IELTS Speaking Part 2 Question:
Describe a book that you recently read. You should say:
- what the book is about
- who the author is
- what you thought of the book
- and why you would recommend it to others.
Answer #1
One book that I recently read is "The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett. The book is about twin sisters, Desiree and Stella, who grow up in a small black community in Louisiana. The sisters run away from home at a young age, but their paths diverge when Stella decides to pass as white and starts a new life with her white husband. I thought the book was incredibly well-written and thought-provoking. The story explores themes of race, identity, and family in a nuanced and compassionate way. The characters are complex and fully realized, and I found myself rooting for them even when they made difficult choices. I would highly recommend "The Vanishing Half" to others because it is a compelling and timely story that raises important questions about the nature of identity and belonging. The book challenges readers to think critically about race and privilege and to consider the ways in which our past shapes our present.
Answer #2
One book that I recently read is "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah. The book is about two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who live in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. The sisters are forced to confront their own fears and prejudices as they fight to survive and resist the Nazi regime. I thought the book was incredibly moving and beautifully written. The story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and the characters are richly drawn and deeply sympathetic. The historical details are meticulously researched, and the book offers a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who fought against oppression during the war. I would recommend "The Nightingale" to others because it is a powerful and emotional story that explores themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity. The book is a testament to the human spirit and a celebration of the power of hope and determination.
Answer #3
One book that I recently read is "The Water Dancer" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. The book is about a young man named Hiram who is born into slavery on a plantation in Virginia. Hiram possesses a mysterious power that allows him to transport people across great distances, and he uses this power to help others escape slavery. I thought the book was an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice. The story is both imaginative and grounded in historical reality, and the characters are complex and fully realized. I would recommend "The Water Dancer" to others because it is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the history of slavery in America. The book challenges readers to consider the ongoing impact of slavery on American society and to reflect on the role that we all play in creating a more just and equitable future.
Answer #4
One book that I recently read is "The Girl with the Louding Voice" by Abi Daré. The book is about a young Nigerian girl named Adunni who dreams of getting an education and becoming a teacher. Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks, Adunni refuses to give up on her dreams and fights for her own voice and agency. I thought the book was an incredibly inspiring and uplifting story that celebrates the resilience and courage of young women. The writing is powerful and evocative, and the characters are vivid and memorable. I would recommend "The Girl with the Louding Voice" to others because it is a timely and important story that shines a light on the ongoing struggles for girls' education and empowerment in many parts of the world. The book offers a powerful message of hope and resilience and encourages readers to reflect on their own values and priorities.
Answer #5
One book that I recently read is "The Dutch House" by Ann Patchett. The book is about a brother and sister, Danny and Maeve, who grow up in a beautiful but unconventional house in suburban Philadelphia. When their father unexpectedly abandons the family, they are forced to confront their past and the secrets that have shaped their lives. I thought the book was an incredibly engaging and thought-provoking exploration of family, memory, and identity. The writing is beautiful and evocative, and the characters are complex and fully realized. I found myself deeply invested in Danny and Maeve's story and rooting for them even when their choices were difficult and painful. I would recommend "The Dutch House" to others because it is a compelling and beautifully written story that explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness in a deeply human and relatable way. The book offers a powerful reminder of the ways in which our past shapes our present and the importance of family and connection in our lives.
