Spoken, broken and bloody English : the story of George Bernard Shaw, Linguaphone and Eliza Doolittle

"Let me introduce myself...". So begins a remarkable recording, made in 1927, by George Bernard Shaw, at the invitation of the Linguaphone Institute.

The great dramatist, then at the height of his fame, was asked to make some observations on how English should be spoken, to be recorded on to a dual disc album - and the great man duly obliged in his inimitable manner.

Reprocessed by the latest technology, a CD is included in this book, enabling us all to enjoy, once again, that authentic Shavian wit and wisdom but this time, from the man himself.Published to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Linguaphone Institute, "Spoken, Broken and Bloody English" also tells the fascinating story of how the Linguaphone method of teaching came about.

Its unique approach to language learning has always been endorsed by leading academics and it was through such an association that George Bernard Shaw was to allow himself to be thus recorded.

Jan Marsh tells a tale of film stars, royalty, politicians - even spies - as well as providing a possible clue to the mysterious Hungarian who almost exposes Professor Higgins' subterfuge.

This celebration should appeal not only to scholars of language and fans of Bernard Shaw, but also to any member of the general public who loves "My Fair Lady".