Sunday, October 01, 2006

Raining cats and dogs and three educational books

Has it been raining where you are? Well, it's been raining cats and dogs here. Incidentally that phrase (some people at least claim) originates in the following way:

In 17th Century England, during heavy downpours of rain, many of these poor animals unfortunately drowned and their bodies would be seen floating in the rain torrents that raced through the streets. The situation gave the appearance that it had literally rained "cats and dogs" and led to the current expression.

I'm sure there are other theories as to origin- there always are, but I've gone for this one. If you've ever visited Stratford upon Avon, you'll know how popular origins of sayings are amongst the the guides at Shakespeare's houses who can furnish you with quite a few.

I went to London today in the downpour which was a bit of a break.

I've also had confirmation of a new educational writing project which I'll be co-authoring for Hodder. Three books in all. The deadlines are pretty tight so forgive me if I'm absent for a while. No news on the agent front as yet .... no news is good news, I guess.