The Hippopotamus Thesaurus by Samuel Jennings Vinson (Book Reveiw #1928)

Samuel Jennings Vinson’s *The Hippopotamus Thesaurus* is an enchanting and whimsical exploration of language that will delight readers of all ages. This thesaurus is not just a repository of words; it is a vibrant universe populated by curious creatures and vivid narratives that bring the lexicon to life. Through Vinson’s creative lens, each word becomes a character with a story to tell, offering readers a delightful journey through the magical world of vocabulary.

One standout character is the *Bumfuzzle*, described as a sprite-like creature that lives within the pages of books, feeding on big words and growing larger with each delectable bite. Vinson personifies this creature as a curious being, hungry for knowledge and always on the lookout for new words to understand. This playful depiction not only entertains but also subtly encourages readers to embrace their curiosity and expand their own vocabularies.

Equally engaging is the *Wamble*, a grumpy little beast that resides in our tummies, growling when we’re hungry. Vinson’s description of the Wamble as a “grumbling gudgeon” and “blabbering blart” captures the humorous frustration of hunger pangs. The solution to appease the Wamble is delightfully simple: serve him dessert. This lighthearted approach to common experiences makes language fun and accessible.

In a similar vein, the tale of *Discombobulated* features a tribe of Befuddles and Baffles who are forever confused by an impossible question posed by a mischievous Flummox. The narrative illustrates the meaning of the word through the perpetual state of confusion inflicted on these characters. It’s a clever way to embed the definition within a memorable story, ensuring readers will not soon forget what it means to be discombobulated.

The character *Bodacious* offers a different flavor, blending the world of circus performance with culinary arts. Standing at an impressive seven-foot-three, this character’s true passion lies not in his physical prowess but in his skill as a French chef. The contrast between his imposing appearance and his delicate culinary talent underscores the word’s meaning while adding depth and humor to his characterization.

Vinson’s treatment of *Onomatopoeia* is a playful auditory adventure. Through the sounds of various animals and actions, from the chirps of a chickadee to the splashes of a hippopotamus, readers are treated to a symphony of words that mimic their meanings. This section is particularly effective in demonstrating the concept of onomatopoeia, making it an auditory delight.

The whimsical recipe for Grandmother Glormp’s Glorious Gumbread, involving a *Pottle* of bluttergoat milk, adds another layer of fun to the book. The playful instructions and quirky ingredients reflect the book’s overall charm and creativity.

Finally, the *Niff* is presented as a word for a particularly pungent smell. Vinson’s vivid and humorous descriptions make it impossible not to smile, even as readers wrinkle their noses at the imagined stench. Comparing the smell to the backside of a wet warthog or a bungle of Phuuts in a bucket showcases Vinson’s talent for painting pictures with words.

In summary, *The Hippopotamus Thesaurus* by Samuel Jennings Vinson is a masterful blend of storytelling and lexicography. Vinson’s inventive and playful approach makes learning new words a delightful experience. Each entry is a miniature tale, rich with imagination and humor, that will entertain and enlighten readers. This thesaurus is a treasure trove for anyone who loves words and the endless stories they can tell.

Written by Jeyran Main

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