What are the key design elements of human language? How does it work? What makes it different from how animals communicate and convey information? How did it evolve, biologically speaking? In what respects do animals fail to do what we humans do so effortlessly? Language is a uniquely human trait, but without a degree in linguistics, it is difficult to comprehend how it works. This fascinating book addresses these and related questions in a lively and engaging way, and demonstrates the 'nuts and bolts' of how language actually works. Readers are introduced to key discoveries in the study of language, such as Chomsky's ideas about 'language faculty', and parallels are drawn with well-known issues in science, such as 'flat earth', the nature-nurture debate, and the teaching of language to apes. Language – something so universal to all human experience – is a fascinating cognitive system, and this book explains how, and why.

‘We use language all the time, without realizing how incredibly complex it is. This book, both deep and engaging, will share with you not only the results of the intense work invested into investigating this uniquely human faculty, but also the joy linguists take in their discoveries. The scope of the book is as broad as its topic. A great read!’

Ora Matushansky - SFL (CNRS/Université Paris 8/PLA)

‘At last - a book explaining in accessible language how linguists approach language. Cooler stuff than etymologies and words of the year - Pereltsvaig holds the floor with what the rest of us linguists say we could never talk about at parties.’

John McWhorter - Columbia University Professor of Linguistics and New York Times Columnist

‘Language Rules! is a highly entertaining and thoroughly informative introduction to the science of linguistics. Considering all aspects of language structure, and using data from a wide variety of languages, the author demonstrates neatly that linguistic processes rely on ‘chunking’ sub-components together, rather than simply on linear order. The writing style makes this a genuinely approachable read for anyone interested in the mechanics of language.’

Maggie Tallerman - Emerita Professor of Linguistics, Newcastle University UK

‘In this book Asya Pereltsvaig presents an engaging account of some of the important findings of modern formal linguistics. Both general readers and specialists will appreciate the range of topics covered and the wealth of insights drawn from the world’s languages. An excellent read!’

Karen Zagona - Professor Emerita, University of Washington

‘Language Rules! offers a compelling, unifying vision of language grounded in abstract structure and “chunking,” a theme that resonates throughout the book. Drawing on a rich range of facts, history, and ideas from across linguistics, it presents an accessible and engaging introduction to the biolinguistic perspective. Besides being a great read for anyone interested in language, the book could readily serve as a primary text for an introductory linguistics course, covering the field’s core domains while also providing a clear, step-by-step guide to doing linguistic analysis-not just reading about it.’

T. Daniel Seely - Eastern Michigan University