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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Strange Bedfellows Vol. C is a short, not so serious take on etymology by Anil. Although it is the second volume in the series, Anil insists on calling it Vol. C. It combines different etymologically related words in random and funny ways, providing made up backstories with fake ads, quotes, and some very finely drawn cartoons. Anil disclaims any scholarly rigor in the introduction itself, claiming all etymology is derived from Eric Partridge's Origins (EPO). A fictional entity named Muse, who is unknowably old and has had a big hand in the evolution of English, apparently helped Anil write this book. There are about 150 different combinations of words and their dubious origins and examples provided in the book.
I had a ton of fun reading Strange Bedfellows Vol. C. Anil's use of quick-witted quips had me constantly amused. The most impressive aspect of the book was his unique and humorous take on etymology, a subject many may find a bit dull. But I couldn't help but be immersed in the fake ads, stories, and quotes, sometimes even more than the words themselves. The cartoons complement the narrative in brilliant fashion. The humor is self-deprecating, vulgar, silly, and childish in equal measure. My favorite parts of the book were the satirical parodies of some well-known celebrities and politicians. This is a book you can enjoy while you are traveling or drinking your morning coffee. If you like the use of cleverly constructed words to mock everyone and everything, this is the book for you.