: A significant portion of the book (roughly one-third) is dedicated to a detailed grammar reference. Users from Amazon Germany found this particularly helpful, as lessons include footnotes that cross-reference specific grammatical rules.
"Conversational Russian In 20 Lessons" by the Cortina Academy of Languages (often authored by Alfred Erich Senn) is widely regarded by reviewers on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads as a solid, if slightly dated, resource for serious beginners . While praised for its structured approach to grammar and immersion, users frequently note that the physical quality of the print and the age of the material can be challenging.
: Reviewers on Reddit and Goodreads highlight the book's effectiveness in teaching grammar through immersion and conversational practice rather than just rote memorization. Conversational Russian In 20 Lessons
: While the book mentions accompanying recordings, many modern users find them nearly impossible to obtain in an easy format (like MP3), though some "free" versions of the old Cortina course audio may be found online at FSI-Languages . Summary Verdict
: Originally developed decades ago, the content is often described as "dated" or "Soviet-era". While the core grammar remains accurate, some vocabulary or cultural contexts may feel old-fashioned. : A significant portion of the book (roughly
: Multiple reviewers warn that the print quality can be difficult to read. One user on Amazon described the text as looking like it was "stamped with an ink pad," noting that the small, smudgy font can lead to headaches during long study sessions.
: For those who learn well through repetition, Amazon reviewers describe the book as a "cornucopia of study material," filled with variations, drills, and repetitive exercises to reinforce learning. While praised for its structured approach to grammar
Reviewers generally recommend this book as a rather than a standalone course. It is best suited for learners who want deep-dive grammar drills and can tolerate old-school printing for a low price.