Language

The authors transform learning French vocabulary and grammar into an excursion into the rich culture of France and the French-speaking world, with special sections on history, literature, and shared expressions in English. Titles in Barron's extensivePainless Seriescover most subjects taught on middle school and high school levels, and are written for students who find the subjects unusually difficult and confusing--or in some cases, just plain boring.Painless Seriesauthors, all of them experienced educators, are experts at clearing up aspects of their subjects that students are likely to find confusing. These books also perk up students' interest by emphasizing the attention-catching ways in which the subjects can be put to practical use. MostPainless Seriestitles take a light-hearted approach to their subjects, and all of them present fun-to-solve challenges with puzzles, games, and "Brain Tickler" problems.

Sitting at a Parisian bistro, you wish a libation, so you page through this phrase book before you tell the waiter, "Une carafe de vin rouge maison, s'il vous plait." (A carafe of house red, please). Starting by outlining pronunciation, the specific uses of the French word "on" ("I" or "we"), and the genders of nouns, this comprehensive handbook compiles words and phrases commonly required by tourists and business travelers and lists the actual French spellings followed by a listing of the word in English sound syllables. From greetings to deciphering restaurant menus, the this is the perfect French-language traveling companion throughout France. Whether you're trying to order dinner or get back to your hotel, you cannot make your way without knowing what to say, and the Eyewitness Travel Guide Phrase Books are the perfect guide for tongue-tied tourists. These compact, user-friendly books fit right into your pocket or purse, and meet the communications needs of the tourist and business traveler alike. Based on an innovative system of imitated pronunciation, phrases are organized into logical and practical divisions, including time; food and drink; air travel; bus, taxi, and subway information; shopping; health and medical care; and much more. Typical replies to questions you may be asked, as well as signs and instructions you're likely to see or hear, are also given. The guides also include a carefully selected mini-dictionary, and useful conversion tables translating distance, clothing sizes, and weight.