In “The Story of Human Language,” John McWhorter takes an engaging look at language from its earliest origins to the modern day. He sheds light on why some languages die out while others continue to thrive, and offers up a fascinating glimpse into the world’s linguistic diversity. Along the way, he challenges commonly held notions about how human beings learn language, explaining why it is that so many people around the world are able to communicate in multiple tongues. This insightful book provides an essential overview of one of humanity’s most remarkable creations.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who has ever wondered about the origins of language, or how different languages can be so alike and yet so different. It offers a clear-eyed look at all aspects of human language, from its prehistoric roots to its modern manifestations.
Pros :
- McWhorter is a great writer and makes the topic of language interesting even to people who don’t think they care about it.
- The book provides an engaging look at how human beings learn language, shedding light on why some languages thrive while others die out.
- It’s filled with fascinating information about linguistic diversity around the world.
Cons :
- The book does not offer enough examples to illustrate its points.
- It is dense and difficult to read.
- There are better, more engaging books on language out there.
Learn more about the author
John McWhorter is an associate professor of linguistics at Columbia University. He is the author of “The Power of Babel: A Natural History of Language” and other books on language and race.
Reader Reviews
“The Story of Human Language is a great introduction to linguistics. McWhorter’s writing style makes the complex topics accessible and interesting. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about language.”
“The Story of Human Language”
“The Story of Human Language”
“The Story of Human Language”