A Billion Voices: China's Search for a Common Language: Penguin Specials

Explore the intricate tapestry of language in China with 'A Billion Voices: China's Search for a Common Language.' This insightful paperback dives deep into the complexities of Mandarin, Guoyu, and Putonghua—terms that signify not just a language, but the very identity of a nation. Published by Penguin China in 2016, this compelling read unfurls the rich history of China's search for a unifying language since the early 20th century. Discover how influential figures like Chiang Kai-shek and Mao Zedong navigated the turbulent waters of linguistic reform. David Moser's engaging narrative bridges the historical and the modern, illustrating how the Internet era is reshaping the Chinese language landscape in unexpected ways. This book is essential for language enthusiasts, historians, and anyone intrigued by China's unique political identity. Delve into the challenges and triumphs of China's language unification efforts—grab your copy of this A-format paperback today, and broaden your understanding of the multifaceted world of Chinese linguistics.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780734399595
Format: A-format paperback
Year: 2016
Publisher: Penguin China
Pages: 100


Description:
Mandarin, Guoyu or Putonghua? 'Chinese' is a language known by many names, and China is a country home to many languages. Since the turn of the twentieth century linguists and politicians have been on a mission to create a common language for China.

From the radical intellectuals of the May Fourth Movement, to leaders such as Chiang Kai-shek and Mao Zedong, all fought linguistic wars to push the boundaries of language reform. Now, Internet users take the Chinese language in new and unpredictable directions.

David Moser tells the remarkable story of China's language unification agenda and its controversial relationship with modern politics, challenging our conceptions of what it means to speak and be Chinese.