The second edition of the atlas has been fully updated, including new information on immigrant language use, and a new chapter on contemporary linguisitc practices such as global business, diplomatic and internet language use.
About the first edition (published in 1993):
A comprehensive mapping of the world's languages, in which the
authors have attempted to map the location of every single living
language on earth, no matter how small the number of speakers.
Broken down into nine regions, each contains a general map of
the area, followed by more detailed maps, each with a numbered key. The maps are preceded by explanatory text, detailing linguistic history, genetic relations of languages, and sociolinguistic information. Writing systems are mentioned but not described in detail. A lavishly produced and stunning mine of information.