This book synthesizes much of the exciting recent research in the biology of language. Drawing on data from anatomy, neurophysiology, physiology, and behavioral biology, Philip Lieberman develops a new approach to the puzzle of language, arguing that it is the result of many evolutionary compromises. Within his discussion, Lieberman skillfully addresses matters as various as the theory of neoteny (which he refutes), the mating calls of bullfrogs, ape language, dyslexia, and computer-implemented models of the brain.

"This book will surely become mandatory reading for those engaged in studying language, whether from biological, linguistic, psycholinguistic, developmental or evolutionary directions…[for] Lieberman succeeds in integrating all these levels and clarifying their mutual relevance." - Bulletin of the British Psychological Society

"This is a fascinating and provocative book… The facts are presented clearly, thereby making this text accessible to a wide and diverse audience." - Medical Anthropology Quarterly