Hearing Gesture: How Our Hands Help Us Think : Book Review

"Hearing Gesture" written by Susan Goldin-Meadow delves into the fascinating and often overlooked world of nonverbal communication and its impact on language development. Through her extensive research and analysis, Goldin-Meadow explores the intricate relationship between gestures and speech, arguing that gestures play a substantial role in shaping the acquisition of language.

The book covers a diverse range of topics, including how gestures can compensate for language deficits, the variations in gestures across different cultures, and how gestures can influence the learning experience. Goldin-Meadow's meticulous research and compelling evidence shed light on the incredible power of nonverbal communication in both children and adults.

One of the notable strengths of "Hearing Gesture" is Goldin-Meadow's ability to present complex research findings in a manner that is clear and accessible. She breaks down intricate theories and concepts into digestible pieces, ensuring that readers from all backgrounds can engage with and understand the material. This accessibility is particularly valuable for those with a general interest in language development or psychology.

Additionally, Goldin-Meadow supports her arguments with a wealth of empirical evidence. By providing a vast array of studies and examples, she strengthens her claims and establishes credibility for her work. This evidence-based approach helps readers grasp the significance of gesture in language learning and appreciate its profound impact on human communication.

Furthermore, Goldin-Meadow's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking. She combines anecdotal evidence, case studies, and scholarly research to construct a captivating narrative. This narrative approach, coupled with her expertise in the field, makes "Hearing Gesture" a compelling read for both professionals and laypeople interested in the subject.

What are readers saying?

"Hearing Gesture" by Susan Goldin-Meadow has garnered a range of responses from readers, both positive and negative. While some found the book captivating and thought-provoking, others believed it was unclear and overly academic in nature.

Many readers praised Goldin-Meadow for her unique perspective on communication, particularly in regards to the significance of gestures as a means of conveying meaning alongside spoken words. They found this aspect of the book to be enlightening and appreciated how it challenged traditional notions of communication.

The extensive research and depth of knowledge displayed by Goldin-Meadow also received acclaim from some reviewers. They found the evidence and case studies presented in the book to be compelling, and commended the author's ability to draw connections between different fields of study, such as linguistics and psychology.

However, there were also readers who felt frustrated with the book. They found the writing style too academic and inaccessible, making it difficult to grasp the concepts fully. Some reviewers felt that the book lacked clarity and was dense with technical jargon, hindering their understanding and engagement.

A few readers also questioned the practicality of the book's content. While they found the research interesting, they felt it did not provide tangible takeaways or practical applications that could be applied in real-life situations. This left them unsatisfied and desiring more actionable advice.

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