On Amazon Prime Great Courses Signature Collection I watched author John McWhorter present a course on World Language Families and this drew my attention to this literary work. McWhorter is a very intelligent polyglot and makes the study of global languages an interesting and fun-filled adventure. In this book we…
Tudors by Peter Ackroyd My rating: 4 of 5 stars The second volume of Ackroyd’s history of England, this work covers one of the most astonishing and exciting periods of English history. Two of the most revered and famous monarchs existed in the Tudor period, that of Henry VIII and…
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Foundation by Peter Ackroyd My rating: 4 of 5 stars Peter Ackroyd is a fantastic author and, having previously read his ‘Albion’, I was keen to embark on this first of a new series of general English history. I wanted further detail on existing knowledge and the fact that this…
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The Albanians: A Modern History by Miranda Vickers My rating: 4 of 5 stars Albania is one of those countries that have a colourful history and is a place that was a bit of an anomaly to me. I know that it is publicly perceived as a poor backwater of…
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“The Language Wars: A History of Proper English” by Henry Hitchings delves into the evolution of the English language, highlighting influential writers and the contrast between UK and international English. The book explores how future English will be shaped not by native speakers but by non-native users, offering a challenging and enlightening read.
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K. David Harrison’s “The Last Speakers” explores the urgent issue of endangered languages and their significance in preserving unique cultural knowledge. The book highlights the risks posed by language extinction, particularly in marginalized communities, and advocates for revitalization efforts. With a focus on examples from Wales and New Zealand, it underscores the value of linguistic diversity in confronting global challenges like climate change.
View More Review: The Last Speakers: The Quest to Save the World’s Most Endangered Languages – by K. David Harrison
David Bellos’ “Is That a Fish in Your Ear?” offers an engaging exploration of translation, blending insights from its history, machine translation, and the evolving roles of translators. With humorous anecdotes and clear organization, it inspires new students, like the reviewer, to delve into Translation Studies, highlighting the global significance of language.
View More Review: Is That a Fish in Your Ear? The Amazing Adventure of Translation – by David Bellos