Book review:

[Harold F. Schiffman]

Forwarded from LINGUIST List 17.1012
Tue Apr 04 2006

Saving Languages
Subtitle: An Introduction to Language Revitalization
Published: 2005
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
                http://us.cambridge.org

Author: Lenore A. Grenoble, Dartmouth College
Author: Lindsay J. Whaley, Dartmouth College

Language endangerment has been the focus of much attention over the past
few decades, and as a result, a wide range of people are now working to
revitalize and maintain local languages. This book serves as a general
reference guide to language revitalization, written not only for linguists
and anthropologists, but also for language activists and community members
who believe they should ensure the future use of their languages, despite
their predicted loss. Drawing extensively on case studies, it sets out the
necessary background and highlights central issues such as literacy,
policy decisions, and allocation of resources. Its primary goal is to
provide the essential tools for a successful language revitalization
program, such as setting and achieving realistic goals, and anticipating
and resolving common obstacles. Clearly written and informative, Saving
Languages will be an invaluable resource for all those interested in the
fate of small language communities around the globe.

1. Language revitalization as a global issue;
2. Issues in language revitalization;
3. Models for revitalization;
4. Case studies;
5. Literacy;
6. Orthography;
7. Creating a language program.

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