Very Simple Arabic Script

This book is as direct/succinct as one could hope for in a book about such an intimidating topic. I have found that, by learning the variants of 3-4 letters a day, I am over halfway to being able to read Arabic. I have had the book for less than a week. The language is very logical, and is much less daunting than its appearance leads one to believe it will be. I'm going to order his other work, Very Simple Arabic now. Very Simple Arabic: Incorporating Simple Etiquette in Arabia

This little book is just what one needs. Traveling around requires interpreting road signs, addressing officials, and reading other important directives. Here, in Iraq, it is invaluable.

This book, coupled with about 3 days of practice, takes the mystique out of the Arabic Script. Seriously, if anyone every thought they would like to be able to read the Arabic script - I'd say this is a must have. Also, it is really fun to have around the house; it is amazing how many guests we have had who have picked it up for a quick review.

My wife and I have been wanting to begin learning Arabic for about a year now. Then, in November 2006, we had a chance to go visit two friends in the United Arab Emirates. Our time there was wonderful and we became even more excited about learning the language. My friend who we stayed with had this book on his coffee table. I picked it up the first day I was there and began reading it. Then as we would travel around I would keep it handy and reference it to decipher signs. By the time I left (3 1/2 weeks) I had the basic ability to read most Arabic writing. Some of it is easier than others... especially things like "Coca-Cola" or "Pepsi"... but it was all 100% readable. This isn't to say learning the script won't take work. Like I said, I practiced and referenced every day. But this book was a huge help. In fact, I ordered it online so it would be "home" for us when we returned to the States.