Amazon customer review of the Speak series: "I have been teaching myself Italian for 6 months now and I initially borrowed this item from the local library but I was so impressed I had to buy it. It's perfect if you've mastered the basics and are wondering where to go next. The first CD and first section of the book ("The Dialogue Zone") are in the typical conversational format that you expect from a language CD, but it's in the "Nuts and Bolts Zone" that this comes into its own. It really helps you get to grips with articles, pronouns, adverbs, prepositions etc. in a clear and easy to understand manner. The book is clearly written and complements the CD perfectly. The odd numbered tracks on the first CD also give you the chance to practise what you've learned. Added to all of that are the excellent on line resources where there are a variety of activities to help embed the learning. At it's current discounted price it is an absolute MUST for anyone trying to progress beyond the beginner level."