Intermediate Japanese: An Integrated Course

Reviewers praise this book as a demanding yet highly rewarding resource for Japanese language study. It is particularly lauded for its suitability for self-learners, as all exercises can be completed independently without requiring audio or classroom interaction. The grammar exercises are extensive, building on a formulaic drill style but uniquely encouraging learners to develop their own creative alternatives. A significant strength highlighted is the sheer volume of reading material and vocabulary provided, including a main text, dialogues, and Kanji-compound readings, with each lesson introducing a substantial number of new words and Kanji compounds. Additionally, the readings offer insights into Japanese culture and society, complemented by black and white photos. Many users found it a natural and excellent continuation for those who have used the authors' previous works.

While the reviews overwhelmingly highlight the book's strengths, they do not explicitly detail specific drawbacks or weaknesses. The most significant point that could be interpreted as a challenge, rather than a negative, is its demanding nature, which suggests it requires considerable effort and dedication from the learner. No other criticisms regarding content, structure, or usability were mentioned by the reviewers.

Overall, this book appears to be a highly effective and comprehensive resource for advanced Japanese language acquisition, particularly for those committed to self-study. It is best suited for dedicated learners who have already established a foundational understanding of Japanese, ideally having completed prerequisite texts such as Noboku & Osamu Mizutani's 'An Introduction to Modern Japanese' or Eleanor H. Jorden's 'Beginning Japanese' series. Readers who appreciate a rigorous, drill-heavy approach with extensive vocabulary and reading practice, and who are prepared for a demanding but ultimately enriching learning experience, will likely find this book exceptionally valuable.