J'apprends le Bambara (livre) is a comprehensive language manual designed for French speakers who wish to learn Bambara, a major lingua franca of West Africa. Published by Karthala in December 1996, the paperback spans 490 pages and presents structured lessons covering vocabulary, essential phrases, basic grammar, and pronunciation guides. The text incorporates cultural notes that help learners understand social contexts in which Bambara is used, making it suitable for both self‑study and classroom environments. Intended for beginners, the manual emphasizes practical communication skills, offering exercises and dialogues that reflect everyday situations in Mali and surrounding regions. Its clear layout and bilingual explanations facilitate steady progress, while the inclusion of authentic expressions aids in developing listening and speaking confidence. As a resource from a respected academic publisher, the book serves both casual learners and those pursuing deeper engagement with Bambara language and culture.