Real Talk #60 – How to ask for a recommendation at a bookstore
Nov 3, 2023
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In this podcast, Andrew and Kassy discuss how to ask for book recommendations at a library or bookstore. They provide useful expressions and vocabulary for this situation and share interesting facts about reading habits throughout history. They also explore the importance of finished trilogies, world building in fantasy novels, and polite responses to recommendations. Additionally, they discuss reading preferences and ways to express interest in books.
Being open to trying new genres or authors is important when asking for book recommendations at a bookstore or library.
Considering recommendations beyond one's usual preferences and being up for a challenge can lead to discovering engaging reads and expanding one's literary horizons.
Deep dives
Asking for Book Recommendations
In this episode of the QLIP's English podcast, Andrew and Cassie discuss how to ask for book recommendations at a bookstore or library. They emphasize the importance of being open to trying new genres or authors and provide useful phrases like 'Can you recommend something?' and 'I'm open to anything.' The hosts also highlight the significance of the New York Times bestseller list and lesser-known authors, explaining that a book being part of a finished trilogy indicates a complete series. They mention the importance of world-building and character development in fantasy novels and encourage listeners to check out recommended books that are described as 'page-turners' and included in personal top-reads lists.
Recommending Nonfiction Books
When the bookstore employee asks if the customer enjoys nonfiction, the customer replies that it wouldn't be their first choice. This leads to a conversation about being open to nonfiction books based on the topic catching one's interest. The employee recommends a book titled 'Entangled Life' by Merlin Sheldrake, describing it as an engaging read that feels like a fiction novel. The employee adds that it was one of their top five reads of the year, prompting the customer to express interest in picking up the recommended book. The importance of being up for a challenge and considering recommendations beyond one's usual preferences is emphasized in this conversation.
Valuable Phrases and Conversational Tips
Throughout the episode, there are several phrases and conversational tips shared. These include expressions such as 'Can you recommend something?', 'I'll definitely check those out', 'It wouldn't be my first choice', 'If the topic catches my interest', and 'I'm up for it'. The hosts also touch on the role of personal recommendations from friends and the benefits of exploring different genres and authors. The conversation provides insights into how to engage in natural discussions with bookstore employees, friends, or coworkers when seeking book recommendations.
Are you a bookworm? Do you enjoy reading books? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss how to ask for a book recommendation at a library or a bookstore. They teach you many useful expressions that you can use in this situation and in various other everyday conversations. Make sure to listen to this lesson to improve your vocabulary and boost your speaking confidence!
Fun facts
Did you know that silent reading, which is a common thing today, wasn’t always normal in the history of reading? Back in ancient times, people typically read aloud, and silent reading was considered quite unusual. Traditionally, one reader would read texts out loud to an audience, because not many people could read, and books were rare as well. It’s fascinating how our reading habits have evolved over time!
Expressions included in the study guide
Can you recommend something?
I’m open to anything
To check something out
It wouldn’t be my first choice
To catch [one’s] interest
To be up for [something]
One of my top [number] reads
You won’t regret it
Copyright: Culips.com
For more information about this episode, visit culips.com.
Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free
Image: Tima Miroshnichenko (Pexels.com)
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