Description
This book is about linguistics and the history of language. It is written for a young audience and it covers a lot of different topics, such as the development of unique linguistic styles, the origins of obscure accents, and the search for the first written word. It also discusses the plight of endangered languages and the effect of technology on our day-to-day reading, writing, and speech.
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 languages 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, Crystals 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 Crystals 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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