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Yale University Press
June 2010
On Sale: June 1, 2010
272 pages
ISBN: 0300155336
EAN: 9780300155334
Hardcover
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Non-Fiction
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.
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