Introduction

As an avid reader, I love collecting book recommendations so that I always have something new to explore on Goodreads. Some of my favorite suggestions come from friends and family, but as a tutor running a book club for adult intermediate English learners, I’m constantly on the lookout for books that are not only interesting but also manageable for this level.

If you’re searching for the best books for intermediate English learners, you already know the struggle - many books are either too simple or too challenging. Well, I’ve done the hard work for you and put together a list of engaging, level-appropriate reads that have been well-received by the members of my book club:

1. Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

Set in a cozy little café in Tokyo, this story blends magical realism with heartfelt human emotion. The café offers a unique chance with a catch: visitors can travel back in time but only for the duration of one cup of coffee. The writing is simple and clear, and each chapter tells the story of a different visitor. It’s perfect for intermediate readers because the vocabulary is accessible, the plot is easy to follow, and the emotional themes, such as love, regret, and closure, are relatable. My students especially loved discussing how they’d use a time-travel opportunity themselves.

2. A River in Darkness by Masaji Ishikawa

This true story is about the author’s life in North Korea, from when he was a child in the 1960s until he escaped in the 1990s. The writing is clear and honest, which makes it easier for intermediate English learners to read and understand. Even though the story is emotional and sometimes sad, students thought it was very interesting and learned many new words about family, everyday life, and government. It also led to great conversations about freedom and strength.

3. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon

Narrated by a 15-year-old boy named Christopher, this novel offers a unique perspective through the eyes of someone with autism. The language is clear, sentences are short, and the storytelling structure is very logical, which helps intermediate readers follow the plot more easily. Students appreciated the direct narration and found themselves connecting deeply with the character's emotional journey while also learning more about British culture and idioms.

4. Gently Falls the Bakula by Sudha Murty

This is a beautifully written Indian novel about love, ambition, and personal sacrifice. The language is gentle and descriptive, making it ideal for intermediate learners who want to expand their vocabulary without getting lost in complicated grammar. The story moves at a steady pace, and the cultural context provided plenty of room for discussion. It’s a great pick for learners interested in themes of marriage, gender roles, and identity.

5. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

A gothic novel full of mystery and dark charm, this book is told by the quirky and unreliable narrator, Merricat. Although some of the language is slightly more advanced, the book’s short length and captivating plot make it doable for many intermediate readers, especially those who enjoy suspense. My students loved trying to guess what was real and what wasn’t, and the twist ending definitely got people talking!

Conclusion

Finding the best books for intermediate English learners can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be boring or frustrating. These five books have all been tested and loved by students in my book club, offering not just language practice but also meaningful stories that spark conversation and connection.

If you’d like to practice English through reading and discussion, I’d love for you to join our book club! You can learn more information here.

Happy reading, and let me know which book you’ll try first!