Beginner-level students wishing to read Japanese need to learn hiragana, the most basic of three Japanese scripts, used for writing words of native origin. Kodansha's Hiragana Workbook is an all-new, streamlined workbook designed precisely for such students. It introduces all aspects of the script -- reading, writing, and pronunciation -- in a fun, accessible format, packed with illustrations and exercises.

One page each is devoted to the 46 basic characters. These include instructions for character formation and space to practice writing, as well as a selection of vocabulary for further reading and writing. The vocabulary are all commonly used words that students can put to immediate use in conversation; and their readings -- pronounced by a professional voice actor -- are available as free downloads from the Net. Frequent review pages allow students to test their understanding of the hiragana at various stages.

The appendixes offer additional practice exercises, as well as grids for playing hiragana Battleship and Bingo. There are also 120 pull-out flashcards for playing Memory, Scrabble, and other games.