Book excerpt: Spanish for Californians is intended for English speakers with no previous knowledge of the Spanish language. Its methodology takes advantage of the similarities between Spanish and English. By using those words that you already know from English and Spanish, you will be guided through short lessons. You will find your words at your pace and will enjoy putting them to work. The book is organized in sections: sounds, words and sentences. First it will teach you how to read and write in Spanish; then it will help you learn words efficiently. Finally, it will show you how to build sentences and communicate. With its clear organization, Spanish for Californians will also serve as a reference book for consultation once you are no longer actively learning. Self-educated students will find exercises and frequently asked questions to learn from home or on the go. The expansion of the Spanish language in the U.S. will make this learning even easier and more fun.