"This book fills a significant gap in the literature on early language learning and will appeal to all those with an interest in the field, including practitioners, trainee teachers, advisers and postgraduate research students. It paints a picture of early language learning on a broad canvas, drawing on research data from secondary sources as well as from the author's own studies. The practical focus of the book is underpinned by a sound understanding of the theories behind second language acquisition and pedagogy, and it is this combination which renders it invaluable, and fascinating, reading." - Dr. Amanda Barton, University of Manchester, UK