This book investigates the intricate relationship between private speech, executive functioning, and the development of verbal self-regulation in children. Charles Fernyhough, a developmental psychologist, draws upon a range of empirical studies and theoretical frameworks to explore how children's internal dialogue evolves and its crucial role in cognitive development. The work examines how the capacity for self-directed speech underpins higher-order cognitive processes such as planning, problem-solving, and impulse control, ultimately shaping a child's ability to manage their own behavior and thoughts.

This work is recognized as a significant contribution to the fields of developmental psychology and cognitive science. It is cited for its comprehensive review of existing research and its novel theoretical synthesis. The book is considered essential reading for researchers and advanced students interested in the origins of self-regulation and the role of language in cognitive development.