Talk Icon

Practice 100+ speaking topics!

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

Get App

leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu
cue_card_backround_image_mobile

IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe Your Favourite Book: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Nov 12, 2024, 08:50

Overview

In your IELTS Speaking test, a cue card serves as a prompt designed to elicit spontaneous discussion on a specific topic. Today, we're focusing on the cue card topic ‘Describe Your Favourite Book.’ This task encourages you to share a book that holds personal significance to you, whether it's a novel, biography, or any other genre that has left a lasting impression.
 

The cue card assesses your ability to communicate fluently and coherently about a familiar topic. It prompts you to provide detailed descriptions, express opinions, and narrate experiences related to the book you cherish. By discussing your favourite book, you can showcase your vocabulary, storytelling skills, and ability to engage your listener.
 

Throughout this page, we'll present sample answers to help you structure your response effectively and convey your enthusiasm for your favourite book.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe Your Favourite Book

You should say

  • What book is it?
  • Who wrote this book?
  • What is it about?
  • Explain why this is your favourite book.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: What book is it?)

 

  • The book I cherish most is 1984 by George Orwell. It is a story set in a future where a powerful government controls everything.
  • Since its publication in 1949, Orwell's book has made readers think deeply about how governments can restrict personal freedoms.
  • '1984' talks about surveillance, lies, and how powerful leaders can control people's thoughts and actions.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who wrote this book?)

 

  • The main character, Winston Smith, is a man who doesn't like living in a society where everything he does is watched by the government.
  • Personally, this book made me think a lot about how important it is to have privacy and truth in our lives.
  • Orwell writes in a way that makes you feel like you're right there with Winston, feeling scared and wanting to change things.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it about?)

 

  • Winston Smith's story shows how one can fight against a government controlling every part of life.
  • Orwell's ideas about government spying and controlling what people know are still important today, even with new technology.
  • The book makes you think about truth, power, and how much freedom we should have in our lives.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why this is your favourite book)

 

  • '1984' is a book that makes you think about how governments can take away our rights if we're not careful.
  • Orwell's warning about governments having too much power is still important today.
  • I recommend '1984' to anyone who wants to read a book that makes you question the world we live in and the power we give to leaders.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: What book is it?)

 

  • One of my favourite books is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, a classic novel that explores themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations in 19th-century England.
  • Austen's novel has remained popular since its publication in 1813, and it is known for its witty portrayal of characters and insightful commentary on social norms.
  • 'Pride and Prejudice' continues to captivate readers with its timeless depiction of relationships and human nature.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who wrote this book?)
 

  • The protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, is a spirited young woman navigating the complexities of love and societal pressure.
  • Personally, I admire Austen's ability to blend humour with social commentary, offering profound insights into the challenges faced by women in her era.
  • Austen's writing style is elegant yet accessible, drawing readers into the world of the Bennet family and their quest for happiness.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it about?)

 

  • The novel's exploration of class distinctions and the impact of first impressions remains relevant today.
  • Characters like the proud Mr. Darcy and the lively Elizabeth Bennet are memorable for their growth and complexity throughout the story.
  • Austen's keen observation of human behaviour and her critique of superficiality make 'Pride and Prejudice’ a compelling read for all ages.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why this is your favourite book)

 

  • 'Pride and Prejudice' is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers for its wit, charm, and insightful portrayal of love and society.
  • Austen's exploration of relationships and personal growth makes the novel relevant across different cultures and generations.
  • I highly recommend 'Pride and Prejudice' to anyone seeking a delightful literary experience celebrating human relationships' complexities.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: What book is it?)

 

  • One of my favourite books is 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, a captivating novel that blends adventure, philosophy, and spirituality.
  • Coelho's book has gained international acclaim since its publication in 1988, celebrated for its profound themes and inspiring narrative.
  • 'The Alchemist' continues to enchant readers with its exploration of dreams, destiny, and the search for meaning in life.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who wrote this book?)

 

  • Paulo Coelho, a Brazilian author known for his insightful storytelling and philosophical insights, wrote 'The Alchemist.'
  • Personally, I admire Coelho's ability to weave profound wisdom into a compelling story, making readers reflect on their own life journeys.
  • Coelho's writing style is lyrical and thought-provoking, drawing readers into the mystical journey of Santiago, the protagonist.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it about?)

 

  • The novel follows Santiago, a young shepherd who embarks on a quest to find his personal legend, encountering spiritual truths and life lessons along the way.
  • Themes of courage, perseverance, and the importance of listening to one's heart are central to the narrative.
  • Coelho's exploration of the interconnectedness of all things and the transformative power of pursuing one's dreams resonates deeply with readers.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why this is your favourite book)

 

  • 'The Alchemist' is my favourite book because it inspires me to pursue my dreams relentlessly and listen to my inner voice.
  • Coelho's message about the universality of human aspirations and the transformative journey of self-discovery is timeless.
  • I recommend 'The Alchemist' to anyone seeking a captivating story that ignites the spirit and encourages reflection on life's purpose and possibilities.

Understanding how to answer the cue card topic ‘Describe Your Favourite Book’ effectively will significantly benefit you in the IELTS Speaking test. When the cue card section begins, the examiner will provide you with a prompt card containing the topic ‘Describe Your Favourite Book.’ They will allow you one minute to prepare your response before you start speaking.

 

Here’s how you should frame your answers for the above sections: 

 

Introduction (Covers: What book is it?)

 

  • Begin by introducing the title and author of your favourite book.
  • Briefly explain when and where you first encountered this book.
  • Mention why this particular book is special to you or why it has remained your favourite over time.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: Who wrote this book?)

 

  • Describe your personal connection with the book. For example, discuss why you find it captivating or how it resonates with you.
  • Share your opinion about the book's themes, characters, or storyline.
  • Discuss what interests you most about the book and why it stands out among others you've read.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it about?)

 

  • Highlight key aspects of the book, such as the plot, characters, setting, and any memorable moments.
  • Provide specific examples or quotes from the book to illustrate its impact on you.
  • Explain how the book has influenced your views or inspired you.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain why this is your favourite book)

 

  • Conclude by summarising why this book remains your favourite.
  • Reflect briefly on how reading this book has enriched your understanding or perspective.
  • End with a final thought or recommendation for others who might be interested in reading it.

 

By structuring your response into these sections, you can effectively utilise the two minutes provided for the cue card task in the IELTS Speaking test. This approach ensures that you cover all aspects of the topic coherently and showcase your language skills and ability to express ideas clearly under timed conditions.

Follow-Up Questions

After discussing your favourite book in Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test, you'll enter Part 3, where the examiner will ask you further questions related to the topic. 
 

This part allows you to expand on your ideas and opinions about books in general. It's an opportunity to delve deeper into the themes, characters, and broader implications of literature. This segment typically lasts for 4-5 minutes and encourages you to express your thoughts in more detail.

 

Q1. What is your favourite book of all time?

Answer 1: My all-time favourite book is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. It's a powerful exploration of racial injustice and moral integrity in 1930s America, told through the eyes of Scout Finch. The novel's timeless themes of empathy and courage continue to resonate deeply with readers worldwide.

 

Answer 2: I would say The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Its depiction of the Jazz Age and the American Dream is both captivating and thought-provoking. Fitzgerald's lyrical prose and vivid characters make this novel a literary classic that explores the illusions of wealth and love.

Q2. What is the first book you remember reading?

Answer 1: The first book I remember reading is The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss. Its playful rhymes and imaginative illustrations made a lasting impression on me as a child. This book sparked my love for reading and ignited my imagination from a young age.

 

Answer 2: I vividly recall reading Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling. It ignited my love for fantasy literature and sparked my imagination. Rowling's magical world of Hogwarts and her relatable characters made this book unforgettable.

Q3. What are you reading right now?

Answer 1: Currently, I'm immersed in Becoming by Michelle Obama. Her memoir offers a compelling insight into her journey from childhood to becoming the First Lady of the United States. Obama's candid reflections on life, identity, and public service make this book a captivating read.

 

Answer 2: I'm enjoying Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari, which explores the history of Homo sapiens and the evolution of human societies. Harari's ability to blend anthropology, history, and science into a coherent narrative makes this book both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Q4. Have you read a book more than once? If so, what was the title? How many times have you read it?

Answer 1: Yes, I've read The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger multiple times. Its portrayal of teenage angst and alienation resonates deeply with me, and I've revisited it three times. Salinger's timeless depiction of youthful rebellion continues to captivate readers across generations.

 

Answer 2: I've read Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen several times. Each reading offers new insights into the characters and societal norms of the time, and I've read it four times. Austen's wit and keen observation of human nature make this novel a perennial favourite.

FAQs

Q. How to make notes for cue card IELTS?

Ans. Effective notes for IELTS cue cards involve jotting down key points rather than full sentences. Use keywords or short phrases to outline ideas and structure your response logically. Include prompts that trigger memories about personal experiences or relevant examples. Practice condensing information to ensure clarity during the speaking test.

Q. Is eye contact important in IELTS speaking?

Ans. Yes, maintaining good eye contact is crucial in the IELTS Speaking test. It shows confidence, engagement, and connection with the examiner. Balanced eye contact enhances delivery and conveys sincerity and clarity in responses. Avoid staring intensely; instead, vary eye contact naturally to maintain rapport and show attentiveness.

Q. What are common mistakes in IELTS speaking?

Ans. Common mistakes include excessive hesitations, repetitive language, or speaking too fast or slow. Fluency, coherence, and grammatical accuracy issues also impact scores. Regular practice improves pronunciation, intonation, and vocabulary use. Addressing these areas enhances performance and confidence during the test.

ielts logo

Get the IELTS Prep App

Star rating icon

4.2

1M+ Installs

app download banner image

Get the app link on your phone

+91

Or download app from

google play storeapp store

IELTS Important Information

Read More about IELTS Practice Test

IELTS Accepting Universities

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

IELTS Accepting Countries

Top Speaking Sample with Answers