In a detailed account of the language families of each region of the world, interesting and sometimes unique features of grammar and vocabulary are identified and explained. The archeological, historical, cultural, or social political background where it has had an impact on the dissemination, development, or decline of a language is examined. The geographical distribution of languages - both historical and contemporary - is reflected in over 30 unique full-color maps. Points of general interest, linguistic, cultural, and historical are highlighted in special boxed features.

Finally, the Book addresses the issue of disappearing languages, as well as identifying languages that are under threat of extinction. Efforts to preserve and revive the dying languages of the world are fully discussed.