Published 7th April 2017
We all know reading is a sure way to improve your language skills. Reading helps improve your vocabulary and your grammar and exposes you to natural, authentic language. Plus, reading is hopefully an enjoyable and interesting pastime (otherwise you wouldn’t be doing it).
So one way to try to incorporate more English into our learners’ free time is to introduce them to English books they will enjoy reading. In this way they will hopefully not look at reading as studying but will be so engrossed in the story that they will forget they are learning.
Of course, there are millions of English novels out there and finding the right one can take some time. It’s really important that your students choose novels which are appropriate for them, both in terms of their interests and their level. If a book is too difficult or too easy, they may lost motivation. If the book is boring, they will lose interest.
To help you out, here we have some of our favourite English novels for Intermediate learners – suitable for older teens or adult learners.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time – Mark Haddon
An original and unpredictable story of a boy’s quest to solve the mystery of a dog’s death. Written in plain, simple English, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Tuesdays with Morrie – Mitch Albom
An easy-to-read book with a deeper meaning. It might be a book about death but it is also a book about life, heart-warming and humorous.
The Fault in Our Stars – John Green
Also a movie (which always helps) this book tells the heartbreaking and emotional story of two terminally ill teenagers who fall in love. Quirky and funny, it is sure to tug on your heartstrings.
The Giver – Lois Lowry
A novel very popular with young adults, The Giver is a fantasy story about a young boy and the society he lives in. When he is given special powers, he realises life might not be as perfect as he has always thought.
The Old Man and the Sea – Ernest Hemingway
An English classic, this novel is written in such simple language but the story is much deeper than it seems. The story of a Cuban fisherman and a giant fish, it is also an exploration of the themes of challenge, courage, survival, defeat and triumph.
The next time your Intermediate learners ask you for recommendations for English novels they will enjoy, let them take their pick from one of these favourites and we guarantee you they’ll be coming back for more.
