Top 15 German Language Books

Why learn German? 

Thinking to learn a foreign language to boost your career! Think German. Germany is the world’s second-largest exporter. Its economy ranks 1st in Europe and 4th worldwide. The country is home to numerous international corporations. Germany has a big pool of opportunities for job seekers, but the constraint is the language. 

German is amongst the top 10 most common languages spoken in the world. Moreover, it is the official language of Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Luxembourg, Belgium, Liechtenstein, and Itlay’s South Tyrol. Learning German will offer you a competitive edge in your career and increase your global job market opportunities.

In a country like India, the demand for German language experts is ascending. This is because of the growing collaboration between the two countries. An Indian working in a German company in India will get a premium pay for knowing the language. Learning a new tongue is difficult. However, the good news is that English is a Germanic language. Although, it can’t be done in a day or so. It needs proper guidance and practice. 

Books are best friends to start with. Below is a list of 15 German language books for beginner to intermediate level learners. You can have your best buddy from this list. This will not only teach grammar but also helps in the proper pronunciation of words with the audio attached to them.

So, lets get started with the list of books.

1. Practice Makes Perfect: Complete German Grammar Book

Features

• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education
• No. of Pages: 224 on paperback
• Edition: 2nd edition
• Weight: 1.27 pounds
• Available: Amazon

Meticulous Description

One of the best books to start learning German is “Practice Makes Perfect.” This book helps you to master everyday uses of words and phrases. Additionally, this book will also encourage you to analyze new comments and help you to develop your vocabulary. Once you start reading this book, you will find that it is written in as easy a way as possible. Even a kid over 10 years can learn German at home with this book. With more than 100 practice exercises, you can judge yourself before moving to the next chapter. To gauge your knowledge, each exercise’s answer is given at the back of the book. Each chapter is dedicated to a theme so that you can speak and write in German about topics like family and friends, traveling, occupation and jobs, traditions, growing your own garden, house, what you studied in school, favorite TV show, and much more. 

The book is available in paperback form, giving the option of making notes on paper. Other than this, you can also have a Kindle version. It is best for beginners, providing in-depth explanations of grammar rules. In short, it is a complete guide to the German language in the easiest possible way.

2. The Everything Learning German Book

Features

• Publisher: Everything
• Author: Edward Swick
• Edition: 2nd edition
• Available: Amazon

Cut-And-Dried of The Book

This German language book is the second edition comprising 305 pages. This book is written by a distinguished Master’s holder in languages: English, German, and Russian, and is for beginners. 

Every chapter of this book follows a logical order with well-outlined and concise theory, imparting an in-depth understanding of language. Moreover, “the everything learning book” is written in a pretty interesting way, giving emphasis to the similarities between English and German rather than the differences.

To achieve this, the author has very well used the development of both the languages from their common Germanic origins to England’s Norman invasion and beyond.

The first three chapters are simple and help to learn basic grammar with rules on spelling and punctuation. Additionally, it provides guidance for use of language for correspondence and sending emails. 

Along with the grammar, the book also contains exercises to practice. Also, the book comes with a CD helping with the correct pronunciation. In short, having this book not only will help you to learn grammar but also make you speak it correctly.

3. Learn German With Stories: Cafe in Berlin

Features

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Author: Andre Klein
• Edition: Bilingual Edition
• Available: Amazon

Book in a Nut Shell

Are you bored of learning German from a grammar book? Then you can have Andre Klein’s “Cafe in Berlin”, a short story book specially written for German beginners. This is the first in the series of books. The author has written it in bilingual form, further making it easy for beginners. 

Moreover, the stories are interesting and written in an easy format keeping the readers engaged while learning German. The book ”Learn German With Stories” can even be read by children who are looking forward to learning German. The stories are not too short. In fact, the length is enough for a beginner to understand the language and keep them busy with the book. 

Interestingly, each chapter has a glossary of useful phrases and words. Moreover, it also has a few comprehensive questions to test the learning. The complexity increases, chapter by chapter or series by series, challenging the learners a bit more every time. This book is available in both paperback and audio versions. 

4. Speak German in 90 Days

Features 

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Author: Kevin Marx
• Edition: 2nd
• No. of Pages: 164
• Available: Amazon

What The Book Says

As the name of this German language book reveals, you can learn it in 90 days if you are ready to give your day in and day out only to this book. Else prepare yourself for a longer duration. It is known that the German grammar rules are tough. However, the author has made his genuine efforts to make it simple and easy to understand. Having this book will enable you to create and build your language skill. 

Moreover, the basic information given in ”Speak German in 90 Days” will help you to command your skill over language. Using it, you will be able to ask questions in German, and even frame sentences. 

Along with the basic information, this German Language book has a straightforward layout. It comes in both paperback and audio form. 

Setting a deadline of 90 days for yourself keeps you motivated to complete it. In short, it is worth reading this book.

5. German All-in-One for Dummies

Features

• Publisher: For Dummies
• Author: Wendy Foster
• Edition: 1st Edition
• No. of Pages: 720
• Available: Amazon

Snippet of the Book

Moving one step ahead in German language books, you can have “German All-in-One for Dummies” if you want to dive deeper into the sea of German language. Besides learning basic grammar, you can also learn common phrases used by people in Germany. 

Moreover, this book also provides knowledge on how to combine verbs with nouns and pronouns. Along with this, you will also learn how to ask questions. 

Besides this, the book has another interesting part, which is the “verb”. It upskills the beginners on the use of verbs properly. Furthermore, the verb tables inside cover numerous conjugating verbs in the German language. 

These 720 compiled pages of the book come with an audio CD. It not only will increase your knowledge of grammar but also improve your pronunciation. Its deeper dimension of coverage helps you to communicate in different industries in Germany.

6. German Grammar for Beginners

Features

• Publisher: Independently Published
• Available: Amazon

Book in a Nut Shell

This German language book teaches painlessly. A step-by-step chapter focuses only on the essentials, helping to build a daily learning habit. This book has 30 beginner-level German grammar lessons. It comes with references and practice exercises. 

The author follows straight-to-the-point explanations with no extra fluffs and frills. It focuses more on the rules rather than the exceptions. Spending 30 minutes daily for 30 days will build your effective learning habits.

The author has made a true effort in breaking difficult grammar into simplified form yet engaging. It comes with a workbook of 300+ grammar exercises to check your level of understanding before moving forward. Furthermore, it is also compiled with audio for listening and practicing correct pronunciation.

In short, this book is a good read for people of any age, even for kids.

7. German Made Simple

Features

• Publisher: Crown
• Edition: Revised Edition
• Author: Arnold Leitner
• No. of Pages: 320 Pages in Paperback
• Available: Amazon

Snippet of The Book

Another German language book on this list is “German Made Simple”. As we know learning German is a difficult task, but the author’s approach makes it simple. The chapters are theme specific. In addition to this, it also offers some vocabulary lists and dialogues. Initially, the dialogue starts simple, gradually making it more complicated for readers to keep tact with learning.

This book also includes modern vocabulary with a pronunciation guide. The book also has practice exercises to check the learning with the answer key. It also talks about the German economy.

Additionally, this book has a German-English dictionary. German Made Simple book is perfect for self-learning.

8. Hammer’s German Grammar and Usage

Features

• Publisher: Routledge
• Edition: 7th Edition
• Author: Martin Durrell
• No. of Pages: 638 Pages in Paperback
• Available: Amazon

Meticulous Description

This German language book is the 7th edition. It is one of the most trusted books for its comprehensive, up-to-date, and user-friendly approach. The book gives you a complete guide to written and spoken grammar as it is used today. It also provides a clear explanation of the formal and informal usage of the German language. Hence, Hammer’s German Grammar is a perfect combination of reference grammar and the current usage of grammar.

Moreover, this new edition includes concise descriptions of grammatical phenomena and their uses. The book also contains tables of grammatical features. The author has made an honest effort for his readers to understand grammatical principles with the examples taken from contemporary German. In addition to this, Martin Durrell gives incalculable guidance on word stress and pronunciation. Clarification of current spellings with detailed emphasis on recent revisions to the rules is an added feature of the book.

Therefore, it can be said that this book fits all groups of learners, whether it is beginner or intermediate or advanced level learners.

9. Living German: A Grammar-Based Course

Features

• Publisher: John Murray Language
• Edition: 7th Edition
• Author; R. W. Buckley
• Available:  Amazon

Cut-And-Dried of the Book

Do you want to learn the German language in a traditional way based on grammatical foundations, translation, and vocabulary? Are you looking for a course to brush up on your already known German language? If so, you have picked the right book. It is the 7th edition, letting you broaden your knowledge of modern language and customs. Moreover, this book includes an up-to-date vocabulary and culture guide.

The everyday topic is covered in a concise and easy-to-understand manner. The author has made a genuine effort to explain the working of language and to build command over it. This book includes grammar explanations, vocabulary lists, and reading material consisting of a story or dialogue. Moreover, you can monitor your progress through the 32pp test-yourself section. You can also test your vocabulary. On the other hand, the revision unit will keep a check on what you have learned. The answer key is given at the back of the book. 

This German language book is accompanied by audio, helping you to improve your pronunciation. Additionally, it also contains reading passages and dialogues from the book, followed by questions and answers in German.

10. Language Hacking German

Features

• Publisher: Teach Yourself; Bilingual Edition
• Author: Benny Lewis
• No. of Pages: 272 Pages in Paperback
• Available: Amazon

Book in a Nut Shell

This German language book is written by Benny Lewis, aka the Irish polyglot. Unlike most traditional ways of teaching you the rules of the German language, this book focuses on how to learn and speak German from the very first day. The author achieves it through proven memory techniques, shortcuts, and conversation strategies. Moreover, this book takes a walk to the modern approach to learning a language with the blend of the power of online social collaboration and the 80/20 principle of learning Benny’s. Reading this book means starting an immediate conversation. 

The book is divided into chapters, each with different topics. The book begins with a self-introduction, asking about others, and talking about friends and family. Further, as you move ahead, the complexity increases. It will teach you the use of past tense to describe what you have been, describe a place or the people. 

In addition to the book, this course is also available in audio form. This will help you correct your pronunciation. The practice exercise will test your learning before moving to the next chapter. 

In short, “Language Hacking German” is for beginners who not only want to learn German as a language but also want to speak it from the first day of having this book.

11. Complete German Beginner to Intermediate Book & Audio Course

Features

• Publisher: McGraw Hill Education
• Author: Heiner Schenke and Paul Coggle
• Edition: 1st Edition
• No. of Pages: 416
• Available: Amazon

Cut-and-Dried of The Book

Do you want to learn German and communicate with others without hesitation? If your answer is yes, then this German language book is for you. In addition to learning grammar, you will also become fluent in conversation and vocabulary. The cultural notes are the major section of this book. Reading this book will provide you with an edge on the culture, place, people, and social behavior. 

The book is divided into 23 chapters, including revision, glossary, and everyday concepts. While walking through this book, you will learn the skill of reading, writing, listening, and speaking German. Tips given in this book will help you to discover ways to learn quickly and perfectly. The test section will allow you to check your learning before progressing to the next chapter. 

The book comes with an audio CD. It allows you to download the MP3 files on your system. This further enhances your learning with the correct pronunciation of words.

Complete German Beginner book is, as per its name, for a complete beginner. This book will take you from the starting level to the intermediate level and fill you with confidence.

In short, “Complete German Beginner to Intermediate Book & Audio Course” can be read as a beginner’s book or as a refresher book. 

12. German Short Stories for Beginners

Features

• Publisher: Independently Published
• Author: Lingo Mastery
• Edition: 1st Edition
• No. of Pages: 166
• Available: Amazon

Meticulous Description of the Book

This German language book is written by a native of German. It is a collection of 20 well-written short stories. Moreover, you can get a summary of each story in both German and English. All vocabulary is appropriately translated which helps you to grasp the language better. Continue reading this book aids you in mastering the German language in just 166 pages. 

The stories written by the authors are entertaining and engaging with realistic dialogues of everyday life. Additionally, the summaries are followed by a synopsis in both languages for judging whether you have understood the tale correctly. In summary, you will find a list of vocabulary, slang, and sayings from the lesson for a quick review of your understanding. And finally, a set of tricky questions to solve with answers at the back of the book.

In addition to the paperback, free downloadable audio is also available. This will improve your ability to speak, listen and write in the correct format.

In short, this book is for the A2+ level of people, who has basic language understanding.

13. Basic German: A Grammar and Workbook

Features

• Publisher: Routledge
• Author: Heiner Schenke, Anna Miell, and Karen Seago
• Edition: 2nd Edition
• No. of Pages: 222
• Available: Amazon

Cut-And-Dried of The Book

This German language book is the second edition. You will have access to both grammar and related exercises in the same book. Inside, the author has introduced German people and their culture in today’s modern era with the help of easily understandable language. 

The Basic German book is divided into 29 sessions, detailing different topics. The author has made genuine efforts to explain grammar clearly with examples in both English and German for a better understanding of beginners. Also, the author has used authentic language samples from a wide range of media. Moreover, the checklist at the end of every chapter will help you to reinforce key points. 

Indeed, the numerous exercises will keep a check on your understanding of the language and to practice it further to become a master in it. 

In short, this new edition has been thoroughly revised and is intact with varied exercises with answer keys, making it perfect for beginners. However, it can also be referred to by a first-year student as a reference book.

14. Learn German The Easy Way 2019

Features

• Published In: 2019
• Author: Patrick Noble and Paul Mahoney
• No. of Pages: Print Length 44
• Available: Amazon

Book in a Nut Shell

This German language learning book is an innovative way to learn fast even for a beginner. It can be studied while driving a car, without the need for long hours of reading long stories. It is a combination of both print and audiobooks. 

This book helps you to learn a new language from scratch. Having this book means you are teaching yourself at your own convenience. The author uses the method to outline the important words and sentences used in everyday life. He believes it can help in quick learning of the major words to converse with others efficiently. This method will not take up all your time in unnecessary stuff. 

Moreover, the author believes that the most effective way to learn a language is to speak it. Hearing the words and speaking them with correct pronunciation will actually make you more confident in the language.

This revolutionary book takes you to a new way of learning with the reputation of words and a slow pace of moving ahead from the beginner level to the next level. 

In short, this is for those who get bored with the traditional way of grammar learning but wants to learn and speak a new language on their own.

15. German DeMYSTiFieD

Features

• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Education
• Author: Ed Swick
• Edition: 2nd Edition
• Paperback: 496 Pages
• Available: Amazon

Meticulous Description

Want to learn German but confused about where to begin? The second edition of German DeMYSTiFieD is the answer to your question. It will take out all the fears of learning a new, difficult language. This book explains all the concepts in a clear and concise manner. 

Moreover, the step-by-step format with a practical guide offers a tout foundation in the German language. On the move, you will master the subjects like the German alphabet, the use of verbs, special characters, definite articles, conjugation, pronouns, and many more. In addition to this, you will also be able to tell time, count, ask questions, describe people and places, indict possession, actions in the present, past, and future, compare things, and much more. 

Everything is explained with the help of examples for better understanding. Question after every chapter and the final quiz guide is provided to reinforce learning.

In short, from learning the alphabet to framing sentences, this German language book will take you from a beginner level to a master level.

The German language is difficult to learn but with the help of the above-mentioned books, you can do that. It has similarities with English as both languages are developed from the same native. The books with the audio further enhance your learning. In addition, if you have the proper guidance of a mentor who will not only teach but also clarify all your doubts, you will be a pro. Henry Harvin is one such institute where you can learn it easily with experienced tutors. 

Henry Harvin

With 300,000+ alumni and a customer base in over 97 countries, Henry Harvin ranks in the top 500 global edtech companies. In India, it ranks among the top 100 edtech companies. Here, you will be under the guidance of great mentors, who have experience of more than a decade in their respective fields. Leading publications like Hindustan Times, Business World, Statesman, The Pioneer, and media channels like News World and Aaj Tak have recognized it for quality dispersion of education. It is affiliated with the American Association of EFL, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, MSME, UKAF, UKCert, Project Management Institute (PMI), and ISO 29990:2010 certified

Why German Language Course with Henry Harvin?

The course is designed to comprehend topics and lexis. You will enhance your expertise in grammar and after completing the course, you will not only be able to read but also write a variety of texts. Moreover, Henry Harvin will assist you to speak and make you master the German language like a pro. Taking this course, you can crack the important German Language Exams such as DSH, the TestDaF, and Goethe- Institut Examinations. 

9 in 1 Course

• Training: Two-way Live Online Interactive Classroom Sessions

             A1: 56 hours

             A2: 56 hours

             B1: 66 hours

             B2: 66 hours

             C1: 66 hours

             C2: 66 hours

• Projects: Facility to undergo projects in German Language and Implementation, and more
• Internship: Internship assistance to gain experiential knowledge of the German Language
• Certification: Get Certification of German Language Training Course from Henry Harvin®, Govt of India recognized & Award-Winning Institute
• Placement:100% Placement Guarantee prop up for 1-Year post successful completion
• E-Learning: Access with Abundant Tools and Techniques, video content, assessments, and more
• Masterclass: Access to 52+ Masterclass Sessions for essential soft skill development
• Hackathons: Free Access to #AskHenry Hackathons and Competitions
• Membership: Get a 1-Year Gold Membership of Henry Harvin® Language Academy for the German language Training Course

Fees:

LEVEL	Duration	Fees
A1	56 Hours	INR 12500/-
A2	56 Hours	INR 12500/
B1	66 Hours	INR 15500/-
B2	66 Hours	INR 15500/-
C1	66 Hours	INR 17500/-
C2	66 Hours	INR 17500/-

Learning Benefits

• Initiate Conversations about Present, future, and past events
• Explain Habitual actions and talk about the memories
• Depict Feelings and express present and future wishes
• Comprehend the basics of Sentence and Word building
• Express Opinions and argue with people
• Express Doubts & Probability
• Make a Hypothesis about the past events and explain them
• Learn broadly about the Advanced German Language Grammar

Career Benefits

• Exposure to Millions of Jobs Globally in the Arena of German Language Course
• Be Highly Paid as a Freelancer or as a full-time Professional
• Improve your CV & LinkedIn Profile
• Distinguish your Profile from peers and get Promoted in your Current Profile with the most in-demand Skills
• Differentiate your profile from your competitor with the Course Completion Certificate in German Language Training Course
• Better Job Security with outstanding growth opportunities
• Improve your employment chances in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and EU Countries
• Get hired as a Translator for an Indian Government Organization, MNCs, NGOs

Conclusion

While walking through this article you will have a clear view of which German language book to start with. These books will guide you from learning the alphabet to writing and speaking a new language. Whether you want to visit Germany or looking for a job in the German language these books will hold your finger on the entire journey. Additionally, to become a pro, you can enroll in a course at any leading institute like Henry Harvin.

Recommended Reads

• Scope of German Language Courses
• Top 50 German Language Interview Questions and Answers
• Henry Harvin vs Yes Germany German Language Course Reviews 2022

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