This book contributes to the understanding of first language loss in both immigrant and indigenous communities in (at least) three ways. First, it provides insight into the process of language loss and the factors contributing to it. Second, it attempts to define, from an insider perspective, what it means to "lose" a language.

Third, it analyzes the perceived consequences of first language loss in terms of social, academic, emotional, and economic factors - an approach previously lacking in research on language loss. Important reading for researchers, practitioners, and graduate students in ESL and bilingual education, multicultural education, cultural studies, and sociology, this book will also interest qualitative researchers as an example of a unique form of both doing and writing research.