Is speaking Spanish nothing more than a bad high school memory for you? Are the phrases "Yo quiero Taco Bell" and "Hasta la vista, baby" the extent of what you can say in Spanish?
Whether you need a quick primer for an upcoming business trip or want to build on a basic understanding of the language, Spanish For Dummies can help. But the book is more than just a language text full of cool phrases and useful vocabulary -- it's also a cultural guide for those moments when you really need to know how and why things are done.
Part of what makes this book so valuable is its whole-language approach to Spanish. Instead of burdening you with endless vocabulary lists and tricky grammar rules, Spanish For Dummies gives you the tools to take your Spanish on the road. Focus on everyday situations and hone your small-talk skills that help you with basic communication in Spanish. What's more, the authors have scattered throughout the book tidbits that contextualize the language so you understand the people, places, and things that are unique to Spanish-speaking cultures. An audio CD enables you to hear Spanish as it's really spoken by presenting dialogues between native Spanish speakers.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 3.5 / 5.0
Spanish for Dummies:
I orderd this for my daughter,so she could have extra help at home with her Spanish and she has done very well with it,thanks for a great item and price.
Mediocre book:
The book is average at best. It's cheap for a reason. I have learnt MUCH more thru the "Coffee Break spanish podcast on iTunes". bought this as a companion book. As a companion this book is OK. But if i had bought it as just the primary then i would have been very disappointed. So use it along with other audio material and you will be fine.. Have not listened to the included CD.
The Truth About Spanish for Dummies. Read on ....:
Here is the bottom line about Spanish for Dummies. The good news is that the author at least attempts to simplify the learning of Spanish. The bad news is that it did not work. The book and the approach is overly 'gimmicky' and this detracts from the instructional value.
A much better option would be either Behind the Wheel Spanish II / 8 Multi-Track CDs /Complete 250 Page Illustrated Text / English Translations / Answer Keys & Tapescrip if you already have some background in Spanish. If not, the... more info
Spanish for this gringo:
This book is excellent if you're a struggling gringo like me. My fiance is a Spanish translator so I got this to learn the fundamentals of Spanish. She gave it two thumbs up so I know it's good stuff. If you're looking for a good travel book as well, this is the way to go.
