David Crystal

Reveals language's myriad intricacies and quirks. This book focuses on the development of unique linguistic styles, the origins of obscure accents, and the search for the first written word. It discusses the plight of endangered languages, as well as successful cases of linguistic revitalization.

A Little Book of Language

Nadia

This book was truly brilliant. Well done David Crystal, you’ve converted me to linguistics.

Only thing I didn’t love was how it was quite simplistic, however I didn’t expect anything else tbh. It’s an introduction which is aimed for everyone including children. The slang and text speak was a bit outdated, but it was written in 2009, a whole 10 years ago!

I’m definitely going to read his encyclopedia of language soon (not encyclopaedia, interesting US English influence there!)

A narrative history of language ranges from the first words of an infant to the modern dialect of text messaging, discussing linguistic styles, the origin of accents, and the search for the first written word.

Hazel Evans

An interesting book that is easy to read and puts simply and explains what anyone who has ever thought about the nature of language (almost everyone) may have wondered. Therefore, I think, most people could read and take something from this book. Having said that, Crystal actually says a few times “at your school”, which makes me wonder if it’s more a book aimed at young students. I bought the book at the Saatchi Gallery shop and was expecting something a little more in-depth, and less beginner-linguist.

I particularly disagreed with chapter 32, ‘Why use language?’ It begins by saying we not only use language for communication, but for many other things as well - here, I'm interested, Crystal you have my attention - then the whole chapter talks about these other things, which are all in some way, communication. A null point. 

The Little Book of Language could actually be littler. It covers several topics more than once, and repeats points far too frequently. 

I still, however, think it’s a good book, but I would recommend it to people who have a vague interest in language - how babies learn it, how it’s studied etc. - on a broad scale, and not those that seek detailed explanations and comparisons within language.

I lent the book to my brother, who is considering doing English Language A-Level, and my Grandma, to make her realise that textese isn’t the end of the world.