First Language Acquisition: The Essential Readings is a collection of pioneering classics that provide a framework for understanding current work in each of the basic areas of language acquisition: morphology, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.

• Collects classic works that provide the foundation for current research in the field of first language acquisition.
• Includes selections from Noam Chomsky, Jean Piaget, Eric Lenneberg and Roman Jakobson, as well as others who contributed groundbreaking discoveries, insights, concepts, and methods.
• Presents framework for understanding current work in each of the basic areas of language acquisition: morphology, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.
• Provides valuable resource for students and scholars of language acquisition, cognitive development, and cognitive science.

"This volume is undoubtedly an outstanding compilation of classic papers on first language acquisition." The Linguist List

"An excellent selection of the classic readings in the science of language development, one that I have dearly missed until now. It is a perfect set of background readings for students and researchers interested in the intellectual roots of the field." Steven Pinker, Harvard University, and author of The Language Instinct and Words and Rules: The Ingredients of Language

"A well-chosen treasure-house of key readings. They provide a superb grounding for anyone studying child language." Jean Aitchison, University of Oxford

"This reader is a great addition to the field, bringing together some of the classic literature that has stimulated debate on the nature of language acquisition for years. Its depth and breadth, in both philosophical and linguistic approaches to the problem, ensure that this volume will soon be a classic itself." Katherine Demuth, Brown University

"An excellent collection of classic works, highlighting contributions taking a linguistic approach to the subject of language acquisition." Diane Lillo-Martin, University of Connecticut

Barbara C. Lust is Professor in the Department of Human Development at Cornell University. She is one of the foremost researchers in first language acquisition and the author of numerous books and articles, including The Growth of Language.

Claire Foley is Visiting Scientist in the Department of Linguistics and Philosophy at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She has published numerous papers on theoretical and empirical aspects of language acquisition.