English : one tongue, many voices

This readable, yet scholarly book tells the fascinating story of the English language in three ways.

It traces the history of the language from its obscure beginnings over 1500 years ago.

It shows the geographical spread of the language in its increasing diversity.

It looks at the present state of English as a global language and problems and uncertainties of its future.

It argues that, in spite of the amazing variety and plurality of English, it remains a single language.