How Languages Work: An Introduction to Language and Linguistics

This hard copy physical book is ideal. The ebook version costs twice as much! The book helps me keep up with the lectures. I am very happy with my purchase!

I have been looking for a textbook to be used in an introductory linguistics course and was quite excited when I first got hold of How language work by Carol Genetti. It is always difficult for a introductory textbook of linguistics to find a balance of what topics to include and what to leave out. I appreciate the choices that have been made in this volume, the depth with which the individual topics are covered, and the order in which they are presented. I also appreciate the supplemental material that is available on the website. There are not many other introductory textbooks of linguistics out there that promote a functional perspective of grammar. The collection of language profiles in the second part of the book not only illustrates a bit of the variety of languages that are out there but also introduces the student of samples of the kind of work that linguists produce. As the book probably contains more material than be covered in one 3 credit course, part of the book, especially the language profiles could easily be used in subsequent courses on morphology, syntax, language typology etc. One reviewer complained that the language of this text is too technical. However, I find it a lot easier to read than the textbook we used before (Linguistics - An Introduction by William McGregor)

School use. Helpful.

The content of this book is good but the binding job is terrible. I've been using this book for my linguistics class for less than 4 weeks now and groups of pages are falling out at the front and back already. I've only had this kind of wear happen on books that I've read several times over a number of years so I think the binding work is just very poor. Also, there are chapter tools on a corresponding website but they are only available for the first 5 chapters (out of 15). These tools have been really helpful but it's very disappointing to be without them as the content becomes harder in Chapter 6. This mainly frustrates me because the text refers to exercises on the website that are simply not there. Some positive points: The lines in the chapters that are most helpful are in boldface which is quite helpful when doing a quick skim of a chapter for review before an exam. And there are language profiles in the back of the book that really help to apply the terms you learn throughout to diverse languages from around the world. Overall, I would say the value of this book is not worth the discontinuity with the website and the substandard condition. If you have a choice, go for a different Linguistics book.

I love this book and i never want to buy a paper book again. I can read this on my computer or kindle . no more need to carry heavy books

The ebook is formatted terribly. Chapter problems will require that you solve highlighted parts that don't exist. Half of the problems for Chapter 14 have been reduced to two columns that are a letter each. This is not a problem of browser choice- I switched several times. I really wish I had rented the physical copy instead. In terms of content, not my cup of tea, but I needed the book for class.

Excellent rental

Great condition