Heiko Bock

Lagenscheidt has a reputation for high quality in language learning as the evidence is obvious in this little travel-type book. The handy reference tool gives the most frequently used words in German conversation, and provides not only concise definitions, but complete sentences as examples used in speaking situations. Perhaps the best thing going for this small resource is the printed layout, which is divided into two columns per page: one with the term defined in German with example juxtaposed to the second column defined in English with example. The words are also categorized according to topic, which is similar to a word menu, and eases the search for relevant words based upon the nature of the public discourse. Although the editorial staff could have simplified some of the examples for more direct communication, some examples are noteworthy. For instance, for the word "Bewerbung," which means "application," the English sentence could have said: They still did not respond to my application instead of "I still don't have any response to my application." ("Sie immer noch nicht auf meine Bewerbung reagieren" versus "Auf meine Bewebung habe ich noch keine Antwort.") Granted, similar points are trivial when considering the power at one's fingertips. Speaking of fingertips, I added my own tape index to substitute for an absent thumb index for the end glossary. Other versions may have a thumb index already, but the soft rubber-like cover makes up for the missing feature. Thus as a travel book in its textual, light-weight form, this little gem is worth keeping for any German vacation.… (mais)