The Mind of a Savant: Language Learning and Modularity

Savants are people who are mentally and often physically impaired but who have one dazzling talent. The authors describe one such individual, Christopher, who, despite being unable to take care of himself because he has difficulty with everyday tasks that most people take for granted, can read, write, translate, and communicate in 15 to 20 different languages. Beyond illuminating the mind of one unique individual, the authors, both linguists, also cast light on the nature of language and thought in general. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.