Negative Positive
Title: Good first reference grammar
Review: As the previous reviewer says, this is not for the beginner unless he or she is already familiar with other Semitic languages. The Hebrew scholar might consider starting with Muraoka's Classical Syriac for Hebraists (which I've not used, mind). But this is a good basic reference grammar, with the advantage that it uses Eastern vocalisation, which is rather subtler than Western and throws new light on words you thought you knew well. The print is admirably clear, and transcription is provided too. Best of all is the bibliography by Sebastian Brock, which gives a good idea of what Syriac literature is actually available in print. (The academic on-line journal Hugoye has more recent updates by Dr. Brock).
Is the review positive or negative? 