When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often encounter questions about books that have made an impact on their lives. The topic “describe a book that inspired you” is a popular one, appearing frequently in Part 2 of the Speaking test. This article will guide you through effectively answering this question, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high score.
Describe a time when you were inspired by a book or movie is a closely related topic that you may also encounter in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both will give you an advantage.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about reading habits and preferences. Here are some common questions and suggested answers:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What types of books do you prefer?
- How often do you read?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’m quite passionate about reading. I tend to gravitate towards non-fiction books, particularly those related to personal development and history. I try to make it a point to read for at least 30 minutes every day, usually before bed, as it helps me unwind and broaden my knowledge simultaneously.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a book that inspired you
You should say:
- What the book was
- When you read it
- What it was about
- And explain why it inspired you
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“The book that really inspired me was ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho. I read it about two years ago during my summer break. It’s a story about a young shepherd named Santiago who goes on a journey to find his personal legend or life purpose. The book is filled with adventures and life lessons.
What inspired me most about this book was its central message that if you truly want something and work hard for it, the universe will conspire to help you achieve it. This idea resonated deeply with me and made me think about my own goals and dreams. It encouraged me to be more proactive in pursuing my ambitions.
The book also taught me about the importance of listening to my heart and following my intuition. It made me realize that sometimes the journey itself is more valuable than the destination. After reading it, I felt more motivated to take risks and explore new opportunities in my life.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a book that had a profound impact on me – ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Viktor Frankl. I came across this remarkable work about three years ago while exploring literature on psychology and human resilience.
The book is a poignant account of Frankl’s experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II, interwoven with his psychological theory known as logotherapy. At its core, the book delves into the idea that life has meaning under all circumstances, even the most unimaginable ones, and that our primary drive in life is not pleasure, but the discovery and pursuit of what we personally find meaningful.
What struck a chord with me was Frankl’s profound insight that while we cannot control what happens to us, we have the freedom to choose our response to any given situation. This concept was truly eye-opening and inspired me to adopt a more proactive approach to life’s challenges.
The book’s message about finding purpose and meaning, even in the face of extreme adversity, was incredibly powerful. It prompted me to reflect deeply on my own values and what gives my life meaning. As a result, I’ve become more intentional about setting goals aligned with my core values and more resilient when facing obstacles.
Moreover, Frankl’s emphasis on the importance of human relationships and the power of love in giving life meaning resonated deeply with me. It inspired me to cultivate deeper connections with my loved ones and to be more compassionate towards others.
In essence, this book not only broadened my perspective on life but also equipped me with a more robust philosophical framework for navigating both personal and professional challenges. It’s a book I often find myself revisiting, each time gaining new insights and renewed inspiration.”
Follow-up questions:
- Has this book influenced any decisions in your life?
- Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, the book has significantly influenced my decision-making process. For instance, when faced with a challenging career choice recently, I drew upon Frankl’s teachings about finding meaning in one’s work. This led me to choose a path that aligned more closely with my values and long-term goals, rather than merely opting for financial gain.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to others. Its universal message of resilience and the search for meaning is relevant to people from all walks of life. The book offers a unique perspective on human psychology and provides practical insights that can be applied to various life situations. However, I would caution that some parts of the book can be emotionally challenging due to its war-time context, so readers should be prepared for that aspect.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner may ask more abstract questions related to books and inspiration. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How do you think books can inspire people?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Books have an extraordinary capacity to inspire people in numerous ways. Firstly, they can broaden our horizons by exposing us to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives that we might not encounter in our daily lives. This exposure can challenge our preconceptions and inspire us to think more critically and openly about the world around us.
Secondly, books can serve as a source of motivation by sharing stories of resilience, achievement, and personal growth. When we read about individuals overcoming adversity or achieving great things, it can spark a sense of possibility within us and inspire us to pursue our own goals with renewed vigor.
Moreover, books can provide us with tools and strategies for personal development. Self-help books, for instance, often offer practical advice and exercises that can inspire readers to make positive changes in their lives. Even fiction can inspire by presenting characters and scenarios that prompt self-reflection and personal growth.
Lastly, I believe books can inspire creativity and innovation. They can stimulate our imagination, encouraging us to think outside the box and envision new possibilities in various aspects of our lives, from problem-solving to artistic expression.
In essence, books have the power to transform our thinking, motivate our actions, and enrich our understanding of ourselves and the world, making them a potent source of inspiration.”
Describe a teacher who had an impact on you is another common IELTS Speaking topic that requires similar skills in describing influential figures in one’s life.
- Do you think digital media can be as inspiring as books?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe digital media can certainly be inspiring, but in different ways compared to books. Digital platforms like online videos, podcasts, and interactive websites can deliver information more dynamically, often combining visual, auditory, and sometimes even kinesthetic elements. This multi-sensory approach can be very engaging and inspirational for many people.
However, I think books have a unique advantage in their ability to allow for deep, prolonged engagement with ideas. When reading a book, we’re often more immersed in the content and have more time to reflect on and internalize the information. This can lead to more profound and lasting inspiration.
That being said, I think the most effective approach is to leverage both mediums. Digital media can provide quick bursts of inspiration and introduce us to new ideas, while books allow us to explore those ideas in greater depth. Ultimately, the most inspiring medium often depends on personal preference and learning style.”
- How has the role of books in society changed with the advent of technology?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of books in society has undergone a significant transformation with the advent of technology. While books remain an important source of knowledge and inspiration, their form and accessibility have evolved considerably.
Firstly, the rise of e-books and audiobooks has revolutionized how we consume literature. These digital formats offer unprecedented convenience, allowing people to carry entire libraries in their pockets and consume books in various settings, from commuting to exercising. This increased accessibility has, in many ways, democratized knowledge and made books more widely available than ever before.
However, this shift has also altered our reading habits. The instant gratification culture fostered by technology has led to shorter attention spans, which can make it challenging for some to engage with longer, more complex works. This has resulted in a growing market for shorter forms of writing, such as articles, blog posts, and even micro-content on social media platforms.
Describe a special place in nature you visit to relax is another topic that allows you to showcase your descriptive skills, much like when describing an inspiring book.
Moreover, technology has blurred the lines between different forms of media. Many books now come with companion websites, apps, or multimedia content, creating a more interactive and immersive experience. This integration of technology has opened up new possibilities for storytelling and information sharing.
Despite these changes, I believe books continue to hold a unique place in society. They remain a symbol of in-depth knowledge and critical thinking. In fact, in our fast-paced digital world, the act of sitting down with a physical book has taken on a new significance, often seen as a form of mindfulness or a way to disconnect from the constant stream of digital information.
In conclusion, while technology has certainly changed how we interact with books, it hasn’t diminished their importance. Instead, it has expanded their reach and potential, creating new opportunities for books to inspire, educate, and entertain in the digital age.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:
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To resonate with (verb) – /ˈrezəneɪt/ – to evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief
Example: “The book’s message about perseverance really resonated with me.” -
To delve into (phrasal verb) – /delv ˈɪntuː/ – to examine or investigate thoroughly
Example: “The author delves into complex philosophical concepts in an accessible way.” -
To broaden one’s horizons (idiom) – to expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge
Example: “Reading widely helps to broaden one’s horizons and develop a more nuanced worldview.” -
Profound impact (noun phrase) – /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ – a deep and significant effect
Example: “That book had a profound impact on my career choices.” -
To adopt a perspective (phrase) – to take on or accept a particular point of view
Example: “After reading the book, I adopted a more optimistic perspective on life’s challenges.”
Describe a famous building or monument you visited is another topic where you can apply these descriptive language skills.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
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Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and coherently. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Develop your ideas fully. Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and feelings about the book and its impact on you.
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Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. This demonstrates your language proficiency.
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Be genuine in your responses. Examiners appreciate authenticity and can often detect rehearsed answers.
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If you’re not familiar with a particular book, it’s okay to talk about an article, blog post, or even a meaningful quote that inspired you. The key is to demonstrate your ability to express your thoughts and feelings in English.
Remember, the IELTS Speaking test is an opportunity to showcase your English language skills. By preparing thoroughly and practicing regularly, you can confidently discuss any book that has inspired you and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a local business that is successful is another topic where you can apply the skills of detailed description and explanation that you’ve practiced here.