Describe a book you recently read
Describe a book you recently read.
You should say:
- what the book was
- what it was about
- why you decided to read it
And explain what you learned from it.
Practise this cue card with a timer Use it in a full mock
One-minute preparation plan
Non-fiction is often easier to talk about for two minutes because you can explain ideas, not just retell a plot.
| Cue card point | What to note (keywords only) |
|---|---|
| What the book was | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| What it was about | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| Why you decided to read it | 1–2 specific details: a name, a place, a time, or an example |
| And explain what you learned from it. | Your main reason plus how it affected you—save 30 seconds for this |
Sample answer
I'd like to talk about a book I finished last month called Atomic Habits, which is a non-fiction book about how small daily routines shape our lives.
The main idea is that big changes rarely come from one dramatic decision. Instead, the author argues that tiny improvements, repeated every day, add up over time. He gives practical techniques, such as attaching a new habit to something you already do, or making bad habits harder by changing your environment.
I decided to read it because a colleague kept mentioning it, and at the time I was struggling to study regularly for an exam. I'd tried making ambitious timetables, but I always gave up after a week, so I hoped the book might explain why.
What I learned is that motivation is less important than systems. Since reading it, I've started studying for just fifteen minutes straight after breakfast, every day, and I've kept it up for weeks. It sounds simple, but it's changed how I think about any long-term goal.
About 169 words, roughly two minutes at a natural pace. This is an original example written for SpeakingIELTS to show structure and vocabulary—use it for ideas, not as a script to memorise. Real test cards are worded differently, and examiners notice rehearsed answers.
Useful words and phrases
- the main idea is
- add up over time
- kept mentioning it
- I'd tried
- kept it up
- long-term goal
Try using three of these in your own answer. For more topic vocabulary, see the vocabulary helper.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After this cue card, the examiner moves to a Part 3 discussion on the same theme. Give an opinion, a reason and an example for each.
- Do people in your country read less than they used to?
- What are the advantages of reading printed books compared with e-books?
- Should children be encouraged to read fiction or non-fiction?
- How might libraries change in the future?
- Why do some books become popular all over the world?
Practise these Part 3 questions
Check your own answer
Record yourself, then listen once and ask: did I cover every point, keep talking for close to two minutes, link ideas clearly, and explain my reasons at the end? The self-evaluation checklist covers all four speaking criteria.