Little Book Of Language

Crystal, David

£10.99

With a language disappearing every two weeks and neologisms springing up almost daily, an understanding of the origins and currency of language has never seemed more relevant. In this volume, a narrative history written explicitly for a young audience, expert linguist David Crystal proves why the story of language deserves retelling.

In stock

Publish Date: 01/03/2011
ISBN: 9780300170825 Category: Tag:

Description

Now in paperback, in the tradition of E. H. Gombrich’s A Little History of the World, a lively journey through the story of language

With a language disappearing every two weeks and neologisms springing up almost daily, an understanding of the origins and currency of language has never seemed more relevant. In this charming volume, a narrative history written explicitly for a young audience, expert linguist David Crystal proves why the story of language deserves retelling.

From the first words of an infant to the peculiar modern dialect of text messaging, A Little Book of Language ranges widely, revealing language’s myriad intricacies and quirks. In animated fashion, Crystal sheds light on the development of unique linguistic styles, the origins of obscure accents, and the search for the first written word. He discusses the plight of endangered languages, as well as successful cases of linguistic revitalization. Much more than a history, Crystal’s work looks forward to the future of language, exploring the effect of technology on our day-to-day reading, writing, and speech. Through enlightening tables, diagrams, and quizzes, as well as Crystal’s avuncular and entertaining style, A Little Book of Language will reveal the story of language to be a captivating tale for all ages.

Additional information

Weight 318 g
Dimensions 216 × 140 × 24 mm
Author

Publisher

Imprint

Cover

Paperback

Pages

260

Language

English

Edition
Dewey

400 (edition:22)

Readership

General – Trade / Code: K