"Divided into 10 chapters on themes such as language diversity, multilingualism, bridging means across languages, language survival and intervention, this is the most readable textbook I have ever come across... This seemingly light yet profoundly rich book, with its span across the entire language diversity scene, cannot fail to spark enthusiasm... Its apparent simplicity, clarity and colourful asides make it an unforgettable reading experience."

- Times Higher Education Supplement (of the first edition),

This book is a timely, comprehensive, thought-provoking, and compelling critique of the scholarship on various aspects of multilingualism; well grounded in society and social interactions. It is made captivating by the witty and detached style of the author, who not only covers a wide body of interdisciplinary literature but also reports several empirical anecdotes from around the world to prove his points.

- Salikoko S. Mufwene, University of Chicago, USA,

In this revised edition of a much-loved book, John Edwards presents the history and the latest developments in multilingualism research in a clear and accessible manner. By pointing out that “languages are totems as well as tools”, he demonstrates this unique ability to be powerfully succinct and memorable.

- Jean-Marc Dewaele, Birkbeck University of London, UK,