Learners will appreciate the extensive introduction to the alphabet, sounds and tones of the language, the lively dialogues and grammar notes, helpful etiquette tips and insights on life in Vietnam today. This book has several unique features:Two introductory chapters — devoted to presenting the Vietnamese alphabet, with free online audio recordings by native speakers designed to help you master the difficult sounds and tones of the languageContemporary real-world dialogues — about daily life, travel and family in Vietnam—presented in text form and in entertaining manga-style comic stripsIllustrated readings and proverbs — offering authentic windows into traditional and modern Vietnamese culturePlus 200 free downloadable flashcards and extensive glossaries at the back of the bookAuthor Tri C. Tran has taught Vietnamese to English speakers for over two decades at the university level, and has designed this book to enable learners to pick up the language easily with or without the help of a