Amoroso, Cynthia. Understanding Idioms. Wonder Books, 2023. $22.00 ea. $264.00 set of 12. 24 p. Grades 2-5.

Break a Leg! 978-1-503-86559-4.
Don’t Look a Gift Horse in the Mouth! 978-1-503-86560-0.
The Early Bird Catches the Worm! 978-1-503-86565-5.
Go Fly a Kite! 978-1-503-86556-3.
Hold Your Horses! 978-1-503-86563-1.
I’m on Cloud Nine! 978-1-503-86566-2.
I’m Tickled Pink! 978-1-503-86561-7.
It’s Clear as a Bell! 978-1-503-86562-4.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled! 978-1-503-86564-8.
There’s a Bug in My Ear! 978-1-503-86555-6.
You Let the Cat Out of the Bag! 978-1-503-86557-0.
You’re Clean as a Whistle! 978-1-503-86558-7.

Although most people are familiar with popular phrases like “mark my words,” “hold your horses,” and “break a leg,” they do not know the history behind these phrases. This series aims to change that. Popular idioms are presented, along with paragraphs in which they are used, their meanings, and explanations about how and when they originated. The text is broken up by colorful, humorous illustrations. Each book also includes a glossary, index, list of additional resources, and ideas for extension activities.

THOUGHTS: Elementary children will be intrigued by this compelling introduction to idioms. This is a worthwhile purchase for any library looking to add to its English language collection.

428.1 Idioms