Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Brilliantly Describe a Book You’d Love to Reread

The topic of describing a book you would like to reread is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal preferences, discuss literature, and articulate reasons for your choices. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.

Describe a book you plan to read again

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about reading and books. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Question: Do you enjoy reading books?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in diving into a good book. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also serves as a fantastic way to unwind after a long day. I particularly enjoy exploring diverse genres, from thought-provoking non-fiction to gripping novels that transport me to different worlds.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card:

Describe a book you would like to read again.
You should say:

• What the book is
• When you first read it
• What it is about
• And explain why you would like to read it again

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

The book I’d love to revisit is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. I first encountered this literary masterpiece during my high school years, about a decade ago.

Set in the 1930s in the Deep South of the United States, the novel revolves around the Finch family, particularly the young girl Scout and her father, Atticus. The story delves into profound themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and the loss of innocence. It portrays how Atticus, a lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of a crime, and how this event impacts the entire community, especially through the eyes of his children.

I’m eager to reread this book for several reasons. Firstly, I believe my life experiences and maturity gained over the years will allow me to appreciate the nuances of the story more deeply. The complex characters and their motivations, which I might have overlooked as a teenager, would likely resonate with me differently now.

Moreover, the themes of racial inequality and social justice that the book explores are unfortunately still relevant today. Revisiting this classic would help me reflect on current societal issues through a historical lens, providing valuable insights into how far we’ve come and how much further we need to go.

Lastly, Lee’s masterful prose and vivid storytelling are something I’d love to immerse myself in again. The way she brings to life the sleepy town of Maycomb and its inhabitants is truly remarkable, and I’m sure I’d notice new details and literary devices that I missed in my first reading.

In essence, rereading “To Kill a Mockingbird” would be like reconnecting with an old friend, one that has valuable lessons to teach me even after all these years.

To Kill a Mockingbird book cover by Harper Lee

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has your understanding of the book changed since you first read it?
2. Do you think classics like this should be mandatory reading in schools?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. My understanding of the book has undoubtedly evolved since my first reading. As a teenager, I was primarily captivated by the coming-of-age story and the mystery surrounding Boo Radley. Now, I find myself more attuned to the subtle social commentary and the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters. I’ve come to appreciate how Lee masterfully weaves together personal growth with broader societal issues, creating a narrative that’s both intimate and universal.

2. Absolutely, I believe classics like “To Kill a Mockingbird” should be essential reading in schools. These books provide a crucial foundation for understanding our cultural and literary heritage. They often tackle timeless themes and moral questions that are as relevant today as when they were written. Moreover, studying such works enhances critical thinking skills, promotes empathy, and exposes students to high-quality writing. However, it’s important to supplement these classics with more contemporary diverse voices to provide a well-rounded literary education.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Question: How do you think reading habits have changed in the digital age?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The digital age has profoundly transformed reading habits in several ways. Firstly, there’s been a significant shift towards digital formats, with e-books and audiobooks gaining popularity. This change has made literature more accessible and portable, allowing people to carry entire libraries on a single device.

However, this convenience has also led to changes in reading behavior. Many readers now tend to skim rather than deep read, possibly due to the constant influx of information from various digital sources. There’s also been a rise in fragmented reading, where people consume content in shorter bursts, often on smartphones or tablets.

Interestingly, while digital reading has surged, we’ve also seen a resurgence of interest in physical books, particularly among younger generations. This could be a reaction to screen fatigue or a desire for a more tactile, immersive reading experience.

Social media has also influenced reading habits, with platforms like Goodreads and BookTok creating communities of readers who share recommendations and discussions. This has led to certain books going viral and reaching wider audiences than ever before.

Despite these changes, I believe the fundamental value of reading remains unchanged. Whether digital or physical, books continue to offer knowledge, entertainment, and a means of escape. The challenge now is to balance the benefits of digital accessibility with the need for deep, focused reading.

Describe a book that you would like to read again

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Literary masterpiece (noun): A book of outstanding quality.
   Example: “War and Peace” is often considered a literary masterpiece of Russian literature.

2. Delve into (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate thoroughly.
   Example: The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships.

3. Resonate with (verb): To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
   Example: The character’s struggles resonated with many readers.

4. Immerse oneself in (phrasal verb): To become completely involved in something.
   Example: I love to immerse myself in a good book on weekends.

5. Captivated by (adjective): Attracted and held by beauty, excellence, or interest.
   Example: As a child, I was captivated by the magical world of Harry Potter.

6. Attuned to (adjective): Aware of or sensitive to.
   Example: After studying literature, I became more attuned to the use of symbolism in novels.

Describe a book you would like to read again

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a book you’d like to reread:

1. Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just state facts about the book; explain your thoughts and feelings in detail.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to literature and reading.

3. Demonstrate critical thinking: Show that you can analyze the book’s themes and impact, not just retell the plot.

4. Practice fluency: Aim to speak smoothly without long pauses. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help.

5. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, make sure your responses sound natural and personal to you.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and coherence are just as important as vocabulary and grammar.

IELTS Speaking Test Preparation

Describe your favorite book

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss any book you’d like to reread in your IELTS Speaking test, demonstrating both your language skills and your appreciation for literature.