Speech Science: An Integrated Approach to Theory & Clinical Practice. (2001). By Carole T. Ferrand. Allyn & Bacon Publishers, 75 Arlington St., Suite 300, Boston, MA 02116. 366 pages, $57. Reviewed by Elaine M. Shuey, East Stroudsburg University, East Stroudsburg, PA.

The title of this speech science book accurately describes it--an integrated approach to theory and practice. The author uses a systems approach to the study of speech production and perception. After an introduction to the nature of sound, following chapters occur in pairs, with the first one describing the normal function of the system (respiratory, phonatory, etc.) and the second dealing with breakdowns in that system and the related clinical applications. Common disorders are briefly introduced, and application of basic speech science information through objective testing is stressed. The book ends with models of speech production and perception.

There are several outstanding aspects to this text. The clinical examples are interesting, and the connection of basic science to clinical practice is novel and relevant. Each chapter starts with learner objectives and ends with a summary and review questions. The review questions vary. In one chapter, the questions include a challenge to agree or disagree with the author’s statement and to support the side chosen, directions to create a table to compare two disorders, and a demand for an explanation of the scientific basis of certain behavioral therapies. The glossary is comprehensive and many of the figures and diagrams are wonderful, especially for visual learners.

Some caution should be taken before adopting this text. There are numerous terms and concepts in it and a great deal of anatomic information. Depending upon the placement of the speech science course in the curriculum, this text could be overwhelming, particularly for undergraduates. There are some inconsistencies in the use of phonetic symbols, but that is not uncommon in speech science texts that have pulled information from a variety of sources.

This is a well-written book. The author’s desire to make speech science relevant and interesting is evident, as is her ability to target a variety of learning styles. Anyone who teaches speech science or a similar course should take a look at this text.