English home reading club elementary level. Download books in English. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Reading has always been one of the important types of speech activity, as well as a means of forming related language and speech skills and abilities. According to F.Grellet, author of a book on developing reading skills, "Reading is understanding the written text and extracting the necessary information from it as accurately as possible."
Reading in modern pedagogy is considered as one of the types of speech activity. According to I.A. In winter, speech activity is an active, purposeful, mediated by the language system and conditioned by the communication situation, the process of sending or receiving a message. Speech activity is divided into two types: productive and receptive (based on the processes of perception, "reception"). By means of productive types of speech activity (speaking, writing), a person creates and issues a speech message. Through receptive types of speech activity (listening, reading), the reception and subsequent processing of the speech message is carried out.
In the English - Russian terminological reference book on the methodology of teaching English, we will find the following definition: “Reading is a receptive type of speech activity aimed at the perception and understanding of the written text. In the process of reading, the comprehension and assessment of the information contained in the text takes place. "
There are many different classifications of reading types. Each of them is based on different principles. At present, in the domestic method of teaching foreign languages, it is customary to adhere to the classification compiled by S.K. Folomkina, in foreign countries - K. Weber, A. Oliver, R.H. Alan, H. Frankenpohl. E.N. Solovova gives a classification of the types of reading by domestic scientists: viewing, searching, studying, introductory, analytical. A similar classification is proposed by S.Kh. Folomkina.
The main types of reading found in domestic and foreign methods can be presented in the form of a table:
Table 1.
Basic types of reading
Discrimination options |
Types of reading |
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By the form of reading |
Reading to yourself |
Reading aloud |
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On using logical operations |
Analytical reading |
Synthetic reading |
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By the depth of penetration into the content of the text |
Intensive reading |
Extensive reading |
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By target |
Study reading |
Introductory reading |
Search reading |
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By levels of understanding |
Full / detailed understanding |
Common / global understanding |
In the table N.D. Galskova does not include such names as classroom / home reading, reading with a dictionary / without a dictionary, prepared / unprepared, etc. These names do not mean a new type of reading, they are only for the place and form of work on the text.
Home reading is complementary to the rest of the educational material, abundant and constant reading in order to extract meaningful information. According to M.D. Strekalova, home reading, as one of the aspects of the language training of students, is central, where the interests of all disciplines that make up the education system at a language university cross. As one of the components of the content of teaching foreign languages, home reading is designed to provide a more solid formation of various types of communicative competence. ... In the form of reading, home reading is reading to oneself, in place and time - home, extracurricular, in the depth of penetration into the content of the text - extensive. Home reading classes consist of 3 stages: pre-text, text and post-text.
Basically, when creating workshops on home reading, methodologists consider home reading as synthetic reading, since they direct the reader's attention to extracting information. We propose to consider home reading as a synthetic type of reading, and an analytical one, adding tasks for text analysis to the workshop. This will allow not only expanding the vocabulary of students, ensuring the formation of various types of communicative competence, but also expanding the boundaries of understanding the text, as well as preparing students for performing a full analysis of the text in senior years.
The choice of a fiction text for home reading in the classroom with junior students of the Faculty of Foreign Languages \u200b\u200bis also of great importance, since directly interesting content can motivate a student to systematically read in foreign language... Also, the text should be accessible and readable. For the development of a home reading workshop, we chose the novel “Gathering Blue” by the American writer L. Lowry. The work is written in the genre of dystopia, in it, as in many works of this genre, the laws of building a society oppressed by a cruel totalitarian system are revealed. The problems considered by the author in this work will undoubtedly cause a lively discussion of what was read in home reading classes with undergraduate students of the Faculty of Foreign Languages.
This article presents home reading and text analysis exercises for the first chapter of L. Lowry's novel “Gathering Blue”:
Chapter 1
- Pre - reading tasks
1) 1. Look at the cover of the book. In your opinion where and when does the story take place?
2. Why was the cover made with such strong contrast of colors?
3. Look at the title of the book. What is it about?
4. What do you know about the author of the book? Do you read the other works of this author?
2) Explain the contextual meaning of the following lexical units relying on an English-English dictionary:
short-tempered -
contribute to -
a twisted leg -
to keep smb alive -
3) Find the synonyms in the text:
Deformed leg, cemetery, wild animals, child, shelter, unwilling, marshy.
- 4) Translate these words into English. Find them in the text and read aloud the sentences with them. Learn the words.
Farewell, loneliness, whirl, take care, baby, furious.
5) Explain the following. Give the translation of original sentences.
1. She could see some of them in the vast foul-smelling Field of Leaving, huddled beside the ones whose lingering spirits they tended.
2. "You were one day old, not yet named your one-syllable infant name".
3. "Your father had been taken by beasts".
4. But today there was no festivity. There were only the usual sounds.
5. "... a dirty-faced boy of eight or nine years, still too young for puberty ..."
Exercises at this stage of work are aimed at creating the necessary level of motivation for students, at eliminating semantic and linguistic difficulties in understanding the text, lexical-grammatical and linguistic-stylistic features of the text to be read are taken into account.
II. While - reading tasks
1) Read the sentences and say whether they are true or false:
1. Matt is a dirty-faced boy of eight or nine years.
2. The main character lived with her full family.
3. The society takes care of all new-born tykes.
4. Kira's father was killed in the war.
5. Fear was always a part of life for the people of the society.
2) Answer the questions:
1. What are the main characters of the story?
2. Where does the story take place?
3. What has happened to Kira's family?
4. Was the main character positive about her future? Why?
5. Did she have the place to return?
6. How would you deal with a similar situation?
3) Choose a character. Tell the story from his / her point of view. Discuss devices used by writers in presenting characters.
At this stage, the degree of reading comprehension is monitored, as well as the development of oral speech skills in a foreign language.
III. Post - reading tasks:
- Answer the questions:
- What pictures can you imagine while reading the story? What helps you to see them? Find the figures of speech that the author used to create the atmosphere.
- Describe Kira and her friend Matt. Are they from the same district? Do they speak the same dialect? What can this information tell us about the social structure?
- Pay attention to children’s names. How can you explain the division into syllables? What does simbolise this division?
- What were people afraid of? Why does this feeling appear? In your opinion, was it natural or controlled by someone?
Exercises in the third stage prepare the student to reflect on what has been read and analyze the literary text.
Performing home reading exercises with elements of the analysis of a literary text will allow junior students to come closer to a more complete understanding of the studied text, master basic communication skills and prepare them to analyze a literary text in their senior years.
List literature:
- Galskova N.D., Gez N.I. Theory of teaching foreign languages. Linguodidactics and teaching methods. A guide for students. lingual. high fur boots and fak. in. lang. higher. ped. study. Institutions / N. D. Galskova, N.I. Gez - 3rd ed., Erased. - M .: Academy, 2006 .-- 336 p.
- Zimnyaya, I.A.Lingvoopsychology of speech activity / I.A.Zimnyaya. - M.: Mosk. psychol.-social. Institute, 2001. - 432 p.
- Kovshikov V.K., Glukhov V.P. Psycholinguistics. The theory of speech activity. Textbook for pedagogical and humanitarian universities / V.P. Glukhov. - M .: Publishing house AST, M., 2009 .-- 346 p.
- Kolesnikova, I.L. English - Russian terminological reference book on methods of teaching foreign languages \u200b\u200b/ I.L. Kolesnikova. - St. Petersburg: Russian - Baltic information center BLITS, 2001. - 224 p.
- Solovova, E.N. Methodology for teaching foreign languages. Basic course of lectures: textbook. allowance - M.: Knowledge, 2001 .-- 239p.
- Strekalova M.D. Home reading as one of the most important components of the process of teaching a foreign language in the lower courses of a language university [Text] / M. D. Strekalova // Actual problems of improving the training of specialists in the university on the problem: State educational standards: five years of experience in implementing the prospects for the development of models of higher professional education: Sat. materials of the International Scientific Conference. - Yaroslavl: YarsU. - 2005. - T.2 - S. 180-182.
- Folomkina S. K. Some issues of teaching reading in a foreign language in a non-linguistic university. Methodology and psychology of teaching foreign languages: anthology / comp. Leontiev A.A. - M .: NRU HSE, 2010 .-- 483 p.
- Grellet, F. Developing Reading Skill - Cambridge University Press, 1999. - 387p.
- Lowry, L. Gathering Blue [Text] / L. Lowry. - Houghton Mifflin, 2000 - 215p.
A little about the concept
"English club" Is a series of adapted books suitable for both home reading and classroom use. In each edition you will find exercises that help to assimilate the material read, explanations for the grammatical part. They different levels difficulties and help to work out vocabulary, acquire and develop the skills of reading, listening, speaking and writing.
The series is divided into 6 groups, from beginner to advanced. There is a dictionary on the last pages. In general, these books will be useful and irreplaceable for a wide audience.
Currently, most books come out with an application in a form that allows you to train perception and pronunciation. The text is read by native speakers in slow motion with clear pronunciation. They are great for organizing the educational process.
You can buy them on such popular sites as ozone and maze (I already talked about purchases in these online stores), or in any other bookstore. They are readily available at a price as well.
Beginner
- The Snow Queen. Hans Christian Andrersen.
One of my favorite fairy tales, which tells about the struggle between good and evil. She teaches us how important friendship, unconditional love, understanding and trust are. It is these feelings that are capable of defeating anger and deceit.
- Funny stories of kitten Reddy.
Kitten Reddy is a skilled storyteller who shares with us funny stories about himself, his little brother and sister. Kittens are not alike and have completely different personalities, but they are very friendly. They are proactive and enterprising, they can find a way out of any situation, so that it doesn't happen, and they always rush to help.
- Thumbelina
Another fairy tale of the great Hans Christian Andersen, which is very much loved in Russia, and, in my opinion, not without reason. Both children and adults are ready to re-read it more than once. Therefore, for beginners, the English version will be interesting and useful. A small and kind girl is born from a flower, to her loving mother. She is surrounded by care and attention. But life has prepared trials for her, which she passes successfully and with dignity thanks to the qualities of her character.
Elementary
- The last of the Mohicans.
A novel by the American writer James Fenimore Cooper. His works are known all over the world. This work captures you from the very beginning, it contains both adventure and love. In general, everything you need for an exciting reading and pleasant time behind the pages of a book. North America. Time of the colonial wars. The extermination of Indian tribes is in full swing. In order to deliver beautiful girls Cora and Alice to their father, who is in a British fort, a group of brave and courageous people have to go through many obstacles and overcome dangers. Chingachgook is the last of the Mohicans who lost his son on this difficult path.
- The jungle book.
Joseph Rudyard Kipling is a wonderful English writer. His work and work is a legacy that is passed down from generation to generation. You will meet familiar characters and learn about the new adventures of Mowgli and his friends.
Pre-intermediate
- Pollyanna.
The book deserves a must-read for both children and adults. Insanely positive, sincere and kind novel by the American writer Elinor Porter. This work will teach you to love people, to relate correctly to the world and life. It shows how everything around is transformed depending on the inner world and the mood of a person. The little girl remains an orphan, but continues to enjoy life and look for positive sides in any situation, despite the circumstances. So her father taught her. This ability helps her to adapt to new conditions, and at the same time to change the lives of all the people around her for the better.
- Stuart Little.
A funny tale from the American writer Alvin Brooks White will not leave you indifferent. The brave little mouse Stuart Little, who lives in one of the American families, goes to meet adventures. At the same time, he shows his gentlemanly qualities, benevolence and good manners. Small as he is, he is brave and fearless.
- Headless horseman.
The world of the wild west. Texas. A mysterious murder on the prairie. Young mustanger Maurice Geral is under suspicion. To prove his innocence, hunter friend Zeb Stump is looking for the main witness to the crime ...
Intermediate
- Prince and the Pauper.
The adaptation is based on Mark Twain's first novel The Prince and the Pauper. The action takes place in London in the 16th century. The poor boy enters the palace and takes the place of the prince with whom they are very similar. The prince finds himself on the street and learns all the cruelty of that society. But everything ends well, and the prince makes the necessary lessons, which he uses further in his reign.
- The Adventures of Oliver Twist.
A book about social injustice and betrayal, nobility and mercy. English writer Charles Dickens is a master of his craft. He skillfully touches on those issues that awaken the deepest feelings of a person. These questions are still relevant today.
- Romeo and Juliet.
A classic by William Shakespeare. A romantic love story of two young people who are separated by a huge chasm - the enmity of their families. The plot is based on an Italian folk legend, which Shakespeare masterfully transformed. The tragic fate of Romeo and Juliet touches everyone who gets acquainted with this work.
Upper - intermediate
- O.Henry. Stories.
O. Henry, a master of words, has created a collection of wonderful stories filled with humor, unexpected plot twists and unpredictable endings. It will be interesting for everyone.
- One hundred and one Dalmatians.
Dodie Smith has written a great story about animal loyalty and human immorality and cruelty.
Advanced
- Oscar Wilde. Fairy tales.
You will find 9 fairy tales of the famous Oscar Wilde that touch the hearts of readers, make them think about important things.
- Women in love. David Herbert Lawrence.
This is where the relationship between the sisters of Gadran and Ursula and their lovers unfolds. This happens on the eve of the First World War. Subtle descriptions of the characters' emotions will please even the most discerning reader.
Here is such, I think, an interesting list for today. Start reading right now, without delay, and improve your knowledge. Stay up to date with my blog news, be sure to subscribe to it below.
Treasure Island is an adventure novel by Scottish writer Robert Stevenson about "pirates and buried gold." First published as a book on May 23, 1883, it was originally serialized in a magazine for Young People, Children between 1881 and 1882 titled Treasure Island or Riot on Hispaniola under the pseudonym Captain George North.
Download the most famous treasure book in English for Elementary.
Original description
Treasure Island is an adventure novel by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, narrating a tale of "buccaneers and buried gold". First published as a book on 23 May 1883, it was originally serialized in the children’s magazine Young Folks between 1881 and 1882 under the title Treasure Island or, the mutiny of the Hispaniola with Stevenson adopting the pseudonym Captain George North. Traditionally considered a coming-of-age story, Treasure Island is a tale noted for its atmosphere, characters and action, and also as a wry commentary on the ambiguity of morality - as seen in Long John Silver - unusual for children’s literature. It is one of the most frequently dramatized of all novels. The influence of Treasure Island on popular perceptions of pirates is enormous, including such elements as treasure maps marked with an "X", schooners, the Black Spot, tropical islands, and one-legged seamen bearing parrots on their shoulders.
Anonymous
King Arthur is one of the greatest legends of all time. From that magical moment when Arthur frees the sword in stone in search of the Holy Grail and the final tragedy of the last battle, the author brings the enchanting world of King Arthur and brings it to life in a stunning way.
Download the book about King Arthur in English for the Elementary level.
Original description
King Arthur is one of the greatest legends of all time. From the magical moment when Arthur releases the sword in the stone to the quest for the Holy Grail and the final tragedy of the Last Battle, Roger Lancelyn Green brings the enchanting world of King Arthur stunningly to life. One of the greatest legends of all time, with an inspiring introduction by David Almond, award-winning author of Clay, Skellig, Kit’s Wilderness and The Fire-Eaters.
Neil philip
Tells about the life and adventures of Robin Hood, who, along with his group of followers who lived in Sherwood Forest as criminals, devote themselves to the fight against tyranny. Illustrated notes throughout the text will add a historical background to the story.
Download an interesting book about the legendary Robin Hood in English for the Elementary level.
Original description
Recounts the life and adventures of Robin Hood, who, with his band of followers, lived in Sherwood Forest as an outlaw dedicated to fighting tyranny. Illustrated notes throughout the text explain the historical background of the story.
Robert louis stevenson
Kidnapped is a novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, written in early 1886. The work is narrated from the first person - the protagonist, who recalls incidents during his adventures.
Original description
Kidnapped is a novel by Robert Louis Stevenson wrote in early 1886. The work is narrated in first person by the protagonist, who remembers the incidents of his adventure.
Edith nesbit
When the father's business collapses, the six children decide to rebuild their family fortunes. But although they cannot think of many ingenious ways to do this, they decide on a way that will either bring more pleasure than benefit, or lead to trouble ...
Download an interesting book about little treasure hunters in English for the Elementary level.
Original description
When their father’s business fails, the six Bastable children decide to restore the family fortunes. But although they think of many ingenious ways to do so, their well meant efforts are either more fun than profitable, or lead to trouble ...
Vicky shipton
London is the largest city in the UK and Europe. In 1900, it was the largest city in the world. In this book, you will find a lot of interesting information about this city. You will read about his history. You will learn about the famous people, palaces and museums of this exciting city.
Download an interesting book about London in English for the Elementary level.
Original description
London is the biggest city in Britain and in Europe. In 1900, it was the biggest city in the world. In this book you will find a lot of interesting information about London. You will read about its history. You will learn about its famous people, museums and palaces of this exciting city.
John Whitman
Damn bracelet. Embittered Mummy. Buried Warrior. And a magnificent civilization ...
Completed with over 100 photographs and interesting facts about ancient Egypt. The Mummy Returns is the ultimate guide to cinema. Read action stories in English, watch your favorite scenes, and discover the wonders of Egypt - the pyramids with mummies.
Original description
A cursed bracelet. An Evil Mummy. A Buried Warrior. And a magnificent civilization ...
Filled with more than 100 photos and fascinating facts about ancient Egypt, The Mummy Returns Scrapbook is the ultimate guide to the movie. Read the action-packed story, see your favorite scenes, and discover the wonders of Egypt - from pyramids to mummies. Here’s an exciting look at a thrilling film and an extraordinary place.
"Harry Potter" in English is not very easy to read, but much more interesting than in Russian. There is nothing to say about "Alice in Wonderland": no matter how many talented translations there are, all puns can be fully appreciated only in the original. In general, reading in English is correct and useful. And we will help you choose a book for your level, so that it is also pleasant.
In contact with
The more that you know, the more places you’ll go.
Dr. Seuss
Any English-speaking child will confirm: Dr. Seuss will not give bad advice. If you love to read, but are afraid to start with a long and full-length English novel, don't worry. Especially for educational purposes, publishing houses publish adapted books in English: for beginners, for the intermediate level, and so on. Yes, you will get a complete picture of the work of fiction a little later, but you can congratulate yourself on the first English book you read from the Elementary level!
1. Reading English increases vocabulary
Reading in a foreign language enriches our vocabulary, even if we ourselves are not aware of it. Of course, in order to assimilate new vocabulary more effectively, it is better to read the book, writing out unfamiliar words and memorizing their translation. When choosing books to read, be guided by your learning goals: if you need spoken language, pay attention to modern "light" prose, but if you want to master special vocabulary, the most obvious advice is to read literature from the sphere of your professional interests.
2. Reading improves spelling
The English spelling is full of mysteries and surprises. The spelling of many words defies logic: you just have to memorize. And the best way to do this is to read more English-language literature so that the images of words are deposited in memory.
3. Reading broadens your horizons
E-books and blogs, news sites and social media feeds: Reading is taking it to the next level in the twenty-first century. A single information space makes it possible to learn about what is happening in the most remote corners of the world, to join the world cultural and scientific heritage.
4. Reading in the original language increases self-esteem
Listen to how you feel as you finish the last page of your first novel in English: a delightful feeling. "She reads Orwell in the original" - sounds proudly! Any psychologist will tell you that motivation is important in any task. So do not miss a reason to praise yourself once again, this one is just not superfluous! :)
How to choose a book to read
- Choose adapted books in English for your level (for a list of recommended books for levels A2-C1, see the article below).
- Choose works according to your strength: start with short stories, gradually moving on to larger literary forms.
- The more exciting the training, the more effective it is: try to find books that are interesting for you. Detective stories, thrillers, mysticism - or any other topic that awakens your imagination and makes you read the book to the end will do.
Children's books in English
If you only know a few hundred words in English, pay attention to children's literature: many children's books are interesting for adults as well. In addition, children's literature is usually generously illustrated with illustrations that help to understand the plot.
Fun Fact: Famed Children's Writer Dr. Seuss, featured earlier in this article, wrote his best book The cat in the hat ("The Cat in the Hat") using just 220 words. This list of the first children's words was compiled by the publisher, obliging the author to use them in his work: everything to earn the love of the target audience!
Free English-language children's books can be found on the Internet. For example, on the KidsWorldFun resource.
Comics in English
Like children's literature, comics are a great way to start reading in an unfamiliar language. There are a great many genres of comics: there are comics for children, for adults, entertainment and educational.
Film scripts in English
One of the proven and effective methods of mastering a new language, recommended by many polyglots, is to read books in the target language that are already familiar in translation. The same applies to film adaptations: it is useful to read the scripts of the films you have watched. Advantages: the context is known, the plot is clear, you can guess the meaning of the new words along the way.
Books in English about personal development and professional literature
Reading them, you are killing two birds with one stone: you learn the vocabulary in English that is relevant to you and learn new things on an important topic for you. If you are keenly interested in something, why not read about it in English? Another advantage of such literature is that it is easier to read than fiction. The style is simpler, the vocabulary is limited to the topic in question.
3 "life hacks" for novice readers of English literature
Understanding every word is optional
Сontext is king (context is king)! If you get the gist of the story, that's enough. Moreover, if you understand everything you read, most likely you have taken a book of too low a level for yourself. Try to find books where about 70% of the vocabulary will be familiar (the rest will have to be written out and learned).
Read out loud in English
It may seem strange, but reading has proven itself perfectly in the tasks of improving pronunciation and listening - if it is reading aloud. By reading aloud, you tune in to the sound range of the target language. However, it is important to work on pronunciation in addition to reading, otherwise the incorrect "guess" pronunciation of a word can annoy you for years later.
Listen to audiobooks when reading English
When learning English, where the same combination of letters can be spoken in a dozen different ways, it is very important to pay attention to the correct pronunciation of new words. We have already written about the format. When reading an English-language book, you listen to its audio version, voiced by native English speakers. Very handy for learning pronunciation!
Books adapted for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels of English (A2-C1)
Level A2 - waystage level, elementary level
The Fisherman and His SoulOscar Wilde Level: initial (elementary) A piercing romantic tale about the mad love of a fisherman dolphin and a mermaid. Download audiobook:mp3 (8 files, 52 minutes, 48 \u200b\u200bMb) |
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Dracula - DraculaBram Stoker Level: initial (elementary) A chilling story of eternal love and eternal damnation: that's where all the vampire sagas of our time came from. |
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Million Pound Bank Note - The Million Pound Bank NoteMark Twain Level: initial (elementary) A witty and instructive story about the adventures of a poor man with a million pounds banknote in his pocket. Download audiobook: mp3 (8 files, 30 minutes, 28 Mb) |
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Mr. Bean in town - Mr. Bean in townLevel: initial (elementary) Mr. Bean will always find adventure for his wild little head! The eccentric eccentric continues to amaze and amuse the reader. Download audiobook: mp3 (2 files, 31 minutes, 30 Mb) |
B1 level - threshold or intermediate level
The Picture of Dorian GrayOscar Wilde Level: medium (intermediate) What is more important, the beauty of the face or the beauty of the soul? An incredible story about a beautiful mask and a terrible human essence. Mr. Gray, aren't you the prototype for the hero of Fifty Shades of Gray? .. |
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Appointment With DeathAgatha Christie Level: medium (intermediate) Christie, Poirot, detective. Required to read! |
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Forrest Gump - Forrest GumpJohn Escott Level: medium (intermediate) The book is about a man whose fate makes him believe in the impossible. |
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Three Men In a BoatJerome K. Jerome Level: medium (intermediate) Three cheerful friends decided to go on a trip. What came of this - read in the original. |
Intermediate level of English (intermediate, B1-B2)
The Curious Case of Benjamin ButtonFrancis Scott Fitzgerald Level: medium (intermediate) A fantastic story about a man who “lived the other way around”. But you've probably already watched the movie? .. |
George Orwell Level: medium (intermediate) An iconic work of English literature, which must be included in the arsenal of every modern person. In order not to have to blush in a decent society. |
GladiatorDewey Gram Level: medium (intermediate) This book will tell about the difficult fate of the Roman gladiator. Here's who had a really hard job! |
Four Weddings and a Funeral - Four Weddings and a FuneralRichard Curtis Level: medium (intermediate) The best way to get to know the culture of a people is to study customs. A funny, touching, a little frivolous book by Richard Curtis tells about the love between a British and an American against the background of four weddings and one, alas, a funeral. Is there any hope for a happy end? Read about it yourself. Screen adaptation: |