Spell It Out: The Singular Story of English Spelling

Spell It Out: The Singular Story of English Spelling

Crystal D., 2013

Overview

This book delves into the reasons behind English spelling's complexities, tracing their origins from 15th-century printing practices to the digital age. Linguist David Crystal guides readers through the historical forces, including monastic scribes and foreign influences, that shaped modern orthography. It explains why certain spellings deviate from phonetic norms and how understanding the history can aid memorization.

Who it's for

• Readers curious about the English language's quirks.
• Students and educators seeking to understand spelling principles.
• Anyone interested in linguistic history and etymology.

Key features

• Language: English
• Pages: 224
• Binding: Paperback
• Publisher: Profile Books
• ISBN: 9781846685682
• Year: 2013