Promotional Information

Approximately how many languages compose the Bantu language group of central and southern Africa? What Western European language is not known to be related to any other language family in the world-and is considered by linguists to be one of the most difficult to learn? This fascinating and singularly authoritative guide to the social, cultural, and historical foundations of more than four hundred languages and language groups in the world today answers these questions and more.

About the Author

Andrew Dalby is Honorary Librarian at the Institute of Linguistics in London. He is the author of many books, most recently, Language in Danger (Columbia, 2003).

Reviews

A well-ordered, concise, alphabetical summary of over 400 world languages. The basic information for each entry includes the countries or areas where the language is used, the number of people who use it, and a brief historical survey... This is a volume for every library and home. Council on National Literatures The extensive range of languages covered makes this an extremely useful source... A welcome addition. Booklist Comprehensive and engaging... Dalby's Dictionary of Languages is enriched by its author's lively presentation of historical detail and the wide-ranging and often intriguing selections of material from the languages discussed. AB Bookman's Weekly This highly practical work intended for the non-specialist is an excellent source for browsing or reference. Library Journal (starred review) An approachable, historical linguistic dictionary of the 400 'major languages of the 20th century.' Rich yet concise... This is an excellent source. -- A. C. Moore Choice This book provides the sort of information about the languages of the world that is most often sought by the curious reader, and as such it should be available in every library. It would be right at home in many a private collection as well. -- Peter T. Daniels Language in Society Reliable for specialists, fun for browsers, this big book is a very useful reference tool. -- Leonard R. N. Ashley Geolinguistics This is a volume for every library and home. Book Digest (Council On National Literatures)