English as She is Taught: Being Genuine Answers to Examination Questions in Our Public Schools

"English as She is Taught" by Caroline B. Le Row, with commentary by Mark Twain, is a collection of humorous observations on language and education, likely written in the late 19th century. The book comprises genuine answers to examination questions from public schools, showcasing the amusing misunderstandings and creative interpretations by students. Twain's witty commentary adds an additional layer of humor and critique towards the educational system, highlighting the eccentricities of children. At the start of the text, the authors introduce the premise of the compilation, explaining that the collected answers are original, handwritten entries from school children, presenting a mix of innocence and misunderstanding in their responses. The opening engages with various subjects including grammar, mathematics, and history, filled with comical definitions and misconceptions, such as defining "demagogue" as a type of beer vessel or stating that George Washington was born in 1492. This delightful and humorous exploration of children's learning and the peculiarities of their schooling makes for a lighthearted critique of both education and language itself.