Are you looking for a fun and effective way to improve your English level? Look no further than TV shows and books! With the rise of streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime, it's easier than ever to find TV shows in English with subtitles in your native language (or English!). Reading books in English is also a great way to improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.
In this post I'd like to take a look at some benefits of reading books or watch TV shows/movies in English while I'll also try and share some of my favourite picks for elementary, intermediate and advanced students!
Ready? Let's go!
How to choose the perfect TV series or book
But how do you choose which TV series or books to watch or read?
It's important to pick something that matches your English level.
When choosing books or TV series, consider what genre you enjoy. If you love fiction, try reading novels or watching comedy/drama TV series. If you prefer non-fiction, try watching documentaries or reading biographies. The key is to find material that interests you so that you stay motivated to continue learning.
Finding the right storyline doesn't mean choosing something everyone is watching or reading: popularity isn't the go-to option when you need to establish a reading/watching habit in a foreign language! On the contrary, choose something that you love because you are reading/watching it for you only.
So, let's start with books: how to choose the perfect one?
Choose a genre and a topic that you would also read or watch in your native language,
Ask a teacher or a friend
Do your research through social media and blogs. For example, when it comes to books, I like to browse Goodreads, the official Penguin Books website or Penguin Random House for new releases or upcoming books.
Goodreads is the Facebook of all books: challenges, groups, recommendations written by readers rather than editors (which means honest reviews!) where you can also create your virtual bookshelf, join groups and discussions, ask for help and connect with other readers. On the other hand, the Penguin Books' website is the go-to resource for new releases, classics but also rare editions and editors' picks based on different options.
Penguin Random House's blog, however, is so well organised it will also have posts such as "what to read next" and will also connect books to TV shows so you can keep reading or watching what you love most. An example? I love dark academia and after devouring Netflix Wednesday I read this article and went on reading more similar books - let alone the fact I actually discovered a world of independent and lesser known authors!
Choosing a TV show is a different story, we all know it.
First of all, most TV shows are American and although they're dead good and addictive, they're likely to confuse you even more if you're a beginner looking to acquire a British accent. I get it. I see you. I'm sorry - also I am not sorry as, unfortunately, I am well aware of the limited accessibility to British English TV shows: they are not easy to find, they don't always make it to popular online streaming channels and they often - and only - revolve around psychological thriller, period drama or coming-of-age genres. So, if on one hand British TV shows would be great for your accent, on the other they are difficult to find and aren't always everyone's cup of tea.
Once again, remember that you are watching that particular TV show/series/movie only for your own benefits, so don't only worry about the accent and, instead, follow your gut, your tastes...watch something for you and you only!
My favourite resources to look for when choosing a new TV series/show/movie are:
Netflix homepage and newsletter: the website keep tracks of your activity (a bit scary, I know!) and sends you recommendations and updates quite regularly.
Rotten Tomatoes website is also packed with ideas and titles based on their genres and release date.
English learning blogs where teachers and students share their favourite TV shows/movies. It sounds a bit obvious, but checking out what teachers and English schools are recommending is a good way to get out of your comfort zone and consider options you wouldn't have, otherwise.
Netflix Lovers Facebook page: a group of likeminded people sharing ideas and recommendation on everything Netflix. The groups is run by Italians who also love to use movies/TV shows to improve English so you're likely to find a bit of everything.
As a general rule, regardless of what you'll choose, if you're looking to improve your listening skills, try watching TV shows without subtitles or with English subtitles. This will help you get used to listening to spoken English at a natural pace.
If you prefer reading, start with something that you have already read in your native language and are familiar with. Or with shorter stories, bilingual texts or easy readers (school-level books). Moreover, besides the actual text, try listening to audiobooks while following along with the story. This will help you practice both reading and listening skills simultaneously.
OK, so now let's take a look at my personal suggestions for different English levels.
Books and TV series for elementary students
BREAK THE ICE
If you're a beginner or elementary student, start with simpler books or TV series with easy-to-follow storylines. As you progress, challenge yourself with more complex material.
BOOKS
Here's a short list of books I'd recommend. The list is by no means comprehensive or exhaustive, but it includes a mix of genres suitable for different students that are great to improve your grammar.
The House On Mango Street, S. Cisneros
Plot: a coming-of-age story about Esperanza Cordero, a young Chicana girl growing up in the Hispanic quarter of Chicago that struggles with identity and faces the consequences of living in a poor, patriarchal society. Esperanza introduces us to her world, family and life through a series of short chapters that focus on different topics while taking the reader into a journey inside the Maxican-American culture.
Personal review: A modern classic of Chicano literature, honest, intimate and beautifully written, poetic in its prose, this book will make you want to grab a pen and start writing. The plot is easy to follow, the chapter short, but the language will require at least some English reading experience, great choice for students who have already started their learning journey and are ready enrich their vocabulary and reach the next level. What I loved the most about the book is the fact it's written in a way that is bound to move the reader alternating heartbreaking but also intimate, joyous and inspiring moments as the main character explores life in search for her identity. It will make you rethink and reflect on your own childhood, your choices and - I believe - start working on finding your true self.
2. Short Stories In English, O. Richards
Plot: a collection of 8 fictional short stories for beginners ranging from thriller to fiction, non-fiction and also crime. A nice, useful and fun way to practise reading comprehension and acquire new vocabulary.
Personal review: Great choice for complete beginners and elementary students as the book has been especially written for English learners. The texts use repetitions and include the 1000 most used English words.
3.Little Women, L. M. Alcott
Plot: a coming-of-age novel that follows the lives of four sisters and their mother. Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy have very different personalities and dreams but their strength is their family bond and the way it navigates poverty and adversities. Originally written for children, it is now a must-read classic for both teens and adults alike.
Personal review: despite being written in American English, is still one of my personal favourite for beginners and intermediate students as both levels can benefit from (A) a rich language, (B) a layered plot that alternates different points of view and (C) very relevant themes such as women's rights, the importance of community and inclusiveness but also - on a more personal and psychological level - the importance of staying honest to one's own beliefs and believe in one's dreams. The text alternates descriptions to dialogues and is a rare beauty of art and creativity.
4.The Witches, R. Dahl
Plot: Roald Dahl's "The Witches" is a classic children's book that has stood the test of time. The story is set partly in Noway and partly in England and follows a young boy who discovers a group of witches who are planning to turn all the children in England into mice. The book is filled with humor, suspense, and a touch of horror.
Personal Review: Fantasy genre for children and teens, the book has become a very popular reading also amongst English students and adults. The story is narrated from the perspective of the young boy, for this reason the language is quite easy to follow. However, initially and after its publication in 1983, the book received mixed reviews as it seemed to be inherently anti-feminist and showcased a treatment of children that depicted a society much darker an unfair than it was in reality. Over the years, nevertheless, as fantasy and witches or witchcraft themed books/movies have become more popular, appreciated for their creativity and humor, the book has been edited and even turned into a movie, while it has gained enormous popularity.
As all other Dahl's books, and despite being quite different, this one too is written in a a very interesting way: the author uses poetry, songs, metaphors, puns and idioms to enrich is prose and create a very vivid landscape. Other books I'd recommend to beginners and elementary students are Matilda, James and the Giant Peach and Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. They all have been turned into movies so it'd be a good idea to read and watch the story to create a more comprehensive experience and maybe improve both vocabulary and pronunciation skills.
5. The Alchemist, P. Coelho
Plot: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating book that takes readers on an inspiring journey. The story follows Santiago, a shepherd boy who dreams of finding treasure and embarks on a journey to fulfill his destiny. Along the way, he encounters various obstacles and meets interesting characters who teach him valuable lessons about life and following one's heart.
Personal Review: the book is full of beautiful quotes and metaphors that make it a joy to read. However, some readers may find the writing style a bit simplistic and repetitive at times. Overall, The Alchemist is a thought-provoking and uplifting read that encourages readers to pursue their dreams and listen to their hearts. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a meaningful and inspirational story.
Other books to consider
Where the Wild Things Are by M. Sendak (children and teens, USA)
The Curious Incident of the Dog at Nigh Time by M. Haddon (crime fiction, UK)
A Bear Called Paddington by M. Bond (classic, UK)
Why I am no longer talking to white people about race bby R. Eddo-Lodge (contemporary, race, UK)
Reasons to Stay Alive by M. Haig (psychology, autobiographical, contemporary UK)
The Lorax by DrSeuss (teens and adults, fiction, USA)
The Story of Tracy Beaker by J. Wilson (teens and adults, series, contemporary fiction, UK)
Girl, Woman, Other by B. Evaristo (feminism, black contemporary Britain, UK)
TV SERIES
Beginner and elementary students are often scared or worried about starting an English TV series or watching a movie as their first assumption will probably be "I don't understand it" and, consequently, they will either switch to their native language or give it up.
As we will shortly see, I have a method I think most English learners can use, regardless of their level, but that it can especially help lower levels.
But first, let's take a look at a list of TV series I'd recommend to beginners and elementary English students:
The Secrets of Great British Castles (documentary - UK)
Lovesick (comedy - UK)
Fleabag (comedy - UK)
The Worst Witch (teenagers - UK)
Friends (comedy - USA)
Emily in Paris (romantic comedy - USA)
Anne with an E (period/drama - USA and Canada)
Stranger Things (fantasy - UK and USA)
13 Reasons Why (teen drama - USA)
The Big Bang Theory (comedy - USA)
Cooked (documentary based on food and culture - limited series - USA)
Our Planet (documentary - UK and USA)
How to use books and TV shows to improve your English - beginner and elementary students
BOOKS: MAKE SPECIAL TIME TO READ
As a beginner/elementary student, you probably have had little exposure to English so have very little to build on, and that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Indeed, beginners benefit from being very receptive and motivated to improve as quickly as possible.
For this reason, your focus, when reading a book should be to acquire at least some basic grammar structures and communicative skills in order to express yourself on simple matters such as yourself, your job, family and friends, but also surroundings and feelings.
This makes a great opportunity to use books as vocabulary and grammar resources but mainly at one condition: set a special (and regular!) reading time.
Reading is an enjoyable opportunity to learn English but in 2023 and with ebooks, we get easily distracted by social media, notifications, calls, etc.
I'm not saying go paper-based only, but I'm suggesting to make special time to read:
You want to focus on what you are reading
Silence notifications or try to read away from your phone
Allocate a special time to read and try to spend at least 20-30 minutes on your book
Keep a notebook and dictionary (digital or paper-based) close at hand
Create a vocabulary list where you will add all the new/interesting words
Don't check every single word, instead focus on those expressions/words that grab your attention, sound lovely to your hear, seem useful, are funny or that you simply like!
Your special time to read should become a pleasurable moment of the day, this is why is important to:
read/choose genres you like
read as many different stories and types of texts in order to become more familiar with different English words but also to keep yourself motivated
read at a time of the day you're not too tired and unable to focus. If you're too busy to create a daily reading routine, you can try with 1/2 times per week
You can also keep a reading journal to annotate your thoughts and ideas about the book, join a book club (or create one!) and practise the language your learn through rewriting sentences, etc.
TV SERIES: A METHOD THAT WORKS
Writing down, making notes, repeating, using English or native-language subtitles and actively listening are some of the best practices and tools we have as beginner students. But there is one little problem: subtitles can distract you and be very confusing.
I have asked 5 beginner/elementary students and they all said the same: watching TV series/movies with subtitles (either in English or in their native language) can distract them from following the plot and, as consequence, be quite confusing.
Why? Because, according to what they have suggested, reading, watching and listening at the same time while having to follow the plot requires a lot more energy and efforts than simply doing one of the three things separately, that is either reading, listening or watching.
On top of that, if you don't know the words, you will probably either pause to check their meaning (quite frankly, not a common practice!) or ignore them and go: in both cases, a lot will get lost as your mind deals with an extra-heavy cognitive task.
As a teacher, I do believe in using subtitles as a mean to help you improving your listening and comprehension skills but only if we change perspective on TV shows/series/film as start using them as learning tools/activities.
There is more than just a nice story to TV shows and series, indeed they can be very useful when learning English.
TV shows and series can and should be used as comprehensive learning tools.
How? If you're watching a TV show always use English subtitles, watch it al least two or three times and pause every now and again to write down useful expressions and repeat what the actors say.
It seems complicated but after a bit of practise you'll create your own watching style and will notice an improvement in your listening skills, which will keep you motivated.
My best tip? Be patient.
Start by watching each episode at least 2/3 times. I understand it's frustrating, but to fully appreciate it you should alternate watching it with and without subtitles to focus on the plot but also the language.
Make notes and pause to repeat/write down new words anytime you need it.
For example, when you're watching Friends, pause to repeat a joke or interesting expression and write it down on your notebook or vocabulary list - you can also create a folder on your iPhone/smartphone if that's easier for you.
Repeat the same expression carefully, pay attention to the actor's accent/tone and record yourself repeating a certain word/expression so you'll remember its pronunciation and listen to it as you go jogging or while driving. You could also try and record an entire dialogue.
Then watch with subtitles without pausing to get a general understanding, and, if you need it, again without subtitles to compare your notes with the video.
To sum up:
Watch TV series in their original English language
Prefer English subtitles over those in your native language to avoid getting lost in translation
Alternate with / without subtitles
When using subtitles: pause, make notes, listen and repeat to improve both vocabulary and listening skills
When watching an episode for the second/third time without subtitles you can (A) relax and enjoy it or (B) compare your notes to the video to check your level of understanding.
You don't have to understand and learn every single new/unfamiliar word, but rather focus on the expressions/words that catch your attention, first. As you'll rewatch the episode/series you'll start noticing more words.
Collect all the words/grammar and expressions from the TV in one separate file/folder
Record yourself to track your pronunciation progresses
Practise listening only to the TV show/series/movie while you drive/commute/run rather than watch & listen to hone your listening skills
Be patient.
You have two options: watching English TV shows/series believing that English will magically make sense without a bit of study methodology and then give up OR using TV shows/series as real and purposeful learning resources.
I've been there myself while I was a university student dealing with her Spanish classes lightly flowing through movies without really remembering or getting anything out of them. Did I like them? Theoretically I did, except I didn't as I couldn't understand everything I wanted.
So I came up with this method and started using movies as actual learning resources. It was clear that making an actual effort was more difficult, but it turned out to be the most productive option.
The real deal? Practice makes progress. After a bit of alternating subtitles/no subtitles and making notes, you can start watching short excerpts without pausing them and instead try to direct your focus on other details such as the scenes, the costumes, the soundtrack, the general plot and all those little cinematography details that make your TV series/show/film enjoyable.
Besides, if you're watching a TV series/show, you'll soon get used to different actors' accents, voices, personalities, recognisable lines and communicative style. Indeed, after a while, listening and understanding what they are saying will become easier as often scripts contain repetitions, catchy lines and cross-references to help viewers remember and follow the story but also make characters more recognisable and distinctive.
Some TV series/shows are based on books, which might be an additional step into learning English.
Remember you're using TV shows/series to learn English so you'll need to make an effort and treat them as activities, not only as an enjoyable hobby.
As I have said, the key is to be patient and persistent.
Give yourself permission to try and fail, to start again, to set realistic goals (5 words a week?) and to learn at your own pace.
Because of its structure, I've tried my method with more intermediate and advanced students and noticed that they enjoyed and felt motivated to watch more TV shows/series in English.
Books and TV series for intermediate students
HONE YOUR SKILLS
If you're an intermediate student, you probably already have some grammar under the belt, which means the best way to improve your English will include:
Review what you already know
Set a steady and constant study routine in order to maintain your level
Work more on fixing your mistakes: you are becoming more linguistically aware and know your strengths, weaknesses and what will help you to reach the next level.
Consolidate and develop your English language skills through enhancing your already acquired skilles
That said, I'd recommend more complex books or TV shows that you actually like. Your focus should be a mix of pleasure and language improvement.
BOOKS
The following is a short and varied lists of books that intermediate students should read not only to advance their English, but to start reflecting on the use of written English and become familiar with both classic and contemporary American and British novels.
The Old Man And The Sea, E. Hemingway
Plot: The story is about an old fisherman named Santiago who has gone 84 days without catching a fish. On the 85th day, he sets out to sea alone and catches a huge marlin. However, he struggles to bring it back to shore as sharks attack his catch. The book is a beautiful portrayal of human perseverance and the struggle against nature.
Personal Review: I have to be honest and say that despite trying to maintain a neutral attitude towards education and teaching, I am not a fan of animal exploitation or even sharing any content that promotes the old and a bit outmoded dichotomy "man vs nature" as if nature was this dark and dangerous place, that - personally - I don't think it is. However, this book had to make it to the list as the writing style is very powerful, simple but rich and able to create vivid images that make it almost lyrical. The characters are well-developed, especially Santiago, who is a symbol of determination and courage. The only downside of the book is that it can be slow-paced at times, but overall, it's a great read for anyone who enjoys literary classics. I would definitely recommend this book to intermediate readers who are looking to improve their English vocabulary and reading skills.
2. The Switch, B. O'Leary
Plot: The Switch by Beth O'Leary is a heartwarming novel that tells the story of Leena and Eileen, a grandmother and granddaughter who decide to switch lives for two months. Leena, who is struggling with anxiety and burnout, moves to her grandmother's quiet village to take a break from her fast-paced life in London, while Eileen goes to London to have some fun and maybe even find love.
Personal Review: The characters are well-developed, and the plot is engaging and full of surprises. The book deals with serious issues like grief, loss, and mental health, but it also has many humorous moments that will make you laugh out loud. Overall, The Switch is a delightful read that will leave you feeling uplifted and happy. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good romantic comedy with a twist. The language is varied, natural and packed with everyday English expressions.
3. The Secret Garden, F. Hodgson Burnett
Plot:The Secret Garden is a classic novel by F. Hodgson Burnett that has been enjoyed by generations of readers since its publication in 1911. The story follows Mary Lennox, a young girl who is sent to live with her uncle in England after her parents die in India. She discovers a secret garden on the estate and, with the help of a local boy named Dickon and her cousin Colin, brings it back to life.
Personal Review: the book is beautifully written, with vivid descriptions of the garden and the English countryside. The language contains many words and expressions related to nature, animals, gardening and landscape descriptions. The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly Mary, who undergoes a transformation from a spoiled and unhappy child to a kind and caring friend. The themes of nature, friendship, and the healing power of love make this book a timeless classic.
Although some readers may find the language and style of the book somewhat old-fashioned, it is still a delightful read that will appeal to anyone who loves stories about children and gardens. Overall, The Secret Garden is a charming and heartwarming novel that is sure to capture the imagination of readers of all ages.
4. The Fault Is In Our Stars, J. Green
Plot: The Fault in Our Stars is a young adult novel by John Green. The story follows the life of two teenagers, Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, who meet at a cancer support group and fall in love. The book has been praised for its honest portrayal of teenage life, and the way it deals with themes such as death, love, and hope.
Personal Review: Green's writing style is engaging and easy to read, with plenty of witty dialogue and memorable quotes. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot moves along at a good pace. The author does an excellent job of balancing the serious subject matter with moments of humor and levity, making the book both heart-wrenching and up-lifting. The story is a touching and poignant novel that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good coming-of-age story or wants to explore the complexities of life and death.
5. Tuesdays With Morrie, M. Albom
Plot: The book tells the story of Mitch Albom, a sports journalist who reunites with his former college professor Morrie Schwartz, who is dying of ALS. The two men meet every Tuesday to discuss life lessons, love, forgiveness, and death. The conversations between Mitch and Morrie are full of wisdom and insight, and they will make you question your own priorities and values.
Personal Review: The book is written in a simple and accessible style, yet it manages to convey complex ideas in a way that is easy to understand. The author's personal journey of self-discovery is interwoven with Morrie's teachings, making the book both engaging and thought-provoking. The themes of the book are universal, and they will resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds.
Other intermediate books to consider
Big Magic by E. Gilbert (self-improvement, USA)
The Secret Life of Bees by S. Monk Kidd (racial and social issues, fiction, USA)
My Name Is Why by L. Sissay (race and social issues, biography, UK)
Love, Rosie by C. Ahern (romantic novel, Irish)
Public Library and Other Stories by Ali Smith (short stories, contemporary, UK)
Digital Minimalism by C. Newport (non-fiction, USA)
Again, Rachel by M. Keyes (addiction and mental health, UK)
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by S. Covey (self-help, lifestyle, USA)
Everything I know about Love by D. Alderton (memoir, humor, self-reflection)
The Comfort Book by M. Haig (psychology, memoir, self-help, UK)
Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery (fiction, Canada)
TV SERIES
Intermediate students should already have acquired a certain understanding of different accents and be more aware of what they might prefer.
Here's a list of interesting TV series you can find on Netflix:
Heartstopper (comedy/drama, teens, UK)
The Fall (thriller/dark - UK)
Anatomy of a Scandal (thriller/political/psychological - UK)
Grace and Frankie (comedy - USA)
You (dark/psychological - USA and UK)
The Dutchess (limited series - comedy - UK and USA)
Love Life (romantic comedy - USA)
Working Mums (comedy - Canada / USA)
Call The Midwife (drama - UK)
The Vampire Diaries (fantasy - USA)
Obsession (erotic - limited series - UK)
Fate - The Winx Saga (fantasy - UK)
How to use books and TV shows - intermediate levels
Intermediate levels should be able to discriminate between the plot and what they don't understand so to create a reading/watching habit that will allow them to enjoy the story as they learn something new.
Differently from elementary levels, where the focus is to break the ice and acquire as much grammar and vocabulary as possible, your level should help you to follow texts/dialogues while giving you the chance to read between the lines - literally!- and, as a consequence, start diving a bit deeper into the creative side of your book/TV show or series.
Keep using my method, but maybe try to avoid pausing and writing down as often as you would do as a beginner and instead watch/read longer chunks before stopping.
Books and TV shows for advanced students
CHALLENGE YOURSELF
Advanced students' goals are no secrets to me, as it's the group of students I work the most with: from professionals to postgraduate students and more recently teaching teachers, I've seen it all.
If there is one thing they all want is to "really sound like a native" - and I'm quoting one of my students, of course. Is it worth it? I'm not so sure. Indeed, I'm well aware of the many limitations, biases and mistakes we're often bound to.
If you're an upper-intermediate willing to improve your English or already an advanced English student, you probably want it anyways, biases included.
So let me tell you this again: the attempt isn't worth the struggle if its outcome will be at the expense of your personal enjoyment.
You already have enough capability to be able to have fun, enjoy and savour every word and minute of your favourite TV show/series/film, why ruin it with excruciating repetitions and self-doubts?
To you, dear advanced student, grammar rules and words should be a delicate, finishing touch to your already layered, rich understanding of the language, and for this reason I believe that you should use English TV series and books to refine, enrich, clarify and - above all - challenge yourself!
Synonyms, phrasal verbs, slang words, the ability to recognise different accents (at least on a general level), idioms and advanced terminology should be your goal as you will probably try your best to follow the plot, understand the narrative behind the artist's perspective and decipher the author's most secretive intentions. In other words: you want to be able to use books/TV to keep practising your skills, maintain your linguistic level while also learning something new.
This is why my best advice, besides keeping the already well-known steady study routine and use vocabulary lists and folders, is to:
get out of your comfort zone: instead of picking genres you're familiar with, try something new, explore uncharted lands and conquer new works of art such as poetry, magazines, but also keeping a journal and actively taking part to online forums and books/movies/TV shows groups, clubs and discussions to test your communication skills.
keep your language skills up-to-date: watch/read unfamiliar topics and include trending authors/topics that extensively draw from contemporary slang, words and expressions.
focus on pronunciation: if your grammar is in place and you have a study routine, keeping your ducks in a row shouldn't be a problem. As long as you know pronunciation is the Queen of your flock. TV shows and series should be a priority, but so should be reading with a phonetic chart at your hand and the ability to either use a reliable online resource such as this or to ask your teacher.
As authenticity stands at the chore of the most advanced communicative practices so it should be your goal: to use authentic materials but also to talk about these materials in a fluent and clear way. You aren't a simple user, you are a commentator, a contributor and a part of the creative process.
Advanced students will enjoy using TV shows/series and books to practise their skills as they have (or should have!) the ability to understand, to improve their study method and to share their view and opinion in a more comprehensive way.
In fact, advanced students' goals should be to broaden their reading/listening/speaking and writing skills: choose a book genre or movie/TV show/series you have never read/watched before, add authentic texts such as newspapers and academic articles but also video interviews, TED talks, specialistic language contents that will get you out of your comfort zone.
If you read or watch a wider variety of genres and authors, you’ll encounter a more varied language and you’ll be more likely to learn something new.
Specifically, you should:
Change your resources and add more genres
Focus on understanding the unsaid/deeper meanings of texts and videos
Advance your vocabulary with idioms, slang and advanced vocabulary
Focus on different types of pronunciation
Choose a pronunciation to focus on
Test your knowledge rather than solely relying on your notes and online resources
Use and look for synonyms
Start practising English more actively through journal writing, movie and TV shows reviews writing, blogging, social media posts, finding a conversation class or an English friend/teacher to work with
Include different and more specialised resources such as podcasts, music, articles, newspapers, academic articles, etc.
Some very good podcasts can be found on the BBC channel and include titles such as the BBC NEWS REVIEW
The goal, as an advanced English student is to read/watch without thinking too much about the unfamiliar details and, on the other hand, start focusing on the meaning: infere words and meaning from the context and get the tools to find synonyms, definitions and then be able to explain/sum up/discuss what you've just watched/read.
BOOKS
Let's take a look at a list of books that I think might suit advanced students. As in the two previous sections, they aren't in a particular order and I've tried to cover different genres and authors.
Eat, Pray, Love, E. Gilbert
Plot: the book is memoir that follows the adventures of Gilbert's travels to Italy, India and Bali. Gilbert, a professional NY journalist, goes through a hard divorce and ends up being caught in a series of dead-end situations, feeling very confused and unsure about her future. After a series of failed relationships and supported by her editor she decides to take some time off travelling to Italy, India and Bali not only to find herself but also to learn something new and write articles about her experience. The first part of the book focuses on pleasure, namely her trip to Italy, where Gilbert learns Italian and enjoys the beauty, art and food the country has to offer. Her descriptions of Italian cuisine are mouth-watering! The second part, as she sets off to India, is about inner peace and her own spiritual path to detachment, overcoming the pain of her divorce and finding herself. Ultimately, the last part, set in Bali, is about finding balance between pleasure and inner peace, in other words: what love really means. Indeed, in Bali she learns what self-love is and how to to love others without giving up on her own dreams and independence.
Personal review: the book really makes you want to leave everything and go on a solo trip around the world! The character learns Italian, practises yoga, faces her demons and all with a very descriptive and adjective-rich writing style. The ending isn't exactly so adventurous as the beginning, but the story-line is quite layered and varied. Overall, Eat, Pray, Love is an enjoyable read that will make you want to travel and explore new cultures. While some parts may drag on, the book is ultimately uplifting and inspiring.
2. The Midnight Library, M. Haig
Plot: This is a novel that will probably keep you glued to each page until the veery last chapter. Unhappy, demotivated and laking hope, the 30-something British woman Nora Seed decides to die, only to find herself in a mysterious library that contains an infinite number of books. Each book represents a different version of her life and she has the chance to try them all out. Could have things been different? Nora's journey is quite relatable, as she questions her own choices, the reader can easily use her experience as a starting point to create a journal or reflect on their own life. It feels like talking to a therapist: the themes of regret, depression, and finding purpose in life are explored in a sensitive and insightful way.
Personal review: The concept of parallel universes and the idea of being able to change your life at any moment is intriguing and thought-provoking.
Haig's writing style is simple yet powerful. He manages to convey deep emotions with just a few words. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy for the reader to connect with them.
Heartwarming, beautifully written, a great food-for-thought reading that will make you take notes, put yourself into Nora's shoes and start questioning about your choices and life, too. Written in British English, is a very good resource for students of this English variation.
3. To Kill a Mockingbird, H. Lee
Plot: a masterpiece of American literature, To Kill a Mockingbird is a coming-of-age drama tackling serious issues such as prejudice, rape, justice and racism within the tight but almost suffocating bonds a small community can create. Set during the Great Depression in the USA, is a classic of modern American Literature. The story is told by a six-year-old Jean Luis Finch.
Personal review: not ideal for the faint-hearted but an unmissable piece of history recounted through the brilliant pen of Harper Lee.
One of the things that makes this book so great is the way in which it captures the voice of a child. Scout's narration is both innocent and insightful, and her observations on the world are often profound. Through her eyes, we see the ugly reality of racial injustice and the courage of those who stand up against it.
It includes autobiographical elements and has an almost cinematographic and visual narrative rich of details that flows between the young girl's voice and an older woman narrative, creating a beautiful, almost lyrical storyline.
To Kill a Mockingbird is a must-read for anyone interested in American literature or social justice.
4. Conversations with Friends. S. Rooney
Plot: a novel about a couple of young Irish graduates living in Dublin befriend a couple in their thirties only to find one attracted to the other and willing to start an open relationship, that lately becomes a complex foursome in which intimacy and intellectual conversations alternate as they navigate contemporary society, modern love questions and issues.
Personal review: quite flowing and packed with slang, adjectives and useful expressions, the story surely is a pleasurable and interesting reading many of us can relate to: it questions intimacy, the dynamics of love in contemporary society and the role of more traditional monogamy. It explores the complexities of relationships, both romantic and platonic.
Rooney's ability to capture the nuances of human interaction is impressive. She manages to create a sense of intimacy between the reader and the characters, making it impossible not to become invested in their lives. The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the intelligence and humor of the characters. The themes of identity, sexuality, and class are explored with sensitivity and depth, making the novel relevant to readers of all ages and backgrounds.
5. Harry Potter (all books), J.K. Rowling
Plot: there isn't much I could add to this well-known series if not that I would strongly recommend to read the books as well as watch the movies, at least to dive into the magic world of Harry and his friend (I'm a Griffindor, by the way! 😉 )
Personal review: It'd be out of place for me, as a teacher, to say it's not a must-read for all ages and - what's more - it'd be really limiting to my class activities and literature hours. However, Harry Potter isn't for everyone, definitely not only a young children's book. Instead, read it to enrich your descriptive vocabulary, learn about English folklore and become well-versed in a flowing, catchy and witty writing style.
Other advanced books to consider
The Keeper of Stories by S. Page (romance novel)
Blackwater by M. McDowell (book series, souther gothic, horror/fantasy, USA)
Wuthering Height by Emily Brontë (gothic/tragedy, UK)
White Teeth by Z. Smith (race and gender studies, fiction, contemporary UK)
The Girl Next Door by R. Rendell (Thriller, UK)
Little Bee by C. Cleave (refuge, race, contemporary society, UK)
Mrs Dalloway by V. Wolf (novel, psychological fiction, modern classic, UK)
TV SERIES
Advanced TV series and shows are generally more difficult to follow as the plot is more complex and layered, it often includes sub-plots and unexpected twists, but they can also feature more slang, advanced vocabulary and/or less known accents and English variants.
In the TV series Sex Education, for example, the story is set in contemporary Britain and the main characters are a group of school kids dealing with teenagers and coming-of-age issues that often use a more contemporary slang, abbreviations but also satirical and sarcastic tones not always easily accessible. This series, as many others on this list, is great to practice your listening skills while learning English using the method I have presented in the elementary section, but, and above all, to become familiar with contemporary, everyday English.
Here's a list of advanced TV series you could watch:
After Life (drama/comedy - UK)
Marcella (dark/thriller - UK)
Sex Education (adults and teens - comedy/drama - UK)
The Crown (period drama - UK)
Peaky Blinders (period crime drama - C1-C2 levels at least)
Gilmore Girls (comedy/drama - USA)
How I Met Your Mother (comedy - USA)
Lockwood & Co. (supernatural thriller - UK)
Harry Potter (film series - fantasy - UK)
Shadow & Bone (fantasy - USA)
The Last Kingdom (period drama - UK)
Conclusions
Self-study is an important part of improving your English, so make sure to create a study method that works for you. For example, you could create a vocabulary list of new words you encounter while reading or watching TV shows. Practice spelling and pronunciation of these words until they become second nature.
Lastly, don't forget about the differences between British English and American English. If you're planning on using your English in a specific country, make sure to expose yourself to the appropriate dialect. You can do this by watching TV shows or movies from that country, or by reading books written by authors from that region.
It's not always easy, as we've said before, but it's important as British and American English not only have different accents but also vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
In conclusion, using TV series/shows/movies and books to improve your English level is a fun and effective way to learn. Just make sure to choose material that matches your English level, interests you, and exposes you to the appropriate dialect.
Happy learning!
Sarah Catherine
🐝
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