That Takes the Cake by R. Brasch

That Takes the Cake

by R. Brasch

Angus & Robertson, 1995, ISBN 0207185638, loosely illustrated with chapter decorations, paperback

Very Good Condition, a little edge and shelf wear, a little rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, no inscriptions, un-creased spine (see photographs)

“All your favourite sayings and customs are explained, and the myths and anecdotes surrounding their origins make fascinating reading.  Did you know, for example, that the universal Uncle Bob who gave rise to the saying ‘Bob’s your uncle’ was probably Robert Gascoyne, an English prime minister who made the most of his position to appoint his nephew to the powerful position of Chief Secretary of Ireland? Or that a brass monkey’s balls, which may freeze in extreme weather conditions, are actually cannon balls? These are just two of over 350 well-known sayings and customs that ‘get the going over’.  There’s no doubt that their surprising explanations really do take the cake!”