Choosing language education study materials often comes down to a single question: do you learn better from a structured textbook or from quick online exercises? If you've settled on a grammar course, the next decision is whether a used student book is worth the money. The Focus on Grammar - (AE) - 5th - Paperback, by Schoenberg Irene - Very Good is a Level 2 textbook that pairs print with online practice. At USD 60.04, it's a meaningful purchase. This review looks at what you actually get.
Quick verdict
For an English learner who wants order and repetition, this book works. The 5th edition from 2017 is current enough, and Student Book A with Essential Online Resources gives you both a physical text and digital activities. The book is in Very Good condition: all pages are included and the text is legible. If you can tolerate potential highlighting, this is a solid foundation for intermediate grammar study.
Who it suits
This is for self-directed learners who like to work through grammar points one chapter at a time. It also fits students who want a consistent reference outside a classroom. The online resource component is useful if you prefer interactive exercises to simply reading rules. Because the item is a trade paperback, it's easy to carry and write in.
Focus on Grammar - (AE) - 5th - Paperback, by Schoenberg Irene - Very Good
This specific item is the Student Book A portion of Level 2, authored by Irene Schoenberg. It comes as a trade paperback with a mixed lot format, meaning the physical book is paired with essential online resources. The ISBN 9780134132679 identifies the edition. At 0.4 inches thick and 10.9 inches long, it's a standard textbook size that fits in most bags. The 19.4-ounce weight is manageable for daily study.
What stands out
The main draw is the combination of print and online practice. For many learners, grammar rules stick better when they are read and then applied. The online resources extend the value of the book. Also, the Very Good condition is a positive: you're getting a readable, intact copy without paying for a brand-new one. The price of USD 60.04 includes the online access, which adds to the overall value.
Meaningful trade-offs
The trade-offs start with condition. Although the book is in Very Good shape, there may be slight markings and/or highlighting. If you expect a clean page, that could be disappointing. Also, this is Student Book A only. It is not labeled as a complete Level 2 course, so you should focus your studies on the contents of this specific book. The price is still a sizeable amount, so you'll want to be comfortable with used condition and the scope of Student Book A.
Bottom line
The Focus on Grammar - (AE) - 5th - Paperback, by Schoenberg Irene - Very Good is a practical choice for a language learner who values structure and access to online exercises. It has the key feature of a printed textbook with digital support, and the used condition is a known factor. If that matches your study style, the price is reasonable for the material you receive.
