Positives Reviewers widely praise this book as a fascinating, informative, and incredibly interesting exploration of language. Many found it eye-opening, with some even stating it substantially changed their opinions on how language works. The author, a linguist, is lauded for his engaging, witty, and humorous writing style, making complex linguistic concepts accessible and entertaining for a general audience. Readers appreciated the captivating pace and the multitude of everyday examples that illustrate how English, and human language in general, constantly changes and evolves, not just over centuries but even decades. For those who experienced the audiobook, the author's narration is frequently highlighted as a significant positive, enhancing the overall enjoyment and clarity of the material.
Negatives While largely positive, some reviewers noted that the book occasionally feels repetitive, presenting numerous examples to illustrate the same core concepts, which could at times be overwhelming or feel like a collection of academic lectures rather than a unified narrative. The author's attempts at humor were sometimes described as hit-or-miss, falling flat for some readers on the page, though often working better in the audiobook format. A few readers, particularly those already familiar with the author's other works or podcasts, felt that the book didn't offer substantially new information, instead presenting familiar arguments in a condensed form. Additionally, some felt that while the book provided ample examples of change, it could have delved deeper into the historical reasons or variations across different languages. The book's focus is also noted as being very American-centric.
Conclusion Overall, this book comes highly recommended as an enlightening and enjoyable read. Its central thesis, that language is a dynamic, living entity constantly in flux, offers a refreshing perspective that encourages readers to relax their prescriptive views on "correct" grammar. It is particularly well-suited for anyone with a general interest in words, language, and linguistics, or those curious about the evolution of communication. The book is also highly recommended for "grammar purists" or "pedants" who might be resistant to language change, as it provides a persuasive and balanced argument for embracing linguistic evolution, potentially leading them to be less judgmental and more understanding of how language adapts over time.
