Ranges from how children learn to read to what makes words rude or polite, from eyebrow flashes to whistling languages. Unlocking the secrets of communication i

A new and exciting introduction to linguistics, this textbook presents language in all its amazing complexity, while guiding students gently through the basics.

Every language in the world shares a few common features: we can ask a question, say something belongs to us, and tell someone what to do. But beyond that, our

"A brilliant, witty, and altogether satisfying book." — New York Times Book Review The classic work on the development of human language by the world’s lead

In the World Library of Educationalists series, international experts themselves compile career-long collections of what they judge to be their finest pieces �