Stories from Mexico : Historias de Mexico

This book came right away, earlier than expected, and was in good shape. The stories are wonderful, and perfect for language learners.

Entertaining stories that are short and easy to read. These dual language stories are a great way to improve and practice your Spanish. Many of the words are repeated in later stories so it is really easy to memorize the meanings of those words.

Just purchased the other day, "Historias de Mexico" is the first book I've read in the Spanish language. After having read the first story "El Sol y La Luna," I felt such a mark of satisfaction and accomplishment. Even though the stories are short and most finish with a "thud," or a dull ending, the cultural value and stories are good enough. However after reading several stories, the initial charm waned-off completely.

The real beauty, at least for the student, lies in the rapid learning of new words and phrases and the recognition of verb conjugation [this especially has helped me to see more clearly the differentiation of the Past Definite (Preterite) and Imperfect (and past continuous) in action.] Plus, the book does build confidence in reading Spanish.

I've taught myself Spanish (having studied off an on the last couple of years) and can understand up to 90 percent of the text without looking at the English translation. I rated it as a 5 for its value as a study-aid, but as for the book's literature and reader-engagement, I feel it earns a 3 or less. I don't plan on buying another from this series, and instead, I'm going to read a real Spanish novel.

I have had trouble finding side-by-side readers appropriate for my level. (I would say I am at an intermediate to advanced-intermediate level) This book is perfect for my level, in fact, the best I have found so far. The stories are normally around three to four pages long and interesting. Another book I would recommend is "First Spanish Reader."

Great book, interesting stories and legends from Mexico. Intermediate level Spanish, or a little above. The short 2-3 page stories are a good introduction to some of the legends of Mexico. I enjoyed having the side-by-side translation; it made it easier to understand the full translation. not just word by word text. Highly recommended.