Dual Language First Spanish Reader: Parallel Spanish-English Short Stories For Beginners by Peter Oakfield is a unique and engaging book created for those who are learning Spanish but is surprisingly fun even for those who might not be. With fifty short stories lined up with an English and a Spanish version right next to each other, readers who would like to try reading in Spanish are able to then see the English translation. The stories and poems themselves are entertaining, with a nice and balanced mix of tales, playful anecdotes, and lilting poetry. There is a bit of something for everyone, with an easy way to learn while still being entertained.

Dual Language First Spanish Reader by Peter Oakfield is the perfect addition to any Spanish curriculum. Breaking away from the routine of textbook studies, Oakfield presents an alternative format with text that is appropriate for readers of any age. My personal favorite story is An Accurate Concierge in which a woman tells her doorman to advise all visitors she is not at home, which ultimately turns to comedy when her sister comes to pay her a visit. I think it's important that the nuances, quips, and puns of literature – even flash fiction – should be a cornerstone of language education, and Peter Oakfield has done a brilliant job in compiling and translating everything within this wonderful collection. I would enthusiastically recommend this book to anyone on the path to learning Spanish, as well as within the classrooms, libraries, and tutoring centers in which both children and adults alike are there to learn.

If you've ever wanted to learn another language like Spanish but are looking for other options outside of taking a class, trying an app or purchasing Rosetta Stone, here is another way to learn: Dual Language First Spanish Reader: Parallel Spanish-English Short Stories For Beginners by Peter Oakfield. In this book, you will discover fifty short stories that are written in both English and Spanish that will help you to gain a better grasp in mastering Spanish. Peter has created this book using the re-translation method that allows the reader the ability to toggle back and forth for a better educational experience. Re-translation is, in essence, taking words, say "El león es" (Spanish), then beginning the process of translating it into English (The lion is) then going back and forth using the same process. Learning new things can be challenging yet fun and it helps to improve your brain and cognitive functioning.

I enjoyed this book because it offers an excellent way to learn or - for myself - to get reacquainted with the beautiful language of Espanol (Spanish). Like a child learning how to read, I chose a few stories in this book to begin the process. This helped to instill back into my memory the basics of the Spanish language. This book is engaging. The author understands the essence of communicating and has created a body of work in other languages from Arabic and German to French. As Peter states: "Regular use of this book will aid your fluency and help you to develop a wider vocabulary." Just like anything, practice makes perfect. Get your copy today.