Conversation Questions about Literature and Books

Beginner Level Conversations- Series 5- Lesson 9

In this lesson, you learn 10 questions with sample answers for having a normal conversation discussing literature and books. We also have added 10 extra conversation questions if you decide to extend your discussion.

Previous Conversation Lesson

Conversation Questions about Volunteer Work

Practice English Speaking by Talking about Books

Here are some engaging questions with sample answers that delve into various aspects of books and literature.

• What sort of books do you enjoy reading? Why? 

I love reading books that take me to different places and times! I especially like stories about strong women, and books that make me think about the world in new ways.  I enjoy feeling a connection to the characters and their struggles.

• Do you prefer fiction or nonfiction? Why? 

I definitely prefer fiction! It’s like stepping into another world and living a different life for a while. I love getting lost in stories and exploring the characters’ emotions and experiences.

• What is your favorite book? Why do you like it? 

That’s so hard to choose! But right now, I’m really enjoying “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. It’s about a shepherd boy who follows his dreams and finds his own personal legend. It’s a beautiful story about following your heart and believing in yourself.

• Who is your favorite writer? Why do you like him/her? 

I really love Khaled Hosseini. He writes about Afghanistan and its people with so much compassion and understanding. His stories are powerful and heartbreaking, and they make me think about the world in a whole new way.

• Do you like science-fiction books? Why or why not? 

I do like sci-fi, but I prefer stories that are grounded in reality and explore human emotions. I enjoy books that make me think about the future and how technology might change our lives.

• Do you like love/ historical stories? Why or why not? 

I love reading about love! It’s so beautiful to see how people connect and find each other, especially in different historical periods. I also enjoy learning about history through stories.

• Who are the most famous writers in your country?

There are many amazing writers in Iran, but some of the most famous are:  Sadegh Hedayat,  Nima Yooshij,  Forough Farrokhzad, and  Jalal Al-e Ahmad. They have all written beautiful and thought-provoking works that have had a big impact on Iranian literature.

• How do you believe literature can help you to get familiar with a culture?

Literature is like a window into another culture. By reading books from different countries, we can learn about their history, traditions, and values. It helps us understand how people think and feel in different parts of the world.

• What are some of the main differences between a novel and a short story?

A novel is like a long journey, while a short story is a quick stop along the way. Novels are longer and more detailed, exploring many characters and plotlines. Short stories are shorter and more focused, often telling a single story with a few main characters.

• Do you prefer reading books or short stories? Why? 

I like both, but I prefer reading books when I have more time. They let me get really immersed in a story and live in that world for a while. But short stories are perfect for when I just want a quick escape.

Additional questions for conversation

For a longer conversation on literature and books, you can use the below questions.

1. Who is your favorite character from literature? Why?
2. Do you like to write your own short stories? Why or why not?
3. Some people say that “books are best friends”. Is that true for you?
4. Some people don’t read books or read very rarely, Why?
5. Are you selective about authors? Why or why not?
6. What is your favorite “quote”? Why do you like it?
7. What literature course did you like best in college? Why?
8. Why is literature important in our lives? Explain.
9. What kinds of books or which authors don’t you like? Why?
10. Tell us a little about a book you have read recently. Did you enjoy it? How long did it take to read? Briefly, what was the story about?

Next Conversation Lesson

Conversation Questions about Car and Driving

Related Conversation Lessons

None

Practice Conversation with HiCafe App

By using HiCafe App, you can join free discussion events and Practice English Conversation online or in-person and improve your verbal skills.

All Conversation Lessons

To see and read all of our conversation lessons, you can visit our Improve English Speaking Skills page.