WanderingWords™ Vol. 1: From Handy to Blitz — A German-American Word Journey (with word games and fun group activities for German and US-English language learners)
What do a Handy, Gift, and Blitz all have in common? They’re German words that slipped across the ocean and found a second life in American English—sometimes keeping their meaning, sometimes transforming into something completely different.
In this playful and insightful book, Ulrike Laubner-Kelleher, a German native now living in Western New York, takes readers on a journey through 35 everyday words that migrated from German into American life.

Each chapter blends:
German with their US-English meanings and usage with example sentences in both languages
Cultural anecdotes that connect German heritage with American traditions
Quirky fun facts and unexpected word twists
Illustrations, stories, and games that make learning lighthearted
Group activities & puzzles perfect for classrooms, families, or German-American clubs
Whether you’re a language lover, a teacher looking for engaging classroom material, or simply someone who enjoys discovering the funny ways words travel, WanderingWords™ offers a mix of education, entertainment, and “aha!” moments.
Volume 1 covers words you thought you knew—like Kindergarten, Nickel, or Spiel—and reveals their hidden German roots. Along the way, you’ll explore Buffalo’s cultural gems, enjoy word games, and uncover the stories behind expressions used around dinner tables, in magazines, and even at football games.

Why You’ll Love This Book:
Makes language learning fun and relatable
Bridges German heritage with American culture
Reveals lesser known word and WNY secrets
Offers ready-to-use games & activities for teachers and families
A perfect gift for German-Americans, students, and language lovers alike

Take a pen or gather your family or students, and let WanderingWords™ spark laughter, curiosity, and connection.