Slanguage by Bernard Share has long been a favorite title of Irishbook. Unsurprisingly, there was a lot of disappointment then, when the book was out of print early this year. However, the news is not only good, it is great, because the reason was that the book was being updated yet again, and a brand new version is due out next month!
For those that are unfamiliar with Slanguage, let me give you a little insight:
Hiberno-English is the common speech of Ireland at all social levels. Its continuing vigour and individuality is triumphantly illustrated in Bernard Share’s invaluable Dictionary of Irish slang and colloquial English in Ireland. With upwards of 500 new entries and an almost equal number of additions to existing headwords, this third edition of Slanguage offers a clear challenge to those who argue that there is little to distinguish Hiberno-English as an idiom in its own right.
From the reviews of previous editions
‘This is worth its weight in gold-dust, for at last we have a proper, and often improper, dictionary of Irish slang.’ Hugh Leonard, Sunday Independent
‘Joyce would have loved it.’ John Boland, The Times (London)
‘The book can take its place on the shelf beside the great Eric Partridge himself and there is no greater tribute.’ Sean McMahon, Irish Independent
‘Slanguage is an exceptionally well researched work of reference.’ John Slevin, RTE Guide
‘Much of the book is a joy to read.’ Brian Griffin, International Journal of Lexicography
‘This is quite simply an outstandingly brilliant piece of Sherlock-Holmesing, characterised by both authenticity and wit.’ Aubrey Malone, Books Ireland
So watch this space, because the brand new version will be available soon!
Best,
Liam Moroney
