If you’re new to reading in English , a children’s book or comic book are great places to start. You’ll quickly gain the confidence you need to take it to the next level. Then you can check out the “English Readers” versions of the novels that have been rewritten in a little simpler English.
When you’re ready to start a real English novel, it’s important to choose a genre and theme that you really like. This will keep you captivated, making it easier for you to meet the challenge of reading in another language.
So check out our list of the ten best books for English learners , recommended by a real bookworm! They vary in genre, length, and theme, but they all contain great stories that will make you fall in love with reading.
1. The First Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
Crime novels are a great genre to try because they keep you hooked. We love Alexander McCall Smith’s books because the language is relatively simple, the stories are always gripping, and the characters are hilarious!
Romantic, witty and humorous, but very sad, this is a book for hopeless romantics. Follow the love story between Hazel and Augustus who meet at a support group for teens with cancer.
The style is modern and dynamic, making for an engaging and lively read, and you’ll likely learn some new metaphors along the way!
2. JK Rowling’s Harry Potter Series
The Harry Potter books are great for English learners, as Rowling doesn’t use complicated grammar or vocabulary, which will allow you to understand most of the story.
If you have already read the books in your native language, you will find reading Harry Potter less strenuous and more relaxing. The first book isn’t too big, so it’s a great starting point for building up your English reading confidence.
This hilarious book follows a group of retirees who enjoy investigating unsolved crimes. It’s funny, light-hearted and the British dialogue really feels like listening to your grandma talking.
3. Nine perfect strangers by Liane Moriarty
This best-selling novel is set in a luxurious health retreat in rural Australia, where nine strangers come together to deal with their problems, but end up facing new ones.
With lots of dialogue between the characters, it’s a great way to get used to the Australian way of speaking. It has since been made into a TV series, so once you finish the book, you can watch the series too.
4. Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Follow the whirlwind life of singer Daisy Jones and her bandmates as they tell the story of their rise to fame as rock stars. Written in a unique interview style, the story is engaging, intriguing and a great way to learn through dialogue. A “must read” for music fans!
5. The Editor by Steven Rowley
Blending American history and current affairs, this moving book tells the story of a struggling author who is ultimately chosen by a publisher – and it’s none other than First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis. You’ll fall in love with the characters and the beautiful, lyrical writing.
Simple grammar and vocabulary will make it easy for readers to follow the story without having to pull out their dictionary. Once you’ve finished this book, try Dahl’s other books: Fantastic Mr. Fox or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.