Teach Yourself Beginner s Russian is the right course for you if you really want to learn Russian but are daunted by the prospect of complicated grammar, classes and coursebooks. This book and CD pack starts right from the beginning and explains everything in simple English. There are hints throughout to make learning easy and you can learn at your own pace with plenty of practice of each new point. It is a friendly introduction to the language which will help you to understand and speak Russian sufficiently well to function effectively in basic everyday situations. The course will also offer you an insight into Russian culture.

The book is divided into three main parts. Units 1-2 introduce you to the Russian alphabet. Units 3-10 cover the basic structures and grammatical points you ll need in everyday situations. In Units 12-20 you will learn how to cope with practical, everyday situations, such as eating out, travelling and making a phone call in more detail. They give you the opportunity to put into practice and consolidate the language you have learnt in the first 10 units. Unit 11 is a special unit designed to give you the chance to find out something about the handwritten Russian script and to write it if you choose. If you would rather miss this unit out and concentrate on reading, speaking and listening, you can do so without it affecting your understanding of the other units.

By the end of the course you ll be able to communicate in a wide range of real-life situations and have all the practical information you need to enjoy your next trip to Russia.

The accompanying double CD provides approximately 2 hours of listening material. The CDs (0 340 87050 8) and book (0 340 87046 X) can also be purchased separately.

Alternatively, the listening material is also available on a double cassette which can be purchased on its own (0 340 87049 4) or in a pack with the book (0 340 87047 8).