Alastair Henry Bücher

The book presents a novel concept of motivation known as Directed Motivational Currents (DMCs), expanding on Dörnyei's foundational research in learner motivation. It clearly defines DMCs, distinguishing them from other motivational constructs, and explores their connection to language learning. With an engaging writing style, the text includes numerous illustrations and practical strategies, encouraging readers to rethink their understanding of motivation and fostering sustained learning experiences.

The narrative follows Alastair's transformative journey from a strict Catholic upbringing in England to a quest for love and adventure in Canada. After achieving corporate success and early retirement, he seeks deeper fulfillment beyond comfort. Choosing to live with a small band of First Nations people in a remote community, he confronts cultural differences and challenges that spark new perspectives and inspire profound self-discovery. This inspirational and humorous account highlights the quest for meaning in life beyond material success.

Set in twentieth-century England, the story follows the struggles of Billy and Tommy Jones, born out of wedlock during a time of societal stigma. Their mother, Mary, grapples with the burdens of a dark family secret involving the Catholic church, which impacts the boys' lives. The narrative explores themes of shame, societal values, and the consequences of circumstances beyond their control, highlighting the often harsh realities faced by working-class families.

This book examines the communication behaviours of individuals in multilingual community contexts. Using a complexity lens and the presentation of a revised 3D pyramid model, the authors demonstrate the dynamic nature of willingness to communicate over time and shed new light on processes that affect communication, migration and well-being.