This is a book about the history of both language and culture. By the application of logic (and a little simple maths) Nick Thom is able to demonstrate that the history today's languages can be traced back in time and space over many thousands of years, throwing light on issues such as the root of Basque speech, the origins of Chinese culture, even the peopling of the Americas. The story which unfolds is one of fascinating twists and turns, of massive waves of 'culture' sweeping all before them, and of remarkable survival against the odds.