots of common Latin and Greek words and how the prefixes and suffixes attached to words can give clues to their meaning or completely change the meaning of the main word.
Organized alphabetically, each entry gives a paragraph with an explanation of the origin story of the word, along with its meaning, root language, and sometimes an example sentence. I really love the choice of interesting words, and how the information is organized.
At the beginning of each alphabet letter section, there is an illustration of that letter and a word like "Buoy" for the Bs, "Fossil" for the Fs, "Jewels" for the Js, and "Pterodactyl" for the Ps. The illustration is of a baby pterodactyl hatching out of its egg, or a 'J' encrusted with jewels. The illustrations cleverly use the letter itself in the illustration, and I like the cartoony style and bold colors and thick lines of the artwork.
The last section focuses on word play, with entries for words about food and music, and how different cultures developed words to describe their favorite foods and types of musical instruments.
The writing style is just right for readers aged 8-14 who are curious about words. When I was a girl, I loved to learn new words. I just wish I could have had a book like this when I was a kid!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
Organized alphabetically, each entry gives a paragraph with an explanation of the origin story of the word, along with its meaning, root language, and sometimes an example sentence. I really love the choice of interesting words, and how the information is organized.
At the beginning of each alphabet letter section, there is an illustration of that letter and a word like "Buoy" for the Bs, "Fossil" for the Fs, "Jewels" for the Js, and "Pterodactyl" for the Ps. The illustration is of a baby pterodactyl hatching out of its egg, or a 'J' encrusted with jewels. The illustrations cleverly use the letter itself in the illustration, and I like the cartoony style and bold colors and thick lines of the artwork.
The last section focuses on word play, with entries for words about food and music, and how different cultures developed words to describe their favorite foods and types of musical instruments.
The writing style is just right for readers aged 8-14 who are curious about words. When I was a girl, I loved to learn new words. I just wish I could have had a book like this when I was a kid!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
February 21, 2020
I would have loved this book as a kid! (I love it as an adult, too!) It's full of fun trivia, and it talks about the why and where of words. I could see myself using this when I was teaching to add some extra fun to the curriculum. I could also use it to help create a passive program at the library.
This book has all kinds of hidden gems. It talks about the definition of etymology; the evolution of the English language; popular prefixes, roots, and suffixes; and much more! The book encourages kids to learn to "think critically about language." Like a typical dictionary, you'll find a variety of words, each with its definition, pronunciation, part of speech, historical background, and etymology. Unlike a typical dictionary, the information is presented in a condensed narrative way that I think helps promote committing it to memory. Each letter of the alphabet has five to ten pages with three to five words per page. There are also two bonus sections at the end that focus on food and music words.
This book is great for kids who love trivia, reading, words, BrainQuest, and learning! It's also a handy tool for teachers to add some extra fun to lessons.
I received a free copy of this book for review, but that did not influence my review.
This book has all kinds of hidden gems. It talks about the definition of etymology; the evolution of the English language; popular prefixes, roots, and suffixes; and much more! The book encourages kids to learn to "think critically about language." Like a typical dictionary, you'll find a variety of words, each with its definition, pronunciation, part of speech, historical background, and etymology. Unlike a typical dictionary, the information is presented in a condensed narrative way that I think helps promote committing it to memory. Each letter of the alphabet has five to ten pages with three to five words per page. There are also two bonus sections at the end that focus on food and music words.
This book is great for kids who love trivia, reading, words, BrainQuest, and learning! It's also a handy tool for teachers to add some extra fun to lessons.
I received a free copy of this book for review, but that did not influence my review.
February 18, 2020
You don't sit down and read a dictionary front to back.
It is the same with this book. It is not intended to read front to back, or even back to front. It is like a dictionary in that you look up things in it, but you don't sit down and read it cover to cover.
Having said that, this is a very easy to look up book of common words that kids might have an interest in knowing about.
If anything, there isn't enough information about the words. And it doesn't go into enough of the words.
For example "Nasty"
It say that it comes from the Old French word Villenastre meaning Villainous. But then doesn't go into where Villain comes from, which is from Villanus meaning farmhand. (You actually have to go to Villain to find that out.)
Good introduction to etymology. The introduction is a bit boring, so skip through to the actual words. Also, there aren't a lot of pictures, so don't be put off by that too.
Thanks to Callistro Publisher's Club for making this book available for an honest review.
It is the same with this book. It is not intended to read front to back, or even back to front. It is like a dictionary in that you look up things in it, but you don't sit down and read it cover to cover.
Having said that, this is a very easy to look up book of common words that kids might have an interest in knowing about.
If anything, there isn't enough information about the words. And it doesn't go into enough of the words.
For example "Nasty"
It say that it comes from the Old French word Villenastre meaning Villainous. But then doesn't go into where Villain comes from, which is from Villanus meaning farmhand. (You actually have to go to Villain to find that out.)
Good introduction to etymology. The introduction is a bit boring, so skip through to the actual words. Also, there aren't a lot of pictures, so don't be put off by that too.
Thanks to Callistro Publisher's Club for making this book available for an honest review.
February 16, 2020
"Once Upon a Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids--Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories" is a terrific teaching tool and a fun learning experience. Both children and adults will greatly enjoy discovering the origins and definitions of many common words--and some not so common--and the language elements which come together to form those words. Author Jess Zafarris, "an award-winning innovator of digital content and marketing solutions and a prolific online and print journalist", uses etymology (the study of the way words have changed over time) to help others also become a "word detective". Filled with charming illustrations, this wonderful book is a fabulous find for lovers of words, language, and history. Along with the definitions, there are also fascinating facts such as: "All Words Tell A Story"; "Understanding Etymology"; "A Year Of Word Origins" (how each month of the year got its name): "The Loneliest Words"; "A Bellyful Of Words" (foods we love to eat); "Now That's An Earful!" (musical words); and much, much more. The featured words include a varied range form Aardvark through to Zoology.
Book Copy Gratis Callisto Publishers
Book Copy Gratis Callisto Publishers
February 20, 2020
As a child, I was a dictionary nerd. Loved to read it to discover new words and their meanings. I really enjoyed reading the word meanings and pronunciations. Reading about the history of words really added another dimension to understanding. It could also add to the current phenomenon of urban words and their meanings. This book would bring tremendous educational benefits to students (and a few adults). This book is one that every student should have at home to refer to while reading and writing assignments from 6th-12th grades. Since the information contained within is invaluable, this book should also be a required reference in every public library.
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for my volunteer review.
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for my volunteer review.
March 30, 2020
If you have curious kids who love the written word, are avid readers or just simply want to know more about a word’s origin, this guide is perfect.
Homo sapiens started forming words more than 1.7 million years ago. Since then, words have changed. This is called Etymology. Included in this guide readers will learn about roots and branches from various cultures, origins and more. This book is setup like a dictionary. Readers can locate a word alphabetically. There are sections on word play included here too. Colorful and fun illustrations depict some popular words. The back pages share references and resources for further learning. Parents and teachers will love this little gem for classrooms and home.
Homo sapiens started forming words more than 1.7 million years ago. Since then, words have changed. This is called Etymology. Included in this guide readers will learn about roots and branches from various cultures, origins and more. This book is setup like a dictionary. Readers can locate a word alphabetically. There are sections on word play included here too. Colorful and fun illustrations depict some popular words. The back pages share references and resources for further learning. Parents and teachers will love this little gem for classrooms and home.
February 10, 2020
This is another one of those "I would've loved this book when I was a kid" books. I have always loved reading, writing, and vocabulary. The book showcases words and the history behind them, to expand kids' vocabulary and spelling. I think this book would be a great help to kids learning English as a second language, as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
February 10, 2020
I received a complimentary copy
I like the newer mix of words that would relate more with kids and keep them entertained.
It can even help people who are learning English. A great reference book that you want to pick up again.
I like the newer mix of words that would relate more with kids and keep them entertained.
It can even help people who are learning English. A great reference book that you want to pick up again.
February 11, 2020
*I read a digital ARC of this title from the publisher via NetGalley.
February 21, 2020
Once Upon A Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary For Kids - by Jess Zafarris is interesting for adults too. It is a very interesting dictionary, not just stating origins and meanings in a dry, matter of fact way, but making it more like someone is right there speaking to you.
It's interesting how much one realizes one doesn't know about certain words, for instance, the word "shiver", "The word 'shiver' originally referred to a small piece or splinter of something, or the act of breaking something into many small pieces. When pirates say 'shiver me timbers,' they're talking about the splintering of their wooden ships during battles on rough seas…." I just thought it was some weird expression pirates used, probably referring to a shiver being sent down their body because of surprise, this was an interesting correction to my long held idea.
The word origin of "Alarm" I found quite amusing, it apparently comes from an Italian military cry, meaning "to arms!!" It struck me funny that therefore, when we're waking up to an 'alarm' we've set, it's sort of like startling us awake with "TO ARMS! Get your weapons, get ready for battle!" Which, from a Christian perspective that definition is actually pretty fitting considering the spiritual warfare we wake up to every day.
Some of the origins could have used a little more explanation, for instance, the section on IDENTITY just says, "Your identity is, very basically, what and who you are. It can also describe the way you understand yourself and the way the word sees you. The word comes from the Latin idem, meaning 'the same.'" Why does it come from that Latin word? I'd like to see a little more connection there. But that's more of a fluke. A lot of the definitions give you good explanations - for instance, the word ILLUSION: "…The word 'illusion' originally meant 'mockery' or scorning,' from the Latin illudere, meaning 'to mock' or 'to play with.' This is because an illusionist plays with what you think you see." I see the connection there.
Some give you some insight to the different thinking of people before our time, like the word "Muscle": "'Muscle' comes from the Latin word for muscle, musculus, which is also translated as 'little mouse.' it comes from the Latin base word mus, meaning 'mouse.' Muscles are named after mice because it was thought that flexing your muscles made it look like mice were crawling under your skin!" I don't think I would have ever thought of it that way! It's interesting and amusing to think of the way we think now vs the seemingly strange lines of thinking they had back in time…though I suppose many of our lines are thinking are strange, we just don't think that because we're used to them.
The book also includes several charts giving you many Greek and Latin root words, and many prefixes and suffixes to help you learn how to start figuring out words just from knowing the meaning of different parts.
Overall, this is a very interesting, amusing and informative book…for kids and adults!
I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher. My review did not have to be favorable.
It's interesting how much one realizes one doesn't know about certain words, for instance, the word "shiver", "The word 'shiver' originally referred to a small piece or splinter of something, or the act of breaking something into many small pieces. When pirates say 'shiver me timbers,' they're talking about the splintering of their wooden ships during battles on rough seas…." I just thought it was some weird expression pirates used, probably referring to a shiver being sent down their body because of surprise, this was an interesting correction to my long held idea.
The word origin of "Alarm" I found quite amusing, it apparently comes from an Italian military cry, meaning "to arms!!" It struck me funny that therefore, when we're waking up to an 'alarm' we've set, it's sort of like startling us awake with "TO ARMS! Get your weapons, get ready for battle!" Which, from a Christian perspective that definition is actually pretty fitting considering the spiritual warfare we wake up to every day.
Some of the origins could have used a little more explanation, for instance, the section on IDENTITY just says, "Your identity is, very basically, what and who you are. It can also describe the way you understand yourself and the way the word sees you. The word comes from the Latin idem, meaning 'the same.'" Why does it come from that Latin word? I'd like to see a little more connection there. But that's more of a fluke. A lot of the definitions give you good explanations - for instance, the word ILLUSION: "…The word 'illusion' originally meant 'mockery' or scorning,' from the Latin illudere, meaning 'to mock' or 'to play with.' This is because an illusionist plays with what you think you see." I see the connection there.
Some give you some insight to the different thinking of people before our time, like the word "Muscle": "'Muscle' comes from the Latin word for muscle, musculus, which is also translated as 'little mouse.' it comes from the Latin base word mus, meaning 'mouse.' Muscles are named after mice because it was thought that flexing your muscles made it look like mice were crawling under your skin!" I don't think I would have ever thought of it that way! It's interesting and amusing to think of the way we think now vs the seemingly strange lines of thinking they had back in time…though I suppose many of our lines are thinking are strange, we just don't think that because we're used to them.
The book also includes several charts giving you many Greek and Latin root words, and many prefixes and suffixes to help you learn how to start figuring out words just from knowing the meaning of different parts.
Overall, this is a very interesting, amusing and informative book…for kids and adults!
I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher. My review did not have to be favorable.
March 10, 2020
While the is not a complete dictionary, it is definitely an interesting one. My 8 year old loves to look through dictionaries to learn new words. She is enjoying looking through this one just to see where these words originate from. This fun book explains how the words evolved and their origins. There are Latin and Greek root charts. This dictionary is color coded and there is a fun picture at the beginning of each section.
This is a great dictionary for kids, especially ones who are learning how to use a dictionary.
I received a free copy of this product from Callisto Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way.
This is a great dictionary for kids, especially ones who are learning how to use a dictionary.
I received a free copy of this product from Callisto Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way.
March 6, 2020
I am always on the lookout for a good linguistics book, but I also like books that focus specifically on etymology, such as Once Upon a Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids ―Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories by Jess Zafarris. It is a valuable children's dictionary that explores the origins of words over 268 pages. Some of the words I especially enjoyed reading more about were "eucalyptus," (which literally means "well-covered") and "ridiculous" (which comes from the Latin "ridere," meaning "to laugh"). Each word is explained through an informative paragraph of a few sentences, educating us on the meaning. The book is a great way to enhance your vocabulary and learn about the roots of a wide range of words.
I received this book for review.
I received this book for review.
April 2, 2020
I’ve been dipping into this book and sharing bits with my family. I’m definitely going to use it more with my daughter when we do more at home learning. The book is very cleverly written, the words chosen with care and consideration to attract kids and adults attention. The details of the origins are obviously really well researched and presented in a really easily read way. Nice presentation and layouts too.
March 27, 2020
Once Upon a Word: A Word-Origin Dictionary for Kids—Building Vocabulary Through Etymology, Definitions & Stories by Jess Zafarris shows readers of all ages that the English language is made up of words from different places, events, and periods of time. Each of those words has an exciting story to tell us about where, when, how, and why they came about. It has easy-to-understand definitions and awesome word-origin stories, helping readers understand the history and meaning of English words, improve vocabulary and spelling, and learn to play with language. Explore how weird words like gnome, fun words like zombie, and common words like caterpillar came to exist. Discover why some words sound funnier than others (like cackle, sizzle, and twang) and why some groups of words start with the same few letters (like hydrate, hydrogen, and fire hydrant).
Once Upon a Word is an accessible and entertaining resource for readers of all ages. I like that it uses the history of words, the building blocks of words, and how different languages have created and continue to change the English language. After the rundown on the building blocks and things that have shaped language starts the actually dictionary part of the book- explaining each word in detail. This is a great tool for gaining a better understanding of favorite or interesting words, but it is not the most entertaining part. I really enjoyed the two sections that follow, which explore food and music related words. Since food and music are two of my favorite things I found this to be very interesting. I think that this would be a good classroom or school library resource for middle grade readers and older. However, it might also be helpful to those approaching the high school horrors of standardized tests that seem to be very important to their adults. The understanding of the roots and building blocks of words that are laid out in the beginning of the book can help all readers with their vocabulary and the ability to guess the correct meaning of most words- especially in a multiple choice test. I thought that some of the color and formatting choices really broke up the text on the pages nicely, making the read book as a whole less intimidating to readers.
Once Upon a Word is a well organized and written resources that will help its readers understand some of the building blocks and influences of the English language while offering some humor and interesting tidbits along the way.
Once Upon a Word is an accessible and entertaining resource for readers of all ages. I like that it uses the history of words, the building blocks of words, and how different languages have created and continue to change the English language. After the rundown on the building blocks and things that have shaped language starts the actually dictionary part of the book- explaining each word in detail. This is a great tool for gaining a better understanding of favorite or interesting words, but it is not the most entertaining part. I really enjoyed the two sections that follow, which explore food and music related words. Since food and music are two of my favorite things I found this to be very interesting. I think that this would be a good classroom or school library resource for middle grade readers and older. However, it might also be helpful to those approaching the high school horrors of standardized tests that seem to be very important to their adults. The understanding of the roots and building blocks of words that are laid out in the beginning of the book can help all readers with their vocabulary and the ability to guess the correct meaning of most words- especially in a multiple choice test. I thought that some of the color and formatting choices really broke up the text on the pages nicely, making the read book as a whole less intimidating to readers.
Once Upon a Word is a well organized and written resources that will help its readers understand some of the building blocks and influences of the English language while offering some humor and interesting tidbits along the way.
July 15, 2020
When our kids were little, I had a children’s dictionary and every night we would read ten or so words and pronounce them and read the definitions. Because it was a children’s dictionary, the words and definitions were simple and were accompanied by illustrations when appropriate. This was an easy way to build their vocabulary and also help with spelling. It was just another way of reading to them and helping them absorb new words and I found it extremely helpful for them. All of our kids were early readers and I attribute it to the daily reading in our home when they were very young.
ONCE UPON A WORD doesn’t just offer pronunciation and definitions, but also shares where words came from and their etymology.
Etymology is the study of the way words have changed over time. It looks at where words came from and when they were invented. By understanding word origins, we learn more about how and why the words were first made up.
If you want to help your child with their spelling, knowing the word’s origin and root can help. This book offers all of these and more including definition, pronunciation, synonyms, the part of speech, and any historical information about the word. The very end of the book shares a list of food words and music words as a fun way of sharing the culture around words.
For example:
KAIR-uh-boo
noun
A caribou is a large type of reindeer. Its name is an Algonquian (Native American) word meaning “pawer” or “scratcher” because it digs in the snow with its hooves to find moss and grass.
Only one word from each letter of the alphabet is pictured at the beginning of each section. The words in this book are a bit more advanced: botanical, illuminate, mnemonic, and ruckus for example. So this book is targeted for the upper elementary age group. I could see this being used if your child struggles with writing, vocabulary, or spelling. Tables in the beginning of the book offer the Latin and Greek-based roots as well as common prefixes and suffixes.
Homeschooling families will find this dictionary beneficial as well. The bright colors and illustrations draw the kids in and the definitions are written specifically for kids to read and understand unlike adult dictionaries. The definitions “talk” to the reader like a parent would when explaining a word which I appreciated aside from other kids’ dictionaries. This is one to definitely add to your home library.
ONCE UPON A WORD doesn’t just offer pronunciation and definitions, but also shares where words came from and their etymology.
Etymology is the study of the way words have changed over time. It looks at where words came from and when they were invented. By understanding word origins, we learn more about how and why the words were first made up.
If you want to help your child with their spelling, knowing the word’s origin and root can help. This book offers all of these and more including definition, pronunciation, synonyms, the part of speech, and any historical information about the word. The very end of the book shares a list of food words and music words as a fun way of sharing the culture around words.
For example:
KAIR-uh-boo
noun
A caribou is a large type of reindeer. Its name is an Algonquian (Native American) word meaning “pawer” or “scratcher” because it digs in the snow with its hooves to find moss and grass.
Only one word from each letter of the alphabet is pictured at the beginning of each section. The words in this book are a bit more advanced: botanical, illuminate, mnemonic, and ruckus for example. So this book is targeted for the upper elementary age group. I could see this being used if your child struggles with writing, vocabulary, or spelling. Tables in the beginning of the book offer the Latin and Greek-based roots as well as common prefixes and suffixes.
Homeschooling families will find this dictionary beneficial as well. The bright colors and illustrations draw the kids in and the definitions are written specifically for kids to read and understand unlike adult dictionaries. The definitions “talk” to the reader like a parent would when explaining a word which I appreciated aside from other kids’ dictionaries. This is one to definitely add to your home library.
February 18, 2020
Learn some real proven history after the needless evolutionary statement at the beginning. Start with some roots, prefixes and suffixes. Is a knowledge of etymology worth having? Absolutely! Learn more about all the possibilities and opportunities that can open up for you.
Part 2 - Etymology from Aardvark to Zoology.
With four different page edge colors used it is easy to see where the next letter of the alphabet starts. The given word is also written in that color, followed by a pronunciation guide and what type of word it is.
Whilst not a story book, this is definitely a book that kids can pick up and read. (Our 13 year old did!) Good illustrations accompany the beginning of each new section i.e. letter. At the end you will a fun section containing "A Belly Full of Words" and "Now that's an earful." For those who are curious or concerned you will find the words ghost, witch, wizard and zombie in here.
It is important to know that this book is NOT a comprehensive one on the subject. This has been written for kids and whilst adults may well learn something from them it is likely not 'meaty' enough for most. Great for kids though. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. Thanks, Liz
Part 2 - Etymology from Aardvark to Zoology.
With four different page edge colors used it is easy to see where the next letter of the alphabet starts. The given word is also written in that color, followed by a pronunciation guide and what type of word it is.
Whilst not a story book, this is definitely a book that kids can pick up and read. (Our 13 year old did!) Good illustrations accompany the beginning of each new section i.e. letter. At the end you will a fun section containing "A Belly Full of Words" and "Now that's an earful." For those who are curious or concerned you will find the words ghost, witch, wizard and zombie in here.
It is important to know that this book is NOT a comprehensive one on the subject. This has been written for kids and whilst adults may well learn something from them it is likely not 'meaty' enough for most. Great for kids though. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. Thanks, Liz
February 20, 2020
Words have always intrigued me. This is an interesting dictionary that explains how the languages of words evolved and their origins. It even talks about how they changed throughout history from the old world words to modern day. The dictionary has a section that explains the prefix, roots, and suffix. There is Latin and Greek based roots charts. A few fun charts like A Year of Word Origins that goes over the 12 months in a year.
The dictionary is color coded. This isn’t a full exhausted dictionary. Each word has a pronunciation, grammar.
A few other fun things: “A Belly Full of Words” about foods and where they came from with some history of the origin of the word. A few other fun things like that throughout.
A fun way to teach your kids the skills of looking up words in a book and this is unique and fun. This is a keeper.
I received a copy of this product from Callisto Publisher's in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
The dictionary is color coded. This isn’t a full exhausted dictionary. Each word has a pronunciation, grammar.
A few other fun things: “A Belly Full of Words” about foods and where they came from with some history of the origin of the word. A few other fun things like that throughout.
A fun way to teach your kids the skills of looking up words in a book and this is unique and fun. This is a keeper.
I received a copy of this product from Callisto Publisher's in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
February 18, 2020
VERDICT: A beautiful example that children’s books can be a mine of resources for all, here about language.
Once Upon a Word is a very attractive dictionary designed to develop the vocabulary of young readers. But I bet you would discover treasures there, whatever your age.
It starts with Word Jungle, a part explaining in very simple terms the basics of linguistics: Indo European, Ancient Greek and Latin, and the evolution from Old to Modern English.
I like the smart way the author played with the image of language trees, with roots and branches. From roots, we go to prefixes and suffixes.
Very clear tables are provided: a green one for words having Latin-Based roots.
see my full review with lots of examples and pictures: https://wordsandpeace.com/2020/02/17/...
Once Upon a Word is a very attractive dictionary designed to develop the vocabulary of young readers. But I bet you would discover treasures there, whatever your age.
It starts with Word Jungle, a part explaining in very simple terms the basics of linguistics: Indo European, Ancient Greek and Latin, and the evolution from Old to Modern English.
I like the smart way the author played with the image of language trees, with roots and branches. From roots, we go to prefixes and suffixes.
Very clear tables are provided: a green one for words having Latin-Based roots.
see my full review with lots of examples and pictures: https://wordsandpeace.com/2020/02/17/...
April 2, 2020
Growing up, I didn't put much thought into where words came from. Sometimes a teacher would elaborate on that, but it was mostly just learning to spell and use words correctly. That might have been different had I seen a book like this. Once Upon a Word serves as a way to let kids see where words we use everyday came from. There are plenty of entries to choose from, and colorful illustrations for many of them.
As an adult, I would like to have seen more in-depth information, but it looks like there is enough to get kids interested in learning more about etymology. It would probably be better for older children, but I found things in it that were interesting, so adults can read it, too.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As an adult, I would like to have seen more in-depth information, but it looks like there is enough to get kids interested in learning more about etymology. It would probably be better for older children, but I found things in it that were interesting, so adults can read it, too.
I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2020
Thank you Callisto Publisher's Club and Rockridge Press for this free book! The following review contains my honest opinions.
This book provides a great introduction to Etymology! This book furnishes the reader with a broad reference of root word tables, prefix tables and suffix tables. The definitions are easy to understand and the examples are relatable. Jess Zafarris has a knack for concisely imparting immense information in only a few sentences.
I particularly appreciated the design of this book, the cover art and the interior illustrations.
This book provides a great introduction to Etymology! This book furnishes the reader with a broad reference of root word tables, prefix tables and suffix tables. The definitions are easy to understand and the examples are relatable. Jess Zafarris has a knack for concisely imparting immense information in only a few sentences.
I particularly appreciated the design of this book, the cover art and the interior illustrations.
September 20, 2025
Yeah, sure. I got this from the youth section from my public library, but as a 44-year old logophile I was utterly enchanted by this book. One thing I particularly like about this book is not a matter of its content but it's demographic. For the recommended ages I think this book could provide a challenge--but the kind of challenge that trusts in its readership to rise up to, not debasing their intelligence or trying to go over their heads.
Oh, and this book could also teach a kid what the word "logophile" means without having to say it directly.
Oh, and this book could also teach a kid what the word "logophile" means without having to say it directly.
February 29, 2020
This book is filled with excellent and simple to understand meanings for words along with a little bit of history and origin for where the word came from. I gave immensely enjoyed looking through this book with my 5 year old grandson who has found it highly entertaining to sit and randomly ask what a word means. It has been fun and enjoyable bonding experience for me. I recieved this book as an ARC from Calisto Publishing and Rockridge Press for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews