Welcome to the world of learning Swedish with the textbook series, From English to Swedish. This series is designed specifically for English-speaking students eager to embrace the Swedish language. The first book in the series, From English to Swedish 1, is intended for beginners at the A1 level of the European Common Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). In contrast, the second book, From English to Swedish 2, caters to learners at the A2 level, providing a smooth transition as students progress in their language journey.

Unlike many traditional Swedish textbooks, this series offers a unique approach by incorporating vocabulary lists, grammar explanations, and text commentaries in English. This feature is particularly beneficial for English-speaking learners as it allows for a more seamless understanding of the Swedish language.

This specific edition is the black and white paper version of From English to Swedish 1. For those who prefer a more colorful presentation, a full-color paper edition (ISBN 978-1540452900) and a full-color Kindle edition (ASIN B07FXWHL29) are also available. Additionally, students can find a series of videos that provide pronunciation help on YouTube. Just search for ‘From English to Swedish 1’ to access these valuable resources. The Kindle edition even includes soundtracks for all vocabulary lists and texts, enhancing the learning experience.

The narrative within the textbooks follows the journey of an American girl who comes to Sweden as an exchange student. Throughout her story, she navigates the challenges of learning Swedish and adapting to Swedish culture. Readers will encounter various culture clashes, all inspired by the authors’ real-life experiences. This storyline not only makes learning engaging but also provides cultural insights that are crucial for learners.

A notable endorsement comes from Åke Daun, a professor of ethnology at Stockholm University. He has reviewed the first book and describes its introduction to Swedish mentality as ‘innovative and entertaining.’ This praise highlights the educational value of the series, making it an excellent choice for students.

One of the key advantages of these books is their exploration of the close relationship between English and Swedish. Many words in the texts are similar to their English counterparts, making it easier for students to grasp new vocabulary. By completing both books, learners will acquire a vocabulary of over 1,500 words, which includes 57% of the 2,000 most frequently used words in the Swedish language, according to Språkbanken (the Language Bank), a database from the University of Gothenburg.

To further enhance the learning experience, each chapter includes a concise grammar section that covers essential aspects of Swedish morphology and syntax. While the most common grammatical terms are readily explained, more complex terms are also defined, ensuring that students can follow along without confusion. At the end of each book, a comprehensive grammar overview is provided, summarizing key concepts and referencing relevant chapters for easy review.

Each lesson in the textbooks includes various exercises that encourage students to practice their newly acquired grammar knowledge. They will have the opportunity to repeat vocabulary and answer questions related to the texts, reinforcing their learning. As students advance, the questions become increasingly open-ended, fostering reflection and discussion during class sessions.

Additionally, the books feature a selection of songs with simple vocabulary, primarily focusing on children’s songs from classic songwriters. This musical element adds a fun and engaging dimension to the learning process, allowing students to practice their Swedish in a lively way. At the end of each book, answers to the exercises are provided, along with a complete alphabetical glossary for reference.

Feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive. One student remarked, ‘I’m just learning Swedish, and this book is wonderful. The style and methodology are ideal. Highly recommend.’ Another learner stated, ‘A brilliant book. The words and pronunciations are well explained with examples. Common Swedish vocab is used in lessons. It’s quite amazing that by lesson 2, I was understanding and translating simple paragraphs.’ Such testimonials underscore the effectiveness of this series in teaching Swedish.

In summary, From English to Swedish 1 is an essential resource for anyone looking to learn the Swedish language. With its engaging narrative, clear explanations, and practical exercises, this textbook not only teaches the language but also immerses students in Swedish culture. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refresh your language skills, this textbook series will guide you through the process with ease and enjoyment.