The objects of this beginning text in Hawaiian, the result of two decades' efforts in teaching, are to present the principal conversational and grammatical patterns and the most common idioms, in order to prepare the student to read and enjoy the rich heritage of Hawaiian traditional legends and poetry. A short introductory section discusses Hawaiian phonemes and some special difficulties for English speakers. Dialogues to be memorized introduce each lesson unit, followed by notes on the new structures, pattern practices, and other exercises. Hawaiian/English and English/Hawaiian vocabulary listings, of approximately 800 words selected on the basis of frequency of usage and cultural importance, conclude the volume. It is suggested that this text may be used for self-study as well as for classroom material. (AMM)