For clinicians, students, and academics, LaPointe (communication science and disorders, Florida State U.) draws together 19 chapters by speech and communication specialists from the US and Australia on the characteristics and etiology of aphasia and related neurogenic language disorders. Focusing on assessment and management, this edition has been extensively updated. It removes chapters on selected types of aphasia and adds chapters on brain basics; theoretical underpinnings; neurogenic communication disorders in acute care hospital settings; assistive technology; treatment effectiveness and evidence-based practice; comprehension, syntax, and linguistic-based disorders; communication pragmatics and discourse; cultural, linguistic, and quality-of-life concerns; and specific syndromes like right hemisphere damage, dementias, and traumatic brain injury, with a focus on poly-trauma and blast injuries. It has updated information on neural imaging, resources for families and clinicians, and expanded chapters on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology. It also incorporates the social model of aphasia intervention with an account of life participation and group approaches to treatment. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)