A word to the wise : traditional advice and Old Country ways Cover Image

Book

A word to the wise : traditional advice and Old Country ways / Ruth Binney.

Summary:

If you've ever wondered whether carrots improve your vision (they do) and why elephants have great memories, consult A Word to the Wise. You'll discover that it's never too late to learn from a proverb or an old wives' tale. This captivating book is a fascinating compilation of age-old expressions and customs, and its insights cover everything from health tips and kitchen tricks to gardening know-how and hints for predicting the weather. Folklorist Ruth Binney explains the truth behind such traditions as polishing windows with newspaper and blowing out birthday candles in a single breath. She also discusses whether classic adages are still relevant or, like eating oysters only in "R" months, their truths have faded with the passage of time. This charmingly illustrated volume of enduring wisdom makes a splendid keepsake as well as a fine gift.--from back cover.

Record details

ISBN: 9780486828732
ISBN: 0486828735
Physical Description: 223 pages : illustrations ; 19 cm
Publisher: Mineola, New York : Dover Publications, Inc., 2019.

Content descriptions

General Note:

"This Dover edition, first published in 2019, is an unabridged republication of the work originally printed by Rydon Publishing, West Sussex, England, in 2016."