This book presents texts which have been abridged or adapted for the teaching of Russian as a foreign language to students at level A1-A2 of CEFR. The main characteristics of the texts are their focus on vocabulary and grammar as well their rich informational content. The texts develop students' skills in all types of speech activity, as well as reading and writing. They also help students to broaden their range of discussion topics. The exercises are presented in a way that encourages multiple answers from students, which allows them to engage in discussion. The 'question-answer' format provides questions on subjects which contain the same words repeated many times. This helps students to memorise vocabulary, develop speech reaction, and practise speaking skills. As a result, the skills of recognising familiar words allow students to overcome the language barrier easily and start speaking Russian from the outset. Throughout the book students will be introduced to monologues and