You've taken the first step in learning Italian by picking up The Everything® Learning Italian Book, 2nd Edition with CD. The key to learning Italian — or any foreign language — is developing a strong foundation in grammar, building on that foundation through learning vocabulary, and practicing your speaking and listening skills whenever and wherever possible. This book offers a comprehensive review of Italian grammar and vocabulary for students of all levels, from beginning to advanced, and supports the student's study of the language with listening and pronunciation guides on an audio CD, interactive exercises, an Italian-English dictionary, and verb charts. From the basics of the present indicative tense through the elusive subjunctive mode, The Everything® Learning Italian Book, 2nd Edition with CD is a complete package resource for learners who want to develop a well-rounded foundation in the Italian language. The audio CD that accompanies The Everything® Italian Learning Book, 2nd Edition will enhance your learning experience. Try not to be discouraged if you don't understand the narrator; it's okay to listen again and again to get a better understanding of the audio exercises.
There is a logical progression in the way the grammar topics are presented in The Everything® Italian Learning Book, 2nd Edition. We begin with nouns, articles, and adjectives, then progress to various verb tenses. It is not necessary that you follow the book in order. Skipping from one chapter to another, from one concept to another, is a good way to test your knowledge of a given grammar concept.
Though this book and audio CD provide an excellent resource for improving your knowledge of Italian grammar, it is important that it not be your only resource. Try to practice your listening skills by watching an Italian movie or listening to Italian music. The best way to learn is, of course, to study — but also to be willing to step outside of your comfort zone!