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 Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best.
Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study!
A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students.
EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down.
A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work.
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best.
Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study!
A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students.
EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down.
A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work.
Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended!
Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money.
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Highly recommended, 18 May 2005
This is the book for anyone who wants value for money as well as helpful instruction in the art of watercolour. It's packed with advice, instruction, and beautiful pictures and includes a marvelous gallery of paintings by other artists with helpful explanations by Hazel about how they achieved their effects. The author writes well and knows what she's talking about. Beginners and experienced watercolourists will both find enormous inspiration. I go back to it time and time again.
A gem of a book for every budding watercolour artist., 23 Aug 2001
This book lives up to the expectations coming from the description on the amazon website. It is full of easy to follow techniques which are especially helpful to the beginner and gives an insight into the techniques requiring more experience. The references to the Masters and the demonstration paintings are within the context and serve to offer advice to the prospective artist of the techniques and style best adapted to particular situations. The price is a definite plus and the size of the book is just right to carry comfortably on artistic expeditions! This book fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Lorraine Saliba
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Highly recommended, 18 May 2005
This is the book for anyone who wants value for money as well as helpful instruction in the art of watercolour. It's packed with advice, instruction, and beautiful pictures and includes a marvelous gallery of paintings by other artists with helpful explanations by Hazel about how they achieved their effects. The author writes well and knows what she's talking about. Beginners and experienced watercolourists will both find enormous inspiration. I go back to it time and time again.
A gem of a book for every budding watercolour artist., 23 Aug 2001
This book lives up to the expectations coming from the description on the amazon website. It is full of easy to follow techniques which are especially helpful to the beginner and gives an insight into the techniques requiring more experience. The references to the Masters and the demonstration paintings are within the context and serve to offer advice to the prospective artist of the techniques and style best adapted to particular situations. The price is a definite plus and the size of the book is just right to carry comfortably on artistic expeditions! This book fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Lorraine Saliba
Good Linguistics A-Level Book, 25 Jan 2005
David Crystal's encyclopedia is probably one of the biggest references in A-Level English Studies and it will prove to be a good companion to anyone doing Linguistics or English Language. It's always a good book to start looking for something - just in case it's in the book, but the book's companionship will, however, dilute as years will pass by. No final-year bacholar or post-graduate student will find it very helpful anymore. The is very good for A-Level students and it does convey the 'magic' and 'fascination' of linguistics and languages, but it will become too easy and shallow to help students with academic research.
fascinating, 27 Jul 2004
The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of Language is a fascinating read. I have been dipping into it for several months as part of a Linguistics course but keep find myself becoming distracted by anecdotes and interesting asides. I feel that this Encyclopaedia could be enjoyed by a wide variety of readers from primary school through to university.
This book is addictive!, 29 Jan 2002
This book was recommended to me as part of my Linguistics course at university. It has proved very useful for my course (not boring like other Linguistics books can be!), is extremely interesting and contains lots of pictures! My only complaint is that my studies take me AGES because I can't stop looking through it.
a mammoth work (in a good way!), 21 Jan 2002
The overwhelming effect this book leaves the reader is amazement of the scholarship of its single author, who manages to cover everything you could possibly include under the heading 'language' in a single volume. To give you some idea, the indexes and glossary of the 65 chapters information take up nearly 40 pages. Although the depth he can cover everything in is therefore limited, even in 450-odd large pages, a good proportion of what is there is absolutely fascinating and of interest to anyone who uses language (i.e. everyone). The book makes excellent use of boxes of information and visuals in full colour such as maps, graphs and photos. Like any good encyclopaedia, it can be dipped into almost randomly with the guarantee that some interesting titbit will stick in your head. More unusually, the fact that it doesn't use an A to Z format means that it can quite easily be read through as a general introduction to linguistics. In a sense it could be just as usefully called an encyclopedia of linguistics, as it provides as much information on research and theories of language as it does on the language itself. This shouldn't be taken to mean any of this would only be of interest to the professionally interested, though. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in what is going on around them, and even more so to any teacher or student of language or linguistics.
Good for more than just Language Students, 03 Oct 2000
This book is a great refernce guide for students of Language, Sociology, Psycology and probably other subjects too. It's fresh approach and easy to use page format makes it interesting to read as a whole. From Latin and Greek to Bush Negro and Yoda this has to be the most comprehensive guide I've encountered. It explians word order and grammar using examples which will engage most students .
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Highly recommended, 18 May 2005
This is the book for anyone who wants value for money as well as helpful instruction in the art of watercolour. It's packed with advice, instruction, and beautiful pictures and includes a marvelous gallery of paintings by other artists with helpful explanations by Hazel about how they achieved their effects. The author writes well and knows what she's talking about. Beginners and experienced watercolourists will both find enormous inspiration. I go back to it time and time again.
A gem of a book for every budding watercolour artist., 23 Aug 2001
This book lives up to the expectations coming from the description on the amazon website. It is full of easy to follow techniques which are especially helpful to the beginner and gives an insight into the techniques requiring more experience. The references to the Masters and the demonstration paintings are within the context and serve to offer advice to the prospective artist of the techniques and style best adapted to particular situations. The price is a definite plus and the size of the book is just right to carry comfortably on artistic expeditions! This book fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Lorraine Saliba
Good Linguistics A-Level Book, 25 Jan 2005
David Crystal's encyclopedia is probably one of the biggest references in A-Level English Studies and it will prove to be a good companion to anyone doing Linguistics or English Language. It's always a good book to start looking for something - just in case it's in the book, but the book's companionship will, however, dilute as years will pass by. No final-year bacholar or post-graduate student will find it very helpful anymore. The is very good for A-Level students and it does convey the 'magic' and 'fascination' of linguistics and languages, but it will become too easy and shallow to help students with academic research.
fascinating, 27 Jul 2004
The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of Language is a fascinating read. I have been dipping into it for several months as part of a Linguistics course but keep find myself becoming distracted by anecdotes and interesting asides. I feel that this Encyclopaedia could be enjoyed by a wide variety of readers from primary school through to university.
This book is addictive!, 29 Jan 2002
This book was recommended to me as part of my Linguistics course at university. It has proved very useful for my course (not boring like other Linguistics books can be!), is extremely interesting and contains lots of pictures! My only complaint is that my studies take me AGES because I can't stop looking through it.
a mammoth work (in a good way!), 21 Jan 2002
The overwhelming effect this book leaves the reader is amazement of the scholarship of its single author, who manages to cover everything you could possibly include under the heading 'language' in a single volume. To give you some idea, the indexes and glossary of the 65 chapters information take up nearly 40 pages. Although the depth he can cover everything in is therefore limited, even in 450-odd large pages, a good proportion of what is there is absolutely fascinating and of interest to anyone who uses language (i.e. everyone). The book makes excellent use of boxes of information and visuals in full colour such as maps, graphs and photos. Like any good encyclopaedia, it can be dipped into almost randomly with the guarantee that some interesting titbit will stick in your head. More unusually, the fact that it doesn't use an A to Z format means that it can quite easily be read through as a general introduction to linguistics. In a sense it could be just as usefully called an encyclopedia of linguistics, as it provides as much information on research and theories of language as it does on the language itself. This shouldn't be taken to mean any of this would only be of interest to the professionally interested, though. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in what is going on around them, and even more so to any teacher or student of language or linguistics.
Good for more than just Language Students, 03 Oct 2000
This book is a great refernce guide for students of Language, Sociology, Psycology and probably other subjects too. It's fresh approach and easy to use page format makes it interesting to read as a whole. From Latin and Greek to Bush Negro and Yoda this has to be the most comprehensive guide I've encountered. It explians word order and grammar using examples which will engage most students .
Useful, Entertaining, Insightful... need I go on?, 05 Jul 2008
Given this as a Christmas present, I was not immediately inspired, however I did dip into it and found myself rather hooked!
As a reference book it is wonderful- all those little things that you weren't sure about... all those things you were wondering...
How does that work?
Who was he?
How did he do that?
Which episode did that happen?
What does a Compact Laser Deluxe do? Who had one, and, you know... Where?!
Get all your questions answered and more in this neat, beautifully illustrated guide to the world that is uniquely Doctor Who!
The entire book it dedicated to every useful, and er, not so useful fact that is Doctor who. Who knows what happened in 1336 with the doctor, Rose and Captain Jack? What was the doctor planning for the year 5006 on a Tuesday in October at 6pm? What are the co-ordinates 761390 for?
It's all in this marvelous book! *****
FILLS IN THOSE MISSING BITS, 15 May 2008
A well produced hardback with excellent photographs, visually arresting layout and eminently readable text, THE DOCTOR WHO ENCYLOPEDIA is a worthy addition to any fan's collection. GARY RUSSELL has clearly done his research and the finished result is perfect for the Target Audience which, in theory, must reach into the millions.
Pretty much everything to do with the last three seasons is covered from major characters to major events with direct and indirect references and links, but there's still no avoiding the plot holes, contradictions and contrivances found in most DOCTOR WHO episodes - that sort of thing simply goes with the territory, especially shaky science, which has been elevated to almost art-form status since the show's rebirth. What this encyclopedia attempts to do, however, is fill in some of the more "Eh...?" gaps with solidly thought-out explanations which weren't always made clear in the original broadcasts, the result of (presumably) lazy or fuzzy scriptwriting. As you no doubt already know, Exec Producer RUSSELL T DAVIS is no stranger to this particular phenomenon.
But, hey, now we can all understand the Master's plan for the Toclafane in UTOPIA or the effects of The Paradox Machine from THE LAST OF THE TIME LORDS; the method by which the Weeping Angels steal people's futures from BLINK or how The Beast came to be held captive and the engineering of his subsequent destruction from THE SATAN PIT. Presented in paragraph or short caption form it all appears to make perfect sense now (within some seriously barmy parameters, that is). The introduction even manages to include names or words that might feature in a future revised edition, including Adipose, Rattigan, Mrs (!!), Vespiform...and so on. A neat bit of fingers-crossed foreshadowing there, Gary.
Whatever the case, when the time comes, let's ensure this Doctor Who product enjoys a full and happy regeneration.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
So good I bought it twice!, 11 Dec 2007
I bought this for my son for Xmas, but with a last minute birthday party invitation I had to give it away to his friend. When my son saw it he was absolutely rapt and said "I wish I'd put that on my list for Santa". Little does he know that Santa already knew he'd like it and is about to order a replacement for him. ;o) The book itself is nice and big and full of in depth detail which will keep Doctor Who fans engaged for hours. There's lots of full colour illustrations and, as the title suggests, it is laid out like an encyclopedia, so it's easy to look up those facts that may have slipped your mind. Well worth the money (and absolutely essential at £3.99!!).
I'm Sorry!, 04 Dec 2007
I'm sorry, I really am. I'm about to insult a hell of a lot of people. But I have to say it. This book is just...unnecesarry! And the fact that I can't spell makes the insult even worse!
I can't believe I'm saying this, I really can't. I'm talking about the writer from The Inside Story, who I've just given a 5 Star Rating.
This book is so detailed, so well written, packed with facts, and yet I don't know anyone who's spend higher thann ten pounds on a book, that's useless, contributes nothing to the DW world, and has information that isn't going to benefit anybody. There, I've said it. Now, here come the insults...
FANTASIC, 17 Nov 2007
This book is packed with information and definetly worth the price. A must-have for only £14.99!!! You can get it for £3.99 delivered...somewhere...
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Highly recommended, 18 May 2005
This is the book for anyone who wants value for money as well as helpful instruction in the art of watercolour. It's packed with advice, instruction, and beautiful pictures and includes a marvelous gallery of paintings by other artists with helpful explanations by Hazel about how they achieved their effects. The author writes well and knows what she's talking about. Beginners and experienced watercolourists will both find enormous inspiration. I go back to it time and time again.
A gem of a book for every budding watercolour artist., 23 Aug 2001
This book lives up to the expectations coming from the description on the amazon website. It is full of easy to follow techniques which are especially helpful to the beginner and gives an insight into the techniques requiring more experience. The references to the Masters and the demonstration paintings are within the context and serve to offer advice to the prospective artist of the techniques and style best adapted to particular situations. The price is a definite plus and the size of the book is just right to carry comfortably on artistic expeditions! This book fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Lorraine Saliba
Good Linguistics A-Level Book, 25 Jan 2005
David Crystal's encyclopedia is probably one of the biggest references in A-Level English Studies and it will prove to be a good companion to anyone doing Linguistics or English Language. It's always a good book to start looking for something - just in case it's in the book, but the book's companionship will, however, dilute as years will pass by. No final-year bacholar or post-graduate student will find it very helpful anymore. The is very good for A-Level students and it does convey the 'magic' and 'fascination' of linguistics and languages, but it will become too easy and shallow to help students with academic research.
fascinating, 27 Jul 2004
The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of Language is a fascinating read. I have been dipping into it for several months as part of a Linguistics course but keep find myself becoming distracted by anecdotes and interesting asides. I feel that this Encyclopaedia could be enjoyed by a wide variety of readers from primary school through to university.
This book is addictive!, 29 Jan 2002
This book was recommended to me as part of my Linguistics course at university. It has proved very useful for my course (not boring like other Linguistics books can be!), is extremely interesting and contains lots of pictures! My only complaint is that my studies take me AGES because I can't stop looking through it.
a mammoth work (in a good way!), 21 Jan 2002
The overwhelming effect this book leaves the reader is amazement of the scholarship of its single author, who manages to cover everything you could possibly include under the heading 'language' in a single volume. To give you some idea, the indexes and glossary of the 65 chapters information take up nearly 40 pages. Although the depth he can cover everything in is therefore limited, even in 450-odd large pages, a good proportion of what is there is absolutely fascinating and of interest to anyone who uses language (i.e. everyone). The book makes excellent use of boxes of information and visuals in full colour such as maps, graphs and photos. Like any good encyclopaedia, it can be dipped into almost randomly with the guarantee that some interesting titbit will stick in your head. More unusually, the fact that it doesn't use an A to Z format means that it can quite easily be read through as a general introduction to linguistics. In a sense it could be just as usefully called an encyclopedia of linguistics, as it provides as much information on research and theories of language as it does on the language itself. This shouldn't be taken to mean any of this would only be of interest to the professionally interested, though. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in what is going on around them, and even more so to any teacher or student of language or linguistics.
Good for more than just Language Students, 03 Oct 2000
This book is a great refernce guide for students of Language, Sociology, Psycology and probably other subjects too. It's fresh approach and easy to use page format makes it interesting to read as a whole. From Latin and Greek to Bush Negro and Yoda this has to be the most comprehensive guide I've encountered. It explians word order and grammar using examples which will engage most students .
Useful, Entertaining, Insightful... need I go on?, 05 Jul 2008
Given this as a Christmas present, I was not immediately inspired, however I did dip into it and found myself rather hooked!
As a reference book it is wonderful- all those little things that you weren't sure about... all those things you were wondering...
How does that work?
Who was he?
How did he do that?
Which episode did that happen?
What does a Compact Laser Deluxe do? Who had one, and, you know... Where?!
Get all your questions answered and more in this neat, beautifully illustrated guide to the world that is uniquely Doctor Who!
The entire book it dedicated to every useful, and er, not so useful fact that is Doctor who. Who knows what happened in 1336 with the doctor, Rose and Captain Jack? What was the doctor planning for the year 5006 on a Tuesday in October at 6pm? What are the co-ordinates 761390 for?
It's all in this marvelous book! *****
FILLS IN THOSE MISSING BITS, 15 May 2008
A well produced hardback with excellent photographs, visually arresting layout and eminently readable text, THE DOCTOR WHO ENCYLOPEDIA is a worthy addition to any fan's collection. GARY RUSSELL has clearly done his research and the finished result is perfect for the Target Audience which, in theory, must reach into the millions.
Pretty much everything to do with the last three seasons is covered from major characters to major events with direct and indirect references and links, but there's still no avoiding the plot holes, contradictions and contrivances found in most DOCTOR WHO episodes - that sort of thing simply goes with the territory, especially shaky science, which has been elevated to almost art-form status since the show's rebirth. What this encyclopedia attempts to do, however, is fill in some of the more "Eh...?" gaps with solidly thought-out explanations which weren't always made clear in the original broadcasts, the result of (presumably) lazy or fuzzy scriptwriting. As you no doubt already know, Exec Producer RUSSELL T DAVIS is no stranger to this particular phenomenon.
But, hey, now we can all understand the Master's plan for the Toclafane in UTOPIA or the effects of The Paradox Machine from THE LAST OF THE TIME LORDS; the method by which the Weeping Angels steal people's futures from BLINK or how The Beast came to be held captive and the engineering of his subsequent destruction from THE SATAN PIT. Presented in paragraph or short caption form it all appears to make perfect sense now (within some seriously barmy parameters, that is). The introduction even manages to include names or words that might feature in a future revised edition, including Adipose, Rattigan, Mrs (!!), Vespiform...and so on. A neat bit of fingers-crossed foreshadowing there, Gary.
Whatever the case, when the time comes, let's ensure this Doctor Who product enjoys a full and happy regeneration.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
So good I bought it twice!, 11 Dec 2007
I bought this for my son for Xmas, but with a last minute birthday party invitation I had to give it away to his friend. When my son saw it he was absolutely rapt and said "I wish I'd put that on my list for Santa". Little does he know that Santa already knew he'd like it and is about to order a replacement for him. ;o) The book itself is nice and big and full of in depth detail which will keep Doctor Who fans engaged for hours. There's lots of full colour illustrations and, as the title suggests, it is laid out like an encyclopedia, so it's easy to look up those facts that may have slipped your mind. Well worth the money (and absolutely essential at £3.99!!).
I'm Sorry!, 04 Dec 2007
I'm sorry, I really am. I'm about to insult a hell of a lot of people. But I have to say it. This book is just...unnecesarry! And the fact that I can't spell makes the insult even worse!
I can't believe I'm saying this, I really can't. I'm talking about the writer from The Inside Story, who I've just given a 5 Star Rating.
This book is so detailed, so well written, packed with facts, and yet I don't know anyone who's spend higher thann ten pounds on a book, that's useless, contributes nothing to the DW world, and has information that isn't going to benefit anybody. There, I've said it. Now, here come the insults...
FANTASIC, 17 Nov 2007
This book is packed with information and definetly worth the price. A must-have for only £14.99!!! You can get it for £3.99 delivered...somewhere...
The Encyclopedia of Acrylic Techniques: A Unique A-Z Directory of Acrylic Techniques with Step-by-step Guidance on Their Use, 16 Nov 2007
As a beginner to acrylic paints this book is ideal for me as it describes well the different techniques that can be employed. The many examples of completed paintings are also a great source of inspiration.
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Customer Reviews
Essential reading for any student of literacy or English, 30 Jul 2008
This book was essential reading for me during my literacy specialist tutor training, and two years later it is still in regular use. If you want to check your use of grammar, wonder what word is used for truanting in South Wales, or are puzzled as to what a morpheme is, the answers are here. It never let me down when I wanted to check something. Not the cheapest or most portable book there is, but definitely the best. Essential, 17 Jan 2006
This book is essential for anyone studying language or linguistics at degree level. Crystal is the man when it comes to this subject and I'm sure this book and many more of his will be assisting me with the MA in Linguistics that I plan to pursue. It is books like this that have fed my enthusiasm for the English language and encouraged further study! A bible, 06 Jan 2006
Superb! Must have for anybody interested in or studying English language, it is fascinating and has been my bible throughout my Alevel and now in to my degree. Really worth the money. David Crystal is an inspiration to Language users and students. EXCELLENT but where to start?, 17 Jan 2000
A: At anypoint of interest .As a student of Linguistics and the English language at the University of Wales, Bangor, this is an invaluble book. As an introduction to the English language you'll find you can't put it down. Facts you never knew before from the history of the English language to English as a global language. For general reading, you'll discover a facinating insight to the language that we use every day without much consideration. Easy to pick up, impossible to put down. A valuable tool for any student of the english language, 05 Jan 2000
Crystal's encyclopedia is well referenced and gives a good introduction - often more - into a wide range of issues relating to the development and use of language. An easily accessible and fascinating reference work. Best flower arranging book, 27 Sep 2008
I am a flower-arranging novice and this book was recommended to me by someone who has run (for a couple of decades) one of the many NAFAS branches dedicated to flower arranging, after I complained that all the flower books from my library basically just had many pretty pictures that didn't really support me in creating good arrangements for myself, based on bunches I could get at the supermarket. I wanted a flower arranging book with principles and theories, a really good teaching book.
I was more than impressed with this one: over two dozen classic and modern design principles for bigger arrangements plus easy-to-follow smaller ideas, examples of show-work, equipment and techniques, how to condition the plant material (vital if you want your arrangement to continue looking good for more than a couple of days), and much more. Clear text and great photos. If you only want one book on flower arranging, this is it. For a collection, this is a must-add or a wonderful starting point.
Excellent Book!, 01 Sep 2008
This is book is jam-packed with techniques, tips & advice.
It has loads of info on various styles & flowers, with very clear instructions for beginners. Highly Recomended! Just what I wanted, 08 Sep 2006
Lovely photographs and great contents just about sums this book up. There is lots to inspire you in this book and I, being a novice, particularly found the Equipment & Techniques chapter very useful. The flowers and foliage chapter is also a good guide to what is available. There is a hell of a lot in this book and I think it is great value for money. As A Complete Novice I AM So Glad I Bought This Book, 29 May 2007
Many books profess to being Encylopedia or Bible of this and that but few live up to the impressive title. I'm pleased to say this book does that by the bucket load. The book goes through the basic equipment, techniques, blocks and rotary cutting - with simple instructions and clear colour photographs. Slowly graduating to special effects, applique, quilting types (Italian, Sashiko, Trapunto, which I can only dream of aspiring to) and finshing with, appropriately, finishing. At the very end of the book are themes with fabulous examples of quilts designed and made by the 'great and good' in the quilting world, some of which can only be described as breath taking. Definitely a book for the beginner with inspiration for the 'graduate quilter' to try out. A Must Have Book............, 13 May 2003
Fantastic, great, wonderful....these are the words you'll say once you've bought this book, it's an absolute must have for beginners and experienced quilters and patchworkers alike. It is well illustrated and extremely easy to follow. If your like me and very new to quilting it explains everything in easy terms, no jargon! The pictures are easy to follow too. There were lots of question I had and wondered about many things to do with quilting and this book helped with both. In essence, I would say if I could only own one book about quilting, this would be it. It offers everything you need and want to know. I would highly reccommend this book to anyone who has an interest in this subject. Great Book!, 29 Jan 2003
This is an excellent reference book, and one I refer to again and again! Very clear instructions, explanations and illustrations. Excellent for beginners and useful for internediate quilters, 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I ever read on the subject and it's one I keep going back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is
explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by
step account on how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many precise photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairiepoints, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of a magnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by the quilter's name, quilt size nd name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for any quilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Excellent for beginnners: useful for advanced quilters., 16 Jan 2002
This is an excellent introduction to the craft of patchwork and quilting. It is the first book I
ever read on the subject and it's one I go back to time and time again. For absolute beginners just starting out on this absorbing hobby, basic terminology is explained and the section on equipment to buy contains lots of useful advice. The step by step account of how to design your own quilt and estimate the amount of fabric required is also very helpful. Lots of different patchwork and quilting techniques are detailed in the book and the text is accompanied by many photographs and illustrations. The easy to follow instructions are most encouraging and you'll want to try out each new technique as soon as you turn the pages. The more advanced patchworker will also find plenty of interest in this book, as special effects such as piping, prairie points, folded patchwork and much more is discussed. Numerous types of applique eg stained glass, shadow, Hawaiin etc. are presented and instructions for different types of quilting, rotary cutting and speed piecing are also included. The latter part of the book consists of amagnificent gallery of quilts in different styles. Each photograph is accompanied by tquilter's name, quilt size and name and also a brief description of the piece. The gallery is a marvellous source of inspiration for anquilter. I thoroughly recommend this book to both beginners and intermediate quilters.
Highly recommended, 18 May 2005
This is the book for anyone who wants value for money as well as helpful instruction in the art of watercolour. It's packed with advice, instruction, and beautiful pictures and includes a marvelous gallery of paintings by other artists with helpful explanations by Hazel about how they achieved their effects. The author writes well and knows what she's talking about. Beginners and experienced watercolourists will both find enormous inspiration. I go back to it time and time again.
A gem of a book for every budding watercolour artist., 23 Aug 2001
This book lives up to the expectations coming from the description on the amazon website. It is full of easy to follow techniques which are especially helpful to the beginner and gives an insight into the techniques requiring more experience. The references to the Masters and the demonstration paintings are within the context and serve to offer advice to the prospective artist of the techniques and style best adapted to particular situations. The price is a definite plus and the size of the book is just right to carry comfortably on artistic expeditions! This book fulfilled and exceeded my expectations. Lorraine Saliba
Good Linguistics A-Level Book, 25 Jan 2005
David Crystal's encyclopedia is probably one of the biggest references in A-Level English Studies and it will prove to be a good companion to anyone doing Linguistics or English Language. It's always a good book to start looking for something - just in case it's in the book, but the book's companionship will, however, dilute as years will pass by. No final-year bacholar or post-graduate student will find it very helpful anymore. The is very good for A-Level students and it does convey the 'magic' and 'fascination' of linguistics and languages, but it will become too easy and shallow to help students with academic research.
fascinating, 27 Jul 2004
The Cambridge Encyclopaedia of Language is a fascinating read. I have been dipping into it for several months as part of a Linguistics course but keep find myself becoming distracted by anecdotes and interesting asides. I feel that this Encyclopaedia could be enjoyed by a wide variety of readers from primary school through to university.
This book is addictive!, 29 Jan 2002
This book was recommended to me as part of my Linguistics course at university. It has proved very useful for my course (not boring like other Linguistics books can be!), is extremely interesting and contains lots of pictures! My only complaint is that my studies take me AGES because I can't stop looking through it.
a mammoth work (in a good way!), 21 Jan 2002
The overwhelming effect this book leaves the reader is amazement of the scholarship of its single author, who manages to cover everything you could possibly include under the heading 'language' in a single volume. To give you some idea, the indexes and glossary of the 65 chapters information take up nearly 40 pages. Although the depth he can cover everything in is therefore limited, even in 450-odd large pages, a good proportion of what is there is absolutely fascinating and of interest to anyone who uses language (i.e. everyone). The book makes excellent use of boxes of information and visuals in full colour such as maps, graphs and photos. Like any good encyclopaedia, it can be dipped into almost randomly with the guarantee that some interesting titbit will stick in your head. More unusually, the fact that it doesn't use an A to Z format means that it can quite easily be read through as a general introduction to linguistics. In a sense it could be just as usefully called an encyclopedia of linguistics, as it provides as much information on research and theories of language as it does on the language itself. This shouldn't be taken to mean any of this would only be of interest to the professionally interested, though. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in what is going on around them, and even more so to any teacher or student of language or linguistics.
Good for more than just Language Students, 03 Oct 2000
This book is a great refernce guide for students of Language, Sociology, Psycology and probably other subjects too. It's fresh approach and easy to use page format makes it interesting to read as a whole. From Latin and Greek to Bush Negro and Yoda this has to be the most comprehensive guide I've encountered. It explians word order and grammar using examples which will engage most students .
Useful, Entertaining, Insightful... need I go on?, 05 Jul 2008
Given this as a Christmas present, I was not immediately inspired, however I did dip into it and found myself rather hooked!
As a reference book it is wonderful- all those little things that you weren't sure about... all those things you were wondering...
How does that work?
Who was he?
How did he do that?
Which episode did that happen?
What does a Compact Laser Deluxe do? Who had one, and, you know... Where?!
Get all your questions answered and more in this neat, beautifully illustrated guide to the world that is uniquely Doctor Who!
The entire book it dedicated to every useful, and er, not so useful fact that is Doctor who. Who knows what happened in 1336 with the doctor, Rose and Capt | | |