The American Heritage Children's Dictionary » (Reprint)

The Editors of the American Heritage Dictionaries and of other reference titles published by Houghton Mifflin Company are trained lexicographers with a varied array of interests and expertise. Most of the editors hold graduate degrees and have studied at least one foreign language. Several have degrees in linguistics or in the history of the English language. Others have degrees in science or sometimes other disciplines. All the editors familiarize themselves with the vocabulary in specific subject areas, collect materials on new developments and usage, and work in association with consultants to ensure that the content of our publications is as accurate and as up-to-date as possible.

This brand-new edition of the best-selling American Heritage Children’s Dictionary covers all the vocabulary young readers need today. More than 2,000 new words and senses make this the most comprehensive and up-to-date children’s dictionary available.  New entries cover the complete range of subjects and include such terms as aikido,  burqa, dwarf planet, greenhouse gas, hip-hop, skate park, and sustainable.

Over 25,000 entries are defined in age-appropriate, contemporary language. More than 16,000 expertly crafted example sentences show words in context. Hundreds of special feature notes expand children’s knowledge of language and a separate phonics and spelling guide helps to develop sound reading and writing skills.

The engaging and contemporary design includes 1,500 vivid full-color photographs, illustrations, and diagrams that supplement and expand upon the definitions. The art encompasses multidimensional presentations showing fascinating subjects such as cave, geyser, houseboat, and starfish.

With the thousands of new words and senses and an all-new art program, nearly 80 percent of the book is fresh material. Rich in content and graphics, this comprehensive and easy-to-use dictionary is a must for every young reader.

School Library Journal

Gr 3–6—A clean layout, quality illustrations, and notes on word histories, synonyms, vocabulary, and spelling—all features of earlier editions—have been retained in this edition. The lexicon contains 25,000 words and 1500 full-color illustrations. Entries are highlighted in blue followed by the pronunciation, part of speech, and definition(s). Plural forms, verb forms, and variant spellings are noted. Many entries contain examples of the term used in a sentence. Guide words are found at the top of the page and guide letters appear in the right margin of the recto. More than 2000 new terms have been added, including names of ethnic foods and medical and educational terminology. The 1500 images include full-color photos, labeled diagrams, and illustrations; many of these are also new. This dictionary will have a general appeal to students and teachers and is perfect for ready-reference sections. An excellent choice.—Beth McGuire, Fannett-Metal School District, Willow Hill, PA