Modern Iraqi Arabic with MP3 Files: A Textbook

by Yasin M. Alkalesi

"Modern Iraqi Arabic with MP3 Files" is an introductory textbook -- suitable for classroom or self-study -- for those with no previous knowledge of Arabic or those who know Arabic but want to learn the Iraqi dialect. A detailed discussion of the consonants, vowels, and other characteristics of Iraqi phonetics -- including pronunciation exercises on the CD -- serves the needs of travelers, businesspeople, diplomats, archaeologists, and scholars who want to learn to speak the language quickly and efficiently.

Using the dialect of middle-class Baghdad, twenty lessons are arranged in a story-like format and are based on everyday travel situations. From arriving at the airport to getting to the hotel, students will learn proper greetings and introductions; how to ask for directions, take a taxi, and tell time; and prepare for daily activities like visiting the bank, museum, post office, and restaurants. The book contains basic dialogue, grammar, vocabulary, drills, and an extensive glossary. A section of idiomatic phrases, accompanied by their cultural, religious, or proverbial explanations, offers insight into current Iraqi culture.

NEW TO THIS EDITION: - Arabic script has been added so the reader has a choice of following the Arabic writing or the transcription in the Roman alphabet. - Four entirely new lessons cover medical care, media (radio, television, and journalism), telephone conversations, and cultural and folkloric tales. - All audio materials from the first edition -- plus new audio materials for the new lessons -- are included as MP3 files on a CD bound into the book.

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 30, 2001

Reviews

[Brett C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! This is an excellent source for learning the Iraqi dialect. The mp3 files are most helpful in supplementing the reading passages. The author repeats each word/phrase twice. Each chapter comes with a dialogue which is broken down into vocabulary and expressions. There is a grammar lesson and 'Colloquial Idioms' that are unique to the Iraqi dialect. At the end of each chapter there are review lessons and exercises to help you retain the material.

The words/expressions are all written in the Arabic form and in a transliterated form for those who cannot read or write Arabic.

If you speak Modern Standard Arabic already, you will fly through this book with no trouble. To a beginner, learning to read and write may be a challenge.

I would highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to go beyond Standard Arabic and wishing to learn dialect. Thanks!

[Maan Sidiki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Few mistakes in examples, but a very good book.