Book excerpt: From writing poems to writing birthday cards, and from the garret to the classroom, the Oxford Dictionary of Rhymes has what every writer (or budding writer) needs. It contains 45,000 words, including proper names, place names, and foreign terms used in English. The organization and layout areremarkably clear, making the volume very easy to use; there is also a complete index. In-text notes offer tips on using rhymes effectively, make suggestions for expanding the rhyming lists included in the book, and give examples of how poets, past and present, have used rhyme. The wide-ranging andaccessible introduction offers a brief outline of rhyming in its literary and historical contexts, and gives further advice on creative writing. The design is contemporary and clear, making the Oxford Dictionary of Rhymes simple to navigate. This is a must-have tool for writers of all kinds and a superb reference for English teachers, as well as being a delight for everyone who likes to play with words.