This textbook prepares and encourages students to continue their study of French. A varied collection of literary and expository texts, organized under four broad themes (arts, tradition and culture, love and friendship, the past in the present), fosters development of linguistic skills. The readings engage the students in comprehension and interpretation while providing a context for the natural application of grammatical principles. Vocabulary building, including guidance in dictionary usage, is emphasized. Through this approach, students gain confidence in their language development and prepare for subsequent language, literature, and civilization courses.