The aim of this introduction to modern written Arabic is to bring the student quickly to a reading knowledge of the language so that he can use Arabic sources in subjects like history, economics and sociology. The book can also be used in conjunction with others as an ordinary grammar. Professor Beeston presents essential features of Arabic needed for an accurate comprehension of written material. He excludes the mass of linguistic detail contained in traditional Arabic grammars which assume the student wishes to master all aspects of the language. On the other hand the book provides for a sound understanding of abstract literature on scholarly subjects, in contrast to manuals teaching a quick understanding of journalistic Arabic.