The topic of describing an inspiring book is a common and important one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic in future tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal experiences, opinions, and emotions while demonstrating your language skills.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about reading and books. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What kind of books do you prefer?
- How often do you read?
Let’s focus on the first question:
Do you enjoy reading books?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy reading books. I find it relaxing and a great way to learn new things. I try to read whenever I have free time, especially before bed.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in delving into various genres. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also serves as a fantastic escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I make it a point to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading, as it’s become an integral part of my routine.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing an inspiring book:
Describe a book you found inspiring
You should say:
- What the book was
- When you read it
- What it was about
- And explain why you found it inspiringBand 6-7 Answer:
“The book I found inspiring is ‘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 about following your dreams and listening to your heart.
I found this book inspiring because it taught me the importance of pursuing my goals and not giving up, even when things get tough. The main character faces many challenges but keeps going, which I found motivating. It made me think about my own dreams and encouraged me to take steps towards achieving them.
The book also has many wise quotes that I still remember and find helpful in my daily life. Overall, ‘The Alchemist’ inspired me to be more courageous and to believe in myself.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The book that left an indelible mark on me is ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Viktor Frankl. I immersed myself in this profound work about two years ago during a particularly introspective period of my life.
This seminal text recounts Frankl’s experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II, intertwined with his psychological observations and the development of his theory of logotherapy. At its core, the book explores the fundamental question of how humans find meaning and purpose in life, even in the face of unimaginable suffering.
What I found truly inspiring about this book was Frankl’s unwavering belief in the human capacity to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances. His assertion that we can find meaning in life through work, love, and even in suffering, profoundly resonated with me. It challenged me to reevaluate my own perspectives on life’s challenges and to seek purpose in every situation, no matter how dire.
The book’s emphasis on the importance of finding meaning as a primary motivational force in life struck a chord with me. It inspired me to delve deeper into my own values and aspirations, encouraging me to live more intentionally and with greater purpose.
Furthermore, Frankl’s eloquent prose and poignant anecdotes from the camps vividly illustrate the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. This not only inspired me but also filled me with a sense of awe and reverence for human resilience.
In essence, ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ didn’t just inspire me; it transformed my outlook on life, motivating me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to continually seek meaning in my personal and professional endeavors.”
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Follow-up questions:
- How has this book influenced your daily life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“The book has influenced my daily life by making me more positive. I try to see challenges as opportunities now, just like the main character did. It’s helped me to be more determined in pursuing my goals.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The profound impact of ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ on my daily life has been multifaceted. Firstly, it has instilled in me a heightened sense of mindfulness and gratitude. I find myself more appreciative of life’s simple pleasures and less perturbed by minor inconveniences.
Moreover, the book has revolutionized my approach to challenges. Instead of viewing obstacles as insurmountable hurdles, I now see them as opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. This shift in perspective has dramatically enhanced my resilience and problem-solving abilities.
Perhaps most significantly, Frankl’s insights have inspired me to continually reflect on my purpose and values. I now make a conscious effort to align my daily actions with my long-term goals and aspirations, leading to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven existence.”
- Do you think books can change people’s lives?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I believe books can change people’s lives. They can give us new ideas and perspectives that we might not have thought of before. Books can inspire us to make changes in our lives and help us understand different things about the world and ourselves.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m firmly convinced that books possess the transformative power to alter the trajectory of people’s lives. They serve as gateways to vast realms of knowledge, experience, and emotion that we might otherwise never encounter.
Books have the unique ability to challenge our preconceptions, broaden our horizons, and stimulate critical thinking. They can act as catalysts for personal growth, inspiring us to question our beliefs, reassess our values, and embark on journeys of self-discovery.
Moreover, books can provide solace and guidance during difficult times, offering profound insights into the human condition and helping us navigate life’s complexities. They can ignite passions, spark creativity, and motivate us to pursue our dreams with renewed vigor.
In essence, books are not merely vessels of information, but powerful tools for personal transformation. They have the potential to reshape our worldviews, influence our decisions, and ultimately, redefine our life’s purpose. The right book, encountered at the right moment, can indeed be a life-altering experience.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
- How do you think reading habits have changed in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think reading habits have changed a lot in recent years. More people are reading e-books now instead of physical books. Also, people seem to read shorter articles online rather than long books. Social media has probably affected reading habits too, as people spend more time scrolling through posts than reading books.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The landscape of reading habits has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements and shifts in societal norms. The proliferation of digital devices has led to a surge in e-book consumption and audiobook popularity, offering readers unprecedented convenience and accessibility.
We’ve also witnessed a noticeable shift towards bite-sized content, with many readers gravitating towards shorter articles, blog posts, and even social media threads for information and entertainment. This trend reflects our increasingly fast-paced lifestyles and the growing demand for quick, easily digestible content.
However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily imply a decline in reading. Rather, it signifies an evolution in how we consume written content. Many readers now seamlessly transition between different formats – physical books, e-books, audiobooks, and online articles – depending on their circumstances and preferences.
Interestingly, we’re also seeing a resurgence of interest in physical books among certain demographics, possibly as a reaction to digital fatigue. This suggests that while reading habits are changing, the fundamental human desire for storytelling and knowledge acquisition remains strong, adapting to new mediums while still valuing traditional ones.”
- Do you think literature should be a compulsory subject in schools?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think literature should be compulsory in schools. It helps students improve their language skills and learn about different cultures and ideas. Reading literature can also help develop empathy and critical thinking skills, which are important for students.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m a strong advocate for making literature a compulsory subject in schools, as its benefits are both profound and far-reaching. Literature serves as a gateway to cultural literacy, exposing students to diverse perspectives, historical contexts, and the richness of human experience. This exposure is crucial in fostering empathy, cultural awareness, and a broader worldview.
Moreover, the study of literature hones critical thinking skills to a remarkable degree. It encourages students to analyze texts, interpret symbolism, and engage with complex themes – skills that are invaluable across all academic disciplines and in life beyond school.
Literature also plays a vital role in language development. It exposes students to sophisticated vocabulary, varied sentence structures, and different writing styles, thereby enhancing their linguistic capabilities and equipping them with the tools for more effective communication.
Furthermore, literature has the power to spark imagination and creativity, encouraging students to think beyond the confines of their immediate experiences. This imaginative capacity is increasingly important in our rapidly changing world, where innovation and adaptability are prized.
Lastly, literature provides a safe space for students to grapple with complex emotions and ethical dilemmas, contributing to their emotional intelligence and moral development. In essence, making literature compulsory isn’t just about studying texts; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of our world.”
Students discussing literature in a classroom
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Seminal (adjective) /ˈsemɪnl/: Strongly influencing later developments.
Example: “Frankl’s book is considered a seminal work in the field of psychology.”Indelible (adjective) /ɪnˈdelɪbl/: Making marks that cannot be removed.
Example: “The book left an indelible impression on my mind.”Profound (adjective) /prəˈfaʊnd/: Very great or intense.
Example: “The author’s insights had a profound impact on my worldview.”Resonated (verb) /ˈrezəneɪt/: Evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions.
Example: “The book’s themes resonated deeply with my personal experiences.”Immerse (verb) /ɪˈmɜːs/: Involve oneself deeply in a particular activity.
Example: “I immersed myself in the book, losing track of time as I read.”
Person deeply immersed in reading a book
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an inspiring book:
Prepare thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with a range of books and their themes. This will help you speak confidently and at length.
Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally in your responses. Practice using them in context.
Provide specific details: Don’t just give general statements. Offer concrete examples and explanations to support your points.
Show personal engagement: Explain how the book affected you personally. This demonstrates your ability to reflect and express emotions in English.
Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and coherently, without long pauses or hesitations.
Develop your ideas: In Part 3, try to give extended answers that explore different aspects of the topic.
Use a variety of grammatical structures: Showcase your language skills by using a mix of simple and complex sentences.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Regular practice and exposure to English will help you improve your performance.
For more IELTS Speaking practice, you might find it helpful to describe a memorable journey you had recently or describe a restaurant you would recommend to friends. These topics can help you expand your vocabulary and improve your ability to describe experiences vividly.