Latin, the foundation of many modern languages, offers many benefits, including a unique window into ancient civilizations and a deeper understanding of our own language. And while the idea of learning a so-called “dead” language might seem daunting, there are excellent resources that make the journey engaging and rewarding. Here’s a deep dive into some of the best Latin books for your language-learning needs. Let’s start with the some of the best books on the market, and then we’ll look at some other resources (including some free Latin books in the public domain) to supplement your education.
Tried-and-True Books for Learning Latin
1. Henle Latin
Generations of Latin students have found success with the Henle Latin series. This well-established curriculum uses a traditional grammar-translation approach, emphasizing vocabulary development, grammar, and reading authentic Latin texts. The Classical Conversations Bookstore offers Henle Latin First Year, Second Year, Third Year, and Fourth Year.
2. Foundations Curriculum
This curriculum guide introduces parents and students to classical education and, of course, the Latin language. By providing you with the tools of learning, this book will build up the foundational skills you need to master Latin. (Note: This curriculum guide will take through the beginning years of classical education corresponding with elementary school, which means it covers other topics, as well.)
3. Lingua Latina per se Illustrata (Familia Romana)
This groundbreaking text immerses you entirely in Latin from the very beginning. Its stories and accompanying materials help you acquire Latin the same way you learned your first language—through understanding, not just translation. Of course, this has its downsides; some learners may find this approach challenging.
4. Latina Christiana: Introduction to Christian Latin
If you want a book that feeds into Henle Latin, this is another great start. Each lesson has a Latin saying, a few vocabulary words, grammar forms, and then a translation/grammar/derivatives worksheet. The vocabulary and grammar feed into Henle. The pronunciation is ecclesiastical which is different from the classical pronunciation, but that’s not a significant hurdle. The book can be a bit dry, but it is extremely straightforward.
Latin Books for Little Learners
5. Song School Latin
For a gentle start, or for your little learners, you can’t go wrong with School Song Latin. Language-learning is easier when you’re invested in the language, and high-energy fun with games and music is a great way to get kids invested in Latin. This delightful program incorporates songs, chants, and rhymes to introduce Latin in an age-appropriate way for younger learners to establish a foundation for deeper study in later years.
6. Latin for Children
Heavy on grammar, each lesson has a Latin saying, ten vocabulary words, grammar, a worksheet, and a quiz. This book is not as straightforward as the others, but it is heavier on grammar and culture. Primer A has a Latin reader companion based on ancient history. Primer B’s reader focuses on medieval and Renaissance history. There are studies on sentence patterns and parsing that go nicely with Essentials work. The one drawback is that the book is less user-friendly to the homeschool mom who has limited Latin experience.
7. Getting Started with Latin: Beginning Latin for Homeschoolers and Self-Taught Students of Any Age
This book offers a quick and easy start to Latin. Each lesson contains a new vocabulary word, pronunciation and/or grammar, and exercises. This book is very straightforward and has a conversational style that I appreciate. The book is self-pacing: students work on one lesson per day, assessments are in the back of the book, and there are extra exercises for students to do if it is too simplistic.
8. Minimus
This delightful series features a small mouse named Minimus who goes on adventures, introducing Latin vocabulary and basic grammar in a playful, story-based format, and offering a read-aloud-friendly format for your littlest learners.
Latin Language Resources
9. Cassell’s Latin Dictionary
A comprehensive Latin to English dictionary is indispensable as your studies progress. Cassell’s Latin Dictionary is an excellent choice, especially if you’re focused on translating historical texts. Everyone needs a dictionary!
10. Henle Latin supplements
For a more comprehensive look at the underlying structure of the Latin language, there’s no better resource than Henle Latin Grammar, which covers parts of speech, cases, tenses, clauses, and more. You may also want to check out the answer keys for the main texts.
11. Latin Workbooks
Workbooks are a must-have for Latin-language students! Really, students of any language need material to practice. The Classical Conversations Bookstore carries Latin workbooks for Challenge (or high school)-aged students.
Free Latin Books in the Public Domain
The following texts are especially beginner-friendly:
12. Ritchie’s Fabulae Faciles
This collection of simplified myths (fabulae faciles) and fables is perfect for beginners as it gradually introduces new vocabulary and grammar concepts. You can often find free PDFs or inexpensive printed versions online.
13. Latin Vulgate Bible
While not written for beginners, the familiarity with many Biblical stories can help with comprehension, and the Vulgate often has a less complex vocabulary than some other Classical Latin texts. Plus, there’s one other advantage to the Latin Vulgate Bible: there are numerous interlinear versions, meaning they contain side-by-side English language comparisons.
Intermediary to advanced Latin-language learners may find the following resources beneficial:
14. Caesar’s Commentaries (De Bello Gallico)
Caesar’s accounts of his military campaigns are a staple in intermediate Latin classes. His relatively straightforward writing style makes it an excellent transition into reading authentic Latin texts.
15. Cicero’s Orations
For those interested in the rhetorical power of Latin, Cicero’s speeches offer a glimpse into Roman politics and persuasive language.
16. Vergil’s Aeneid
This epic poem, foundational to Roman mythology, is a challenging but rewarding read for advanced intermediate or advanced learners.
Where to Find More Public Domain Latin Books
Project Gutenberg
A massive repository of digitized public domain books, including many works in Latin.
Perseus Digital Library
Offers many classical Latin texts along with dictionaries and study tools.
The Latin Library
Dedicated specifically to Latin works, this site offers a searchable database and resources.
The Joy of Learning Latin
Whatever books you decide to use, use it and stick with it. Do it thoroughly and make sure your student memorizes the vocabulary and grammar in order to know it for his or her entire Latin career. (And, as an added bonus, your student will be more than ready for Challenge-level Latin!)
And remember: Latin opens doors to the past, sharpens your mind, and enriches your understanding of language. With the right books and a bit of dedication, you can unlock the treasures of this timeless language. Don’t hesitate to explore the bookstore and discover other resources to support your unique learning journey. And most importantly, have fun!
Bona fortuna tecum sit! Good luck to you!
