Book excerpt: The general language of the former Inca Empire, Quechua is today the most widely spoken indigenous American language. It is used by over six million people in the Andean region of South America - an area that includes southern Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile and northwestern Argentina. Introduction to Quechua provides a uniquely accessible introduction to the language and culture of the Quechua speakers. This book is divided into three parts. Section I focuses on the spelling and pronunciation of the language. Section II consists of 494 Model Sentences in both Quechua and English, many in a helpful question-and-answer format that enables a person to communicate in situations typically encountered by the traveler. Literal translations are also included, to provide insight into the grammatical structures involved. These sentences cover a wide range of practical topics, from extending greetings and social courtesies to asking about transportation, describing things, expressing likes and dislikes, and requesting help. The models also show how to talk about time and past events and to express commands and conditional sentences. Many Model Sentences are followed by one or more Expansions to offer additional structures and/or vocabulary. Section III of the book offers important notes on the grammar of Quechua and includes model verb conjugations. This section is followed by extensive lists of practical vocabulary, going beyond the words used in the Model Sentences and their Expansions. Introduction to Quechua will prove to be an essential handbook and reference for any traveler, student, researcher, or businessperson who is interested in the Andean region and in communicating with Quechua speakers.