Alphamaniacs: Builders of 26 Wonders of the Word

**Unleash Your Inner Word Nerd with *Alphamaniacs: Builders of 26 Wonders of the Word* by Paul Fleischman** Dive into the captivating world of language with *Alphamaniacs*, a beautifully illustrated hardcover that celebrates 26 extraordinary individuals whose lives were utterly consumed by a passion for words. Award-winning author Paul Fleischman, known for his innovative and engaging writing style, invites readers of all ages on a fascinating journey to discover the stories behind some of history's most daring and peculiar literary figures. Are you a word person? A lover of language? Or simply someone with an insatiable curiosity? If so, prepare to be enthralled by the tales of these "Alphamaniacs" writers who treated language as an extreme sport, collecting, dissecting, and constructing verbal wonders that pushed the boundaries of creativity and expression. *Alphamaniacs* isn't just a collection of biographies; it's a testament to the power of the human spirit and the endless possibilities of language. Each mini-biography is a captivating glimpse into the life and work of a writer who was utterly obsessed with words. From the poignant story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who wrote his memoirs by blinking his left eyelid after suffering a debilitating stroke (as recounted in *The Diving Bell and the Butterfly*), to Frederic Cassidy's meticulous collection of regional vocabulary, resulting in the monumental *Dictionary of American Regional English*, you'll be amazed by the dedication and ingenuity of these literary giants. Discover the linguistic gymnastics of Georges Perec, the master of constraint-based writing, who challenged himself to write a novel (*La Disparition*) without using the letter "e" a feat so impressive that some reviewers didn't even notice its absence! Then, marvel at his novella *Les Revenentes*, where "e" is the *only* vowel allowed. This is the kind of mind-bending creativity that *Alphamaniacs* celebrates. Fleischmans book includes well-known authors but also brings to light some figures who, while incredibly important in their fields, may not be widely known by the general public. This book is more than just a read; it's an experience. The stunning illustrations throughout bring these remarkable individuals and their linguistic obsessions to life. Whether you're a budding writer seeking inspiration, a seasoned linguist seeking a fresh perspective, or simply a reader who appreciates a well-crafted story, *Alphamaniacs* offers something for everyone. Its a perfect gift for the teen or young adult interested in writing, biographies, and language arts. Also, students from 5th grade and up might enjoy the book. With 160 pages packed with fascinating facts and engaging anecdotes, *Alphamaniacs* is a treasure trove of literary delights. Published by Candlewick Studio in 2020, this illustrated edition is a must-have for any library or bookshelf. It is a celebration of words, language, writing, writers, and stories, and an ode to those who dare to explore the limits of verbal expression. Fleischman, a Newbery Medal winner for *Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices*, brings his signature blend of humor, insight, and impeccable research to this unique and unforgettable book. Let *Alphamaniacs* ignite your own passion for language and inspire you to create your own verbal wonders.