Is it hard to find time to read books in English?
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Or if you do read sometimes, do you ever wish you could hear someone saying the sentences aloud while you read?
It would help your English pronunciation so much—and your listening!
Well guess what? You can have a native English speaker read books to you whenever and wherever you want!
How? Through audiobooks, that’s how.
Audiobooks are recorded readings of your favorite books.
Life is fast, and many people don’t always have time to sit down and read books. Audiobooks make it possible to listen to someone reading a book while you do something else, like wash dishes or drive to work.
They are also a great way to learn English. Using audiobooks as part of your English studies will get you the practice you need to become a better English speaker.
The Benefits of Using Audiobooks to Learn English
Why would you want to practice using audiobooks?
There are many reasons:
- You can repeat any part of the book as many times as you want. You might be afraid or embarrassed to ask people to repeat themselves, but you can repeat an audiobook over and over (and it will never get annoyed).
- You can “read” the book as slow or fast as you want. Listen to only one paragraph a day, or read an entire book in a few hours. When you’re talking with a real person, you can’t really tell them to share only half of their story today and the rest tomorrow—but you can stop an audiobook wherever you want to.
- You can choose any accent, gender or speed that you want to listen to. Do you have trouble understanding people with British accents? You can listen to an audiobook read by a British person to practice. Want to understand New Yorkers better before moving there? You can find that, too. Audiobooks have so many different kinds of voices to choose from.
- You can listen to audiobooks any time. You can listen on your way to work or school, during breaks or even right before bed. It’s like having somebody read you a bedtime story!
Now that you’re interested in audiobooks, where do you start?
Choosing the Best Audiobooks for You
There are many audiobooks to choose from, on every topic you can imagine. You can find classic literature in audiobook form, English learning books or modern literature. You can listen to someone talk about dinosaurs, airports or 16th century Italy—whatever you’re interested in, there’s an audiobook for that.
When you’re choosing an audiobook, look for something you would enjoy reading. If you already own the book or e-book version of the audio, that’s even better because you can read along if just listening is too difficult.
To find your reading level, try listening to adult fiction. If it’s too hard to understand, read young adult fiction instead. Still can’t follow along? Try a children’s book. Children’s audiobooks are wonderful learning tools because they are meant to be understood by listeners who might not know all the words.
Where to Find Audiobooks
You can find audiobooks all over the internet, some even for free. Here are just a few places to start with:
Audible: This is one of the largest audiobook websites. It’s owned by Amazon, and has over 150,000 books for you to listen to. It’s not free, but it does have a free 30-day free trial, and if you discover that you love audiobooks, it might be worth getting a subscription.
Project Gutenberg: If you’d rather not pay for audiobooks yet, you can look around Project Gutenberg. This website is known for its collection of free e-books, but it also has a nice selection of audiobooks.
Librivox: This website of free audiobooks exists thanks to volunteers from around the world who read books aloud for the site. It has some great books to choose from.
Local Libraries: Many libraries in the USA now have “digital libraries,” where you can check out e-books and audiobooks for free, just like regular books at a library! Ask your local library, or check online to see if you have access to a digital library.
Tips for Actively Listening to English Audiobooks
If you just listen to audiobooks, you will learn something. But to really learn the most that you can, try using these tips:
Take notes
One mistake you can make when taking notes is writing too much. So instead, write down only things that will help you later when you look at your notes. Write words and expressions that you don’t know.
If you are trying to understand the story, write important events or names of characters. If you’re stopping your audiobook every couple of words to write, you are writing too much. Listen, learn and only write the most important things.
Read along
If you own a copy of the book you are listening to, read along with the audio. Reading along makes you concentrate completely on the words. To practice pronunciation, stop the recording once in a while and read what you just heard out loud. Try to match the pronunciation of what you just heard. Can you do it?
Discuss
How well did you understand the book you just listened to? The best way to find out is to talk to other people about it. You can do that by joining online communities where you can talk about your books, like Goodreads or Online Book Club.
You can also join a local book club and talk with people in person about the books you read. You can use Reader’s Circle or Meetup to find a book club near you.
Listen again
The first time you listen, you are listening to understand the story and the words. After you listen once, put the audiobook away and look over your notes. Look up the words you didn’t know.
Now you’re ready to listen again, and this time you’re listening to learn. Now that you understand what the words are saying, you can listen more closely to things you didn’t notice the first time, like how to use a word in a sentence or how the reader’s voice sounds when they use a phrase.
Use what you learn
By now you should have a few new words, phrases, pronunciations and more that you learned from the audiobook. So practice using what you learned! Use your new vocabulary words in conversations. Talk about what you just read with a friend. You’ll be surprised at how much you learned from just listening to someone read a book to you!
4 Audiobooks Recommended for English Learners
There are thousands of audiobooks to choose from, so if you’re having trouble picking a good book to listen to, here are some recommendations:
1. “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss, read by John Lithgow
Dr. Seuss might be a children’s book writer, but this book has been read to high school and college students at graduation many times!
It’s a simple book for beginners that’s loved by everyone.
2. “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo, read by Cherry Jones
This book tells the story of Opal as she moves to a new city. Opal learns how to get over her fear and loneliness thanks to a dog named Winn-Dixie.
This is a heart-warming story for young adults, and is perfect for intermediate English learners.
3. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde, read by various
What would you do if you could stay young forever? The story of Dorian Gray tells what happens when a picture of you grows old instead of you. The dramatic reading of this book has a different person reading the different parts, which makes it an excellent audiobook to practice listening and understanding different voices and accents.
4. “The Hitchhikers’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams, read by Stephen Fry
Even if you aren’t a fan of science fiction, you will love the crazy adventures of Arthur Dent, a man who goes hitchhiking (getting rides from strangers) through outer space. Narrated perfectly by UK star and comedian Stephen Fry, this book is very funny, but may be difficult to understand. It’s well worth a try if you want a challenge!
Of course these are only suggestions. Everyone has different tastes in books, so be sure to find the books that you’re interested in. For more ideas you can check Audible’s recommendations page, or look through AudioFile Magazine’s audiobook articles and reviews.
Enjoy listening and learning!
Oh, and One More Thing…
If you like learning English through audiobooks, you’ll love FluentU, too. FluentU teaches you English from authentic English videos, like classic movie clips, catchy music videos, funny commercials and inspiring speeches, as you can see here:
If you want to watch it, the FluentU app has probably got it.
The FluentU app makes it really easy to watch English videos. There are captions that are interactive. That means you can tap on any word to see an image, definition and useful examples.
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It’s the perfect way to learn real English and absorb real English culture, without ever missing a word.
FluentU lets you learn engaging content with world famous celebrities.
For example, when you tap on the word “brought,” you see this:
Learn all the vocabulary in any video with quizzes. Swipe left or right to see more examples for the word you’re learning.
FluentU helps you learn fast with useful questions and multiple examples. Learn more.
The best part? FluentU remembers the vocabulary that you’re learning. It recommends examples and videos to you based on the words you’ve already learned. You have a truly personalized experience.
Start using FluentU on the website with your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes store or from the Google Play store.
If you liked this post, something tells me that you'll love FluentU, the best way to learn English with real-world videos.
Want to learn English with Benedict Cumberbatch?
Or how about an incredible book that English speakers love?
All you need are your ears.
Audio programs, audiobooks and English audio courses are just some of the incredible resources you can use to learn English, audio-style.
So grab your headphones, and we’ll show you the best tools to learn English with audio for all levels and language skills—from listening comprehension to vocabulary to pronunciation.
And don’t worry, we’ll explain why Benedict Cumberbatch is involved!
Why Learn English with Audio?
So why English audio? You definitely should not forget about all the other tools available to you, but audio has some unique advantages:
- Your eyes can take a break from screens. Using audio tools does not require that you look at a screen—like your cell phone screen or computer screen—for long periods of time, the way video exercises and films do. These days, we are surrounded by visuals, on our laptops, tablets and cell phones… so it is great to give your eyes a break! Just relax, close your eyes and listen.
- Audio is easy to find in several formats. You can download audio files online and upload them to your phone or iPod. You could go shopping for an audiobook or buy a CD English learning course to play in your car. They also tend to be less expensive than movie downloads or Blu-ray discs.
- Audio can be used in your spare time and when you travel. For example, if you take public transit to school or to work, you can definitely use both audio and video tools to improve English. But if you drive, then audio is the only way to learn, because you have to keep your eyes on the road!
- Finally, audio can be a very entertaining form of English listening practice. Talk radio and news are just the start. There are radio dramas and comedies, podcasts and audiobooks available to you. As you’ll see below, the options are endless!
Tips to Learn English with Audio Strategically
- No matter what kind of English audio tool you are using, you need to make sure that it is appropriate for your level of English. If you are a beginner, you will have a lot of difficulty understanding the readings of Shakespeare or a documentary on international financial systems. You are likely to get discouraged and stop using this kind of audio quickly. Do not waste your time; start slow and build up on your listening skills.
One great way to keep track of your English level is by learning with FluentU. FluentU takes real-world videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized language learning lessons. It’s great for using alongside audio tools!
Here’s just a glimpse at the thousands of real English videos that are available on FluentU. The videos are conveniently categorized by level (there are six levels from beginner to advanced).
If you want to watch it, FluentU’s probably got it.
FluentU makes it simple to watch native English videos. It has interactive captions. Tap on any word to see an image, definition and useful examples.
FluentU lets you learn engaging content with world famous celebrities.
For example, tap on the word “brought,” and you would see this:
Videos become English lessons. With FluentU’s questions, you can always see more examples for the word you’re learning.
FluentU helps you learn fast with useful questions and multiple examples. Learn more.
All the while, FluentU keeps track of your progress for you. It knows the vocabulary that you’re learning and recommends examples and videos based on those words. You have a 100% personalized experience.
You can start using FluentU on the website with your computer or tablet or, better yet, download the FluentU app from the iTunes or Google Play stores.
- It is also very important to have fun with audio. The readings of Shakespeare may be great practice for you as an advanced English speaker, but if you do not like poetry, you will probably not enjoy it that much. Choose an audiobook that you love or that interests you. Start on a new radio show. As long as you enjoy your learning, it will be beneficial to you.
- Here’s a more practical tip: choose comfortable headphones or earbuds for your audio English practice. There are two reasons for this: first, if you listen to audio in a public space, it is a considerate (polite) thing to do to respect other people and not force them to listen to your language lessons, too. Second, you may be listening (and wearing headphones) for long periods of time, so your head and ears should be comfortable while you do that!
Below, you will find a lot of ideas to learn English with audio, which you could choose based on your language level.
Remember that while some English audio tools are appropriate for more advanced learners, you can always adapt the tool you like to your study plan by choosing less advanced topics and content.
Plus, even the beginner-level content can remain helpful as you get more advanced—you will find the courses targeting pronunciation and accent particularly valuable.
Read on!
English Language Audio Courses
Audio courses you can find on CDs or online may be perfect for you if you are just starting to learn English.
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In addition to giving you a good foundation in listening, you will also hear correct pronunciation (most likely with a British or American accent), grammar rules and vocabulary on certain topics. These English audio courses are great to listening to while driving or sitting on public transit.
“Complete English as a Foreign Language” by Teach Yourself
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The Teach Yourself series offers excellent introductory courses for many languages, including English. This course focuses on fun and interactive exercises based on different topics, so you can quickly improve many areas of your English.
There is a textbook that comes with the audio guide, but you do not have to have both to start learning.
Pimsleur English
Pimsleur English courses are different, because they consider your native language when teaching English to you. For example, there is English for Spanish Speakers, English for Mandarin Speakers, English for French Speakers and many more course options.
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Because every language has its peculiarities (parts that are strange or different), Pimsleur focuses on the most common problems English learners from different countries face. Each course is audio only. And you can try a free English lesson on their website!
Specialized English Language Audio Courses
English audio courses that focus on specific areas of interest are great for beginners, too. For example, if it is important to you to develop the perfect English accent, an audio course is the best way to do it.
“English Pronunciation in Use: Elementary”
This is actually a textbook, but it comes with five CDs that you will be using the most. It is a great self-study course aimed at beginner learners who want to speak with a British accent.
“American Accent Training with 5 Audio CDs”
This is an audio and book course that will help you learn to speak with a proper American accent. Its complete focus is on pronunciation, including vowels, consonants and diphthongs (two vowels together that make one sound), so you are guaranteed to speak like an American once you finish it!
Children’s Audiobooks in English
Children’s books are great for learning English because of their simplicity and focus on easy vocabulary. You can start with the simplest audiobooks of nursery rhymes, fairy tales and even ABCs.
These make for fun and easy audio exercises that you can listen to when you are tired or don’t have much time to practice listening.
“Dr. Seuss’s ABC”
In this English audiobook, the famous children’s author Dr. Seuss presents the letters and the sounds of the English alphabet. It is a great start for elementary English learners!
“Treasury of Nursery Rhymes”
“Treasury of Nursery Rhymes” by Lucy Cousins is a collection of well-known nursery rhymes that come with a beautifully illustrated book. When your English improves, you should definitely keep this one for your bookshelf!
Podcasts for English Learning
Podcasts are daily, weekly or monthly audio programs that you can subscribe to, either for free or for a small fee. Then you download to your computer, phone or tablet. Podcasts cover so many different topics and come in so many forms, you are bound to find something that interests you! News, sports, analytical programs, interviews, pop culture—podcasts have it all.
Keep in mind that some podcasts may be above your English level. Choose those that are not only interesting, but that you can understand as well. Some good resources to find podcasts are:
EnglishClass101
One of the most popular podcast programs for English learners is EnglishClass101 by Innovative Language. It has over 1,500 video and audio lessons to teach you English, in the style of podcasts.
These podcasts also come with interactive learning tools, so that you can practice your English with relevant activities.
Audiobooks for English Learning
When it comes to English audiobooks, you may want to start with genres that have easier vocabulary and grammar, such as young adult and adventure fiction.
As you get more advanced, you may enjoy listening to the readings of modern bestselling books, classical English literature and even non-fiction, if you want a challenge.
Here are some great places to find English audiobooks that match your learning level:
- Audible, an app that is compatible with (works with) most Android devices, is dedicated to audiobooks (most paid, but some free).
- Apple iBooks has a dedicated audiobooks section, with free and paid choices available as well.
- The New York Times Best Sellers list will give you some ideas, if you would like to listen to popular fiction or the latest in book trends, especially in the USA.
- All-Time 100 Novels is the list by Time of the best English-language novels since 1923. That may be subjective (not the same for everyone), of course, but it offers great suggestions for your next audiobook, especially if you would like to listen to an American classic.
- Your local library may have audiobooks on CDs or available as online downloads for free. Be sure to check it out!
Radio Comedies and Dramas
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The ultimate English listening practice for advanced speakers are definitely radio comedies and dramas. BBC Radio is famous for producing high-quality ones.
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These are just like your favorite TV shows with an interesting plot, engaging characters and witty (clever) dialogue, except they rely only on voices and sounds to tell the story. This is far from easy for an English learner to follow along with, so it will be a great test of your listening skills!
“Wooden Overcoats”
“Wooden Overcoats” is a comedy set on a small island and following the director of a local funeral home and his new employee. Do not be put off by the subject, because the show is funny and clever! It is released in a podcast format and has won multiple comedy awards and nominations.
“Cabin Pressure”
This is one of the best comedies on BBC Radio 4 that follows the adventures of a small airline. There are only four characters (and one of them is voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch). The episodes are each 30 minutes long, so you can listen to one or several at a time.
Using English audio is the perfect way to get English listening practice and become better at understanding English speech, its patterns and even different English accents.
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Depending on the audio tool you choose, you may learn new and exciting vocabulary, practice grammar and improve pronunciation, or just have fun and be entertained while you listen.
Keep in mind that patience is very important when you work with audio, because listening is not easy.
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Your improvement will be gradual—but once you decide to learn English with audio, as long as you listen regularly and are having fun, you will soon see the results.
If you liked this post, something tells me that you'll love FluentU, the best way to learn English with real-world videos.