The Romance of Names

A gentle invitation into the hidden histories of the names we carry, this book opens a window onto the everyday mysteries of surnames. Written by a seasoned language scholar, it surveys the ways family names have emerged—from occupations and locations to personal nicknames—while keeping the tone lively enough for anyone with a curious mind.

The author blends solid research with anecdotes, showing how many long‑held explanations turn out to be shaky while revealing the surprising stories that survive in the records. Readers will find clear examples that illustrate the process of linguistic change, and the revised edition adds fresh observations contributed by amateur enthusiasts. By the end of the first part, listeners gain a fresh appreciation for the subtle romance that lies behind the words we use to identify ourselves.