Easy Japanese

by Jack Seward

Beginning Beginning with pronunciation and including kanji formation, this easy-to-use text covers the basics of Japanese. Explanations of grammar and other language concepts are discussed in English, and include examples. Kana and kanji are introduced halfway through the book.

Genres: Language, Reference, Japanese Literature, Nonfiction

216 pages, Paperback

First published January 11, 1992

About the author

Since 1941 Jack Seward has been involved with the Japanese language as student, teacher, and author of more than 30 books. He has also been a lecturer on Japanese culture and communication as well as a professional interpreter and translator. In 1986 the Emperor of Japan awarded Seward the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class, for his efforts. Seward now lives in his native Texas with his Japanese wife.

Reviews

[Mary Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

My very first Japanese book and still my favorite- I'm studying for my N4kyuu exam and still love this book even though it's in Romanji. I highly recommend it as a "Japanese isn't so scary" introduction with such delightful example sentences as "alas! Grandma has fallen into the septic tank again!"

[Leslie Sobel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will be adding this to my collection. It is full of useful information, from charts, practice sentences, and cultural insight. While reading, you can see the love and appreciation the author has for the language and culture. If you look up his life, you can see he studied preww2, went on to study Japanese for the military intelligence, and aided in the Japanese occupation during ww2.
The issue I personally have is the high use of romanji. Once I learn more kanji, I will simply practice by writing in the margins. There are also a few moments where it is noticeable the different cultural norms of the time (1970s). Think “a man is most likely reading this book”.
Overall, I would recommend this book to a self learner. Highly helpful for grammar and sentence structure.

[Victoria Moody · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned proper sentence structure, effective study techniques, cultural sidelights, and several relevant japanese words and phrases, my favorite being "Ara, obaasan wa mata fuhai-tanku ni ochikomimashita yo!" (Dear me, grandmother has fallen into the septic tank again!) Relevant, indeed.

[Bmcnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

best introduction to Japanese pronunciation for an American reader.

[Jessica Cowgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

easiest book ive found so far to understand. my 11 yr old daughter even loves to read through it and learn new words.