As educators you will appreciate the importance vocabulary has on academic success. Of course we’d say this at LoveReading4Schools but we advocate that one of the best ways to improve our vocabulary is to read widely and deeply: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, Drama. Through exposure to a wide range of writing styles and techniques we’ll become better readers, better writers and better orators.

One of my favourite things that encouraged my vocabulary as a child was my trusty vocabulary diary I was given in school. Rather than scrolling past words I didn’t understand, I really took pleasure in finding words I didn’t know, searching for them in my dictionary and writing them in my diary. A book bursting with brilliant for the linguistic magpie in me, wow’d by words with a myriad of meanings.

These days we have some incredible books being published which support the development of vocabulary. We have of course added a selection of terrific thesaurus and dazzling dictionaries but there is also a collection of books here that we adore.

Who let the words out? One of our favourite poets Joshua Seigal did, that's who! Just like us, Joshua loves collecting words, and he intoduces you to some you might not know in this fabulously funny collection of poems called Who Let The Words Out.  

Collins A Word a Day 365 Words for Curious Minds is an illustrated of anthology of wonderful words sure to inspire and satisfy language lovers and fact fans alike.

Roots of Happiness by the sensational Susie Dent is a linguistic feast that will delight readers and inspire them to become the best writers of the future.

In The Dictionary of Difficult Words by Jane Solomon you’ll find out what a bumbershoot is, and a moonbow and what it means when someone absquatulates!

Wonderful Words That Tell a Tale by Tom Read Wilson, the follow-up to Every Word Tells a Story explores the origins of words, and each one is illustrated with water­colour artwork by Ian Morris.

A Really Short History of Words: The Story of the English Language by Bill Bryson Bryson takes a journey through words, rhymes and jokes and explains how various invasions made it the language we speak today.

First Thousand Words in English Sticker Book by Heather Amery is an engaging resource that introduces children to essential English vocabulary. Filled with colorful illustrations and over a thousand stickers, the book encourages interactive learning. Children match stickers to corresponding images and words, reinforcing their recognition and understanding of new terms. This hands-on approach makes learning fun and memorable, effectively expanding a child's vocabulary and aiding in word retention.

Colossal Words for Kids by Colette Hiller presents a collection of impressive and unusual words tailored for young readers. Each word is explored through captivating definitions, examples, and illustrations that bring it to life. By introducing complex vocabulary in an accessible manner, the book challenges children to expand their language skills. It inspires them to incorporate these "colossal" words into their own speech and writing, thereby enhancing their expressive abilities and confidence with language.

Vocabulary Ninja by Andrew Jennings is a dynamic guide designed to boost children's vocabulary through engaging strategies and activities offering a wealth of word lists, creative exercises, and games that make learning new words exciting and improve reading comprehension and writing skills.

Vocabulary Crosswords for Clever Kids by Gareth Moore combines the challenge of crossword puzzles with vocabulary building. The book features a series of crosswords that require children to recall definitions and spellings of various words. Solving these puzzles enhances their understanding of word meanings and improves spelling accuracy. 

A History of Words for Children by Mary Richards takes readers on an intriguing journey through the evolution of language. The book explores the origins of words, how they've changed over time, and their impact on communication. By delving into etymology and historical contexts, children gain a deeper appreciation and curiosity for the words they use daily.

Mrs Wordsmith Epic Words Vocabulary Book by MrdsWordsmith Programme introduces children to high-frequency, impactful words through vibrant illustrations and humorous narratives. Each word is presented with engaging visuals and context sentences that make meanings clear and memorable. 

An Interesting Word for Every Day of the Year by Meredith L Rowe offers 365 intriguing words, providing a new term to learn each day. Each entry includes the word's definition, usage examples, and often an accompanying illustration. This daily exposure fosters a habit of consistent learning in intrigue.

1000 Useful Words by DK is a visually appealing dictionary that introduces children to a wide array of essential words. Organised thematically, the book pairs each word with vivid photographs and illustrations, helping children connect terms with real-world objects and concepts. This visual association strengthens memory retention and comprehension. By covering topics from everyday life to fascinating subjects, the book expands a child's vocabulary in a comprehensive and engaging way.

Word Perfect by Susie Dent is an engaging exploration of the English language, offering a unique word for every day of the year. Each entry delves into the history, meaning, and curious anecdotes surrounding the featured word. Susie Dent, a renowned lexicographer and television personality, presents etymology in a captivating and accessible manner. While the book is primarily aimed at adults, it can be a valuable resource for older children with a keen interest in words and language. By uncovering the stories behind words, the book enhances vocabulary and deepens understanding of language evolution. 

So no hurkle-durkling, no quiddling, dive into this scintillating selection of books to amaze, confuse and inspire budding wordsmiths, you can thank us later.