This book is the first comprehensive treatment of the spread, acculturation, functions and evolution of English in Asia. It discusses all major issues resulting from the introduction of English in culturally different contexts and the two-way interaction of English and local languages in Asia. It also includes an extensive bibliography representing both pedagogical and theoretical works, and lists of additional resources in world English literatures and select websites. This book provides essential reading for students, researchers and professionals in English studies and world Englishes.