10 Best Sign Language Books 2026 in the United States

The book 'Learning American Sign Language: Beginning and Intermediate, Levels 1-2' is designed for individuals who are at the beginner and intermediate levels of learning ASL. Its comprehensive content spans 357 pages, which is considerable and suggests in-depth coverage of the subject. The spiral-bound format is practical, allowing the book to lay flat, making it easier to practice signing while reading.

The dimensions and weight make it slightly bulky, so it might not be the most portable option for on-the-go learning. The book's publication by Pearson Education, a reputable educational publisher, and the fact that it is listed in the Top 100 in Books, adds to its credibility and reliability as a learning resource. The book's focus on both beginning and intermediate levels makes it versatile, potentially serving learners through multiple stages of their education in ASL.

The presence of illustrations and visuals is crucial in a sign language book. This book appears to be a substantial and reputable resource for beginning and intermediate learners of ASL, though its bulkiness and the need to confirm the quality of illustrations are potential considerations.

The 'Basic Course in American Sign Language' is designed for beginners, making it suitable for anyone starting their journey in learning ASL, including children from the age of 8 and up. Authored by Tom Humphries, Carol Padden, and Terrence J. O'Rourke, who are recognized experts in the field, the book benefits from credible and authoritative content. The soft cover and spiral binding make it easy to handle and lay flat, which is ideal for frequent reference during practice sessions.

At 284 pages, the book offers substantial content that covers a wide range of foundational topics in ASL. The dimensions and weight of the book make it portable, though it is slightly heavier at 1.4 pounds. The illustrations and visuals in the book are likely a strong feature, as they are critical for understanding sign language. Published in 1994, the content might lack the latest advancements or contemporary context in ASL, which could be a drawback for some learners seeking the most up-to-date information.

This book is a strong resource for beginners looking to build a solid foundation in ASL, though those seeking more advanced or updated content may need additional resources.

The book 'Master ASL - Level One' is a comprehensive guide designed for beginners in American Sign Language, specifically targeted at students in grades 7 to 9. Its user-friendly approach is suitable for middle and high school students, making it a great introduction to ASL. The inclusion of a DVD adds a valuable visual component, enhancing the learning experience with interactive content. The book features clear illustrations and visuals, which are crucial for understanding sign language gestures and forms.

The author's expertise is evident through the well-structured lessons and practical exercises included in the book. However, since the book was published in 2006, it might not include the most recent updates in ASL standards and practices. This book is excellent for those beginning their journey in learning ASL and seeking a reliable resource that combines textual and visual learning methods, despite its 3.2-pound weight and large dimensions.