I am trying to increase my reading and speaking skills before I go to japan next summer. I was thinking about reading online Japanese articles with the help of rikaichan for about 15-30 mins a day as a start. The reason I am using rikaichan is to get into the habit of just reading Japanese and not stopping.Also I have tried Shadowing for my speaking. I have been using a book for shadowing it was very helpful in the beginning but now its becoming a hassle to use it. Does anyone know a better ways to improve both speaking and reading I would appreciate it.

[s0apgun]

Try to throw in some production there too besides just shadowing. Use Lang-8 and Skype with Japanese people.

Thanks, I will try lang-8. Its been a long time since I posted on there.

Has anyone else tried using the shadowing book or any other books that helped with speaking?

[s0apgun]

Yes, I have both of the 「日本語を話そう！」 books from white rabbit Japan.

http://shop.whiterabbitjapan.com/shadowi...jhuvcY85Ow

They are very good books and will definitely help you no matter what level you are at with speaking or listening.