"There is no doubt that this important and timely book will become the definitive reference on institutional interaction. It is clear, concise and authoritative. I will use it in my teaching."<BR><BR>"The study of language and interaction in institutional settings represents something of a rapprochement between core themes in sociology and sociolinguistics, and is one of the most exciting interdisciplinary fields to have emerged recently. Heritage and Clayman provide a comprehensive, authoritative and highly readable account of the field, suitable for both students and researchers."<BR><BR>"Like predecessors such as Structures of Social Action and Talk at Work, this book promises to set a milestone in the field of conversation analysis. The fact that the materials have been field tested on undergraduates and graduates for years guarantees success in many kinds of courses related to CA or using CA as part of the syllabus. Its a wonderful and eminently readable achievement."Talk in Action explores the workings of language and interaction in the everyday life of institutions. In doing so, it introduces students to the methodology of Conversation Analysis (CA) and its applications in the real world.<BR><BR>Beginning with a theoretical and methodological overview of the roots of CA, the book explores the intersections between interactional practices, social identities, and institutional tasks. By focusing on four institutional domains emergency telephone calls, doctor-patient interactions, law courts, and mass communication the authors showcase the significance of CA research in areas that have deep impact and significance in our daily lives.<BR><BR>This expanding, dynamic field crosses the boundaries of subjects such as linguistics, sociology, and communication studies. Talk in Action provides a necessarily interdisciplinary overview of Conversation Analysis, using a unique focus on real-world applications to provide an engaging and accessible introduction.