Talking Back, Talking Black cover art

Talking Back, Talking Black

Truths About America's Lingua Franca

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Talking Back, Talking Black

By: John McWhorter
Narrated by: John McWhorter
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About this listen

Linguists have been studying Black English as a speech variety for years, arguing to the public that it is different from Standard English, not a degradation of it. Yet false assumptions and controversies still swirl around what it means to speak and sound "Black." In his first book devoted solely to the form, structure, and development of Black English, John McWhorter clearly explains its fundamentals and rich history while carefully examining the cultural, educational, and political issues that have undermined recognition of this transformative, empowering dialect.

Talking Back, Talking Black takes us on a fascinating tour of a nuanced and complex language that has moved beyond America's borders to become a dynamic force for today's youth culture around the world.

©2017 John McWhorter (P)2019 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books African American Studies Americas Linguistics Racism & Discrimination Social Sciences Specific Demographics United States Discrimination

Critic Reviews

“Superb.” (Steven Pinker)

“An explanation, a defense, and, most heartening, a celebration.... McWhorter demonstrates the ‘legitimacy’ of Black English by uncovering its complexity and sophistication, as well as the still unfolding journey that has led to its creation.... [His] intelligent breeziness is the source of the book’s considerable charm.” (New Yorker)
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I have listened to 3 or 4 of John’s books now and throughly enjoyed each one. He makes his subject come to life, keeps things moving and adds a splash of humour which makes what you might expect to be a very dry topic, really fascinating. Thank you for introducing me to linguistics and sparking my interest.

This guy is seriously great to listen to

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