How Languages Work: An Introduction to Language and Linguistics

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)

Class text book. I am not a linguist to evaluate it's worth

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!

While this is a very comprehensive book, there are several things that proved problematic for me.The construction is less than desirable. Within one week of owning this book, sections of pages began to fall from the binding and had to be glued back in.Though this is an introductory text for the subject, the narration style tends to be a bit advanced and understanding the chapters can require frequent use of the glossary. Vocabulary terms are in bold, but they are frequently not defined in their initial introduction. There are also a few typos in each chapter...a more thorough proofreading would have been beneficial.There is an online site for further study materials that has proven very helpful. There are, however, practice examples within the book listed as having answer keys available on this website, but they do not exist. There are also some broken links and incorrect answers in the test bank.This is a good first edition of the book and contains a lot of useful and well organized information, but some revisions are necessary to make it a textbook that I would regularly recommend.

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.

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

Excellent rental

School use. Helpful.