This book, which takes the form of a graphic novel, looks at political activism in the public landscape. It has a particular focus on the UK activist group Led By Donkeys which has, since late 2018, been running a campaign to expose hypocrisy in the political classes. Their approach to activism involves the use of large posters and other forms of public display, which highlight the gap between the rhetoric and actions of politicians, and how language and communication is used to manipulate opinion. The activism discussed in the book includes four major issues: Brexit, Trump, Covid and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The book is both an innovative visual approach to the presentation of academic research and thought, and an exploration of how the linguistic landscape can be a key resource for the communication of political activism.

Examines how linguistic landscapes can be used as a resource for political activism

About the Author

Philip Seargeant is a Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics at the Open University, UK, where he teaches and researches language and communication. He is the author of The Art of Political Storytelling (2020, Bloomsbury) and has published widely on topics ranging from World Englishes, language and social media, to language and creativity. He is a frequent contributor to publications including Wired, The New European, Prospect, The Huffington Post, The Washington Post and The Independent.

Reviews
This is a brilliant non-academic academic book. An afternoon of deeply pleasurable reading is guaranteed for anyone who picks it up. In an act of public service the authors allow the reader to become immersed in a highly innovative style of visual and discursive representation revealing the power of semiotic landscapes in political dissent and democratic activism. * Angela Creese, University of Stirling, UK *
In a truly multimodal treatment of a multimodal subject matter, Seargeant grapples with the complex questions of political activism in the public space and presents them here in both a sophisticated and accessible way. This book not only critiques recent torrid political events but also slakes the public's thirst for understanding visual communication in protest and activist movements. * Robert Blackwood, University of Liverpool, UK *



Book Information
ISBN 9781800416819
Author Philip Seargeant
Format Paperback
Page Count 104
Imprint Multilingual Matters
Publisher Multilingual Matters
Weight(grams) 160g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 156mm * 5mm