Customer Reviews

An Introduction to Language

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a very good introduction to theoretical linguistics and its subdisciplines. Some of the concept are somewhat difficult, but it's nothing that a good re-read can't fix. It covers all the components that make up linguistics i.e. phonology, syntax, etc. but it also adds some cool chapters on language and the brain, language change, and psycholinguistics which are all plusses in my book. This textbook provides good cartoons to illustrate some key points,the exercises are good for beginner's (perhaps some too easy) and the authors provide some really good suggested readings although some might the suggestions insanely difficult to read even after reading this book (for example, after reading the chapter on syntax, it suggests you read Chomsky's minimalist program. If this is the student's first introduction to syntax, then I really doubt they could tackle that book). All in all, I think its a perfect book to use in an introductory language class. The only problem I have with this book is its price. Way too expensive!!!

It's excellent, definitive, engaging, and all that -- but, speaking as a professor who needs to assign a textbook for a 10 week course in linguistics, how can I justify this kind of expense for my students? A paperback - over $100?? Come on people, get reasonable, and it will help this great book truly compete with lesser, more affordable titles!

I ordered this book for a linguistics class, and the information in the book is fine, easy to read, etc. But the chapters are out of order! There are several other people in my class who are having this problem. The first chapter should be The Nature of Language, but in my book it is Brain and Language. It caused me to be very confused in class, and also to do the wrong exercises at the end of the chapter. I now know I'm supposed to read chapter 6 instead of chapter one, but this is really screwy and frustrating. I just wanted to inform and warn anyone who is also confused.

I hesitated a little before buying this book because I wasn't too sure how relevant it would really be. I have found it to be a fabulous resource as some concepts are complicated but the cartoons and quotations help to illustrate with good examples.

Lots of Harry Potter references, so I'm a fan. The book definitely helps when the teacher doesn't know what they're talking about in the slightest.

"An introduction to Language" is a great book. As professional speaker it is of the utmost importance that I understand how to create compelling speeches that resonate with an audience. "Language" is a crucial text for anyone interested in improving his or her understanding over the linguistic nature of speech. This is a very deep book, so buckle up and enjoy. - Edward T. Lyles

Shopping at Amazon has save me lots of money and time in ordering my required textbooks. This has really been a great book to have in obtaining an English major. Thank you.

I enjoy the book, but the class confuses me. The book is fine, but it'd be better if I wasn't taking the class correspondence which is probably why I'm having trouble understanding the material. It's a tough subject. The book is interesting though.

got my book on time and teh book was okay hjad some marks but for a used book it was better then what i expected

Fast!!! The book is as the same as described. I am very happy with this purchase. Thank you very much! :)