The American Sign Language Dictionary

Since I have a Deaf daughter, I am sometimes asked to recommend a book to help interested persons learn sign language. Although any book can only be implimented to supplement good videos or working with a skilled signer, this one definitely will assist users in recalling signs or learning new ones. The descriptive definition acts as a helpful word picture of the sign. The information also shows users the different English "words" one sign can represent, so they can be sure they are choosing conceptually-accurate signs to convey what they wish to communicate (think of the many uses of the word "run"). Helpful also - and often very necessary - is the use of more than one drawing to show the progression of the sign, clarifying the written explanation. And since expression is vital in signing, the facial drawings can provide nuances that are important for clear communication. The American Sign Language Dictionary is one than can be depended on to show the correct ASL signs, instead of English-based ones that find their way into many sign language dictionaries. It's a great resource!

We purchased this book to aid in teaching our toddler sign language as there are many words he has trouble speaking but can easily sign. We noticed he would use a sign he knew for a word that sounded similar (used horse for dinosaur). We now have a resource to teach him all sorts of new words. We even purcahsed a copy for my father-in-law so he can decipher what his grandson is saying!!!

I have found this book on sign language to be very helpful to me so that I can brush up on my sign language and also to teach my son to sign.

This book is truly the best sign language book I have ever come in counter with. It has more words than all my other dictionaries and it has complete, easy to understand illustrations.

This book is the greatest sign language book I have seen. I love the way it has the old sign to the new one this book is a must for anyone who knows or wants to learn sign language!!!