Review by FaruqAhmad -- Compelling American Conversations
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Review by FaruqAhmad -- Compelling American Conversations

4 out of 4 stars
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Compelling American Conversations: Questions and Quotations from Intermediate American English Language Learners, by Roth, Aberson and Bogotch tutors the reader on the proper usage of American English. It covers a large scope of human life with respect to America. They discuss activities that are directly related to human daily life.
The book contains discussions that are so relevant to the title. 'Compelling American Conversations', yes, they are compelling indeed. This is because all the topics span across all walks of life which is inevitable. Moreover, everything is based on American culture and values.
In as much as we must accept that English is already part of life anywhere in today's world, we must also agree that the topics discussed in the book are American oriented, except for some proverbs. Therefore, the significance of English language in everyday life does the work important not only to that American guy you know but to other people outside America, perhaps Africa.
The book's recommendation of online resources in every chapter will be sincerely appreciated by any rational mind seeking a good understanding and mastery of the language. This clearly corroborates the contemporary posture of the work. The use of the internet to aid understands explains more. Without the internet, our world is incomplete. Eric Roth is a recipient of USC Centre for Scholarly Technology Award, little wonder why the book is technologically advanced.
Similarly, the work employs an interpersonal communication method to enhance the understanding of anyone reading between the lines. Group discussions are always the best way to quickly grasp an idea, especially in schools. Toni Aberson on his part believes that "if people are thinking, sharing and laughing, then they are learning. I agree with this view.
The register of each chapter is also another educational experience a reader stands to gain from the work. Just like the entire book, each vocabulary building section employs easy and comprehensive words.
Secondly, the organisation and outline of the book are what a careful reader will never fail to notice. All three authors have a vast experience in the educational field. Their many years of teaching experience is clearly displayed. Little wonder why the book is divided into chapters, and even within the various chapters, there are intervals which will enable students, for instance, practice what was earlier learnt. These exercises will no doubt carry everyone along. Fast and slow learners alike. The last part of every chapter - search and share is fun and exciting. You will learn and catch fun.
What I like most about the book are the proverbs and various quotations from men of great honour and prestige.
My favourite proverbs are: "in God we trust, but all others pay cash", and the one which says: "good teams become great ones when the members trust each other to surrender me for the we."
What I dislike about the book is this: all the proverbs and quotes are American and sometimes European based, with a few from Asia and none from Africa. And Africa, as we are all aware, is home to thoughtful proverbs. The book should carry everyone along.
I implore the authors to come up with a universal copy that will be named COMPELLING ENGLISH CONVERSATIONS AROUND THE WORLD.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars because of its contemporary nature, and because I did not find an error in it, not even a single typo. This may not be unconnected with the vast experience of the authors in this field. I recommend this book to all English students especially Americans and strangers visiting for the first time.
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Compelling American Conversations
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