Book excerpt: Designed as an introduction for Cree language learners, mâci-nêhiyawêwin / Beginning Cree acts as a self-study aid--a much-needed resource in today's world where most students cannot speak Cree fluently. Basic grammar units and everyday vocabulary items guide the student through the building blocks of the language, and expansion drills and exercises reinforce lessons and prepare the student for further study. With over 100 delightful illustrations, mâci-nêhiyawêwin / Beginning Cree grounds the language in traditional and contemporary contexts.