This book focuses on "operatic Italian" (literary Italian in the classic mode) a.k.a. libretto Italian, or how to understand and translate Italian opera libretti. Parts of speech provide the framework, each of which is illustrated by extracts from many operas. The author works his way from the simple (nouns and articles) to the most complex (the past subjunctives) and en route clarifies many points of language: pronunciation, archaic language, convoluted syntax, datives of advantage, nuances and connotation, use of the passato remoto, etc. Included are chapters on the sounds and stress pattern of Italian, samples of its idioms, the limitations of translations and surtitles, suggested criteria for evaluating libretti, operatic aspects of canzoni, the influence of Dante, a short chapter on Neapolitan. The interlinear format helps the reader to see the connections between the Italian text and its English equivalents. IPA and music staff lines are used throughout. Fourteen quizzes enable the reader to monitor progress (these are also useful for a voice coach or teacher if the book is used as a text). Numerous photos illuminate the book and many useful url's (e.g. Lino Pertile reading Dante) help to orient those readers who wish to explore the subject on their own in greater depth. Sarah Luebke in 'Opera Today' writes: "This book would make a fantastic textbook for a conservatory or university." (Jan. 19, 2010) See Robert Thomson's site: www.godwinbooks.com