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Shaetlan: A young language wi aald røts
Published18 May
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Shaetlan: A young language wi aald røts is a grammar of Shaetlan written by Viveka Velupillai and Roy Mullay published in 2025.

Contents

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The book begins with contributions from a number of native Shaetlan speakers,[1] and goes on to detail Shaetlan's grammar highlighting its influence from Norn, its Scandinavian ancestor, as well as Scots. The book posits that Shaetlan should be classified as its own language - a Mixed Language -instead of a dialect of another.[2]

Reception

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Shaetlan: A young language wi aald røts has received widespread acclaim from linguists and language experts, who praise it as a landmark publication in language documentation and typological grammar. Prof. Dr. A.Y. Aikhenvald (CQUniversity Australia) commends it as the first typological grammar of Shaetlan, grounded in collaboration with native speakers and accessible to a broad readership. Prof. Dr. R.M.W. Dixon (CQUniversity Australia) similarly highlights the book's rigorous typological methodology and readability, while Prof. Dr. Merja Kytö (Uppsala University) notes its up-to-date theoretical grounding and engaging presentation for both specialists and the general public. Several reviewers emphasise the book’s contribution to language rights and recognition. Dr. Alexander Andrason (University of Cape Town & Living Tongues Institute) describes it as "the best language book I have ever read", citing its balance of scholarly depth and clarity. Prof. Dr. Michel DeGraff (MIT) calls the volume “transformative” and praises its inclusive, community-based approach as a model for linguistic documentation and activism. The book’s bilingual format receives particular praise. Dr. Jackson W. Crawford remarks that the decision to write in both Shaetlan and English powerfully demonstrates the language’s distinctiveness, reshaping perceptions of its status and structure. Prof. Dr. Anthony P. Grant (Edge Hill University) applauds the book’s vibrant presentation and its demonstration of the language’s depth and creativity through contributions from native speakers. Prof. Dr. Conchúr Ó Giollagáin (University of the Highlands and Islands) sees the work as a definitive case for recognising Shaetlan as a distinct language, combining linguistic analysis with cultural and biographical narratives. Prof. Dr. Kofi Yakpo (University of Hong Kong) describes the book as a “paradigm-shifting” contribution that firmly establishes Shaetlan's legitimacy as a language and advocates for its broader use in education and public life.[3]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "New book to catalogue and celebrate Shaetlan language". The Shetland Times. 6 April 2025. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  2. ^ Marter, Hans (15 May 2025). "Giving the mother tongue the respect it deserves". Shetland News. Retrieved 18 May 2025.
  3. ^ "Shaetlan - A young language wi aald røts (herdback)". I Hear Dee. Retrieved 18 May 2025.

Further reading

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Graham, John; Robertson, Thomas A. (1 August 1991). Grammar and Usage of the Shetland Dialect. Lerwick: The Shetland Times. ISBN 9780900662782. OCLC 28150917.