- New eBook Additions
- Most Popular
- Try Something Different
- Deaf History
- Deaf Literature
- Deaf Community: In Their Own Words
- American Sign Language
- Children of Deaf Adults: In Their Own Words
- See all
The book begins with theories and observations about the genesis and universality of sign language, as well as its use by animals, children, and uninstructed deaf-mutes. Following an account of his research and methodology and suggestion for further research, the author devotes several pages to describing and illustrating signs used for specific words — from "antelope," "trade," and "yes" to such sentences as "Who are you?" "What is your name?" and "How old are you?" Especially interesting are 40 pages or so of narratives or dialogues, most given both in sign language and in oral paraphrase. Throughout the book, clearly diagrammed illustrations indicate proper movements of body and hands for signing.
Students of linguistics and anthropology — anyone fascinated by this age-old method of communication — will welcome this inexpensive reprint of a long-unavailable treasure.