Product Description
This Basic program contains 5 hours of audio-only, effective language learning with real-life spoken practice sessions.

The Pimsleur Method provides the most effective language-learning program ever developed. The Pimsleur Method gives you quick command of Italian structure without tedious drills. Learning to speak Italian can actually be enjoyable and rewarding.

The key reason most people struggle with new languages is that they aren't given proper instruction, only bits and pieces of a language. Other language programs sell only pieces -- dictionaries; grammar books and instructions; lists of hundreds or thousands of words and definitions; audios containing useless drills. They leave it to you to assemble these pieces as you try to speak. Pimsleur enables you to spend your time learning to speak the language rather than just studying its parts.

When you were learning English, could you speak before you knew how to conjugate verbs? Of course you could. That same learning process is what Pimsleur replicates. Pimsleur presents the whole language as one integrated piece so you can succeed.

With Pimsleur you get:

• Grammar and vocabulary taught together in everyday conversation,
• Interactive audio-only instruction that teaches spoken language organically,
• The flexibility to learn anytime, anywhere,
• 30-minute lessons designed to optimize the amount of language you can learn in one sitting.

Millions of people have used Pimsleur to gain real conversational skills in new languages quickly and easily, wherever and whenever -- without textbooks, written exercises, or drills.

The 10 lessons in the Basic Italian are the same as the first 10 lessons in the Pimsleur Comprehensive Italian Level 1.

The 10 lessons in Basic Italian are also the first 10 lessons in the 16-lesson Conversational Italian edition.

The 10 lessons in Basic Italian are also the first 10 lessons in the 16-lesson Conversational Italian edition.

Pimsleur learners progress from either the Basic or the Conversational to the Comprehensive Level 1, and not from Basic to Conversational edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

Great price, great product for vacation
I just wanted to be respectful and be able to speak a little Italian for a two week vacation in Italy, but not spend a lot of time and money.

This was pretty perfect!It is ten half-hour sessions and I learned much more than I thought I would for just those few sessions. I'm confident that I'll know the basics for most of those small contacts with Italian-only speakers and I'll have a dictionary for more specifics.

It is not specifically targeted for vacationers.It doesn't focus on standard tourist situations, which would have made it even more perfect.

It was great for my needs!Very happy!

awesome
loving this cd. Moving to italy in about 30 days. This is slow and simple and easy for me and my girls to understand.we use it in the car everyday or anytime we travel in the car. I will continue to use this product and others associated with it.

Really good
I have used these to develop my Italian and for review.there is nothing of course like being thrown into a country to learn the language, but this gets you prepped to do so.The only thing is YOU have to commit to it.You can't do one lesson wait a week then move on.The lessons are contingent on learning in levels,So you can't get through lesson 5 if you don't get through 1-4 etc.. My advice, don't move ahead a track until you have all the ones below down first.You can always repeat them to prepare.
Voice Lessons To Go v.1-4 The Complete Set

Learn Italian
The carefully programed material is repetitive and spoken clearly.It continues from simple conversational structured sentences to more complex.The female and male voices are Italian with authentic accents. Review of previous lessons continues throughout the following lssons. Great program for the price.

pimsleur Italian
This is a wonderful product.However, the shipping of same was
extremely slow and took the maximun time to arrive. ... Read more

Product Description

Get the expert instruction you want and the practice you need with the conjugation of Italian verbs--with bonus online interactive exercises

Customer Reviews (30)

Great!
Good book to pick up for a quick review. New condition, shipping a bit slow. Still would highly recommend vendor!

Good "review"
I used this book in my Italian III class in college. It was good for reviewing my verbs which is essential in learning this language. It's pretty good for testing yourself, and you can review your work every now and again for a refresher. Learning any language is all about practice, this is an additional helper.

Alright for practice, don't expect much of an explanation on verb tenses; better for begginers
I'm already on my 3rd and 4th course on Italian at college and I'm finding the explanations of verb tenses a little lacking. Also, I feel the exercises are somewhat limited. They are good practice, but I can practice better with another verb book as reference that explains the tenses better and then just using a notebook to practice each person and their plural renditions (I refer to: io, tu, lui/lei, noi, etc.)

There's a good amount of verbs, but don't expect to master many Italian verbs with this book. In addition to this, I find it especially lacking when explaining the "passato remoto". Very complicated verb tense. Very sparse and limited explanation presented in the book. Another thing that I really dislike is that it does not list the names of the verbs inItalian. If I want to look for the "congiuntivo trapassato", it will be titled under "pluperfect subjuctive" with no reference to how this tense is said in Italian (it mentions "passato remoto" as it does not have an actual English rendition.)

On the upside, it does contain lists of common verbs which is very useful, as well as explanations and a few examples of verbs in all three conjugations (-are, -ere, -ire), which makes it a useful references at times when I'm having trouble remembering some verbs.

I also have Schaum's Outline of Italian Grammar, Third Edition (Schaum's Outline Series)and I think it does a better job at explaining verb tenses.

italian verb drill book review
this book is EXCELLENT in every way .....it was just what I wanted to strengthen my verb knowledge .........I love the book....RR

Great Practice Book, Poor Teaching Tool
"Italian Verb Drills" is a fantastic book if you are looking for exactly what it says in the title - verb drills in Italian and for this purpose I highly recommend it.It features exercise after exercise on all the verb tenses including the important although sometimes overlooked passato remoto. However, if you feel you need more instruction on the verb tenses, this probably is not the best choice.The author's "Italian Verb Tenses" does a much, much better job of teaching the verbs.Another recommended verb 'teaching' book is "Italian Verbs for Dummies".I used both these 'teaching' books and then refined and honed my knowledge through "Italian Verb Drills."I'd recommend really thinking about your personal needs and knowledge of Italian verb forms and then pick up one of the above mentioned books.Practice Makes Perfect: Italian Verb Tenses (Practice Makes Perfect Series), Italian Verbs For Dummies (For Dummies (Language & Literature)) ... Read more

Product Description

Learn Italian step-by-step and soon you'll be making leaps and bounds

Your quickest route to learning Italian is through a solid grounding in grammar basics. Now don't be put off by the "G-word." What you won't find in this book is a lot of repetitivedrills. Instead, you get an original, step-by-step approach to learning Italian based on the way people naturally acquire language.

From the very beginning, you are introduced to the most essential structures--allowing you to communicate in Italian almost immediately. Gradually, through a series of interconnected "steps," you logically progress to more common concepts that govern how Italian is spoken and written. And along the way you are introduced to hundreds of carefully selected verbs and vocabulary words presented on the basis of how often they are used in everyday Italian.

Guaranteed to get you quickly up and running with the knowledge and skills you need to communicate in Italian with confidence, Easy Italian Step-by-Step features:

• A unique "building-block" approach to mastering essential grammar, verbs, and vocabulary
• Down-to-earth explanations of important rules and concepts
• Hundreds of frequently used verbs and key terms a beginner should know
• Exercises to test what you've learned and measure progress
• Engaging readings that help you hone your skills in everyday contexts

Customer Reviews (11)

Good beginner language book yet it does have a few faults
This book is a bit of a disappointment as I've got issues already with the way the lessons are set up.Generally the practice lessons are a bit stupid because as a beginner (who this book is also marketed for) the author asks the student to translate in Italian full sentences which there is no way to know the proper grammar for.It is evident already in chapter two where one is learning the difference between the 'is' verb (stare and essere).Sample lesson:Using 'essere' or 'stare' translate this-"Her friend is in Italy for three weeks'.What the heck?I only learned which is the correct verb not how to speak in full Italian yet.

In chapter one the logic flows well.However, I found that the vocabulary listing in the chapter is quite limited, thus, one needs to have an Italian-English dictionary on hand.The practice work necessitates a dictionary.However, the weird thing is the author never advises in her preface that the student ought to have a dictionary.In fact, she states that one ought to study the vocabulary that's given as it was chosen specifically for the study, however, it really is an incomplete listing.I also am sure that one of the test answers given in the back of the book is incorrect.

disappointing
I have been working my way slowly and tediously through the first several chapters.I would expect it to be difficult to learn a new language from a book but I bought it to supplement another program I have installed on my computer. The presentation of the grammar is all right and helps explain several things that have been confusing in the other program.However, as a previous reviewer said, the exercises definitely require vocabulary that has never been presented.So, I am using the 'practice exercises' to learn from - if I find an unknown word, I look for it in the answer key and add it to my list.AND, now I am finding exercises that ask for grammatical structures that also haven't been presented.That makes it difficult to complete the exercise.On a recent exercise, I left several lines blank, checked my work, turned the page, and there were the new Italian forms!

I also think there are some outright errors but that could be because I do not speak Italian and am missing something.

There is a lot of information presented - it is very dense and I appreciate all the things I am learning.But the exercises should be correct and not present uncovered information.Also, some of the earlier exercises are very difficult and then, further on, there are some VERY easy exercises.It would help to break it down into smaller chunks.

I am looking for another book to order that might be more helpful.However, I don't want comics, word games and information about Italian culture, which seems to be my other choice.

So close...yet so far
I have been working through this book and have nearly completed all the chapters. I am not fluent but have a significant grasp of the language and have used many such books.

The premise of the book is quite good...chapters are focused on one (or a few) grammatical concepts. Significant vocabulary is presented at several points in each chapter, including idiomatic and prepositional or adverbial phrases with unique meanings. Each chapter caps off with a short reading selection that includes many of the concepts in the chapter, and introduces a few more useful words. One of the aims of the book is to include "high efficiency" words that are used often in the language.

However, there are serious issues, which is shocking considering the author's pedigree and other books she has authored. As other reviewers have stated, the text is filled with numerous egregious errors. Answers to exercises are frequently incorrect, which is a bit problematic when one is trying to learn a language. Someone who is fluent may pick up even more errors than I did, but a neophyte learner could believe that the answers are correct, which is far worse. Finally, some of the answers to exercises are not literal translations. For example, if asked to translate "He picked up that book" the answer in the back might actually read "He picked up THE book". The gist is the same, but the semantics are not, especially when someone is trying to learn the nuance of a language.

Finally, as a few other reviewers stated, the translation exercises are baffling. In the first chapter, one is asked to translate sentences using future tense, which is not introduced for many chapters to come. The concepts and vocabulary in the translations do not parallel the text and frequently assume a fairly solid base in the language. Indeed, the grammatical concepts are (in this student's opinion) not introduced in any semblance of order with respect to difficulty or utility.

In short, this book works well for someone who has already accomplished some study of Italian on their own, who can recognize and ignore the errors. This could be a five-star effort if the book were edited by a competent reviewer, and the subject matter sequenced so that the chapters and concepts build upon one another in a logical fashion.

Easy Italian Step-By-Step
If you want to learn Italian correctly, do not buy this book. It is full of mistakes (misspelled and improperly accented words, the wrong form of a word). It also has many exercises that are beyond the ability of the student, given the information introduced. For example, some exercises ask you to translate English sentences into Italian before you have been taught the grammar necessary to do so. In addition, there is no indication of pronunciation stress. Although many Italian words are stressed on the next-to-the last syllable, there are a lot of exceptions. You need to know these if you're going to speak the language correctly. This book needs a qualified Italian language editor to give it a good going over.

Sensible
This book seems to follow the same sortof curriculum as College Texts.I have tried several Italian books, and this method makes the most sense.There are books aimed at travel phrases, such as, "I left my baggage at the terminal", " Which way to the Cathedral"? "My friend would like a glass of red wine, and I would like cold lemonade".Well, suppose those aren't the right questions?And then, what do you do with the answer? Then I tried the learn it like a baby way ( Berlitz and Rosetta Stone use this). So what do we get?" The professor is taking the book to the window"."The mirror is under the table"
That one will really come in handy when we get to Florence.......... The only way to learn a language, is to learn it.Verb declensions, noun genders, all of it.By learning it this way, we learn the tools with which to actually express what we mean, and a possibility of comprehending what is said to us.Is it Easy Italian Step-by-Step?No is isn't easy.But it is productive. ... Read more

Product Description
“Italians say that someone who acquires a new language ‘possesses’ it. In my case, Italian possesses me. With Italian racing like blood through my veins, I do indeed see with different eyes, hear with different ears, and drink in the world with all my senses…”

A celebration of the language and culture of Italy, La Bella Lingua is the story of how a language shaped a nation, told against the backdrop of one woman’s personal quest to speak fluent Italian.

For anyone who has been to Italy, the fantasy of living the Italian life is powerfully seductive. But to truly become Italian, one must learn the language. This is how Dianne Hales began her journey. In La Bella Lingua, she brings the story of her decades-long experience with the “the world’s most loved and lovable language” together with explorations of Italy’s history, literature, art, music, movies, lifestyle, and food in a true opera amorosa—a labor of her love of Italy.

Throughout her first excursion in Italy—with “non parlo Italiano” as her only Italian phrase—Dianne delighted in the beauty of what she saw but craved comprehension of what she heard. And so she chose to inhabit the language. Over more than twenty-five years she has studied Italian in every way possible: through Berlitz, books, CDs, podcasts, private tutorials and conversation groups, and, most importantly, large blocks of time in Italy. In the process she found that Italian became not just a passion and a pleasure, but a passport into Italy’s storia and its very soul. She offers charming insights into what makes Italian the most emotionally expressive of languages, from how the “pronto” (“Ready!”) Italians say when they answer the telephone conveys a sense of something coming alive, to how even ordinary things such as a towel (asciugamano) or handkerchief (fazzoletto) sound better in Italian.

She invites readers to join her as she traces the evolution of Italian in the zesty graffiti on the walls of Pompeii, in Dante’s incandescent cantos, and in Boccaccio’s bawdy Decameron. She portrays how social graces remain woven into the fabric of Italian: even the chipper “ciao,” which does double duty as “hi” and “bye,” reflects centuries of bella figura. And she exalts the glories of Italy’s food and its rich and often uproarious gastronomic language: Italians deftly describe someone uptight as a baccala (dried cod), a busybody who noses into everything as a prezzemolo (parsley), a worthless or banal movie as a polpettone (large meatball).

Like Dianne, readers of La Bella Lingua will find themselves innamorata, enchanted, by Italian, fascinated by its saga, tantalized by its adventures, addicted to its sound, and ever eager to spend more time in its company.Amazon.com Review
Book Description
“Italians say that someone who acquires a new language ‘possesses’ it. In my case, Italian possesses me. With Italian racing like blood through my veins, I do indeed see with different eyes, hear with different ears, and drink in the world with all my senses...”

A celebration of the language and culture of Italy, La Bella Lingua is the story of how a language shaped a nation, told against the backdrop of one woman’s personal quest to speak fluent Italian.

For anyone who has been to Italy, the fantasy of living the Italian life is powerfully seductive. But to truly become Italian, one must learn the language. This is how Dianne Hales began her journey. In La Bella Linguaa, she brings the story of her decades-long experience with the “the world’s most loved and lovable language” together with explorations of Italy’s history, literature, art, music, movies, lifestyle and food in a true opera amorosa—a labor of her love of Italy.

Throughouther first excursion in Italy—with“non parlo Italiano” as her only Italian phrase—Dianne delighted in the beauty of what she saw but craved comprehension of what she heard. And so she chose to inhabit the language. Over more than twenty-five years she has studied Italian in every way possible through Berlitz, books, CDs, podcasts, private tutorials and conversation groups, and, most importantly, large blocks of time in Italy. In the process she found that Italian became not just a passion and a pleasure, but a passport into Italy’s storia and its very soul. She offers charming insights into what it is that makes Italian the most emotionally expressive of languages, from how the “pronto” (“Ready!”) Italians say when they answer the telephone conveys a sense of something coming alive, to how even ordinary things such as a towel (asciugamano) or handkerchief (fazzoletto) sound better in Italian.

She invites readers to join her as she traces the evolution of Italian in the zesty graffiti on the walls of Pompeii, in Dante’s incandescent cantos and in Boccaccio’s bawdy Decameron. She portrays how social graces remain woven into the fabric of Italian: even the chipper “ciao,” which does double duty as “hi” and “bye,” reflects centuries of bella figura. And she exalts the glories of Italy’s food and its rich and often uproarious gastronomic language:Italians deftly describe someone uptight as a baccala (dried cod), a busybody who noses into everything as a prezzemolo (parsley), a worthless or banal movie as a polpettone (large meatball).

Like Dianne, readers of La Bella Lingua will find themselves innamorata, enchanted, by Italian, fascinated by its saga, tantalized by its adventures, addicted to its sound, and ever eager to spend more time in its company.

Amazon Exclusive: A Q&A with Dianne Hales

Question: Why did you decide to write a book on Italian?

Dianne Hales: As a journalist, I know a great story when I see one—and the story of how Italian became the world’s most enchanting language has everything: adventure, drama, passion, beautiful women, gallant heroes, unscrupulous scoundrels—not to mention glorious music and fabulous food.

Question: Whom did you write this book for?

Dianne Hales: People who enjoy Italian food, music, art, film, travel and traditions. If you love Italy, you’ll love learning about its language. If you come from an Italian family, you’ll discover more about your heritage. If you’re studying Italian, you’ll find a new perspective that takes you beyond vocabulary and grammar.If you’re traveling to Italy, you’ll appreciate more about the people you meet and the places you visit. And if you’re an armchair adventurer—well, buckle your seat belt!

Question: Why and when did you start studying Italian?

Dianne Hales: I decided to study Italian more than twenty years ago so I could communicate with the friendly people we met on our travels in Italy. My goal was just to understand and be understood.However, the more Italian I learned, the more I wanted to know about Italian—where it came from, how it evolved, why it’s so musical and vibrant. I had so much fun in Italian classes and conversation groups that I didn’t want to stop my Italian education—and I never have.

Question: How did you do go about researching La Bella Lingua?

Dianne Hales: I used all the skills I honed in decades as a journalist and textbook author. I took classes in Italian language, history and culture both in the U.S. and in Italy. I worked very closely with a wonderful Italian tutor in San Francisco. In Italy I went to the great citadels of Italian, such as L’Accademia della Crusca and the Società Dante Alighieri, to interview leading linguists and scholars. But my greatest resources turned out to be the Italian people, who have deep pride in their mother tongue and infinite patience with those who try to master it.

(Photo © Robert Hales) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Delightful
This charming book is perfect for people who love things Italian...from food to the country and people who live there.I smiled and laughed as I read and even learned a few new words.Un libro bello!

A Wonderful Experience
I loved this book. It expanded my appreciation for the Italian language and history. If I could only retain the words it would be even more wonderful. Still, that does not detract from the sublime experience of reading them.

Excellent book on a wonderful subject
I have always thought there should be more books about the love of languages and how people come to love them and use them. "What La Bella Lingua" contains in addition to this is bits of information about history and culture - about how Italy and Italians came to be and how they live and lived. Dianne talks about Italian literature - important Italian writers like Dante, Boccaccio and Petrarch - in such a way that it made me want to delve into their works too.

Dianne writes about her love for Italian opera and Italian cinema. One of her Italian teachers once told her that there are 2 ways to speed up your Italian learning: 1)Get an Italian lover or 2)Watch Italian movies. She chose the 2nd option, so anyone who doesn't know much about Italian cinema will likely enjoy reading about the movies she's watched and bits about the history of Italian cinema.

I liked that there were Italian words scattered throughout the book (with English translations of course)- there are expressions and slang, including how Italians curse. Even if you don't use the vulgar words, it's still a good idea to know what you might end up hearing in the streets if you decide to go to Italy.

Of course, Italian food and the importance of it to Italians (and well- other parts of the world too) is talked about. The way she describes the kind of food her Italian friends cooked for her in Italy makes me want to go there myself and try "real Italian food" made in Italy. It's easy to see how important it is to Italians to "eat well" and to not eat alone- there are many sayings related to food and eating with company.

It makes sense that there's a chapter about love - Dianne claims that love is indeed "lovelier" in Italy. There are examples of how important the topic was in literature and how it is expressed in Italy today.

Lastly, the issue of the actual process of learning the Italian language and making mistakes made along the way is a good reminder that even though you could potentially embarrass yourself by making a mistake [such as Dianne did when, around a group of people, she wanted to use the word "tetti" (roofs) as she was describing being able to see something from rooftops, but instead she used "tette" which translates as "tits" in Italian], it's better to use what you know and learn from mistakes, rather than not allow yourself to try to speak as you'd like.

Dianne learned Italian in every way that she could - books, audio, online materials, and classes, including classes in Italy. Her determination and desire for acquiring the language and knowing about its history can be seen through the way she writes. It makes for a very interesting read.

I am more interested than ever to continue my Italian language studies in Italy because of the book.

I borrowed this book from the library but I have no doubt that I'll eventually buy it and re-read it. 5 stars!

La Bella Lingua
Dianne Males has blessed us with a scholarly work disguised as the delectable La Bella Lingua. For all of us seduced by the irresistible lure of Italy, this book is a treasure. The research, thought, and love behind the creation of La Bella Lingua is evident in every word she has written. Males rejoices in the very soul of Italy--the Italian language, the beautiful language: la bella lingua. I cannot say enough for this book. So I won't. Just read it. If you love Italy and the Italians, you will be grateful.

great for the curious
If your curious about language and meaning, like to find out the history and background of how words are used this is an interesting book. If you love Italian yourself -- you'll love these insights.

PC ... Read more

Product Description
Whether you are moving to Italy or just planning a vacation, you’ll want to know some key words and phrases to make sure everything’s va bene.

Italian For Dummies Audio Set has everything you need to introduce you to the language so that you can start to communicate with other Italian speakers (without memorizing a bunch of boring grammar notes and long vocabulary lists!). Each of the three hour-long CDs is filled with interesting conversation topics that allow you to listen to what you want to listen at your own pace. Soon, you’ll be able to communicate in Italian about:

• Work, jobs, and office life
• Making small talk
• Traveling and making arrangements
• Asking for directions
• Getting help and assistance
• Ordering at a restaurant
• Booking a room in a hotel
• Exchanging money at the bank
• Shopping in a store or boutique

Along with all these topics, these CDs cover essential rules and building blocks of the Italian language, such as verb conjugation, tenses, and sentence structure, as well as a list of essential words. With this beginner audio set, you can pop any of the CDs in your CD player or computer and discover the joy and fun of speaking Italian! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Not challenging enough
For the money, this set of three Italian language compact discs is a good starting point to learning the language. However, it relies too much on the say and repeat method of learning rather than challenging the listener to remember the phrases or words that are presented. Therefore, a good bit of repetition is required to memorize the material.I have transferred the audio to my mp3 for easier listening. Anyone who wants to buy my set for half price, email me at [...].

Bought fo a gift
I think this was an affordable and fun gift for yourself or someone else that wants to learn Italian.It is a much smarter choice then going straight with Rosetta Stone incase you decide it really isn't something you'd like to do after all.

Italian for Dummies
The product is minimally helpful for the average traveler. The speaker is clear. However, I was hoping for more simple phrases. This set had an entire section on job interview and dating. Also, the phrases were sometimes too long to remember and repeat. Buongiorno?

Easy learning!
I've always wanted to learn Italian and this audio set is a good start to that goal.The audio helps because you're able to hear the words and then you have the booklet to see the words.It is the basic beginnings of learning the Italian language, however it's a good start.I recommend this product!

Easy Italian
I have always wanted to learn basic Italian, and this works well for that purpose.I will never work as a translator, but that isn't what I wanted.I recommend this set for a quick way to learn the basics. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (12)

Good book
I love Italian, and this is a good way to learn it.Real life situations, not tedious.

Definitely Worth it
I am leaving for Italy in less than a month and bought these CDs to supplement my other learning materials and to learn good catch phrases handy to the novice Italian speaker.I am very pleased with the CDs so far.They speak slowly and at good learning pace focusing on usefulness and repetition.I listen to them in my car and on my ipod.Maybe I should listen to it in my sleep so it soaks in over night!

I know romance languages, it meets my needs
This works for me, because I speak French already, am familiar with Italian sounds.If I were you, I would go slowly and make sure you are familiar with how the vocali (vowels) affect how letters are pronounced.I am auditing an Italian class.This is a good addition for me.I don't like speaking broken Italian, and this CD system gets me speaking rather quickly.I would recommend listening to this over and over.Make sure you look at what you're learning to reinforce your learning.I like seeing and hearing.You have to connect the sounds with the letters.

Posso imparare l'Italiano.

Voglio (Vollio) Caminare=I want to walk.Voglio Viaggare (Vollio Viajarray), I want to travel.

Benissimo! Adesso Devo Lavorare (work as in labor).

Parla italiano?
The first six tapes had a female Italian speaker and the last two a male. Translations were different and confusing.The male speaker spoke too quickly so it was hard to understand.Overall, I thought the tapes were helpful, but sometimes the phrases were those that most of us would never use.

Better than anticipated
I've wanted to learn Italian for many years and after lusting after Rosetta Stone, and never seeing the price anywhere near my budget, I started searching for alternatives and came upon this CD on Amazon. I've listened for about 5 hrs now and cannot believe how well I am doing - in the pronounciation and understanding of the words. I'm only on the first CD, but am pleasantly surprised at the quality.

The speakers are both professional and approachable, as if they were in your own living room. I admit to being intimidated as to the content of the other CD's in the package, but if they pace it and present it as they do in the first CD, I'll be just fine! Great value! Take a chance and I'll see you in the fast lane! Ciao! ... Read more

Product Description
Designed for both classroom use and as a text for self-teaching language learners, this book consists of 30 work units, an extensive Italian-English and English-Italian vocabulary list, idioms, and dialogues, all focused to build proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and understanding Italian. Word-completion and multiple-choice exercises, word games, and entertaining stories in dialogue form are supplemented with photos of Italian landmarks, cartoon-style illustrations, and reproductions of Italian classical art that give students something of the flavor of contemporary Italian culture. Italian Now! emphasizes practical, functional use of conversational and informal written Italian but also offers solid foundation in Italian grammar, verb forms, and correct sentence structure. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Excellant Book! Highly recommend!
This book is great! It has a lot of wonderful exercises to practice with. It is challenging yet not overwhelming at the same time.I love the repetition of the exercises which helps to promote mastering the lesson/language. The format is very easy reading and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone studying Italian.
Italian Now!: A Level One Worktext

Italian Now Is Genius!
I am 11 years old and I wanted to teach myself Italian. This is a great book for beginners! At first there is a conversazione (conversation)in Italian with English reference. After the dialog you study your vocabulary and answer questions, which to my pleasure, I found exciting! This is also a good book for people traveling to Italy. Heres why: Not only do you learn the language, you learn the Italian culture! Ex: "A friend that you haven't seen in a while is usually greeted with a small kiss on the cheek, and a pat onthe back."This a fast book to get through, especially if you are taking other programs along with it. I highly recommend this workbook!

THE Book to Use in Learning Italian
I bought this book based on some very strong and thorough reviews I had read a week or so ago.I am compelled to add my praises because I feel this is by far the most comprehensive and most practical workbook among those I own.The layout and the use of color green for emphasis in the text are highly effective as not to "smother" the learner with cramped spaces as some other textbooks tend to do, and at the same time to be very pleasing to the eye. The grammar and verb conjugations are introduced on a gradual basis so as not to overwhelm a beginner like myself. In addition to a detailed review at the end of each of the six parts, the exercisesin each lesson always cover previously learned skills. One slight drawback, in my opinion, is that some of the crossword puzzles have the clues printed on the flip side of the page, which can be a little frustrating; but it's a minor flaw and can be easily corrected in their next edition. The delightful and often comical illustrations are an added bonus.The pronunciation of each new word is carefully divided in syllableswith a capital letter to indicate where the accented syllable is (unlike one book I have where no accent is given). Therefore, even without any audio resources, one should be able to manage the pronunciation fairly accurately. In all, I cannot say enough how happy I am for having obtained this book, thanks to those considerate and knowledgeable reviewers.

Italian Now
This is an excellent workbook for beginners. The lessons include activities that assist with developing communication skills and pronunciation of new vocabulary. New units include some review of previous lessons and are very helpful in building a foundation for Italian.

Great Workbook
Great Workbook if you already have a good base of the language, at least I feel this way. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (9)

For Advanced Students
In my opinion, if you can read this book in Italian, you are an advanced student.If you can read the English side, you are probably reading at a college level.

Here is a sentence from the first page: "La bimba andava sbadatamente, ed ecco ... diradandosi a poco a poco una piccola collina che a destra s'innalzava le si sciorina davanti allo sguardo l'immensità delle acque del mare."

If you can't read that, don't buy the book.

This book has a lot of long sentences, 20 word sentences are common.It also has a large vocabulary.Words repeat infrequently so reading didn't get easier as the story continued.Also, some of the words weren't in my 15,000-word dictionary.

If you're already comfortable reading Italian, you might find this book useful, otherwise look somewhere else.

11 short stories in Italian/English
Bought this book of short stories in Italian/English to help me learn Italian; And what a great investment it was. I'm speaking it some and spelling every word I've learned. Thank you, thank you. Grazie, mile grazie. Cecilia, VA

Good book
I rated it thee stars because I didn't like the stories much.Unsatisfactory endings for me, some dumb stories.But it is ok, especially as a review or if you want to improve your Italian further after reading better dual language books. I'm usually please (and I am with this one) with almost any dual language book, even if I don't like the stories or translations, because for me the books are to improve my knowledge of the foreign language.But some books are boring, dumb, and otherwise less desireable than those better written and interesting.

Good modern Italian literature
If you are taking Italian in school and need some literature, you can't go wrong with this little book.

Learning Italian
I like dual language books as I Learn the language.This one is a good one.the stories are interesting and the trandlation allows for quick help on difficult passages. ... Read more

Product Description
From ATM lingo to train station announcements, this book is packed with useful phrases. Also included are advice on gesturing, telephone tips, and even a handy menu decoder. Features easy-to-read phonetic spellings of common expressions . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (78)

Great product
Love this little book for looking up words and phrases. I would recommend this book to any beginner looking to learning some basic words.

W/out it, I'd be helpless...
Excellent! I did not know more than 2 words in Italian, but because of this extremely helpful and useful book I was actually able to communicate effectively! Having the words 'phonically' spelled out was priceless! I'd recommend to anyone going to Italy! Bravo!

Italian Phrase Book and Dictionary
The dictionary is very helpful and the phrases are also good.However, one should not expect to be able to form complex sentences in a foreign language using this or any other phrase book.

Handy for travelers
This booklet is just the right size for toting around Italy and is packed with an unbelievable amount of infomation.A very good buy.

Great Italian quick guide!
Rick Steves' Italian Phrase Book is a great quick guide resource to learn the basics in Italian. If you are looking for a book that's small enough to take along with you on a trip to Italy, this is the book for you. The book is split up into easy to find sections with common and not so common phrases that are easy to follow and learn. I'm using this guide along with a selection of Italian Phrase Podcasts that I downloaded to help me learn enough Italian to make my way around Italy on my next trip this year. ... Read more

Product Description
Get an introduction to the Italian language while you commute!Learn Italian in your car — or anywhere you can play a CD!

Drive Time Italian, a course from the linguists at Living Language, is the easiest way to learn Italian vocabulary, Italian grammar, Italian pronunciation, conversation and even Italian culture. No book is necessary for this innovative all-audio course, which includes 4 hours of lessons of four compact discs. Start learning Italian anywhere – while you’re commuting to work, running errands, taking a trip with the family, or even while jogging or working out. Make even better use of that time! The Drive Time Italian course package includes

•Four audio CDs with conversational lessons
•Plenty of pronunciation exercises, simple explanations, examples, and real conversational practice
•A 64-page student guide with Italian vocabulary lists, dialogue scripts, and a grammar summary for reference ... Read more

Customer Reviews (47)

Good but not great
I bought this cd set to prepare for a trip to Italy.The first CD is marvelous just like the other reviewers said.From then on, some lessons are very helpful for the tourist, some less helpful.I listen to each lesson over and over because they allow very little time for repitition.Whereas on the first cd they repeated things 3 times which was a lot, in the second and subsequent cd they give you only once chance to practice a word, phrase or sentence.The grammar lessons get a little hard going as well.The two native speakers, a man and a woman, have slightly different ways of saying things which is helpful to hear. All in all I recommend this for someone who needs to learn some key things in Italian for a trip.

italian for beginners
I am planning to go back to Italy in the near future so I bought this Italian for beginners that I use while driving to work.Since my drive is about 45 min.so this really helps to use my time productively.I like very much the 1st Cd which makes me eager to listen to the following disk.I have trouble though in following the 2nd Cd's lessons since Italian is a fast-spoken language but I make myself stick to the repeated listenings.Anyway, I am sure I would be able to understand and speak some Italian the next time I am in Italy.Thanks again, Amazon, for the great products that I could aways find on your site. Lara H.

Fun
It's kind of fun, but I don't think a person could get far in Italy unless the Italians know English.Worth it for the price.

Drive Time Italian
This is definitely the greatest purchase I've ever made online!I've been listening to "Drive Time Italian" for about 3 weeks now and I can already carry descent conversations with my boyfriend's family in Italy!Being fluent in French definitely helps, but the cd's did an excellent job of going through all the major verb groups and of introducing irregular verb conjugations!Vocabulary and pronunciation were also developed as I progressed through the cd's!

Not good for intermediate learner
I had a difficult time deciding between a 2 and 3 star rating for this product.I settled on a 3 only because I realize this is meant for a beginner and I have been studying Italian for 4 months.Also, for the price what you are getting isn't terrible, just could have been much better.Anyway, what I don't like about this product:

-There is a ton of spoken english on the CDs, more english than italian.I was hoping for something that would help me get used to hearing people speak in italian but there are only short phrases (haven't gotten to disc 4 yet) followed by someone speaking for a fairly long time in english explaining the grammar.Ugh.Ok for a classroom or if I'm reading at home, but while I'm focused on traffic I have a hard time focusing on grammar.Also, once I've heard the grammar rule explained a few times, it is a waste to have to listen to it over and over again in english while I'm trying to internalize the spoken italian sections.I would have preferred more of the sections where they have a short conversation entirely in italian spoken fairly quickly (as it will be in italy) followed by each peice of the conversation broken down more slowly and translated into english.

-They have a weird number and letter system for the sections that don't have anything to do with the CD track number.How do they expect me to remember where section 7c is on the CD while I'm driving?Not a big deal but just unnecessary.

-The car horn noise they use between sections is pretty loud compared to the speaking volume and really annoying.

What I do like is the selection of topics they cover.Most of it is very relevant for an adult tourist.Also, I didn't think disc 2 was that much faster than disc 1 as other reviewers have commented.Sure, there are bits where it is fast, but they usually follow it with a slower breakdown, and again you will need to be able to listen to someone talking fast in italy so get used to it.
... Read more

Product Description

Sharpen your Italian grammar with skill-building exercises

If you want to be proficient in Italian, you eventually have to clear the bothersome hurdle of grammar. The best way to conquer this obstacle is through hands-on experience. Covering all facets of Italian grammar--from prepositions and pronouns to verbal forms and tenses--Italian Grammar Drills helps you learn often-perplexing topics with fun and engaging exercises.

Customer Reviews (8)

Great Italian Verb Drill Book
I've ordered about 6 Italian language books. This is one of my key pieces, offering concise knowledge of verb usuage without having to shuffle around the standard text book to find the verb parts is the best feature. It is certainly not a stand alone Italian Book, but rather an accessory for the others. Recommended.

Italian Grammar Drills by Paola Nanni-Tate
I found The "Italian Grammar Drills" very helpful in practicing all areas of Italian grammar. It is well organized by grammar areas. There is adequate explanation of each subject presented followed by extensive exercises. I noticed some minor typographical errors and at least one instance of a drill given before the subject matter had been discussed (use of ne) but, all in all, I found the book most satisfactory for a serious student.

Great reference book; lacks drill exercises..
I ordered this workbook as a supplement for my Italian students, after having owned, studied & thoroughly enjoyed ITALIAN VERB DRILLS by the same author. GRAMMAR DRILLS, while thorough in its explanation, comes up lacking with regard to actual drills for students.

A long-time language student, I appreciated the extensive, repetitive grammar exercises in ITALIAN VERB DRILLS that helped me to reinforce those still-weak areas. (VERB DRILLS dedicates at least 4 full pages and about 120 questions to each verb tense, with additional pages focusing on irregular verb forms!) This text continues to be a useful references and practice companion.

ITALIAN GRAMMAR DRILLS, however, dedicates a mere 2 pages to each grammar point, the first page of which is pure explanation. This leaves 1 page (about 2 exercises or 20 questions) for students to practice each new concept. Granted, a book dedicated to the whole of grammar as opposed to just verbs has a much wider subject to cover, and rightly so, GRAMMAR DRILLS is about twice the size of VERB DRILLS. Even so, I feel it could have benefited with even more girth its students, who, upon completing 2 exercises, likely forget again (as is repeatedly the case in language studies) the point they've just covered.

In its defense, the explanation it offers is clear and easy to follow, and the author has included many useful examples, often drawing attention to irregular uses of particular grammar structures. I recommend it as a worthwhile addition to your language library, until a more flawless workbook is discovered.

Great Resource
If you are studying Italian to gain fluency on your own you probably have tried Rosetta Stone and Pimsleur but those course (while highly recommended) can only take you so far, sooner or later you have to get down and dirty and learn the (gasp) grammar. This book (along with a solid teaching grammar such as Soluzioni) is a great way to begin mastering the grammar that makes the Italian language work and that will take your Italian to the next level.Highly Recommended.

I love this series, got all the books in it.
I love this series, got all the books in it. Need to say more ! ... Read more

Product Description
Italian Survival Guide is a down-to-earth, bare-bones introduction to Italian that aims to make a trip abroad as smooth and enjoyable as possible. This information-packed mini-course concentrates on preparing readers to travel in Italy in a limited time by focusing on what is most useful or interesting to travelers and cutting out unnecessary vocabulary and grammar.

This Survival Guide helps readers communicate in the Italian language and culture. It prepares travelers for what to expect and how to deal with it, what to say and when to say it. It's like three books in one--a phrase book (so you know what to say), a grammar book (so you know how to say it), and a culture book (so you understand daily social expectations)--all focused on a traveler's needs.

Learn how to greet people and introduce yourself in Italian, how to line up lodging, order food and pay properly, how to shop and ask for directions in Italian, how to drive a car or take the train in Italy, how to get help in an emergency or talk about your family or discuss the weather, and much, much more!

Get key insights into Italian social conventions: how to talk to people, how to avoid taboo subjects, how not to look like a tourist, how to tip, how to have good table manners, how to be a gracious guest, how to discourage unwanted admirers, how to overcome poor customer service, how to avoid petty crime.

Discover the fine points of city buses, grocery stores, train stations and coffee shops. Read how to achieve la bella figura--the style and classiness Italians prize. Learn gestures and geography and how to pronounce Giorgio.

Italian Survival Guide is packed with culture notes, study tips, travel hints, and reality checks galore. It includes optional exercises for practicing material from the lessons, Italian-English and English-Italian dictionaries, and inside-the-cover Survival Summaries travelers can use on the spot. In addition, Italian pronunciations are written throughout the book, so users always have guidance on how to pronounce new words and phrases. Includes an extensive index to help readers find the topics they want, fast. All this packed into one volume small enough to tuck into a bag and take along. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Great info.Small book.Perfect for light packing
This is all I need to bring with me for an education.Maybe a tiny translation book would be nice to add for words not included in this book.Yes, I read other travel books on Italy, and they are helpful.THIS is the book I will bring with me and flip through again on the flight.The cultural information is priceless.

Italian
I'm leaving for Italy in a few days and I bought this book about a month ago. It exceeded my expectations. Inside the front and back covers are basic words that you need to know. There are many cultural tips that are helpful and interesting. I already speak some Spanish and I'm sure that helped, but I feel ready to communicate on a very basic level. I am taking this book with me!

A recommended travel guide

This is a great item to take along on a trip to a country where you need to know a little of the language to survive!

Fabulous!
Excellent quick resource for Italian language. Provides exactly what you need. I found it very helpful on a recent trip to Italy. Notes on Italian culture/personality sprinkled through the book are very helpful. Well written and easy to read. Good phonetic "sounding out" of Italian words/phrases. Quickguides on front and back inside covers VERY helpful.Economical. Dictionary in back of book could be larger...this book plus a small Italian-English dictionary is all you need when travelling.

better then a help button
This was an excellent preview to Roman culture.It helped to bridge the culture gap so while in Rome, I did not offend unknowingly. ... Read more

Product Description
For anyone who has ever wanted to learn a language but has been intimidated by the process, Oxford presents a new edition of this enjoyable and efficient language learning series. Featuring five hours of audio content, each unit is designed specifically to meet the needs of anyone learning a language on their own. The series gives learners the confidence to communicate from the very first lesson by offering more practice in listening to and speaking the language than any comparable course. The new editions include a bonus CD-ROM that offers more activities and pronunciation practice, making it even easier to come to grips with the language. *The complete language kit with everything you need to speak, read, write, and understand Italian *Comprehensive, easy-to-follow book & audio course takes you from beginner to intermediate-level in 14 easy stages *Offers straightforward interactive dialogues and exercises, grammatical help, cultural information, and test and revision sections *New! Extra hands-free audio for language learning on the move, offering pronunciation and listening practice *New! Pocket-sized 2-in-1 travel dictionary & phrasebook gives you key vocabulary and phrases at your fingertips *A fabulous new look--all-new packaging for this second edition * Work at your own pace with short modules and interactive exercises * Learn to speak confidently and authentically from native-speakers in everyday situations ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Great mini Italian course!
If you are even a little bit disciplined in self-study, you will enjoy this set. It's to the point, and keeps you awake with lots of interactive exercises. This mini -- but comprehensive -- course will definitely get you started off and running! It's one of the materials I'm using to refresh my Italian from 15 years ago, and to help teach my teenage daughter Italian. Alan Cameron's review hit the nail on the head. This is perfect for you if you want "more than a vacation phrase book but do not need as much as a college textbook." Give it a try.

Great Choice
OXFORD Press has done a great job again, Its really a great choice for learning, I started earlier with OXFORD Quick Take Off in Italian, and it was a great start, and I feel sorry thats its discontinued. It was smart to recycle words and phrases through out the lessons, what tend to be hard at the begenining becase easy at a later chapters. The 5 CDs comming with this course are perfect. I was learning this while I am driving everyday, and guess what, I learned most of the language skills required, I recommond this book.

THE BEST WAY TO LEARN ITALIAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
First I tried using ITALIAN NOW, which is a great book, but I couldn't stick with it, and I did not like that it does not have any CDs, so it doesn't really help you with pronunciation. So then I got ITALIAN IN 10 MINUTES A DAY, and the book is very beautiful and colorful, but I felt that it would be best suited for someone in kindergarden or first grade. So then I got Rosetta Stone, which is an excellent program for learning to speak, and I got through most of it, and it is also very fun, however you don't learn any grammar, you only learn how to have a conversation. So I decided to buy Take off in Italian, and it is amazing! The book and audio program makes it just like being in a classroom, and it is even better because you can do it at your own pace. This is by far the BEST way to learn Italian. It may not be as detailed as a college text book, but for sure it is more than a travel dictionary, and it teaches you how to speak in important situations that you would come across while traveling. It is simple to use, and there is a test for each section with answers in the back. If you want to teach yourself Italian, buy this and you will be VERY GLAD YOU DID!!!!! (I know I am)!!!! If the thought of learning a language scares you, this will make it easy and fun! It allows you to speak and understand confidently! YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED! (especially when you compare the price to Rosetta Stone!) And its better then any other self teaching course.

Oxford Take Off In Italian
The package includes a 248 page paperback book, 5 CDs, and a smaller book with extra vocabulary.The book covers basic grammar well,enough to make oneself understood in the language.Each of 14 chapters hasdialogues to illustrate grammatical points, vocabulary lists, and quizzes,and also a continuous story of 2 young people (Un amico di troppo, a friend too many!)that runs all through the book.At the end of the book, there are answers to the quizzes, and a summary of the grammar taught earlier.Most helpful are the CDs in which native Italian speakers go over the same material as in each chapter, in a well coordinated way.I found hearing proper pronunciation and seeing the same words written was a big advantage.Chapters cover useful information on family, numbers, finding the way, traveling, eating out, booking a hotel or apartment, health problems, pharmacies, shopping,etc. The grammar covers, for example, past perfect and imperfect, present, future and conditional tenses but not the subjunctive.
Compared to the other Italian do-it-yourself tutorials I have tried, it was my favorite.DK 15-minute Italian illustrated book with CDs is good but has little grammar, seems more for people wanting a brief introduction to the language.Hugo Italian in 3 months is of similar depth to the Oxford book, but I preferred the layout of the latter.A first year college book, Prego! by Lazzarino et al, is much more detailed for the serious student; a teacher is needed as the answers to the quizzes are not given. Italian with Michel Thomas has good CDs, but had no accompanying text, a drawback.
I can strongly recommend the Oxford Take Off In Italian book for those who want more than a vacation phrase book but do not need as much as a college textbook.



... Read more

Product Description

This new edition of Colloquial Italian has been revised and updated to make learning Italian easier and more enjoyable than ever before.

Specially developed by an experienced teacher for self-study or class use, this clear, accurate course delivers a step-by-step approach to written and spoken Italian.

The best choice in personal language learning, this expanded edition features:

• up-to-date authentic texts
• lively new illustrations in each unit.

No prior knowledge of the language is required, and by the end of this easy to follow course students will be able to communicate confidently and effectively in a broad range of everyday situations.

Accompanying audio material is available to purchase separately on CD/MP3 format, or comes included in the great value Colloquials Pack,  providing every opportunity to perfect pronunciation, listening and speaking skills.

Customer Reviews (7)

Colloquial Italian - the easy edition for tourists
I bought this from the Colloquial languages series because I had used the "Colloquial Japanese" in 1983 and found it exceptionally useful - I still use phrases from that book. What I liked at that time was the speedy pace, the intelligent and full discussions of Japanese grammar, and the relatively wide standard vocabulary for both reading and speaking. What I was trying to get away from was the Phrase Book approach - which treats you as if a) you are stupid and scared of grammar, b) only interested in buying souvenirs. So how was Colloquial Italian?

On grammar, about middling. I found it irritating to have to learn the first person singular, then a little later the first and second person singular, and then again later the first second and third person singular. My feeling is that we need to learn paradigms, lets get on with it. Postponing it does not make it easier. In Colloquial Italian you only get the plural of first conjugation regular present tense on page 77, halfway through chapter 5. Still the discussions of grammar, when they come, are intelligent and informative.

On vocabulary, I was again disappointed, for the book is directed primarily at the American tourist. Again, one needs to learn a good deal, so let us not hang back. The chapters are broken into several little sections, with a few words each. Much better to have one place with all the vocabulary listed in some rational order. Then one could start by learning it all by rote before working through each chapter. This would reinforces memory and also makes systematic study / revision far easier. Still, at least the book has a glossary that covers words used in the text so if you cannot recall which list it was in, you still have some recourse.

If I look back at languages I have persevered with, I have in fact used them more for general reading and for watching films than as a tourist. I also have some experience as a schoolboy learning language systematically and effectively. I am clearly not the target learner for this (or any other current language learning) book

This book is sold as a "New Edition." I wonder if the old edition would be more to my taste. Probably the dumbing down and the narrow focus on tourists derives from the publisher. I would like one publisher however to set out to satisfy the language learner of broad interests. They would have that section of the field to themselves. Perhaps they should have two versions, the "normal edition" and the "tourist" edition".

Top-notch quality
If you're new to Italian, this course is an excellent choice. The material covered is relevant to everyday life while still providing enough tourist-conscious text to help both types of learners : those interested in studying the language itself, and those interested in gaining conversational skills for travel purposes or otherwise.

The course is well organized and informative, providing plenty of vocabulary and example sentences to steadily build a strong working knowledge of the language. You'll learn everyday conversation in tandem with needed phrases and words for getting by (such as asking about prices, making plans, and so forth), and there are also cultural notes in the reading passages from the get-go to help you become more familiar with Italian life. The recorded material accompanying the course is strongly recommended -- toward the beginning of the course, dialogues and reading texts are presented at a fairly even-toned pace, and soon afterward it switches to a speed closer to that of everyday speech. Exercises to test your knowledge are presented throughout, and the answer key is of course provided at the back of the book. Almost all verb tenses are introduced, with the historical past tense omitted (although in the grammar section at the back of the book, it does list the regular conjugations alongside some of the most common irregular forms -- it's not essential that you learn this tense for your own use, but being able to recognize it when it you hear/read it is definitely recommended).

What definitely impressed me about this course is that it summarizes the numerous Italian dialects into a comprehensive guide of which terms and phrases are most common. Among these dialects are countless differences varying from pronunciation to choice of words, and the vocabulary chosen for this course provides an excellent middle ground. You should be able to communicate confidently and understand the majority of what you'd most likely hear or read if you learn this entire course. If you're interested in a course that is oriented more toward tourists but still teaches grammar, I'd recommend finding a copy of "Hugo Italian in Three Months". If you're instead interested in progressing further with self-study in the language, the next step would be moving to the "Living Language : Ultimate Italian" courses, available in both a beginner-intermediate level and an advanced level (and both including plenty of recorded material).

Colloquial Italian
Colloquial Italian is well organized and easy to use.It teaches the reader Italian that is current and useful.I liked it very much.

WORST EVER
This was the worst tool I ever bought, maybe because I have used plenty other books to teach myself other languages. This was a huge disappointment. I've taken Spanish, German, French, Latin, Hebrew and taught myself Slovak with this series- which the Slovak book was excellent. That's why I bought this one. It's simply the authors fault that her style sucks. She liked to emphasize the value of guessing, which she stated and implied by the fact that she hardly included any vocab after the reading nor in the glossary. That's ok, I have a dictionary to look up nearly every new word. She said it's ok to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, but when you're explained things appropriately, you're going to make fewer. I think that linguists are very precise people, this book is not precise. It leaves a lot to the imagination. Not to mention, I noticed mistakes two English mistakes. When you got to il passato remoto, she didn't even bother to go into it; saying in the North it's hardly used, but in the South used very often. She also says when you're an advanced student, then it's important. Except it's important to me now, that's why I've always succeeded. My family is from Sicily, I guess I want to know it. Next when she introduces you to the subjunctive, she starts with the imperfect subjunctive. Now I haven't had Spanish for a few years, so I really needed to refresh my memory. If I didn't know it at all, this would have been very confusing. Maybe starting with the present subjunctive would have been more logical..

Maybe I'll just write my own book :)

Real Italian for Serious learners
I took Colloquial Italian with me to Italy last year, where I was to stay for one year as an exchange student.This language course was fundamental in teaching me the basics ( not just touristy questions like a lot of other courses!).
It was so good that I lent it out to other students who were dispairing over the language, and all had similar success with it.
Un ottimo introduzione alla lingua italiana, per chi voule imparare facilmente. ... Read more

Product Description
Eleven great stories in original Italian with vivid, accurate English translations on facing pages; teaching and practice aids, Italian-English vocabulary, more. Chronologically arranged stories by Boccaccio, Machiavelli, d’Annunzio, Pirandello and Moravia, plus significant works by lesser-knowns.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Italian Stories: A Dual-Language Book
Via Amazon - Excellent service, prompt delivery, excellent condition
as described, packaged well.
Would use again.

Interesting but NOT a beginner's book
I am an intermediate level Italian speaker. I agree with other reviewers that the language is often archaic. In addition, many of these pieces were written in old regional dialects that you probably won't see very often. It's fun to try to read the literature in the original language but as a learning exercise it's a two-edged sword.

For the more advanced student
To tell you the truth, if you're a beginnin or intermediate student, this product is a bit much.It's for the more advanced student.Frankly, I'm hoping I will get to the point that I can read this book,but I am not there yet.For the advanced student, it's great.

Excellent learning tool
The stories are good, with excellent translations.One must get used to the fact that often Italian stories lack something that English readers look for.Sometimes they seem to leave one hanging with inadequate endings.But I liked the stories and the translations.I like dual language books very much.

Good short stories for AP Italian
Bought for daughter's AP Italian course.Nice in that it is a dual-language book. ... Read more

Product Description
Learn Italian in 4 Simple Steps.

With Living Language Complete Italian: The Basics, you’ll start by learning words, and then you’ll progress to phrases, sentences, and conversations. This simple four-step building block approach will have you speaking with confidence right from the beginning, and you’ll be able to learn gradually and effectively. If you’re confident in your pronunciation, then this coursebook includes everything you need - vocabulary, grammar, culture, and practice.

This comprehensive coursebook includes:
• 40 step-by-step lessons
• Practical vocabulary and authentic everyday usage
• Simple explanations and plenty of examples
• Supplemental sections, including e-mail and internet resources
• A comprehensive grammar reference section ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Good beginner book, but need more beginner conversation
This is a very good book for very basic beginnings...but i feel that very basic conversational Italian was left out a bit...this helps to get you going and remember things...i ended up not using it for conversing. There are other books that are more conversational.

Complete Italian:The Basics(BK)(Complete Basic Course)
It is a good beginner book. Did not realize it did not come with a CD. Otherwise, if you are traveling or waititng at the airport, it is a good source of study.

Keep Talking
This package exceeded my expectations.It really starts at the beginning but works you into the language quickly, easily, and in a way that you can use instantly and gain confidence.It is worth the price and the CD's that come with the complete course are a welcome addition in the absence of a live instructor.You will need the discipline of staying with the program and dedicating time each day to the venture.You will also be ahead of the game if you take advantage of all the hints and assists the book presents.This type of course could put a "hurt" on college language courses.I have used other language (French, Spanish, & Portuguese) courses in the past and this program is the best by far.It is a nice blend of grammar, expressions, and common dialog.If I was teaching a course on the Italian language, I would use this book.

Wonderful learning resource
This has proven to be a most helpful resource for mastering colloquial Italian.I work as a priest in a parish with many elderly Italian parishiners, many of whom speak little or no English.What a blessing to have a language package that I can listen to in the car and read and review at home.It has helped me communicate with and understand Italians in a way no other audio course has.

Very Satisfied (Molto Bene!)
A very helpful course.I came across the book (without the CD) in a local library while I was trying to study Italian.The explanations in the book were far superior to what I had in my Rosetta Stone course.When I ordered the book from Amazon, it came with the CD, which was even more of a help.I have been totally satisfied with this book and CD.It is certainly worth the price.Frankly, I am more satisfied with this course than I have been with Rosetta Stone.Explanations are better and less confusing.For anyone trying to learn the language, a shortwave radio tuned to an Italian station helps a lot also!

Bob Morton ... Read more

Product Description
This Conversational program contains 8 hours of interactive audio-only instruction, effective language learning with real-life spoken practice sessions.

The Pimsleur Method provides the most effective language-learning program ever developed. The Pimsleur Method gives you quick command of Italian structure without tedious drills. Learning to speak Italian can actually be enjoyable and rewarding.

The key reason most people struggle with new languages is that they aren't given proper instruction, only bits and pieces of a language. Other language programs sell only these pieces -- dictionaries; grammar books and instructions; lists of hundreds or thousands words and definitions; audios containing useless drills. They leave it to you to assemble these pieces as you try to speak. Pimsleur enables you to spend your time learning to speak the language rather than just studying its parts.

When you were learning English, could you speak before you knew how to conjugate verbs? Of course you could. That learning process is what Pimsleur replicates. Pimsleur presents the whole language as one integrated piece so you can succeed.

With Pimsleur you get:

• Grammar and vocabulary taught together in everyday conversation,
• Interactive audio-only instruction that teaches spoken language organically,
• The flexibility to learn anytime, anywhere,
• 30-minute lessons designed to optimize the amount of language you can learn in one sitting.

Millions of people have used Pimsleur to gain real conversational skills in new languages quickly and easily, wherever and whenever -- without textbooks, written exercises, or drills.

Conversational Italian includes the 10 lessons from Pimsleur's Basic Italian plus an additional 6 lessons.

The 16 lessons in Conversational Italian are the same first 16 lessons in the Pimsleur Comprehensive Italian Level 1. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

Exactly what I was looking for
I've been doing 1 lesson per day for the past week and have learned so much. This is definitely the easiest way to learn a new language!

Boring
If you want to describe this method in only one word it woul be BORING! I am completely dissapointed with it, being no more and old fashion method of teaching a languagedressed to be used on a computer. If there were the possibility to evaluate it with a minus one star I'd do it. Since it is not possible I give it the lowest rate I can. One last piece of advise: You want to losse time and money? Buy it.

Outstanding for its purpose
My five stars are based on how well it does what it is designed to do, namely, to help you learn to speak and understand the basics.It is repetitive, designed to make the language penetrate your brain so that you can respond to situations without thinking -- as you do in English now.

I don't consider it a negative that it does not do what is is not designed to do -- you can get other materials that do that.For example, you should get easy readers, a grammar book and a dictionary. You can expand your vocabulary and other knowlege thru Living Language products.They present clear, educated pronunciation, in a wider variety of situations.

Speak Italian
These CDs are proving to be very helpful in trying to learn Italian.Each one is only about 30 minutes long which seems to be just right.I like the system and the price is very reasonable.

Fast service & easy to understand
This is the second program I have used and it has exceeded my expectations. I am planning a trip to Italy next year and want
to have a bit of understanding of the language. I have listened to
half the program so far and like being able to listen in the car.
Even my young grandson (four) has picked up some of the phrases. I
highly recommend this product.
... Read more

Product Description
Already a proven home-study program, the Language for Children series is making noise with this updated, integrated book-plus-audio edition. Along with its charming visuals and lively activities, the series now provides in CD format the stimulating sounds of language to entice preschoolers through primary graders into learning a second language. Cute, catchy songs and the humorous, serial adventures of SuperCat are sure to captivate the imagination and foster language acquisition. Each set in the series contains an 80-page full-color activity book coordinated with two 60-minute CDs as well as a Parent/Instructor CD packed with helpful tips.

Together children and parents can master basic language skills, including making introductions, counting from 1 to 20, and describing objects. The perfect package for parents and teachers who want to familiarize three- to nine-year olds with foreign languages and cultures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Don't waste your money
This set is a waste of money.The woman's voice is horribly annoying.The music and singing are terrible -- I absolutely don't want to hear those songs ever again.And the lessons are so overly simplistic they are unbearable.

The "Teach Me Italian" CDs are MUCH, MUCH better.They at least have catchy songs that I don't mind playing over and over again.

Anyone interested in buying my set?It's practically untouched and you can have it cheap.

Fantastico!
What a wonderful product! My husband and I speak a little Italian and wanted to introduce our son to the language before our trip to Italy. I borrowed this from the library before buying it. I couldn't have made a better choice! My son, who is 7, loves this set and enjoys listening to the CDs, which include dialogue and songs. What I like about the CDs: the gentle and encouraging voice of the narrator/teacher; the everday situations; the strangely catchy songs (which teach numbers, colors, etc); and, perhaps best of all, the voices of Italian children saying their names, asking for various things to eat, choosing colored balloons, and more. I think their presence on the CDs makes children feel at home and encourages them to mimic their peers. The accompanying book reinforces the dialogue on the CDs, though it is perhaps most useful to children who can already read (English). This has been a great way to prepare for our trip to Italy. I only wish there were a second, more advanced set, so we could keep going! My son is certainly ready for more. I highly recommend this set to anyone wishing to introduce her child to basic Italian.

Super course, but a dead-end
I'm an American woman, married to an Italian. Although we live in the U.S., we are trying to raise our daughter to be fluent in Italian. This course is probably the best one that I have seen for kids.

Here's the problem: once you have finished this course, there seems to be nothing more (no volume/course II). I guess this can still be useful if you wish to get your child excited about studying Italian. However, if you are both serious about learning, you soon will have to switch to another system (or move to Italy).

For long-term Italian study we are using the Rosetta Stone DVD course.

It's even great for adults
As an elementary school teacher i know that things for children are a good, simple way for people to start learning; even "older" adults. I have been correct. I also like hearing the language from both children and adults as my husband and I will be spending six weeks in italy with families.I plan to pass this along to friends that want to review their past italian language skills.The workbook also provided good review and learning. It's been fun. Ciao.

Perfect start
This package is a great place to start your children on the way to learning Italian. I wish they made a part 2. Best place to start 3yrs and up. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Interesting & easy reading
Very easy to read with English on one side and italian on the other. Gives a nice overview of Italian literature, and, at the same time reading italian. I recommend all dual language books to people studying a foreign language.

First Italian Reader
While the book is interesting, it was not the simple current Italian reader I was expecting.This is a collection of samples from authors beginning in the 1300's.Many are difficult to read because the language is a dialect for the author's region.The English translation is good though and allows the reader to sample Italian authors.

Diligent Italian Intermediate Student
Readings are too difficult and esoteric for an adult beginner/intermediate Italian student.Would not recommend.

Good book for Italian study groups
We are using this book in our AAUW Italian Study Group after finishing a work book.It gives us experience in reading Italian without going to the dictionary often, since the English translation is on the facing page.

learn by doing
I like dual language since you don't have to slow down if you come across a dificult passage.Remember to read the Italian and don't use the transletion unless absolutely necessary. ... Read more

Product Description
Indispensable learning aid covers travel and transportation, shopping, medical and emergency problems, postal, banking and other services.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Great book
Purchased this book to learn some Italian withmy family. We have really enjoyed learning new words and phrases. Great product and a great seller. I would purchase from this merchant again. Thanks for the great service

Italian lesson?
This is a good book but I found it more helpful to listen to the phrases and read them so I purchased a book with a few chapters on a CD.

Good Stuff!
Very impressed with this little book, just the right size, very practical, very user friendly, good for beginningers - one of the best phrase books available in the market right now.

Low phrase count makes product nearly useless
The title promises 770 basic phrases.Easily three quarters or more of these "phrases" are simply the same phrase repeated, with only a word or two difference.An example from page 34: Phrase #424 is "I should like to have [some cake]."Phrases 425 - 430 then tell you how to say you want pie, cheese, cookies, custard, chocolate ice cream and vanilla ice cream.Hm, couldn't I just have consulted a pocket dictionary?Meanwhile, the section on "Difficulties and Repairs", (i.e. situations where you might really need a phrase book), there are a mere 13 phrases!

I found this book nearly useless for my purposes.There aren't nearly enough phrases to rely on the book as an on-the-spot, pocket communication tool, largely because it substitutes too much vocabulary for phraseology.And yet it doesn't have nearly enough vocabulary to make me feel like I could get away without having a pocket dictionary.

Extremely helpful
Haven't gone to Italy yet but will this summer....this book is easy to understand and has all the right phrases I will need to get by and then some. ... Read more