If you’re just starting out on your journey to learn Chinese, figuring out which books to read can be overwhelming. Reading is a crucial part of learning a new language, and with the right selections, you’ll see your Chinese reading improve quickly. Here’s a list of the best Chinese books for beginners that you should dive into.
1. Integrated Chinese
“Integrated Chinese” is a well-known textbook series that’s perfect for learning everyday Mandarin. These books use a mix of simplified and traditional characters, catering to a variety of learners. The dialogues are short and captivating, offering audio resources that enhance your ability to listen and pronounce words correctly.
2. New Practical Chinese Reader
Another standout series is the “New Practical Chinese Reader”, which consists of six volumes. The first four books target beginners, while the last two shift toward intermediate language skills. This series covers a broad range of subjects and includes dialogues, necessary vocabulary, and explanations of grammar concepts.
3. Chinese For Dummies
“Chinese For Dummies,” written by Wendy Abraham, serves as an approachable guide for grasping everyday Mandarin conversations. Throughout the book, it introduces characters and tones in a straightforward manner, making it perfect for newcomers or travelers who want to communicate without struggle.
4. Graded Readers
Graded readers are specially written books tailored for specific skill levels, classified by the number of characters or words they contain. Recommended graded reader series for starters include:
- Mandarin Companion (starting at 150 characters)
- Chinese Breeze (beginning with 300 words)
- Sinolingua Rainbow Bridge (commencing with 150 words)
These readers make a wonderful supplement to traditional textbooks, allowing for repeated exposure to vocabulary and characters, which helps improve comprehension and retention.
5. 2000 Most Common Chinese Words
This book is a straightforward tool designed to teach the most commonly used words in Chinese. It’s ideal for learners or travelers who aim to navigate China efficiently while overcoming language hurdles.
6. Reading And Writing Chinese
For beginners, it’s vital to understand how to read and write Chinese characters. “Reading And Writing Chinese” (Third Edition) emphasizes widely-used characters and delves into their meanings, making memorization much easier by telling the story behind each character.
7. Chinese Breeze Graded Reader Series
Yet another series, “Chinese Breeze,” is fantastic for those new to reading. Starting with texts of around 300 words, it gradually builds in complexity, offering engaging tales rooted in Chinese culture and history to spark interest in the language.
8. Lonely Planet Mandarin Phrasebook & Dictionary
If you need something handy for immediate use while speaking Chinese, the “Lonely Planet Mandarin Phrasebook & Dictionary” is a must-have. This resource provides a pronunciation guide as well as a collection of key phrases and words you’ll often need, minimizing the likelihood of mistakes.
9. Starting Out In Chinese
An informative audiobook titled “Starting Out In Chinese” is perfect for complete newbies to the language. It concentrates on basic dialogues and offers fundamental lessons, reinforcing what you’ve studied through repetitive practice sessions.
10. Chinese Idioms
Exploring common Chinese idioms, known as chengyu, can elevate your language understanding significantly. The book, “500 Common Mandarin Chinese Idioms,” offers a great introduction for beginners looking to discover these intriguing phrases.
Keep in mind that consistent practice is the secret to enhancing your Chinese reading abilities. Begin with materials suited to your current level, and slowly work your way up to more challenging texts as your skills develop. Enjoy the adventure of learning!
