Why reading is a must for language learning

November 10, 2023

This is a week of celebration, for the lives of so many incredible authors, who strangely, were born and died on this day.

It was Shakespeare’s 450th anniversary this week. This week it’s also exactly 450 years since he died. It’s the day when Spain’s most famous author Cervantes died. Iceland’s Nobel Winning author Laxness and French writer Druon were born. And it’s the day when William Wordsworth died.

The best ever day for a book

So if you haven’t picked up a book for a while, today would be the perfect day. Another excellent reason is that reading a book in the language you’re learning in has been proven to boost your learning speed and vocabulary.

What would Shakespeare think about reading today?

We think he might be pleased that global literacy is at its highest, 84% (2010, UNESCO). And very surprised at HOW we’re reading.

With eBooks and eReaders, reading anywhere and everywhere is second nature to us now. So why has the simple act of reading the written word on a page endured all this technology? Well, all the writers who were born or died today would be able to tell you.

It’s emotional

Reading a complete novel is about how you feel about the characters, about wanting to find out what happens, about finding something out about yourself or learning something new.

busuu’s top five tips for reading to learn language

So to keep you reading and learning faster, with a richer vocabulary, here are some quick tips.

1. Choose a book that’s not too hard, but not for children
You won’t identify with the stories or characters if the book is for young children, you’ll need to want to read it. We love Harry Potter! You don’t need to understand all the words, you’ll pick them up when you see them in context.

2. Make reading social
Start a book club, share good reads. If you know someone will love a particular character or story, tell them (it will make you look clever too!).

3. Find your favourite writers on social media
We loved reading ‘The Shock of the Fall.’ Then we found it’s author Nathan Filer on Twitter.

4. Read with sound effects and classical scores
Sherlock Holmes, Oscar Wilde, Rudyard Kipling are just a few amazing enhanced eBook experiences to keep you learning.

5. Make digital notes
You can make notes without ruining your books on eReaders. Pick phrases or thoughts that capture your attention. Language idioms or ideas that you want to remember.

Get learning with busuu and share your favourite books with our community!

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