James29 wrote:The last few days I have been spending a couple hours a day working through French for Reading by Sandberg. It is amazing. I learned Spanish a more traditional way... Pimsleur, Michel Thomas, Assimil, FSI, etc. This method is totally different and I am loving it.
The book basically breaks down basic vocabulary and grammar into programmed phrases that build up to a reading at end of each chapter. It only teaches the learner how to read and it is entirely "passive." Now, just after three days, I am actually reading and understanding some very simple texts. This book has hooked me on French... I hope it remains to keep my interest. I've had a hard time sticking with French in the past.
Thanks for pointing out Sandberg. While hunting for a cheaper used copy of the French book, I discovered that he wrote another book with a coauthor on Spanish and immediately ordered that in both a paperback and Kindle edition. I am halfway through chapter one and I love it! Can't wait to receive the hard copy! I usually order both a hard copy (sometimes several copies) in addition to a Kindle edition. I prefer a "real" book (hard copy whether hardcover or paperback) but the Kindle edition comes in handy when I am in a restaurant waiting for food,on my lunch break, while traveling....etc.
The Spanish book BTW is much more sensibly priced, though I will definitely also order the French book when the time comes to learn French. So far chapter one is a little reminiscent of Madrigal but with a much faster progression and without the endless "el actor es popular", "el mono es inteligente" exercises.
These books really should be better known. From what I have seen so far, I highly recommend them!