The best 19 Language books

The Sense of Style (2014) offers a refreshing and relevant guide to writing potent, readable texts of all kinds. Instead of extolling the same confusing and sometimes counter-intuitive rules found in traditional style guides, The Sense of Style offers simple tricks and heuristics guaranteed to improve your writing.

• Lovers of the English language
• Professional or amateur writers
• People interested in linguistics

I Can Hear You Whisper (2014) is about human communication, and the phenomenon and culture of deafness. Hearing is a complex process that doesn’t function the same way for everyone, and those who are deaf or hard of hearing have developed alternative methods of communication, around which a special culture has grown. These blinks give an overview of that culture and show that it’s just as rich as any other.

• Anyone interested in the science or culture of deafness
• Sociology or medical students

In What Makes Us Human (2007), a group of experts shares ideas on this centuries-long question. These blinks plumb the depths of the mystery of our species, to discover why humans alone cook food to eat, think creatively and understand cause and effect.

• Scientists, philosophers and theologists
• People who want to explore questions about human life

Thirty Million Words (2015) explains the importance of language in a child’s early development and long-term success. These blinks outline the optimal early language environment for a child and highlight the ways parents can help their children during these critical years.

• New parents
• Psychologists and educators
• People who want to learn a new language.

Don’t Sleep There Are Snakes (2008) tell us about the unique culture and language of the Pirahã, an indigenous people of the Amazonian jungle who don’t use numbers, have names for colors or bother with small talk. They also laugh and smile more than most other cultures. These blinks explain what languages can tell us about the human experience and, moreover, why we shouldn’t forget how many other cultures and languages besides our own exist around the world.

• Language enthusiasts looking to learn more
• Anyone who thinks all languages are more or less the same
• Citizens of the world looking to gain fresh perspectives on other cultures

Do I Make Myself Clear? (2017) offers a much-needed look at why clear and concise messages are, now more than ever, so important. There is an overwhelming abundance of content these days, and yet finding the truth has never been more difficult. Politicians and marketing executives use deliberately misleading words that obscure the truth and leave us confused and distrustful. Other times, bad writing simply leaves us scratching our heads. If we hope to better understand the facts, we need more people who can deliver clear and meaningful writing.

• Aspiring writers
• Students hoping to craft better papers
• Readers tired of bad writing

The Stuff Of Thought (2007) offers an in-depth look at language and, more specifically, what it can tell us about human nature and the complexities of the human mind. These blinks touch on everything from our ability to unconsciously detect subtle grammatical patterns to the linguistic rules surrounding politeness.

• Readers interested in the complexity of language
• Psychologists and language therapists
• Students of linguistics and literature

Find Out Anything From Anyone, Anytime (2014) is a guide to asking questions that will elicit the responses you seek. The authors draw on decades of experience to show that everyone – from teachers to journalists to doctors – can benefit from asking the right questions in the right way.

• Journalists, lawyers or anyone whose job involves asking a lot of questions
• People interested in the sociology of language
• Those wishing to improve their conversational techniques

In The Third Chimpanzee (1991), Jared Diamond explores the evolution of Homo sapiens, which started out like any other animal and gradually became a unique creature capable of producing speech, making art and inventing technology. The book reveals some extraordinary insights about the nature of human beings.

• Students of history and anthropology
• People interested in human evolution
• Readers querying the essence of humankind

Words on the Move (2016) is a whistle-stop tour through the history of the English language, from its Anglo-Saxon roots to global lingua franca. Packed with illuminating insights into the evolution of words and meaning, John McWhorter’s entertaining look at language dispels plenty of myths along the way. He argues that emoticons and the new use of “like” aren’t a threat to our language, but quite the opposite – they’re the latest chapters in a story of endless evolution.

• Language learners and enthusiasts
• Anyone who’s wondered where words come from
• History buffs

Persuasive Copywriting (2019) is a valuable guide to the world of copywriting, with tips on how to get the attention and keep the interest of customers, as well as generate those all-important sales for your client. Author Andy Maslen takes time-tested techniques that have proven reliable for generations and shows how these are being successfully applied in an online world that’s increasingly focused on content marketing.

• New and experienced copywriters
• Marketing and sales professionals
• Writers eager to engage readers

Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus (1921) is a singular and ground-breaking work of modern philosophy that attempts to illuminate the relationship between logic, language, and reality.

• Big thinkers curious about contemporary philosophy
• Language lovers interested in the relationship between language and reality
• Anyone interested in the major thinkers of modernity

What Kind of Creatures Are We? (2015) takes you on an exhilarating journey into the depths of human consciousness, revealing how language shapes thought and defines our species. Through clear, precise explanations of groundbreaking research in linguistics and cognitive science, you'll discover why your mind can effortlessly create infinite meanings from finite elements – a unique capability that emerged suddenly in human history. 

• Linguistics students and professors seeking deeper insights into language evolution
• Philosophy enthusiasts interested in consciousness and human nature
• Fans of science curious about cognitive development and brain function

The Magic of Code (2025) argues that code functions as the fundamental building block of our digital world, with the power to create virtual worlds, connect people globally, and serve as a gateway to understanding connections among diverse fields like language, mythology, and human thought patterns. 

• Curious non-techies ready to discover the hidden magic shaping their reality
• Burnt-out programmers who need to reignite their love of code
• Artists who want to unlock a new creative medium

"The Elements of Style" is a classic guide to writing well. Written by William Strunk Jr. and later revised by E.B. White, it offers timeless advice on grammar, style, and composition. A must-read for anyone looking to improve their writing skills and communicate more effectively.

• Individuals looking to improve their writing skills
• Students seeking guidance on grammar and composition
• Professionals who want to communicate clearly and effectively

"Train Go Sorry" is a memoir by Leah Hager Cohen that delves into the world of the Lexington School for the Deaf in New York City. Through personal anecdotes and interviews, Cohen explores the challenges and triumphs of the deaf community, shedding light on the complexities of communication and the importance of understanding and acceptance. It offers a unique perspective on deaf culture and the power of language.

• People interested in the experiences of the deaf community
• Individuals curious about the challenges faced by deaf students in mainstream education
• Readers who appreciate personal narratives that shed light on the power of communication and understanding

Focus on Grammar 2 with Myenglishlab by Irene Schoenberg is a comprehensive English grammar book designed to help intermediate students improve their language skills. It covers essential grammar topics such as verb tenses, modals, conditionals, and more. With clear explanations, engaging exercises, and access to online resources, this book is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their English proficiency.

• English language learners who want to improve their grammar skills

• Students preparing for standardized English language exams such as TOEFL or IELTS

• Teachers looking for a comprehensive and structured approach to teaching grammar

Top Notch 1 3/E Student Book by Joan Saslow is a comprehensive English language course designed to help beginner students build their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. With engaging topics and activities, this book provides a solid foundation for English language learners and prepares them for real-life communication in various social and academic situations.

• English language learners who want to improve their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills

• Students who prefer a communicative approach to language learning

• Instructors looking for a comprehensive and engaging curriculum for their ESL/EFL classes

Woe Is I by Patricia T. O'Conner is a witty and informative guide to grammar and language usage. Through humorous examples and easy-to-understand explanations, the book helps readers navigate common language pitfalls and improve their writing skills. It's a must-read for anyone looking to brush up on their grammar in a fun and engaging way.

• Anyone looking to improve their grammar and language skills

• Students or professionals who want to communicate more effectively

• People who enjoy learning in a lighthearted and entertaining way