Although I read this slowly over time, it was a helpful book for reading comprehension in a second language. The content was interesting enough to keep me engaged, especially the third section of classic French literature. I will definitely return to this book to continue building my vocabulary.

This was a great starter book for reading in French. It's important to note, though, that the change in reading level between the beginning and end is pretty dramatic, so if you're actually A1 when starting Chapter 1 ... this book may take a while to finish.

My favorite story in the final section was "La Dernière Classe," although reading "La Parure" in French was a treat. About halfway through I realized it was the same story I read in English ("The Necklace") a long, long time ago in school. :)

Finally finished this, my second French workbook. The only drawback about this practice textbook is that there were no English side-by side translations. You pretty much fend for yourself. I had to use a French dictionary and google translate the entire way through from beginning to end.

Very clear recounts of French history one should know, and excellent progression of easy to more difficult French. V good for building one's confidence to read more. Also, v good final short story by Maupassant. Recommend, but in hard-copy format, because the side margin notes which aren't easily captured by Kindle are necessary.

good book for language learner. easy short passage make learning fun. thanks.

Would definitely recommend as an early reader, though I do have some reservations. I skipped along through the first section, but stalled, heavily, in the second--I didn't care much for the rather dry history lessons, especially the ones on various kings. The third section, which was based on famous French short stories, was probably the most difficult to read, but also the most rewarding.

Good for review. Starts off really boring but gets better later on in the book. Skip the first third if you can.

This collection of short texts is pedagogically structured, starting out with real simple dialogues and getting progressively more advanced, going through a section on French history and ending with four short stories by French masters. Serves its purpose very well.

None

This book is so wonderful for folks that are interested in beginning to read short literature in French, but need to build confidence. I would say it is perfect for an advanced beginner - intermediate level. Highly recommended so far!

Given my desire to further my knowledge of the French language by reading texts — and not solely by studying the grammar — I find this book to be well suited for my present wants. I will nonetheless pursue my learning further by reading more books that can both relate to grammar and linguistics and primordially to matters of culture and literature.

At first I thought: wow, too simple. But hold on and have patience - the path is steep and by the end you'll be reading complex little passages in which you've forgotten you're not in your native language while still processing copious amounts of information. The running marginal glossary is a wonderful little touch. I'd recommend this to someone wanting to expand their vocabulary or practice especially at the high beginner or low intermediate level.