Pilipino Through Self-Instruction (Volume 1)

Rating:
Summary: The Gold Standard
Review: This is THE book to learn Tagalog from, if you are really serious. If you are looking for a few quick phrases or vocabulary, then this might be too much. However, if you really want to learn to speak and understand Tagalog, then purchase all four volumes of this one. Memorize the dialogs and work through all the exercises. The grammar explanations here are the best of any of the existing English language textbooks. Unlike the University of Hawaii books by Ramos, et al, this one provides explanations of HOW and WHY the different verb forms and particles are used rather than just how to make the forms. There is abundant exercise material and the authors review material at intervals throughout the book. I didn't use the tapes (which are quite pricey), but I'm sure they would add to the course. The books could be supplemented by a native speaker or tapes from a lesser book, just to hear the pronunciation.
These books are suitable for self-instruction, IF you do the work. These are very well done!