The Surgeon of Crowthorne

This book recounts the fascinating story behind the Oxford English Dictionary, focusing on the lives of two extraordinary men involved in its creation.

The journey behind the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary was nothing short of monumental, spanning over fifty years and enlisting the help of thousands of volunteers. Among these dedicated individuals was Dr. W. C. Minor, whose remarkable contributions astonished the editorial team. However, what made Dr. Minor's story even more compelling was his refusal to travel to Oxford to accept his accolades. This led James Murray, the editor of the dictionary, to embark on a journey to Crowthorne in Berkshire to meet the enigmatic contributor personally.

The Surgeon of Crowthorne unravels an extraordinary tale of madness, genius, and obsession. It delves into the lives of these two remarkable men, exploring their unconventional friendship and the circumstances surrounding the creation of one of the most significant literary works in history. The narrative reveals how Dr. Minor, a millionaire and Civil War veteran, became an invaluable asset to the dictionary project, submitting over ten thousand definitions while residing in an asylum for the criminally insane.

The book captures the essence of a unique partnership that shaped the landscape of the English language. It highlights the complexities of human relationships and the fine line between brilliance and madness. As readers follow the intertwining paths of Murray and Minor, they gain insight into the profound impact of their collaboration on literary history, making The Surgeon of Crowthorne a captivating exploration of language and humanity.