"This is the first detailed explanation of the way British Sign Language works and is the product of many years' experience of research and teaching sign linguistics to deaf and hearing people. It assumes no previous knowledge of linguistics or sign language, and is not structured around traditional headings such as phonology, morphology and syntax. Instead it is set out in such a way as to help learners and their teachers understand the linguistic principles behind the language. There are sections on BSL grammar and also on the use of BSL, including social acceptability in signing, variation, and poetry and humour in BSL. Technical terms and linguistic jargon are kept to a minimum, and the text contains many examples from English, BSL, and other spoken and sign languages. The book is amply illustrated and contains exercises, as well as a reading list for further study."

After a quick skim through, it's a little heavy to start with, but gets to be an easier read later on. I have done the level one BSL course, but I couldn't imagine trying to read and understand this without knowing any signing.

CONTROLLED RELEASE NOTES:

This book is quite heavy going - it covers the mechanics and linguistics of British Sign Language. I bought the book think that it would help me with my BSL course, but it seems I've not needed to know the content this book covers.

I've given the book to Jac, another person on my BSL Level 2 course.