Lesson 2. Explicando lo que lees y por qué

  • literature

  • historical fiction

  • crime

  • romance

  • trashy

  • murder mystery

  • scary story

What people read

There are many popular genres, or types, of fiction. Here are some examples:

  • historical fiction

  • satire

  • fantasy

  • crime

  • graphic novels

The opposite of fiction is nonfiction. This category can include books, newspapers, magazines and blogs. Here are some nonfiction genres:

  • business journals

  • trade publications

  • self-help books

  • how-to books


Here are some ways to talk about different literary genres:

  • Some people say crime fiction is trashy. I don't agree. I think it tells us about the society we live in.

  • Historical fiction, if it's well-written, can be absolutely gripping.

  • I'm reading this amazing political satire. It's very smart and sophisticated.

  • Not all graphic novels are for kids. Some of the drawings can be gritty and realistic.


Paired comparatives

You can use a pair of comparatives to express how two related things change. Put the in front of both comparatives.

  • The sooner I read this how-to book, the easier it'll be for me to fix the sink.

  • The more dangerous things get, the more courageous the hero gets.

  • The longer you wait, the less likely it is you'll read that journal.

There are also some idioms that use paired comparatives. Here are two examples:

  • A: Should I send you a link to that business blog?
    B: Absolutely. The sooner, the better!

  • A: Is it okay if I bring my brother to your party?
    B: Sure. The more, the merrier.

  • I don’t read because…

  • Show off how much they know.

  • Reading’s my escape.

  • I love getting lost in a good story.

  • getting so pulled in

  • I'll read anything if it hooks me.

  • I'll be home alone.

  • I'll curl up on the sofa.

  • If it's raining outside, even better.

Talking about your reading preferences

Use expressions like these to explain how you find reading relaxing or engrossing:

  • For me, reading is an escape.

  • Personally, I love getting lost in a good historical fiction.

  • The story has to pull me in, or I'll stop reading.

  • Sometimes I get hooked on a graphic novel, and I can't put it down till I've finished it.

Use expressions like these to talk about reading for news or information:

  • I read The Economy to keep on top of business news.

  • It helps me stay current on developments in the industry.

  • Computing Today is a rich source of information.

You can use will + verb to explain when and how you habitually do something.

  • I'll turn on my tablet, turn out the lights and read in bed until I fall asleep.

  • Whenever I find time, I'll get a blanket, curl up on the couch and just read.

  • Every morning, my kids will grab a bowl of cereal and read graphic novels at the table.



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