Does Spelling Matter?

by Simon Horobin

This book narrates the history of English spelling from the Anglo-Saxons to the present-day, charting the various changes that have taken place and the impact these have had on the way we spell today. While good spelling is seen as socially and educationally desirable, many people struggle to spell common words like accommodate, occurrence, dependent. Is it our spelling system that is to blame, and should we therefore reform English spelling to make it easier to learn? Or are such calls for change further evidence of the dumbing-down of our educational standards, also witnessed by the tolerance of poor spelling in text-messaging and email? This book evaluates such views by considering previous attempts to reform the spelling of English and other languages, while also looking critically at claims that the electronic age heralds the demise of correct spelling.

Genres: Language, Nonfiction

282 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[John Kinkade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very strong book on the history of English spelling. Frequently repeats the contention that spelling is the most easily regulated part of the language, and by the end I think I agree with him (also why he thinks that it's so often picked on as esp important evidence of linguistic fluency, intelligence, etc). Pretty good on how those who are most insistent on spelling often miss their own inconsistencies. Surprised by the argument he makes at the end in favor of maintaining current systems (not surprised by that argument) because of what it reveals about linguistic history--interesting analogy with cathedrals at the end, where he talks about preserving a building that is no longer what we would choose because of the history it represents. (Bonus: he uses cathedral as an adjective for church.)

[Ta0paipai · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Does Spelling Matter?'s" detailed examination of the evolution of modern English made my head spin - but in a good way. As an English teacher in Japan, colleagues often ask me about English's weird quirks. Now I can give accurate answers. And as a horrible speller, learning the origins, or back stories to words, has given them memorable personalities. Thanks to this book, I might remember to spell them correctly in the future!

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting read for all the English language nerds out there. I loved it!