Description:
This classic text by Geneva Smitherman, pioneering scholar of Black Talk, is a definitive statement on African American Language (AAL). It is an essential read for students of African American speech, language, culture and sociolinguistics, as well as the general reader interested in the worldwide 'crossover' of Black popular culture.
Review Quotes:
"Many scholars, students and laypersons across the globe have an informed appreciation for the Language of Black America, because they got the Word from the Mother, Dr. Geneva Smitherman. Like no other, 'Dr. G, ' the Signifying mother, captures the wit, humor, joy and critical edge that speaks forth from this language of history, culture and experience of the descendants of enslaved African people in these 'United' States of America. This is a classic text and precious gem from an OLE SKOOL Womanist scholar of the people that should be read by generations to come!"
Elaine Richardson, Ohio State University, USA, author of Hiphop Literacies and African American Literacies
"As Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul, 'Dr. G, ' as she's affectionately known, is the Queen of Black Language. She gave us the name 'African American Language' to express the expansiveness of language use in African American communities. Word from the Mother is a must-read in any course that includes African American Language in conveying our language, linguistics, and cultural journey that honors our ancestors and strengthens us by confirming their worth and ours."
Sonja L. Lanehart, University of Arizona, USA, author of Sista, Speak! Black Women Kinfolk Talk about Language and Literacy