ESL BESTSELLER
Speak More Natural English with a Book Educators Recommend
Speak English Like an American by Amy Gillett helps you understand and use the expressions Americans say every day. Learn 300+ American English idioms and expressions through lively conversations, clear explanations, cartoons, exercises, and an audio CD.
Discover why educators and English learners recommend this bestselling book for classroom learning and independent study.
Includes: Printed book + audio CD.
Available with explanations in English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, or Japanese.
Used in English learning programs
This book has been used at Yale University, UC Berkeley, Cornell University, Drexel University, and ESL programs in the United States and abroad.
Recommended by Educators. Praised by Readers.
“This book will certainly increase students’ abilities to understand and use idioms and expressions appropriately in an American context.”
— Melinda Cuyul, Northern Arizona University, in TESL-EJ
“A highly recommended self-teaching tool for learning real American English idioms and expressions.”
— Midwest Book Review
“A great source for ESL students like me who want to understand how Americans really speak.”
— H. Lieu
Read more reader reviews
“A remarkable contribution to teaching American English. It helped me sound more natural.”
— M. Hejash
“I learned a lot from Speak English Like an American. It boosted my confidence speaking with natives.”
— M. Cogal
“One of the greatest English books I ever studied. Very clear and very helpful.”
— Odna I.
“Perfect for those who want real everyday English. Fun to study!”
— Nelly R.
“My daughter-in-law learned English quickly with this book. Highly recommended.”
— Fred W.
Read the full TESL-EJ review for an educator’s assessment of the book and audio CD.
Check out a sample before you choose
Preview the all-English edition, or explore samples from the Spanish, Chinese, Russian, and Japanese editions below.
Preview the All-English Edition (PDF) →What you’ll practice
Everyday American expressions
Learn more than 300 idioms and expressions, with clear explanations and multiple usage examples.
Conversations in context
Follow 25 dialogues, explore cartoons illustrating the expressions, and reinforce your learning with dozens of exercises.
Listening and speaking
Use the included audio CD to practice listening. Repeat useful phrases aloud, then listen again for rhythm and intonation.
Find the edition that suits you
The all-English edition explains expressions in English. The other editions include explanations in Spanish, Chinese, Russian, or Japanese. Select a cover or sample link to preview that edition.
Ready to order? Return to the purchase options ↑ Choose your edition using the language selector above, then add the book to your cart. The PDF links are previews.
Watch Lesson 1
Preview a dialogue and see the expressions used in context.
Other formats
The printed book and audio CD are available directly from our website using the product options above. If you prefer a digital format, explore the separate options below.
View the Audible audiobook on Amazon. The audiobook is purchased separately and does not include the printed book.
Frequently asked questions
What level is this book for?
It is especially useful for intermediate to advanced learners. Beginners can preview the sample pages to see whether the dialogues suit their current level.
Which language edition should I choose?
Choose the all-English edition if you prefer explanations in English. Choose a Spanish, Chinese, Russian, or Japanese edition if explanations in that language would help you. Preview the sample PDF, then select the matching edition in the product options above.
Will it help me sound more natural?
It teaches expressions used in American English and shows how they fit into conversations. Practice can help you recognize them and become more comfortable using them yourself.
Can I use it for self-study?
Yes. Read a dialogue, review the expressions, complete the exercises, and listen to the audio. The material can also support classroom learning and tutoring.
What audio is included in the physical edition?
The book comes with an audio CD for listening and speaking practice. You will need a CD player or a computer with a compatible CD drive.
Meet the author: Amy Gillett
Amy Gillett has taught English and Business English in the United States and Europe. Her books help English learners explore American idioms through dialogues, explanations, and practical exercises.
Speak English Like an American has been used at Yale University, UC Berkeley, Cornell University, Drexel University, and ESL programs in the United States and abroad.
Ready for more expressions?
Continue your practice with More Speak English Like an American, featuring additional American expressions, dialogues, and exercises.
Browse the Series →Looking for free lessons? Explore Our Conversational English Guide →
