'This expert study weaves together inquiries in theoretical and historical linguistics and acquisition of language, providing new ideas and insights about the nature of language and about the emergence of languages through history and in the individual. Lucidly written and accessible to a general audience, its original perspectives and acute analyses of wide-ranging empirical materials also provide fascinating challenges to those working at the borders of research in the many areas that Lightfoot engages. An impressive and very valuable contribution.' Noam Chomsky, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

'In How New Languages Emerge Lightfoot offers a convincing and elegant account for why major changes in language occur by putting the focus where it belongs: on the linguistic creativity of children and the input they receive from adults.' Mark Louden, University of Wisconsin

'… How New Languages Emerge is a rewarding read for all those interested in the interplay between language acquisition, variation and change. … I have no doubt that Lightfoot's book will incite discussion on the nature of language evolution and change.' Journal of Linguistics