|
Browse categories
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market.
Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up.
Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover.
The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books).
Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start.
Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market.
Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up.
Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover.
The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books).
Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start.
Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing.
A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price.
The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
"Let's Sign Early Years", 20 Feb 2006
Absolutely brilliant book if you're looking for BSL basic signs to do with youngsters. Also puts basic common phrases together, gives clear pictures and a good explanation. Version 2 for more signs please!
Great start to signing, 27 Jun 2005
This book contains all the signs you would need for communicating with young ones, without endless searching through the more extensive dictionaries available, which contain far more than you would need and are not exactly portable. The pictures are simple and easy to follow, with written instruction, and variations where applicable.
Would also be a good next step for those wanting to build upon the simple baby signing used with hearing babies.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
"Let's Sign Early Years", 20 Feb 2006
Absolutely brilliant book if you're looking for BSL basic signs to do with youngsters. Also puts basic common phrases together, gives clear pictures and a good explanation. Version 2 for more signs please!
Great start to signing, 27 Jun 2005
This book contains all the signs you would need for communicating with young ones, without endless searching through the more extensive dictionaries available, which contain far more than you would need and are not exactly portable. The pictures are simple and easy to follow, with written instruction, and variations where applicable.
Would also be a good next step for those wanting to build upon the simple baby signing used with hearing babies.
excellent cards, 29 Jan 2008
I use the cards with children and the response is excellent the children look at them and respond especially to the pictures.well worth the money .
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
"Let's Sign Early Years", 20 Feb 2006
Absolutely brilliant book if you're looking for BSL basic signs to do with youngsters. Also puts basic common phrases together, gives clear pictures and a good explanation. Version 2 for more signs please!
Great start to signing, 27 Jun 2005
This book contains all the signs you would need for communicating with young ones, without endless searching through the more extensive dictionaries available, which contain far more than you would need and are not exactly portable. The pictures are simple and easy to follow, with written instruction, and variations where applicable.
Would also be a good next step for those wanting to build upon the simple baby signing used with hearing babies.
excellent cards, 29 Jan 2008
I use the cards with children and the response is excellent the children look at them and respond especially to the pictures.well worth the money .
Just didn't use this, 18 Aug 2007
Bought this with the best intentions, but am reviewing it on the basis that I didn't get much beyond chapter 2 .. Might be a fabulous book, but honestly if you have the time and energy to get through this and start a learning program when you have a baby a couple of months old you're a better parent than I am.
For me, in the early days, I found it much more natural to tune into what my baby needed- ie: combine knowledge of your child with reading natural signs (eg The Baby Whisperer) than work on teaching him how to tell me.
Further, I found I used my own signs naturally when I said certain words which my son picked up on.
I read that children who learn sign language like this as babies don't end up better off in terms of language, so it really is a balance between the effort of following a program like this with the benefits you get for the months before your child starts making their own sounds and signs to tell you what they need.
However you do it, you need all the other members of the household to be on board to avoid baby getting frustrated with a family member/parent who isn't as tuned in.
a wind-up, 18 Sep 2006
I bought this at considerable cost with high hopes and found it very frustrating. It's hard enough coping with your first baby without setting yourself additional tasks which are going to make you feel inadequate if they don't bear fruit - or worse still, make you feel frustrated with your child unnecessarily. (It's bad enough when they won't eat the fruit puree you've just made.) Babies don't do things when you want them to and that includes learning signs. I note that some of the other reviews are written by people who've only just bought the product and therefore cannot possibly have tried it out yet as the process takes months. If you're a very confident, easy-going person who can cope philosophically with failure then by all means give it a whirl. And I also think it might be better to try it with a second or third baby rather than with the first - because you'll have more realistic expectations of what's possible because you're a more experienced parent. But beware of expecting miracles.
sign language a must for babies and mums!, 22 Sep 2004
I had heard about this book from 'This Morning' TV programme. I bought, read it and started using two signs when talking to my son. It took a little while but he soon started telling me when he wanted more food and milk and he would sign hello and goodbye. It has been great to be able to know what he has wanted before he could talk. However we still do sign sometimes and this book is a must for any family. The signs are simple and very easy to remember, its just remembering to use them!! Hopefully he will be able to comunicate a little with someone with hearing difficulties in the future.
Excellent Starter Book, 16 Jun 2004
I bought this a few days ago, and read it within 3 hours of its arrival. The signs are clearly illustrated and very easy to learn and the book is well written and laid out. There are 140 or so basic (baby-related) signs to learn, which I should imagine will keep us going for a little while before we have to buy a dictionary. The one drawback for British buyers is that it is an ASL book, not BSL, which some may feel is a problem. I gather the complete set (with video etc) also comes with BSL translation, but I didn't feel that a video was necessary, or worth the extra expense as the illustration and description of the signs in the book is so clear. I'd certainly highly recommend it to anyone, UK or elsewhere, who is interested in learning the basics of signing for better communication with their pre-verbal babies.
Features ASL not BSL, 06 Jan 2004
The text of the book is very short but easy to read and convincing, although I haven't tried it yet. The book uses american sign language (ASL) rather than the british equivalent (BSL) and they are very different. So if you would like to teach your baby BSL (which I think makes more sense in the UK) you'll need either a separate BSL dictionary or you can buy the complete sign with your baby UK learning pack with video and BSL word guide. I found deciphering the signs quite tricky from the diagrams, so the getting video would probably be a great help from the start. This is worth thinking about before you buy the book on its own: I'm now going to get the complete pack so I'll end up with two copies of the book.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
"Let's Sign Early Years", 20 Feb 2006
Absolutely brilliant book if you're looking for BSL basic signs to do with youngsters. Also puts basic common phrases together, gives clear pictures and a good explanation. Version 2 for more signs please!
Great start to signing, 27 Jun 2005
This book contains all the signs you would need for communicating with young ones, without endless searching through the more extensive dictionaries available, which contain far more than you would need and are not exactly portable. The pictures are simple and easy to follow, with written instruction, and variations where applicable.
Would also be a good next step for those wanting to build upon the simple baby signing used with hearing babies.
excellent cards, 29 Jan 2008
I use the cards with children and the response is excellent the children look at them and respond especially to the pictures.well worth the money .
Just didn't use this, 18 Aug 2007
Bought this with the best intentions, but am reviewing it on the basis that I didn't get much beyond chapter 2 .. Might be a fabulous book, but honestly if you have the time and energy to get through this and start a learning program when you have a baby a couple of months old you're a better parent than I am.
For me, in the early days, I found it much more natural to tune into what my baby needed- ie: combine knowledge of your child with reading natural signs (eg The Baby Whisperer) than work on teaching him how to tell me.
Further, I found I used my own signs naturally when I said certain words which my son picked up on.
I read that children who learn sign language like this as babies don't end up better off in terms of language, so it really is a balance between the effort of following a program like this with the benefits you get for the months before your child starts making their own sounds and signs to tell you what they need.
However you do it, you need all the other members of the household to be on board to avoid baby getting frustrated with a family member/parent who isn't as tuned in.
a wind-up, 18 Sep 2006
I bought this at considerable cost with high hopes and found it very frustrating. It's hard enough coping with your first baby without setting yourself additional tasks which are going to make you feel inadequate if they don't bear fruit - or worse still, make you feel frustrated with your child unnecessarily. (It's bad enough when they won't eat the fruit puree you've just made.) Babies don't do things when you want them to and that includes learning signs. I note that some of the other reviews are written by people who've only just bought the product and therefore cannot possibly have tried it out yet as the process takes months. If you're a very confident, easy-going person who can cope philosophically with failure then by all means give it a whirl. And I also think it might be better to try it with a second or third baby rather than with the first - because you'll have more realistic expectations of what's possible because you're a more experienced parent. But beware of expecting miracles.
sign language a must for babies and mums!, 22 Sep 2004
I had heard about this book from 'This Morning' TV programme. I bought, read it and started using two signs when talking to my son. It took a little while but he soon started telling me when he wanted more food and milk and he would sign hello and goodbye. It has been great to be able to know what he has wanted before he could talk. However we still do sign sometimes and this book is a must for any family. The signs are simple and very easy to remember, its just remembering to use them!! Hopefully he will be able to comunicate a little with someone with hearing difficulties in the future.
Excellent Starter Book, 16 Jun 2004
I bought this a few days ago, and read it within 3 hours of its arrival. The signs are clearly illustrated and very easy to learn and the book is well written and laid out. There are 140 or so basic (baby-related) signs to learn, which I should imagine will keep us going for a little while before we have to buy a dictionary. The one drawback for British buyers is that it is an ASL book, not BSL, which some may feel is a problem. I gather the complete set (with video etc) also comes with BSL translation, but I didn't feel that a video was necessary, or worth the extra expense as the illustration and description of the signs in the book is so clear. I'd certainly highly recommend it to anyone, UK or elsewhere, who is interested in learning the basics of signing for better communication with their pre-verbal babies.
Features ASL not BSL, 06 Jan 2004
The text of the book is very short but easy to read and convincing, although I haven't tried it yet. The book uses american sign language (ASL) rather than the british equivalent (BSL) and they are very different. So if you would like to teach your baby BSL (which I think makes more sense in the UK) you'll need either a separate BSL dictionary or you can buy the complete sign with your baby UK learning pack with video and BSL word guide. I found deciphering the signs quite tricky from the diagrams, so the getting video would probably be a great help from the start. This is worth thinking about before you buy the book on its own: I'm now going to get the complete pack so I'll end up with two copies of the book.
A must-have book for all BSL students, 25 Sep 2001
This book for me was essential reading for my BSL Stage 2 course. It covers sign orders and structures, negation, classifiers, storytelling, poetry and lots,lots more besides, without being too 'heavy'. The illustrations, of which there are many, only enhance it further still. (even though its true, I have to say that, as my sign language teacher is one of the people modelling the illustrations!!!) I have read this book from cover to cover, and I still continually refer to it. Having recently passed my BSL Stage 2 exam, I am now about to embark on a CSW (communication support worker) course, where I am in no doubt, this book will hold it's own once again. If you are thinking of buying this book, stop thinking, just get out there and buy it, you will be pleased you did!!!
Clear, concise & fascinating, 14 Dec 2000
This book has been an essential part of my degree course and I wouldn't have survived without it. It is written in clear, simple English, with plenty of photographs and examples. It is a great starting point to learn about the linguistics of BSL. There are also helpful questions at the end of each chapter which can be used as exam revision! Buy it!
Excellent for those studying or interested in BSL., 27 Sep 2000
This is the first true book for those interested in the structure and meaning of BSL, covering what is BSL and its place in all aspects of life. The book starts with interesting comparisons between spoken and signed languages and explains fully why both types have developed, what they mean and how they are used. No stone is unturned within the pages with topics such as religion, poetry and political correctness all inter-linked. With the chapters sub-divided to make even the 'heavy' parts seem easy to comprehend and excellent photographs and examples throughout, this book lives up to its claim of 'being the first detailed explanantion of the way British Sign Language works'. Not just another book about signing.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
Worth buying!, 17 Nov 2008
This book is different to other BSL books in that it not only teaches vocabulary, but also BSL grammar & sign order. It is clear & easy to use. This book is best for Level 1 & 2 students of BSL and for sign language tutors of these groups. This book is also different to other BSL books in that it uses London BSL signs.
This book really fills a niche in the BSL learning market. Signs really do make sense, 21 Sep 2008
I bought this book 5 weeks prior to beginning a sign language course. It takes some commitment to keep picking up this book and learning productively (I used people to test me on 10-20 signs per day) but it has proved an invaluable introduction to signing.
One thing to be aware of - not that this is a criticism of the book - is that regional adaptations to signs may require you to alter what you see in this book.
Overall, a great headstart to learning sign language. 5 thumbs up. Invaluable for beginners of bsl, 04 Nov 2007
I wish I'd had this book from the beginning of bsl year 1. It really does make sense of why a sign is used and takes away the confusion. The text is well written and easy to understand. I would recommend it to anyone interested in British sign language. It does what it says on the front cover. The best BSL book I've seen, 11 Jul 2007
I need to echo the five stars of all the other reviewers.
In a sea of BSL books that just contain words and pictures, this actually makes sense of BSL. For example, instead of showing one finger as a person and two fingers on a hand as a person walking, it goes into how all the different ways and words in which a person can be represented by one finger - or two fingers in the case of walking and other related words. There is also sensible grouping - all the "thinking/knowing/forgetting" words together with signs grouped around the head. And a section representing all the "good" words with the "good"/thumbs-up handshape.
And as such, you read the book once, and you remember the signs you've seen.
Again, by far the best I've seen (of around 8 books). Invaluable for those early stages., 04 Jun 2006
I bought this book almost on a whim and found it exceptional to work from. It is very clear to read and the illustrations are easy to decipher and learn from. It gives a solid basis to progress from on your own, and also useful back up to any classes you may take. A good place to start. Excellent Start to Sign Language, 06 Jun 2005
not much to say really, other than this is well written, easy to work with and one I would recommend to anyone setting out to learn signing. A great book to use alongside Deaf tuition, 05 Dec 2005
A great little find at a great price. The book is best used alongside tuition with a Deaf Teacher and is great to use out of class as a memory aid. The Dictionary contains many Sign words and all are easy to understand. It would not be easy to teach yourself sign from this book as it doesn't cover Deaf sentence structure and also contains regional sign variations, but like I said I am finding it very useful as a reminder of what was taught in class. Signed and dated, 20 Oct 2007
A very impressive book, but surely BSL is a living language? This book keeps it entombed in the last century, some of the photos look even older than its 1993 publication date.
It is a great piece of work but would it be too much to ask for something that can be readily used and understood by families, or do they not matter?
All you'll need?, 26 Apr 2006
A marvellous book indeed. Quite possibly the only book on BSL that you'll ever need. There are a vast number of signs covered, each with photographic, textual and technical notation. That is probably the main reason for buying this book. However, for those seeking to beyond Stage 1 and really learn "about" BSL rather than just learning signs, the book has over 130 pages of information. Some of it can be quite 'technical' (accounts of grammatical features for example) but that just adds to the value of the book. Not cheap but certainly something that will serve you well for years to come. Very imformative, 12 Oct 2003
This is a worthwhile book, but you need to understand that it doesn't just cover the area that you live in. It covers all signs from all over the UK. I would recommend anyone who's learning BSL to get it.
Signed and sealed, 03 Oct 2003
This book is excellent and highly recommended. An essential and best buy for those learning sign language or for those who already do it and need a reference point marvellous book a must buy
AN EXCELENT TOOL, 08 Nov 2002
This very large book (too heavy to carry around) is invaluable for the learner and experienced signer. The photos are of very good quality and descriptive text well put and easy to understand. The signs are mainly BSL with multi-channel signs being included. Dont be out off buying this book due to its high price compared to other sign language books, this is a real investment. You will find it usefull and acurate.
Limited use, 26 Apr 2006
I do admit that this book, and other similar titles by the same author, have some value. I believe that they also prove popular. However, I would like to express my view that they really are of limited use. If you are a beginner and new to BSL this book can be a good study aid and reminder to things covered in class - but it certainly is NO replacement for attending a BSL class! I also think that even beginners will soon out grow this book. If you are serious about BSL and plan to keep on learning,It has more information than most signers will ever want to know!
Perfect for beginners, 04 Feb 2005
Having never attempted to learn any form of sign language prior to buying this book, I was suprised how easy it is to learn. This book, although basic, will give you an excellent understanding of British Sign Language and will enable you to get by and form basic sentences and, dare I say it, have conversations by signing. It doesn't pretend to be advanced or an oracle in its field but it really is the best book you can buy if you are starting out learning to sign.
BSL, 15 Jul 2004
This book makes BSL (British Sign Language) simple. A word of caution before purchase - sign language has many variations (just as a vocal language varies between countries) - and these such variations take place on a smaller scale than a country. Different counties may use different signs for the same word. Please be careful if you are reading this book in order to be in advance of attending a signing course. Variations are shown in this book. Still recommended
Very good, 11 Jan 2004
so good infact that I could explain to you how good it is in sign language. Great beginners book for a skill worth having.
sign language companion, 08 Jul 2002
this is a great book for beginners to British Sign Language. It is easy to understand with pictures and written directions. I could not have got through stage 1 without it. Very impressed.
"Let's Sign Early Years", 20 Feb 2006
Absolutely brilliant book if you're looking for BSL basic signs to do with youngsters. Also puts basic common phrases together, gives clear pictures and a good explanation. Version 2 for more signs please!
Great start to signing, 27 Jun 2005
This book contains all the signs you would need for communicating with young ones, without endless searching through the more extensive dictionaries available, which contain far more than you would need and are not exactly portable. The pictures are simple and easy to follow, with written instruction, and variations where applicable.
Would also be a good next step for those wanting to build upon the simple baby signing used with hearing babies.
excellent cards, 29 Jan 2008
I use the cards with children and the response is excellent the children look at them and respond especially to the pictures.well worth the money .
Just didn't use this, 18 Aug 2007
Bought this with the best intentions, but am reviewing it on the basis that I didn't get much beyond chapter 2 .. Might be a fabulous book, but honestly if you have the time and energy to get through this and start a learning program when you have a baby a couple of months old you're a better parent than I am.
For me, in the early days, I found it much more natural to tune into what my baby needed- ie: combine knowledge of your child with reading natural signs (eg The Baby Whisperer) than work on teaching him how to tell me.
Further, I found I used my own signs naturally when I said certain words which my son picked up on.
I read that children who learn sign language like this as babies don't end up better off in terms of language, so it really is a balance between the effort of following a program like this with the benefits you get for the months before your child starts making their own sounds and signs to tell you what they need.
However you do it, you need all the other members of the household to be on board to avoid baby getting frustrated with a family member/parent who isn't as tuned in.
a wind-up, 18 Sep 2006
I bought this at considerable cost with high hopes and found it very frustrating. It's hard enough coping with your first baby without setting yourself additional tasks which are going to make you feel inadequate if they don't bear fruit - or worse still, make you feel frustrated with your child unnecessarily. (It's bad enough when they won't eat the fruit puree you've just made.) Babies don't do things when you want them to and that includes learning signs. I note that some of the other reviews are written by people who've only just bought the product and therefore cannot possibly have tried it out yet as the process takes months. If you're a very confident, easy-going person who can cope philosophically with failure then by all means give it a whirl. And I also think it might be better to try it with a second or third baby rather than with the first - because you'll have more realistic expectations of what's possible because you're a more experienced parent. But beware of expecting miracles.
sign language a must for babies and mums!, 22 Sep 2004
I had heard about this book from 'This Morning' TV programme. I bought, read it and started using two signs when talking to my son. It took a little while but he soon started telling me when he wanted more food and milk and he would sign hello and goodbye. It has been great to be able to know what he has wanted before he could talk. However we still do sign sometimes and this book is a must for any family. The signs are simple and very easy to remember, its just remembering to use them!! Hopefully he will be able to comunicate a little with someone with hearing difficulties in the future.
Excellent Starter Book, 16 Jun 2004
I bought this a few days ago, and read it within 3 hours of its arrival. The signs are clearly illustrated and very easy to learn and the book is well written and laid out. There are 140 or so basic (baby-related) signs to learn, which I should imagine will keep us going for a little while before we have to buy a dictionary. The one drawback for British buyers is that it is an ASL book, not BSL, which some may feel is a problem. I gather the complete set (with video etc) also comes with BSL translation, but I didn't feel that a video was necessary, or worth the extra expense as the illustration and description of the signs in the book is so clear. I'd certainly highly recommend it to anyone, UK or elsewhere, who is interested in learning the basics of signing for better communication with their pre-verbal babies.
Features ASL not BSL, 06 Jan 2004
The text of the book is very short but easy to read and convincing, although I haven't tried it yet. The book uses american sign language (ASL) rather than the british equivalent (BSL) and they are very different. So if you would like to teach your baby BSL (which I think makes more sense in the UK) you'll need either a separate BSL dictionary or you can buy the complete sign with your baby UK learning pack with video and BSL word guide. I found deciphering the signs quite tricky from the diagrams, so the getting video would probably be a great help from the start. This is worth thinking about before you buy the book on its own: I'm now going to get the complete pack so I'll end up with two copies of the book.
A must-have book for all BSL students, 25 Sep 2001
This book for me was essential reading for my BSL Stage 2 course. It covers sign orders and structures, negation, classifiers, storytelling, poetry and lots,lots more besides, without being too 'heavy'. The illustrations, of which there are many, only enhance it further still. (even though its true, I have to say that, as my sign language teacher is one of the people modelling the illustrations!!!) I have read this book from cover to cover, and I still continually refer to it. Having recently passed my BSL Stage 2 exam, I am now about to embark on a CSW (communication support worker) course, where I am in no doubt, this book will hold it's own once again. If you are thinking of buying this book, stop thinking, just get out there and buy it, you will be pleased you did!!!
Clear, concise & fascinating, 14 Dec 2000
This book has been an essential part of my degree course and I wouldn't have survived without it. It is written in clear, simple English, with plenty of photographs and examples. It is a great starting point to learn about the linguistics of BSL. There are also helpful questions at the end of each chapter which can be used as exam revision! Buy it!
Excellent for those studying or interested in BSL., 27 Sep 2000
This is the first true book for those interested in the structure and meaning of BSL, covering what is BSL and its place in all aspects of life. The book starts with interesting comparisons between spoken and signed languages and explains fully why both types have developed, what they mean and how they are used. No stone is unturned within the pages with topics such as religion, poetry and political correctness all inter-linked. With the chapters sub-divided to make even the 'heavy' parts seem easy to comprehend and excellent photographs and examples throughout, this book lives up to its claim of 'being the first detailed explanantion of the way British Sign Language works'. Not just another book about signing.
Inspiring book, but too few signs and all ASL, 15 Jun 2004
This is a great introduction to signing for babies, and my son is already fascinated by the signs after just a few days. The drawback is that it is in ASL, which is only a problem if you intend your baby to be able to communicate with British Deaf users, or to go on to learn adult British sign language as a second language as I understand that BSL and ASL are very different. I have been unable to find a baby signing book using BSL. A second slightly irritating point is that although the author puts in bold, throughout the text, words which can be usefully signed, she does not then include all of them in the dictionary section. Only 60 signs are included here, which I quickly found frustrating as she omits words like 'book' and other baby essentials. She suggests buying a separate ASL dictionary, which, in fact you will need very soon, if you start signing a lot. Overall, though, this is a brilliant start to signing, and comes in a handy 'changing bag sized' format (about the size of many of the tiny baby board books).
Warning - based on American sign Language, not British, 07 Mar 2004
Looks like a good book if you are expecting to use ASL and not BSL. Unfortunately the review does not tell you this, so I made the mistake of buying this and not a British signing book!
|
|
|
 |
| |