Author:
Harrison, K. David.
Imprint:Washington, D.C. : National Geographic, c2010.
Description302 p., [8] p. of plates : ill. (some col.), col. map ; 24 cm.
Note:Becoming a linguist -- Siberia calling -- The power of words -- Where the hotspots are -- Finding hidden languages -- Six degrees of language -- How do stories survive? -- Breaking out in song -- When a world is running down -- Saving languages.
Bibliography Note:Includes bibliographical references (p. 281-293) and index.
Note:Part travelogue and part scientist's notebook, The Last Speakers is the poignant chronicle of author K. David Harrison's expeditions around the world to meet with last speakers of vanishing languages. The speakers' eloquent reflections and candid photographs reveal little-known lifeways as well as revitalization efforts to teach disappearing languages to younger generations. Thought-provoking and engaging, this unique book illuminates the global language-extinction crisis through photos, graphics, interviews, traditional wisdom never before translated into English, and first-person essays that thrillingly convey the adventure of science and exploration. - Publisher.
