'Teach Yourself Japanese' is a lively and accessible introduction to everyday spoken and written Japanese. The book offers the opportunity to learn to read Japanese script but it is still possible to work through the book without reading script thanks to the romajji (roman) script, in which all grammar explanations of Japanese terms are written. Topics covered in the course include Japanese name conventions, workplace, transport, media, aspects of modern society and environmental issues, and the language is taught via realistic and interesting dialogues. This summary relates to the paperback. A pack containing the book and CD is also available (9780340941720) and the CDs are available on their own (9780340941713). Previous edition: 9780340941737

This is undoubtedly an excellent course to consider if you really want to communicate properly in a language beyond simple holiday words and phrases...it will get you results...and all at a very reasonable price. -- Real Travel 20080601

Helen Gilhooly has lived and worked in Japan and has extensive experience of teaching Japanese and writing materials for learners of all ages. She has an MA and PGCE in Japanese and is currently the Language College Director of Aldercar Community Language College in Derbyshire. She is also a teacher trainer of Japanese at Nottingham University.