Let's be clear from the start: this is not a novel. The New Gresham Encyclopedia. A to Amide is exactly what it says on the tin—the first volume of a massive reference work published in the 1920s. There's no plot, no characters in the traditional sense. Instead, it offers an alphabetical journey from the very first entry ('A', the musical note) through to the chemical term 'Amide.' In between, you'll get concise explanations on everything from 'Abyssinia' (what we now call Ethiopia) and 'Aeronautics' (with exciting mentions of 'heavier-than-air machines') to 'Amber' and the 'American Civil War.'

Why You Should Read It

This is where the magic happens. Reading this isn't about getting facts (many are outdated). It's about getting a feel for the time. The prose is formal yet clear, carrying a quiet confidence in the progress of knowledge. You see what they valued. An entry on 'Agriculture' is given substantial weight. The description of 'Africa' is a stark reminder of colonial-era viewpoints. It’s a direct line to the early 20th-century mind. I found myself most captivated by the entries on emerging technology, like 'Automobile,' where you can almost sense the writers' wonder. It turns a reference book into a surprisingly personal and reflective experience.

Final Verdict

This is a niche read, but a deeply rewarding one. It's perfect for history lovers, trivia enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys primary sources. If you like getting lost in old newspapers or maps, you'll love this. It's also great for writers seeking period-appropriate terminology or just anyone curious about the rhythm of thought from a hundred years ago. Don't read it cover-to-cover; keep it on your shelf and open it to a random page now and then. You'll always find something that makes you think, smile, or gasp at how much—or how little—has changed.