OUTLINES OF A NUER GRAMMAR by Fr. J. P. CRAZZOLARA makes an invaluable contribution to our understanding of the Nuer language (Thok Nath), a key member of the “Jii-family” (or “Western Nilotic” family) of African languages. It is the first language of some two million South Sudanese and Ethiopian citizens as well as more than 300,000 war-displaced refugees residing in other African countries, and in Australia, Canada, Europe, UK and the USA. Unsurpassed in its analytical scope, clarity and detail, Crazzolara’s pioneering work was published once in 1933 and thereafter, was unavailable for public purchase for almost 90 years.  The book’s new 2023 edition gives new life to this critically important reference work.  An extraordinarily talented linguist, Fr. J. P. Crazzolara was, indeed, the person responsible for transforming this language into written form.  Among uniquely valuable features is the inclusion and explanation of five distinct elements of verbal inflection, including relative intonation patterns. With this essential reference work as guide, anyone seeking to understand and gain mastery of the language’s legendary tonal and grammatical complexity may do so with confidence. Professional linguists have long marveled at the subtlety embedded in its wide-ranging vowel system. Members of the Nuer cultural community wherever they may reside will also be able to use this book to deepen their knowledge of both English and Thok Nath.

Customers with US-based delivery addresses may order books directly. Prospective customers outside the United States should first email a preliminary book order to southsudanculturalproductions@gmail.com. This allows shipping costs to be calculated before completing the purchase.  

ISBN: 978987935620 (xii + 250 pp., 5.5 x 8.5 in.)

Price: US$ 20.00, plus appropriate domestic or international shipping costs.