Getting Started

If you are like me your decision to learn Ilokano wasn't without some reservation. A quick search of the internet reveals very limited resources. So I will point out the resources I have found.

First there are several books I highly suggest getting.

How To Learn Any Language: Quickly, Easily, Inexpensively, Enjoyably and on Your Own
- Long title, great book. Following the tips laid out by Barry Farber will greatly increase your learning

Let's Speak Ilokano
- Excellent book for getting started. Has a great layout and conforms perfectly with the book above's guidelines

Intermediate Ilokano: An Integrated Language and Culture Text
- Follow up book to Let's Speak Ilokano. Follows the same format.

Ilocano: Ilocano-English/English-Ilocano Dictionary and Phrasebook
- The version of Ilokano is different than in the previous book, but still a good resource for finding words. Though there is no Ilokano-English dictionary as it says. I think there is more complete version of this book, but I have been unable to find it.

After the books another great resource is Ilokano websites. There are 2 I frequent, and offer a good mix of English and Ilokano.

Ilocano.org - Forum that can get you in contact with many native speakers as well as others learning such as yourself.

Iluko.com - Many articles written in Ilokano, as well as a forum.

Next I would suggest finding some Ilokano music. It is hard to find, but it is out there. Noel Cabangon has a few including one of my favorites Panawenen. When I come across full albums I will be sure to post a link.

Lastly, your best resource will be people. I'm guessing if you are wanting to learn Ilokano, you already know somebody who speaks it. Ask them questions, they can help you out more than any book or website can hope to. Plus they can help with pronunciation which is something I cannot help with much. If you do not have the luxury of someone nearby who speaks Ilokano, try asking the local Filipino store for help.

Best of luck my friends. I hope this helps.

Updates:

I stumbled across a new resource which should provide plenty of reading for the aspiring Ilokano Learner. Umuna a Panid aka Wikipedia in Ilokano Good for reading a little history but also testing out your knowledge of the vocabulary.

Ilokano Radio. Check out my post for more information

All the above mentioned books are now available from our Affiliate store.