English is a Simple Language

by Christopher Walker

For years, students and teachers have wondered at the intricacies of English grammar. Why is there a difference between present simple and present continuous? What's the deal with present perfect? And how on earth do conditionals work?
Attempts have been made to answer these questions, and to those attempts I add my own.

But unlike other grammar guides, this book seeks to discover the heart of the English language, and to communicate that heart to you so that you can better understand how grammar works, and how you can use it.

Unlike other books that describe English grammar, this one is conversational in style - it does not throw a hundred example sentences at the reader, but instead places language in its proper context, and explains slowly, point by point, through illustration, anecdote, and metaphor.

Despite what you may have heard, and despite what you may have experienced in your studies so far, English really is a simple language. Read this book, and find out for yourself.

311 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 18, 2022

Reviews

[Michael Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

An invigorating read that will have you questioning the way in which grammar is carved up and doled out across sundry course books and how this adversely impacts students. I can’t say that I agree with everything Walker says (for instance, he has a radical take on conditionals) but this book has definitely given me pause for thought: Is there a better way to teach the fundamentals? Why do we teach them the way that we do?

[Fernanda Binati · Rating 5 out of 5]

English grammar presented in a light way where obscure grammar rules are challenged and put into perspective through lucid examples. With enthusiasm and concern for the reader, it explores the reasons behind some grammar choices and why they might be preferred over others. It also coincides with what -probably- every English teacher has thought when teaching, such as the differences between passive and active voices, or how verb tenses do not necessarily determine a linear time frame. “English is a Simple Language” is for everyone, like me, who has an interest in grammar, but also who in some way was encouraged to see it as a bunch of irreplaceable forms. Christopher brightly shed light on common dubious distinctions and elucidated tricky language points by referring to etymological, practical, and conceptual factors. To me, his book has significantly contributed to the principles of learning through contextual analysis, opposed to the common practice of coursebooks. I will definitely be waiting for the second part of this book while I still make the most out of this one in my life and in the classroom with my students.

[Natalia Romero · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clever and entertaining

This is the first grammar book I’ve read in years and it’s been an eye opening experience. Thanks to The Clark & Miller English Podcast!