If English is not your mother tongue, which English-language author of fiction helped you the most in learning English?

One common challenge for non-native English speakers is to improve their language skills. Fortunately, certain authors have made this journey easier and more enjoyable. For me, three authors stand out: Terry Pratchett, Enid Blyton, and Captain W.E. Johns. Each has played a significant role in enhancing my vocabulary and understanding of the language.

Terry Pratchett: The Humorous Journey to English Mastery

Terry Pratchett is one of the most influential authors for me when it comes to learning English as a second language. I first discovered his books in the eleventh grade, when I was 16 or 17 years old. Our English teacher attempted to use Moving Pictures in our curriculum, but found it too challenging for us. Only a few weeks into the lesson, he decided to give up. However, I was intrigued and asked to borrow the book.

I began to slowly delve into the text, making a point to look up every unfamiliar word, while also trying to keep track of the plot. Many of the references and jokes were too advanced for me at the time, but the story became clearer as I reread it. Over time, my understanding improved significantly. I even managed to finish it on my own and reread it multiple times. Eventually, the book became one of my favorites, and I purchased and read most of his works. To this day, I still consider Terry Pratchett my favorite English-language writer. His works not only helped me expand my vocabulary but also provided a humorous and engaging way to learn.

Enid Blyton: The Early Influence of Fiction

While Enid Blyton is not as well-known for her impact on my English learning journey, her Secret Seven books were a pivotal part of my early reading experience. I discovered these stories before moving on to other authors. Some 1920s detective stories, such as those featuring Inspector Cardby of Scotland Yard, were also part of my reading collection. Although these stories were too scary for my taste, they introduced me to a different aspect of English literature.

Captain W.E. Johns: The Thrilling Adventures of Biggles

Without a doubt, Captain W.E. Johns and his book series, the Biggles books, were the most exciting and educational when it came to learning English. Biggles, the protagonist, began his career as a pilot in World War I, later becoming an actor, and then heading the fictitious Flying Police Section of Scotland Yard. He and his friends, Algy Ginger and Bertie, went on thrilling adventures that often resembled those of Indiana Jones, but with aircraft, flying jackets, treasure hunts, and Cold War conflicts around the globe.

Reading Biggles was a constant source of excitement, and I didn’t even have a television growing up because my parents believed it was a waste of time! Without it, I was immersed in the joy and adventure of Biggles books. John wrote over 80 Biggles books, and I read and owned around 60 of them. Even now, my daughter, who is in her 30s, still picks up a Biggles book when she visits. However, my sons never developed an interest in this series.

My Vocabulary and Understanding

Between Terry Pratchett, Enid Blyton, and Captain W.E. Johns, my vocabulary absolutely exploded during my last two years of high school. In twelfth grade, several of my classmates who had studied in the US returned and found that I could still keep up with them. In fact, I often left most of my classmates in the dust when it came to our English lessons.

These authors not only helped me improve my vocabulary and comprehension but also provided an engaging and enjoyable way to learn. Each author contributed to my overall understanding of the English language in unique ways, and I am grateful for their impact on my development as a non-native English speaker.