Product Description

If you want to progress quickly from the basics to understanding, speaking and writing Norwegian with confidence, then Teach Yourself Norwegian is the book/CD course for you. Although aimed at those with no previous knowledge, it is equally suitable for anyone wishing to brush up existing knowledge for a holiday or business trip. Key structures and vocabulary are introduced in 16 thematic units progressing from introducing yourself and dealing with everyday situations to writing a letter and making a complaint. In the later units you will become familiar with many aspects of Norwegian life as well as the language. The emphasis is on communication throughout with important language structures introduced through dialogues on the accompanying recording. The course is centred around two main characters: an English student, John, and a Norwegian girl, Bente. You will follow them through their ups and downs in a variety of situations during a year in Norway. There are plenty of exercises to practise the language as it is introduced and tips throughout to help with grammar. Cultural information tips give useful advice and information for anyone planning a trip to Norway.
Teach Yourself Norwegian is written in Bokmål. Bokmål is the standard Norwegian language, used by approximately 85% of Norwegians. It has developed from Dano-Norwegian, which originated during the 400 or so years when Norway was part of Denmark.
The new edition retains the tried-and-tested structure of the lessons but has been updated to include a brand new double CD of the audio material. Popular features of the previous edition have been retained:
- an English-Norwegian vocabulary,
- a glossary of grammatical terms,
- a taking it further section directing you to further sources of real Norwegian.
The book (ISBN 0340 887559) and CDs (0340 887575) are is available separately.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #17238 in Books
• Published on: 2004-10-29
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 288 pages

About the Author
Margaretha Danbolt Simons is Norwegian, but has lived in England for many years. She has been teaching at the University of Surrey for the last ten years. Her course, Norwegian ab initio, which is part of the MA/Diploma in Translation Studies, attracts 15-20 students per year. She uses her own book 'Teach yourself Norwegian' as her textbook and main teaching aid. Other subjects she teaches at the University of Surrey are Medical and Literary translation, English into Norwegian, and an introductory course of Interpreting.
She runs two Norwegian classes at the Guildford Adult Education Centre, one for beginners and one intermediate, and also teaches on a one-to-one basis. Students include diplomats and businesspeople.
Recent translation work includes Ibsen's "Ghosts" for BBC Radio.

Customer Reviews

Thankyou Margaretha
I'd messed round with Norwegian in the past - using the old (very old) Teach Yourself Norwegian which I found in a second hand bookshop - not the easiest of books to read! I decided to do it properly with the latest edition.

It was easy to follow, entertaining (what did eventually happen between John and Bente?), and extremely informative. The grammar is explained well, the exercises are good, and the vocabulary at least as extensive as the old edition. Indeed, at times it is so entertaining that I didn't want to put the book down!

I didn't buy the cassette at first, but last summer, before going to Norway on holiday, I realised I should (fortunately Amazon do sell it separately!). I was only really guessing at the pronunciation - though the book attempts to give a guide. I realised I was pronouncing it quite badly in parts, but with the aid of the cassette, I really got it quite good. Whilst in Norway, I had many compliments on my Norwegian, and felt confident enough to use the language in shops, campsites, and in simple conversation with people I met. I've never been to a Norwegian class; just about all that I know came from this book.

The only thing I regret is that there's not more. I'd really love it if Margaretha Danbolt Simons could write a follow-up.

be warned
I can see where all the previous reviwers are coming from as regards the quality of the CD; it is quite user friendly. But be warned, if like me you expected an 'audiobook' ie cd AND book combination, then you'll be disappointed; especially as the total price in p+p is about £18.50. If your style of learning is to repeat from a cd then you'll be fine. If you like to SEE grammar and how sentences are constructed, words spelt etc,then like me you'll have to invest in the accompanying book too.

Jeg lærne Norsk fra disse bok, er det er veldig godt!
This book is so different to the usual language books. It has a way of keeping you interested. There is a story going through it about an english boy called john, and a norewegian girl called Bente. They have their ups and downs and John learns of life in Norway. Its like a programme that you can't wait to watch to see when happens next. I have never lost enthusiasm with this book. This book makes learning norwegian fun and easy, although at first it may seem a bit daunting, but once you've go the hang of it, you'll just blast through the rest. It gives insights into the way of life in Norway, national days and festivals and customs. This is a definate must, i don't think I'll ever find another book like it.

Lærne Norsk, det er nydelig!