Introduction to B2 Icelandic Books

Learning Icelandic can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Icelandic, a North Germanic language, is rich in history and culture. For language learners aiming to reach the B2 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), selecting the right resources is crucial. This article provides an in-depth look at some of the best B2 Icelandic books available to help you achieve fluency and a deeper understanding of the language.

Criteria for Selecting B2 Icelandic Books

Before diving into specific book recommendations, it’s essential to understand the criteria used to evaluate these resources. The best B2 Icelandic books should:

1. Offer Comprehensive Grammar Coverage: At the B2 level, learners need a solid understanding of Icelandic grammar, including complex sentence structures and verb conjugations.

2. Include Real-Life Dialogues: Practical usage through dialogues helps learners understand how Icelandic is used in daily conversations.

3. Provide Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural nuances of Iceland is vital for language learners.

4. Feature Exercises and Practice Tests: Interactive exercises and practice tests ensure that learners can apply what they’ve learned.

5. Come with Audio Resources: Pronunciation is a significant aspect of language learning. Audio resources help in mastering the correct pronunciation and intonation.

Best B2 Icelandic Books to Learn Icelandic

1. “Icelandic: Grammar, Texts, Glossary” by Stefán Einarsson

This classic resource is renowned for its comprehensive approach to Icelandic grammar and vocabulary.

Features:

• Detailed Grammar Explanations: Einarsson’s book provides in-depth coverage of Icelandic grammar, making it an excellent resource for B2 learners.
• Texts and Dialogues: The book includes various texts and dialogues that reflect everyday Icelandic usage.
• Glossary: A helpful glossary of terms and expressions is included for quick reference.

Pros:

• Extensive grammar coverage.
• Includes a variety of real-life texts and dialogues.
• Useful glossary for quick reference.

Cons:

• May be challenging for self-study due to its academic tone.

2. “Colloquial Icelandic: The Complete Course for Beginners” by Daisy L. Neijmann

While this book is aimed at beginners, it also serves as an excellent resource for B2 learners due to its structured approach and comprehensive content.

Features:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: The book covers essential grammar rules and vocabulary necessary for B2 learners.
• Interactive Exercises: Numerous exercises help reinforce learning.
• Audio Support: Accompanied by audio resources to aid pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Well-structured and easy to follow.
• Includes audio resources for pronunciation practice.
• Interactive exercises for better retention.

Cons:

• May require supplementation with more advanced materials for B2 learners.

3. “Teach Yourself Icelandic Complete Course” by Hildur Jonsdottir

This comprehensive guide is suitable for learners at various levels, including those aiming for B2 proficiency.

Features:

• Grammar and Usage: Detailed explanations of grammar and language usage.
• Dialogues and Texts: Includes dialogues and texts that reflect real-life situations in Iceland.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a variety of exercises to test comprehension and reinforce learning.
• Audio CD: Comes with an audio CD to aid in pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of grammar and usage.
• Practical dialogues and texts.
• Includes an audio CD for pronunciation practice.

Cons:

• Some learners may find the pace too fast for self-study.

4. “Icelandic for Beginners (and Advanced)” by Helga Hilmisdóttir

This book is designed to cater to both beginners and advanced learners, making it a versatile resource for B2 learners.

Features:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Covers essential grammar and vocabulary required for B2 proficiency.
• Dialogues and Texts: Includes dialogues and texts that are relevant to everyday Icelandic life.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a range of exercises to help reinforce learning.
• Audio Resources: Accompanied by audio resources to aid in pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Versatile resource for both beginners and advanced learners.
• Includes practical dialogues and texts.
• Comes with audio resources for pronunciation practice.

Cons:

• May require additional resources for more advanced grammar topics.

5. “Beginner’s Icelandic with 2 Audio CDs” by Helga Hilmisdóttir

Though aimed at beginners, this book also provides a solid foundation for B2 learners due to its thorough coverage of Icelandic grammar and vocabulary.

Features:

• Comprehensive Grammar: Detailed explanations of Icelandic grammar, suitable for B2 learners.
• Vocabulary: Extensive vocabulary lists to enhance language proficiency.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a variety of exercises to test comprehension and reinforce learning.
• Audio CDs: Comes with audio CDs to aid in pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Thorough coverage of grammar and vocabulary.
• Includes practical exercises for better retention.
• Comes with audio CDs for pronunciation practice.

Cons:

• May require supplementation with more advanced materials for B2 learners.

6. “Icelandic: An Essential Grammar” by P.J. T. Glendening and Einar Haugen

This book is a valuable resource for B2 learners who need a thorough understanding of Icelandic grammar.

Features:

• Detailed Grammar Explanations: In-depth coverage of Icelandic grammar, including complex sentence structures and verb conjugations.
• Examples and Exercises: Numerous examples and exercises to help reinforce learning.
• Clear and Concise: Written in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of Icelandic grammar.
• Includes practical examples and exercises.
• Clear and concise explanations.

Cons:

• May be too focused on grammar for learners seeking more practical language usage.

7. “Icelandic: A Complete Course for Beginners” by Hildur Jonsdottir

This book offers a structured approach to learning Icelandic, making it suitable for B2 learners seeking to build a solid foundation.

Features:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Covers essential grammar rules and vocabulary necessary for B2 proficiency.
• Dialogues and Texts: Includes dialogues and texts that reflect real-life situations in Iceland.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a variety of exercises to test comprehension and reinforce learning.
• Audio CD: Comes with an audio CD to aid in pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Well-structured and easy to follow.
• Includes practical dialogues and texts.
• Comes with an audio CD for pronunciation practice.

Cons:

• May require supplementation with more advanced materials for B2 learners.

8. “Icelandic: A Concise Introduction to the Language” by Stefan Einarsson

This book provides a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Icelandic, making it a valuable resource for B2 learners.

Features:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Covers essential grammar rules and vocabulary necessary for B2 proficiency.
• Dialogues and Texts: Includes dialogues and texts that reflect real-life situations in Iceland.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a variety of exercises to test comprehension and reinforce learning.

Pros:

• Concise and easy to follow.
• Includes practical dialogues and texts.
• Offers a variety of exercises for better retention.

Cons:

• May require supplementation with more advanced materials for B2 learners.

9. “Complete Icelandic: Teach Yourself” by Hildur Jonsdottir

This book offers a comprehensive approach to learning Icelandic, making it suitable for B2 learners seeking to build a solid foundation.

Features:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Covers essential grammar rules and vocabulary necessary for B2 proficiency.
• Dialogues and Texts: Includes dialogues and texts that reflect real-life situations in Iceland.
• Practice Exercises: Offers a variety of exercises to test comprehension and reinforce learning.
• Audio CD: Comes with an audio CD to aid in pronunciation and listening skills.

Pros:

• Well-structured and easy to follow.
• Includes practical dialogues and texts.
• Comes with an audio CD for pronunciation practice.

Cons:

• May require supplementation with more advanced materials for B2 learners.

10. “Icelandic: A Comprehensive Grammar” by Stefan Einarsson

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Icelandic grammar, making it a valuable resource for B2 learners.

Features:

• Detailed Grammar Explanations: In-depth coverage of Icelandic grammar, including complex sentence structures and verb conjugations.
• Examples and Exercises: Numerous examples and exercises to help reinforce learning.
• Clear and Concise: Written in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of Icelandic grammar.
• Includes practical examples and exercises.
• Clear and concise explanations.

Cons:

• May be too focused on grammar for learners seeking more practical language usage.

Conclusion

Choosing the right B2 Icelandic book is a crucial step in your language learning journey. The books listed above offer a range of features and benefits to cater to different learning styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a comprehensive grammar guide or a practical course with dialogues and audio resources, there is a book that will suit your needs. By selecting the right resource, you can enhance your language skills and achieve fluency in Icelandic.