World Language Learning: Books & Media
A guide to resources at the Boston Public Library and online that can help you learn another language.
Searching the Library Catalog
Examples of search terms to use when checking the catalog for language learning materials are listed below. Results can be filtered by location, circulating status, format, audience, and more.
- American Sign Language
- Arabic Language - Conversation and Phrase Books - English
- Chinese Language - Dictionaries - English
- French Language - Examinations
- German Language - Grammar
- Italian Language - Readers
- Korean Language - Self Instruction
- Portuguese Language - Sound Recordings for English Speakers
- Russian Language - Study and Teaching
- Spanish Language - Textbooks for Foreign Speakers - English
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Featured Books & Media @BPL
The Boston Public Library has an extensive collection of books and media that can help you achieve your language learning goals. Resources include introductory texts; grammar and vocabulary guides; phrase books; dictionaries; language-learning CDs; dual language texts; and the world language collections which "may include books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, and newspapers for adults, children, and teens."
Chinese for Dummies® by
The fast and easy way to learn to speak Mandarin Chinese China has become a major influence in the world today, and Mandarin Chinese is the world's most widely spoken language. Not only is China full of opportunities in business and politics, but Chinese culture, continues to make its way into the western world. With an updated CD including real-life conversations, Chinese For Dummies expands grammar, verb conjugations, and pronunciations?and includes a refreshed mini-dictionary complete with even more essential vocabulary. Basic vocabulary Everyday conversations, including phone dialogue and small talk Speaking in perfect pitch and tone Easy-to-understand grammar rules Getting around in a Chinese-speaking country Cultural references like maintaining face, dining etiquette, and social mores Also included is an audio CD that features actual Chinese conversations by native Chinese speakers, which allows you to hear how Chinese is really spoken. Written by a leading Chinese language teacher in the United States, Chinese for Dummies introduces an often-daunting language to you in a fun-and-easy For Dummies manner. CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of the e-book file, but are available for download after purchase.
Call Number: PL1129.E5 A37 2013ISBN: 9781118436660Publication Date: 2013-03-04
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Conversational Japanese by
CD included...Your customers will say, "arigato gozaimasu!" Completely revised and updated, the second edition of The Complete Idiot's Guide(r) to Conversational Japanese is an essential tool for students, travelers, and businesspeople. With an all-new audio CD that lets readers listen to native speakers, practice commonly used words and phrases, and improve pronunciation, this new edition is perfect for beginners looking to better understand Japanese. * A revised and updated edition of a strong seller. * Author experience at teaching both Japanese and English to Americans and English to the Japanese, and has taught at Harvard, Cornell, and other schools. * New improved-quality CD.
Call Number: PL539.5.E5 F84 2011ISBN: 9781615641055Publication Date: 2011-05-03
Complete Russian by
It's easy to teach yourself Russian "Complete Russian with Two Audio CDs: A Teach Yourself Guide" provides you with a clear and comprehensive approach to Russian, so you can progress quickly from the basics to understanding, speaking, and writing Russian with confidence. Within each of the 20 thematic chapters, important language structures are introduced through life-like dialogues.You'll learn grammar in a gradual manner so you won't be overwhelmed by this tricky subject. Exercises accompany the texts and reinforce learning in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This program also features current cultural information boxes that reflect recent changes in society. The accompanying audio CDs include audio exercises--performed by native speakers--that reinforce communicative skills.
Call Number: PG2129.E5 W46 2010xISBN: 9780071737524Publication Date: 2010-08-16
The Everything Essential German Book by
Learn to speak and write German like a pro! Need a quick introduction to the German language? Whether you're planning a vacation, adding a valuable second language to your resume, or simply brushing up on your skills, The Everything Essential German Book is your perfect guide for learning to speak and write in German. This portable guide covers the most important basics, including: The German alphabet and translation Greetings and conversation starters Common questions and answers Verb tenses and sentence structure With step-by-step instructions, pronunciation guides, and practical exercises, you'll find learning German can be easy and fun! You'll be speaking--and understanding--German in no time!
Call Number: PF3111 .S951 2013xISBN: 9781440567575Publication Date: 2013-08-18
Farsi (Persian) by
Lonely Planet: The world's #1 phrasebook publisher* Lonely Planet's Farsi Phrasebook & Dictionaryis your handy passport to culturally enriching travels with the most relevant and useful Farsi phrases and vocabulary for all your travel needs. Bargain in a bazaar over luxurious handwoven carpets, hike to out-of-the-way locations, or order a local speciality for your midday meal; all with your trusted travel companion. With language tools in your back pocket, you can truly get to the heart of wherever you go, so begin your journey now! Get More From Your Trip with Easy-to-Find Phrases for Every Travel Situation! Feel at ease with essential tips on culture, manners, idioms and multiple meanings Order with confidence, explain food allergies, and try new foods Save time and hassles with vital phrases at your fingertips Never get stuck for words with the 3500-word two-way, quick-reference dictionary Be prepared for both common and emergency travel situations with practical phrases and terminology Meet friends with conversation starter phrases Get your message acrosswith easy-to-use pronunciation guides Inside Lonely Planet's Farsi Phrasebook & Dictionary: Colourthroughout User-friendly layout organised by travel scenario categories Survival phrases inside front cover for at-a-glance on-the-fly cues Convenient features Listen For - phrases you may hear Look For - phrases you may see on signs Shortcuts - easy-to-remember alternatives to the full phrases Q&A - suggested answers to questions asked Covers Basics - time, dates, numbers, amounts, pronunciation, reading tips, grammar rules Practical - travel with kids, sightseeing, business, banking, post office, internet, phones, repairs, bargaining, accommodation, directions, border crossing, transport Social - meeting people, interests, feelings, opinions, going out, romance, culture, activities, weather Safe Travel -emergencies, police, doctor, chemist, dentist, symptoms, conditions Food - ordering, at the market, at the bar, dishes, ingredients The Perfect Choice:Lonely Planet's Farsi Phrasebook & Dictionary, a pocket-sized comprehensive language guide, provides on-the-go language assistance; great for language students and travellers looking to interact with locals and immerse themselves in local culture. Authors:Written and researched by Lonely Planet and Dr Yavar Dehghani. About Lonely Planet:Started in 1973, Lonely Planet is the world's leading travel guide publisher with guidebooks to every destination on the planet, and has been connecting travellers and locals for over 25 years with phrasebooks for 120 languages, more than any other publisher! With an award-winning website, a suite of mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveller community, Lonely Planet enables curious travellers to experience the world and to truly get to the heart of the places they find themselves. The world awaits! Check outour Fast Talk Phrasebook mobile app for on-the-go language needs. (Available languages: German, Latin Spanish, European Spanish, French, and Italian.) *#1 phrasebook publisher. Source: Nielsen Bookscan UK, US & AUS
Call Number: PK6239 .D44 1014xISBN: 9781741791341Publication Date: 2014-12-01
The Joy of Signing Third Edition by Call Number: HV2474 .R53 2014ISBN: 9781607313618Publication Date: 2014-10-07
Practice Makes Perfect Basic Portuguese by
Master Portuguese grammar through hands-on exercises and practice, practice, practice! Practice Makes Perfect: Basic Portuguese is a trusted companion to your Portuguese learning experience. In each bite-sized lesson, author Sue Tyson-Ward guides you through simple grammar and vocabulary concepts and illustrates them with clear examples. The accompanying fun and interesting exercises let you practice, practice, practice what you have learned. The lessons are short soyou can complete them in twenty minutes or less, and you can go at a pace that works for you. THIS WORKBOOK WILL HELP YOU UNDERSTAND Saber vs. conhecer * Verb tenses * Essential vocabulary * Superlatives * Nouns * Adjectives * Sentence structure . . . and more Whether you are learning on your own or taking a beginning Portuguese class, Practice Makes Perfect: Basic Portuguese will help you build your confidence in your new language.
Call Number: PC5075.E5 T98 2013ISBN: 9780071784283Publication Date: 2012-12-03
Read and Write Arabic Script by
Now learning non-Roman-alphabet languages is as easy as A-B-C! Read and Write Arabic Script will help you read and write simple Arabic. This book is a step-by-step introduction to the script that will enable you to read Arabic signs, notices, advertisements and headlines. Even if you think learning the script is a daunting prospect, this book will make it simple. The alphabet is introduced in stages and there's lots of practice of each new character before the next one is introduced. There are plenty of example words and phrases that are seen everywhere in any Arabic-speaking environment so you can familiarize yourself with the most common signs and directions. By the end of the book, you will be reading and writing simple Arabic with confidence and be prepared for your next trip to the Middle East or further study of the language. Features: One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started Author insights for lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience Useful vocabulary, easy to find and learn, to build a solid foundation for speaking Extra online articles at teachyourself.com to give a richer understanding of the Arabic-speaking culture
Call Number: PJ6123 .D58 2011xISBN: 9780071774536Publication Date: 2011-11-17
Rick Steves' Italian Phrase Book and Dictionary by
Buon giorno! From ordering calamari in Venice to making new friends in Tuscan hill towns, it helps to speak some of the native tongue. Rick Steves, bestselling author of travel guides to Europe, offers well-tested phrases and key words to cover every situation a traveler is likely to encounter. This handy guide provides key phrases for use in everyday circumstances, complete with phonetic spelling, an English-Italian and Italian-English dictionary, the latest information on European currency and rail transportation, and even a tear-out cheat sheet for continued language practice as you wait in line at the Sistine Chapel. Informative, concise, and practical, Rick Steves' Italian Phrase Book and Dictionary is an essential item for any traveler's zainetto.
Call Number: PC1121 .S74 2013xISBN: 9781612382012Publication Date: 2013-12-24
Spanish Demystified by
A fast and painless way to learn Spanish--now with all new quiz and test questions and a companion 75-minute audio CD Spanish DeMYSTiFieD takes the mystery and menace out of learning Spanish by walking you step-by-step through the fundamentals of the language. The book/audio CD package lets you work at your own pace and arms you with the essentials of Spanish grammar in an unintimidating format. You will be able to: Understand basic grammar structures and verb tenses Pronounce Spanish words correctly Build a Spanish vocabulary Communicate with confidence Inside you will find: Hundreds of brand-new quiz and test questions with answer keys, similar to those used in standardized scholastic exams Chapter-opening objectives that give you insight into what you are going to learn in each step Questions at the end of every chapter that reinforce your learning and pinpoint your weaknesses "Still Struggling?" icons that offer specific recommendations for those difficult subtopics
Call Number: PC4129.E5 P58 2011ISBN: 9780071755924Publication Date: 2011-06-16
501 Hebrew Verbs by
The most commonly used 510 Hebrew verbs are arranged alphabetically in a table format, one verb per page with English pronunciation and translation, and presented in all forms. The book's additional features include common idioms with example sentences to demonstrate verb usage and a grammar review.
Call Number: PJ4645 .B56 2008ISBN: 9780764137488Publication Date: 2007-11-01
2001 Spanish and English Idioms by
Idiomatic speech in every language undergoes constant change, and this new third edition reflects informal, idiomatic Spanish as it is spoken today. It's divided into two distinct parts, the first part listing Spanish idioms with their English meanings, and the second part presenting English idioms with Spanish equivalents. Each entry is followed by an illustrative sentence. Also featured are appendices listing irregular verbs, abbreviations, and weights and measures in both English and Spanish.
Call Number: PC4460 .S36 2008ISBN: 9780764137440Publication Date: 2008-01-01
E-Z Spanish Grammar by
This textbook supplement for language students focuses on correct grammatical construction and word usage in Spanish. Covered in detail are parts of speech, verb tenses, regular and irregular verbs, sentence structure, interrogative sentences, the conditional and subjunctive moods, and more. The book is filled with practice exercises and answers. Barron's continues its ongoing project of updating, improving, and giving handsome new designs to its popular list of Easy Way titles, now re-named Barron's E-Z Series. The new cover designs reflect the books' brand-new page layouts, which feature extensive two-color treatment, a fresh, modern typeface, and more graphic material than ever. Charts, graphs, diagrams, instructive line illustrations, and where appropriate, amusing cartoons help to make learning E-Z. Barron's E-Z books are self-teaching manuals focused to improve students' grades across a wide array of academic and practical subjects. For most subjects, the skill level ranges between senior high school and college-101 standards. In addition to their self-teaching value, these books are also widely used as textbooks or textbook supplements in classroom settings. E-Z books review their subjects in detail, using both short quizzes and longer tests to help students gauge their learning progress. All exercises and tests come with answers. Subject heads and key phrases are set in a second color as an easy reference aid.
Call Number: PC4105 .C66 2010ISBN: 9780764142499Publication Date: 2010-01-01
German Grammar Drills by
When it comes to learning grammar, the best way is to JUST DO IT! For learning grammar, you'll find the most success in retaining your skills through drills, drills, and more drills. German Grammar Drills reinforces yourknowledge and enhance your ability to read, write, and speak in German. This book introduces essential grammar concepts, with practical examples to demonstrate their correct usage. You will flex your grammar muscle with the exercises included in each section. Inside this new edition you'll find: More than 200 exercises accompanied by an answer key Authentic examples to show you correct grammar usage New review sections that will bring you up to speed on grammar
Call Number: PF3112 .S953 2012ISBN: 9780071789455Publication Date: 2012-03-20
Intermediate Spoken Chinese Practice Essentials by
Learning to speak Chinese requires many hours of practice there's just no way around it! But by using this one-of-a-kind practice guide, together with whatever Chinese language-learning book or program you're using, you can dramatically improve your ability to speak and comprehend Mandarin Chinese. This book presents a wealth of tested and proven practice activities including approximately 16 hours of audio recordings and over 200 pages of drills and exercises to help you polish your spoken Chinese to a solid intermediate level. It can be used successfully with any intermediate-level Chinese language learning book, such asIntermediate Spoken Chinese, and enables you to easily move from beginning to intermediate level proficiency in the language. Intermediate Spoken Chinese Practice Essentials includes hundreds of activities that have been carefully designed to perfect and reinforce each aspect of your Chinese speaking and comprehension ability: Pronunciation exercises. Vocabulary and grammar summaries. Substitution drills. Transformation and response drills. Role play and listening comprehension exercises. Dictation exercises. Translation exercises. The accompanyingCD-ROM contains: 16 hours of audio by native Mandarin speakers. Printable practice pages. Printable exercises and activities. Together with or after this book, you can useBasic Written Chinese if you want to learn Chinese reading and writing. It introduces the highest-frequency characters and words in a systematic way. About the Series Respected Chinese language expert Dr. Cornelius Kubler, who has taught diplomats, business people and students, presents a learning system that uses separate but integrated "tracks" to help you efficiently master the basics of spoken and written Chinese. The materials inBasic Spoken Chinese allow you to move from complete beginner level to basic fluency.
Call Number: PL1129.E5 K835 2013xISBN: 9780804840194Publication Date: 2013-09-17
Italian Pronouns and Prepositions by
Based on the successful approach of the Practice Makes Perfect series, Italian Pronouns and Prepositions offers a clear and engaging presentation of all aspects of pronoun and preposition usage, combined with extensive practice, for beginning and intermediate language learners. This new edition features a new review chapter that allows learners to pull together the grammar skills they've acquired. About the Book This new edition in the successful Practice Makes Perfect series, Practice Makes Perfect: Italian Pronouns and Prepositions offers a detailed examination of these two essential aspects of grammar, which language learners need to master to communicate with confidence. Learners of a foreign language often have difficulty with these areas because the usage of pronouns or prepositions rarely translates directly from English to the new language. Thus, language learners need much more practice in the areas of pronoun and preposition usage than is provided in general grammar books. This book provides clear explanations of the usage of pronouns and prepositions, followed by practical examples illustrating and clarifying each point. Extensive and varied exercises provide ample opportunity to practice. Answers to all questions are provided at the back of the book, providing immediate feedback. The new edition features a brand-new review chapter that allows learners to pull together the grammar skills they've acquired throughout the book. Key Selling Features New edition features a brand-new review chapter Details all aspects of pronoun and preposition usage Clarifies the subtleties of pronouns and prepositions that often escape language learners Highly varied and extensive exercises for practice Practical and high-frequency vocabulary used throughout Answer key provided for reference and quick feedback Combines the best elements of instruction and practice so readers find all they need in one book.
Call Number: PC1261 .G63 2011xISBN: 9780071753821Publication Date: 2011-03-11
Portuguese Grammar You Really Need to Know by
Comprehensive and clear explanations of key grammar patterns and structures are reinforced and contextualized through authentic materials. You will not only learn how to construct grammar correctly, but when and where to use it so you sound natural and appropriate. Portuguese Grammar You Really Need to Know will help you gain the intuition you need to become a confident communicator in your new language.
Call Number: PC5067.5 .T97 2012xISBN: 9781444179583Publication Date: 2014-06-03
Pronounce It Perfectly in French by
In mastering French, nothing is more important than learning to pronounce the words and phrases so that you can be understood. This CD-and-book program emphasizes speaking, sound discrimination, and standard intonation patterns that are typical of native French speakers, for example pronunciation of French vowel sounds, such as "u" and "eu," and French nasals such as "un" and "en," which many English speakers find especially difficult to pronounce. This program's noteworthy features include: A guide to French pronunciation expressed in the phonetic symbols of the International Phonetic Association (IPA)Extensive pronunciation exercises including supplementary help based on poetry, proverbs, familiar sayings, historical quotations and humorAudio on three convenient compact discs that complements the text Words and sounds are put into a variety of conversational contexts for students of French to practice and perfect.
Call Number: PC2137 .K46 2013ISBN: 9781438072814Publication Date: 2013-09-01
Russian-English, English-Russian Practical Dictionary by Call Number: PG2640 .E759 2011ISBN: 9780781812436Publication Date: 2011
Chinese (Mandarin): The Short Course by
Chinese (Mandarin): The Short Course
Call Number: MISC PL1129.E5 C45 2001xISBN: 0788797271Publication Date: 2002-01-17
Complete Modern Hebrew by
It's easy to teach yourself Hebrew "Complete Modern Hebrew with Two Audio CDs: A Teach Yourself Guide" provides you with a clear and comprehensive approach to Hebrew, so you can progress quickly from the basics to understanding, speaking, and writing Hebrew with confidence. Within each of the 24 thematic chapters, important language structures are introduced through life-like dialogues. You'll learn grammar in a gradual manner so you won't be overwhelmed by this tricky subject. Exercises accompany the texts and reinforce learning in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This program also features current cultural information boxes that reflect recent changes in society. The accompanying audio CDs include audio exercises--performed by native speakers--that reinforce communicative skills. Features: Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience Tests in the book to keep track of your progress
Call Number: MISC PJ4567.5 .G55 2010xISBN: 9780071750547Publication Date: 2011-02-11
Farsi: the Complete Course I A by
Farsi: The Complete Course I A
Call Number: MISC PK6235.5 .F38 2005x Pt.AISBN: 9781428100220Publication Date: 2006-06-12
Get Started in Hindi by
If you are an absolute beginner or simply looking for a solid foundation to your language studies for school, work or travel, this engaging course will help get you on your way to speaking, writing, reading and understanding Hindi in no time. Through culture notes, clear language presentations, and extensive practice and review, you will pick up the Hindi you need to communicate naturally in everyday situations - from shopping and travelling to food and daily life. Engaging with our interactive Discovery Method, you'll absorb language rules faster, remember what you learn easily, and put your Hindi into use with confidence. Get Started in Hindi has a learner-centered approach that incorporates the following features: - Outcomes-based approach - focus your learning with clear goals - Learn to learn - tips and skills on how to be a better language learner - Discovery method - figure out rules and patterns for yourself to make the language stick - Self-check and test yourself - see and assess your own progress - Personalization - use the language in real situations Note that this pack includes a book and an Audio support MP3 CD-ROM.
Call Number: MISC PK1933 .S593 2014xISBN: 9781444174687Publication Date: 2014-08-04
Haitian Creole: The Short Course by Call Number: MISC PM7854.H3 H358 2010bxISBN: 9781449838454Publication Date: 2010-09-14
In-Flight French by Call Number: Book on CD PC2112.7 .I44 2005xISBN: 1400022568Publication Date: 2005-06-14
Starting Out In French by
All the French you need to get started in a simple audio-only program! Starting Out in French is a beginner-level program on 3 CDs, and it includes short and simple lessons and dialogues. It covers all the basics, with plenty of repetition and practice so it is ideal for audio-only learning. Starting Out in Frenchis perfect if you want to learn while commuting, running errands, or at the gym, as well as if you want to learn at home and simply prefer an all-audio course. If you want to refer to written material, you can go online to download the audioscript.
Call Number: Book on CD PC2121 .S66 2008ISBN: 9781400024636Publication Date: 2008-04-08
Starting Out in German by
All the German you need to get started in a simple audio-only program! Starting Out in German is a beginner-level program on 3 CDs, and it includes short and simple lessons and dialogues. It covers all the basics, with plenty of repetition and practice so it is ideal for audio-only learning. Starting Out in German is perfect if you want to learn while commuting, running errands, or at the gym, as well as if you want to learn at home and simply prefer an all-audio course. If you want to refer to written material, you can go online to download the audioscript.
Call Number: Book on CD PF3121 .S73 2008ISBN: 9781400024650Publication Date: 2008-04-08
Browse all the Pimsleur Language Program CDs @Boston Public Library.
Dual-language or parallel-text books have the material in the original language on one page and the translation on the facing page. These type of texts are a great way to build your reading skills. To locate titles, do a keyword search with the name of your target language and the words "dual" or "parallel". Some examples of this kind of material are listed below.
Best Short Stories Die Schonsten Erzahlungen: A Dual Language Book by
Students of German language and literature will welcome this collection of 5 stories by one of the greatest modern writers. Included are "The Metamorphosis," "The Judgment," "In the Penal Colony," "A Country Doctor" and "A Report to an Academy." Original German texts accompanied by new, literal English translations on facing pages.
Call Number: PT2621.A26 A225ISBN: 0486295613Publication Date: 1997-04-01
Eleven Short Stories Undici Novelle: A Dual-Language Book by
Eleven of the great literary figure's very best stories, presented in the original Italian with excellent new English translations on the facing pages, offering students a unique learning aid as well as a superb treasury. Includes "Little Hut," "With Other Eyes," "A Voice," "Citrons from Sicily," "A Character’s Tragedy," and more.
Call Number: Pirandell LISBN: 0486280918Publication Date: 1994-05-06
First French Reader: A Beginner's Dual-Language Book by
This excellent anthology offers the beginning French-language student a first taste of some of the world's most significant prose. Chosen for both their eloquence and ease of reading, excerpts from such masterpieces as Les Misérables, The Red and the Black, Madame Bovary, Carmen, and The Three Musketeers will open new worlds for linguists. Readers will savor the words of fifty great writers of multiple genres from the seventeenth through twentieth centuries, including Voltaire, Rousseau, Balzac, Baudelaire, Dumas, Proust, and other literary virtuosos. Lucid and accessible, the unabridged English translations by Stanley Appelbaum appear on pages that face the original French text. Literature lovers, French-language students, and other readers will find this volume a fascinating exploration of French literature...and an invaluable aid to mastering one of the world's most romantic languages.
Call Number: PC2115 .F47 2008ISBN: 9780486461786Publication Date: 2008-02-04
First German Reader: A Beginner's Dual-Language Book by
Designed expressly for the beginning German language student, here is an outstanding collection of fifty-two short stories, poems, essays, and anecdotes. Each selection has been specially chosen for its power to evoke German life and culture. This dual-language edition features precise English translations on pages that face the original German text. New students will enjoy the pleasure of reading great German literature from the very first page, as the selections have been arranged to accommodate the gradual improvement of language skills. Helpful vocabulary and language exercises are also included. First German Reader features the works of many of Germany's best writers, including Goethe, Hesse, Heine, Schiller, Hölderlin, and other literary virtuosos. The translations of Harry Steinhauer are vivid and true to the originals — and poetic in their own right. Literature lovers, German language students, and other readers will find this volume an accessible exploration of German literature . . . and an invaluable aid to mastering the German language.
Call Number: PF3117 .F526 2007ISBN: 9780486461793Publication Date: 2007-12-10
First Italian Reader: A Dual-Language Book by
Beginning students of Italian language and literature will welcome this bilingual anthology edited especially for their needs. Ranging from the fourteenth to the twentieth centuries, it features the works of Dante, Boccaccio, Pirandello, and fifty-two others in both the original Italian and expert English translations on the facing pages. Selections include excerpts from poetry, fiction, history, and philosophy. This is a "first reader" in the sense of its introduction to Italian literature from the 1300s to the 1920s. A solid background in Italian grammar is necessary for the fullest appreciation of the original text. The excerpts are unadulterated, not retold or simplified. Readers can sample the works of men renowned for other talents, such as Michelangelo and Galileo, and discover the original language of The Decameron, The Prince, and even Pinocchio. This self-contained anthology can be used with or without an instructor. It will thrill anyone seeking a fast-paced survey of a vital body of literature from one of the world's greatest cultural legacies.
Call Number: PC1115 .F57ISBN: 9780486465357Publication Date: 2008-06-11
A Second Spanish Reader: A Dual-Language Book by
Geared toward advanced beginners, this dual-language volume offers the convenient, accessible format of English translations on pages facing the matching Spanish text. It introduces such authors as Lope de Vega, Cervantes, Alarcón, Unamuno, and Darío, and such works as El buscón, Cartas marruecas, El estudiante de Salamanca, and Santa. Contents include plays, lyric and narrative verse, and prose of many kinds — fiction, philosophy, autobiography, and more — for a generous sampling of the Spanish language's extraordinarily diverse and rich literary history. The selections begin at around 1550, at the outset of the 100 years known as the Golden Age. Excerpts from the era's major genres and authors include the works of three prominent playwrights, plus pastoral and picaresque novels, religious meditations, and a report from the New World. Three outstanding exponents of the Enlightenment appear here, in addition to contributions from the major Romantic playwrights and poets, several Realist and Naturalist novelists, and the pillars of the Generation of 1898. One-third of the selections are the works of Spanish-American writers. Accurate and up to date, this new translation by Stanley Appelbaum features a detailed Introduction with background on all of the writers and their works.
Call Number: PC4117 .S37 2009ISBN: 9780486472355Publication Date: 2009-09-22
Spanish Stories - Cuentos Espanoles: Stories in the Original Spanish with New English Translations by
Unique format offers 13 great stories in Spanish - from classics by Cervantes and Alarcon to contemporary works by Borges and Goytisolo. Complete faithful English translations on facing pages. Includes Spanish to English vocabulary, biographical-critical introductions, more.
Call Number: PC4117 .S657 1987ISBN: 9780486253992Publication Date: 1987-08-01
The Boston Public Library has an extensive collection of world language books. The collections contain both fiction and nonfiction works, classics written in the language, and translated material. Materials are available for adults, teens, and children. Books for children are especially suited to beginning learners. Books for teens, and short story collections, are good choices for intermediate learners. To find books in your target language, you can search by author, title, keyword, or subject and limit your search results by language.You can further refine your search by limiting the results by format, circulating status, content, form/genre, audience, and more.
Languages include:
Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, and more. Some featured titles are listed below.
Link to the World Languages section on the Boston Public Library website for additional information.
Anna Karenina by
A famous legend surrounding the creation of "Anna Karenina" tells us that Tolstoy began writing a cautionary tale about adultery and ended up falling in love with his magnificent heroine. It is rare to find a reader of the book who doesn't experience the same kind of emotional upheaval. Anna Karenina is filled with major and minor characters who exist in their own right and fully embody their mid-nineteenth-century Russian milieu, but it still belongs entirely to the woman whose name it bears, whose portrait is one of the truest ever made by a writer. Translated by Louise and Aylmer Maude
Call Number: RUSSIAN PG3366 .A6 1994xISBN: 2877142647Publication Date: 1999-01-01
L' Arbre Genereux by
A young boy grows to manhood and old age experiencing the love and generosity of a tree which gives to him without thought of return.
Call Number: J FRENCH PZ23 .S54 Ar 1999xISBN: 9782211094153Publication Date: 1995-01-01
Du Cote de Chez Swann by Call Number: FRENCH PS2631.R63 D8 1988bxISBN: 2070379248Publication Date: 1965-01-01
Harry Potter y la Camara Secreta by
La autora, nos presenta un nuevo volumen de la saga de Harry Potter, un joven que asiste al Colegio Hogwarts de Magia y Hechicería, donde Harry es aprendiz de mago. El chico se encuentra esperando que se inicie el segundo año de escuela, en casa de sus tíos a quiénes poco soporta. Repentinamente aparece un elfo en su habitación quién le cuenta que el Colegio Hogwarts se encuentra amenazado de destrucción por los malvados. Harry le comunica la terrible noticia a su mejor amigo Ron y juntos se dirigen a la escuela en un coche volador. Harry y sus amigos Hermione y Ron deciden enfrentarse a los malvados ignorando que alguien ha dejado escapar de la Cámara de los Secretos una serie de maléficos especímenes entre los que se encuentran arañas gigantescas, serpientes encantadas y la reencarnación de su más temido adversario.
Call Number: J SPANISH Fiction Rowling JISBN: 8478884955Publication Date: 2004-09-01
El Misterio de Salem's Lot by
Veinte os atrs por una apuesta infantil, Ben Mears haba entrado en la casa de los Marsten. Y lo que vio entonces a#250;n poblaba sus pesadillas. Ahora, como escritor consagrado, haba vuelto a Salem's Lot para exorcisar sus fantasmas. Salem's Lot era un pueblo tranquilo y adormilado donde nunca pasaba nada, excepto la vieja tragedia de la casa de los Marsten. Y el perro muerto colgado de la verja del cemeterio. Y el misterioso hombre que se instal en la casa de los Marsten. Y los nios que desaparec an, los animales que moran desangrads. Y la espantosa presencia de ellos, quienesquiera que fuesen. Ellos.
Call Number: SPANISH FICTION KING SISBN: 0609810863Publication Date: 2001-09-04
Ein Mord für Kay Scarpetta by Call Number: GERMAN PS3553.O692 B615 2000xISBN: 9783442447923Publication Date: 2000
Le Petit Prince by
Delightful French tale relates the adventures of a young prince, from a distant asteroid, whose rocket has been forced down in the African desert.
Call Number: J FRENCH PQ2637A274 4 1971xISBN: 015650300xPublication Date: 1969-03-01
The Secret by
Traditional Chinese edition of The Secret, a New York Times best selling self-help book. The author argues that positive thoughts are so powerful that it can attract wealth, health and happiness, while negative thoughts could bring illnesses, poverty, and disasters.
Call Number: CHINESE BF637.S8 B97124 2007xISBN: 9789861750675Publication Date: 2007-06-01
You can use films to gain exposure to both a country's language and culture. The Boston Public Library has an extensive collection of foreign-language films. Languages include: Albanian, Bengali, Chinese, Czech, Dutch, Farsi, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Norwegian, Panjabi, Persian, Polish, Portuguese. Spanish, Swedish, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Thai and Vietnamese. Most DVDs have an option for English language subtitles, which makes them accessible for beginning and intermediate students. To find films in your target language, use subject headings such as "Feature films" or "Foreign films," and limit by language. To find documentaries, search by subject and then limit by language.
Buena Vista Social ClubCall Number: DVD M1681 .C918 B SPANISHISBN: 0784013314Publication Date: 1999In 1996, music legend Ry Cooder went to Cuba to search for buried treasure. He found gold. Looking for lost songs and forgotten singers, Cooder discovered an exotic land of passion, sensuality and music.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden DragonCall Number: DVD CROUCHING TIGERISBN: 0767861442Publication Date: 2001Set in 19th-century China, two master warriors are faced with their greatest challenge when the treasured Green Destiny sword is stolen. A young aristocratic woman prepares for an arranged marriage, but soon reveals her superior fighting talents and her romantic past. As each warrior battles for justice, they come face-to-face with their worst enemy, and the enduring power of love. In Mandarin with optional soundtrack in English or French and optional subtitles in English or French.
Good Bye, Lenin!Call Number: GOOD BYE LENIN GERMANISBN: 9781404953796Publication Date: 2004Alex's proud, socialist mother falls into a coma for eight months. When she wakes, her heart is weak, so Alex has to keep the secret that the Berlin Wall has fallen and capitalism has triumphed. What begins as a little white lie turns into a major scam. German, with English subtitles.
IdaCall Number: DVD IDA POLISHPublication Date: 2014A moving and intimate drama about a young novitiate nun in 1960s Poland who, on the verge of taking her vows, discovers a dark family secret dating from the terrible years of the Nazi occupation. Polish dialogue with English subtitles.
Life is BeautifulCall Number: LIFE IS BEAUTIFUISBN: 9780788816208Publication Date: 2002, c1997In 1930s Italy a bumbling Jewish waiter who's gifted with a colorful imagination and an irresistible sense of humor has won the heart of the woman he loves and has created a beautiful life for his young family. But that life is threatened by World War II. In Italian with English subtitles.
The Lives of OthersCall Number: DVD LIVES OF OTHERS GERMANISBN: 9781424837427Publication Date: 2007Set in East Berlin in 1984, a secret service agent assigned to monitor a playwright and his girlfriend begins to question his assignment and his loyalty to the government. In German with optional English, French, and Spanish subtitles.
The Motorcycle Diaries Diarios de MotocicletaCall Number: DVD MOTORCYC DIARIES SPANISHISBN: 1417022043Publication Date: 2005An inspirational adventure, based on the true story of two young men whose thrilling and dangerous road trip across Latin America becomes a life-changing journey of self-discovery. In Spanish with optional soundtrack in French; optional subtitles in English or French.
Nirgendwo in AfrikaCall Number: DVD NIRGENDW IN AFRIKAISBN: 1404940863Publication Date: 2003Critically acclaimed, this is the award winning true tale of a Jewish family who flee the Nazi regime in 1938 and learns to cope with their new life, and each other, on a remote farm in Kenya. In German, Swahili, and English with English subtitles.
Nuovo Cinema ParadisoCall Number: DVD NUOVO CINEMA PARADISO ITALIANISBN: 0788841343Publication Date: 1989A young boy in a small Italian village is befriended by the projectionist at the movie theater, the Cinema Paradiso. As the boy grows up, he learns to love films, and is encouraged by his good friend to pursue his dream of one day making movies. In Italian with English subtitles.
PersepolisCall Number: DVD PERSEPOLISBN: 9781424883141Publication Date: 2008In 1970s Iran, Marjane 'Marji' Statrapi watches events through her young eyes and her idealistic family. Their long dream is realized when the hated Shah is defeated in the Iranian Revolution of 1979. Now ruled by Islamic fundamentalists, Marji grows up to witness first hand how the new Iran has become a repressive tyranny on its own.French and English language tracks, English or Spanish subtitles
- Boston PL - Academy Award For Best Foreign Language Film 1980-PresentFor a complete list of winners of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in the Boston Public Library's collection, click on the link above.
- IMDb - Index of Movies by LanguageIMDB list of feature films, documentaries, TV-series, and more, organized by language.
The Boston Public Library has music CDs in many different languages. Listening to music in your target language is a great way to learn the rhythm of the language, increase your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation, and experience a little of the culture of the country. If you are just a beginner, search Google for the lyrics of popular songs in both the original language and in translation to use as an aid. Some featured titles are below but you can locate additional material by using search terms such as "Popular Music," "World Music," and "Songs" and limiting the results by format, audience, region, form/genre, language, and more.
Café CubanoCall Number: WORLD CAFE CUBANOISBN: 9781587592201Publication Date: 2008Sung in Spanish. Notes in English, Spanish, and French.
Halat Hubb by Call Number: WORLD ELISSAPublication Date: 2014Sung in Arabic. Booklet contains Arabic (script) language and song lyrics and track list with English translations.
The Rough Guide to BollywoodCall Number: WORLD ROUGH GUIDE TOISBN: 9781906063740Publication Date: 2010Sung principally in Hindi.
Browse by Library of Congress Classification Number
Use Library of Congress classification numbers to find language-learning materials for these widely-spoken languages:
- Arabic Language - PJ6001-8517
- Bengali Language - PK1651-1799
- Chinese Language - PL1001-1960
- French Language - PC2001-3761
- German Language - PF3001-5999
- Hindi Language - PK1931-1970
- Italian Language - PC1001-1977
- Japanese Language - PL501-699
- Persian Language - PK6201-6399
- Portuguese Language - PC5001-5498
- Russian Language - PG2001-2826
- Spanish Language - PC4001-4977