This accessible text is split into 2 halves. Initially, Janet Townend takes the reader through the early development and the structure and usage of spoken English. In the second half, Jean Walker explains the history and structure of written English, including word formation and grammar. It is unusual to find both aspects of this fascinating area of human activity combined in one volume. These insights form an essential foundation for teachers, student teachers, teacher trainers, and specialists in special needs and literacy. It will be of interest to all who speak and write, and are involved in helping others to do so. Janet Townend, trained as a speech and language therapist, and Jean Walker as an English teacher. Both are now specialist teachers and trainers in the field of dyslexia, literacy and language.