Reviews of Previous Editions
An excellent, very accessible, and extremely easy- and fun-to-read
introduction to some of the basic questions (and misconceptions)
regarding language, language learning, and linguistics. The book
clearly meets the editors' intended goals; with each essay, the
reader is engaged in a five-minute, light and informal conversation
about the passionate topic of language.
Linguist List
This book is for anyone who has a question about languages or the
nature of language--which means just about all of us. But it's not
just a musty academic text for specialists. While written by
leading experts on the subject of language, The Five-Minute
Linguist is a user-friendly exploration of the basics, a linguistic
start-up kit for general readers. It assumes nothing on your part
except interest in the subject. Its bite-sized chapters (no more
than 3-4 pages each) give authoritative answers to the most
frequently asked questions people have about language, and tell the
story in a lively and colloquial style. It is a delightful
read.
From the Foreword by Bret Lovejoy, Executive Director, American
Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language
What a gift to those who love language and those who are simply
curious about it. Leading experts each tackle an intriguing
question, and explain it in straightforward, delightful prose. Read
it from cover to cover or keep it by your bed to dip into for
endless fascination.
Deborah Tannen, Professor of Linguistics, Georgetown University,
and author of You Just Don't Understand
This is a marvellous collection of informative, provocative and
stimulating essays. The topics that were selected are both timely,
and timeless, and the essays are sure to pique the curiosity of a
broad range of readers. The material is accessible and the
suggestions for further reading are wonderful pointers to
additional exploration. This collection certainly has my five-star
recommendation.
G. Richard Tucker, Paul Mellon University Professor of Applied
Linguistics, Carnegie Mellon University
...recommended for language majors, and attractive to language
afficionados and mavens. Essential.
Choice
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