Guppies in Tuxedos: Funny Eponyms

Divided into groups such as ``Food,'' ``Days and Months'' and ``Transportation,'' this book in the Word Play series describes the origins of words based on names. ``Cardigan'' comes from Lord Cardigan, a general in the Light Brigade who led his men on a failed mission against the Russians and always wore a collarless sweater that buttoned. R. J. Lechmere Guppy discovered the tropical fish that now bear his name. Terban's facts are set on a background of Maestro's cartoony illustrations, which contain silly, kid-pleasing asides and jokes. Most readers will catch on fast to the concept of eponyms, and those who want to know more will find a list of additional books on the subject helpful. Ages 4-7. (April)