$1.99 | The Mother Tongue: English and How it Got that Way (eBook) by Bill Bryson

Unravel the Enchanting World of English with Bill Bryson!”Vastly informative and vastly entertaining…A scholarly and fascinating book.” —Los Angeles TimesPrepare to be captivated by Bill Bryson’s dazzling wit and astonishing insight as he delves into the remarkable history, charming eccentricities, incredible resilience, and sheer joy of the English language. This isn’t just a book; it’s an adventure through words!From the curious evolutionary step that allows us to speak (and why our canine companions can’t!), to the fascinating origins of colorful expletives, Bryson masterfully explores English grammar and the intriguing roots of words. He vividly narrates the uproarious transformation of what was once considered an inadequate, second-rate tongue of peasants into one of the world’s most dominant and dynamic languages.Why You’ll Love This Linguistic Journey:

• A Witty History Unveiled: Embark on English’s comical and triumphant journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, all presented with Bill Bryson’s signature humor and charm.
• Pronunciation & Spelling Secrets: Decode the often baffling world of English spelling and pronunciation. Discover the hidden logic (or delightful lack thereof) behind silent letters and the many twists and turns of sounds like “ough.”
• American vs. British English: Explore the charming, sometimes confusing, and always entertaining distinctions that define the two primary dialects of the English-speaking world.
• Surprising Linguistic Revelations: Find answers to questions you never even considered asking! Uncover the intriguing origins of swearing and the profound biological reason why humans can talk, but dogs cannot.

Book Essentials:Author: Bill BrysonPublisher: William Morrow PaperbacksPublication Date: June 2, 2015Print Length: 274 pages