
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- reckoning /REK-uh-ning/
[noun] – a moment of facing consequences or truth
Institutions faced a public reckoning after the report. - catalyst /KAT-l-ist/
[noun] – something that causes change
The book became a catalyst for renewed discussion. - enduring /enduring /en-DUR-ing//
[adjective] – lasting for a long time
The issue has enduring relevance worldwide. - credibility /kred-uh-BIL-i-tee/
[noun] – quality of being trusted
The case raised questions about institutional credibility. - significance /sig-NIF-i-kuhns/
[noun] – importance
The memoir holds historical significance.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
A newly released memoir reached one million copies sold worldwide within two months, according to its publisher. The book was released in early October and quickly expanded beyond its initial print run as demand increased across major markets. More than half of total sales came from North America, indicating sustained reader interest in nonfiction works that address leadership, accountability, and institutional responsibility. Publishing analysts described the performance as commercially exceptional for a memoir, particularly one centered on personal experience and public reflection rather than entertainment or celebrity culture.
Industry observers stated that the book’s success contributed to a broader reckoning in how organizations respond to criticism and public expectations. Advocacy groups described the memoir as a catalyst for discussion about transparency and ethical decision-making in modern institutions. Analysts added that the sustained attention demonstrates the enduring value of firsthand narratives in shaping public understanding of complex social systems. Observers also noted that institutions increasingly face questions of credibility when responding to public concern, especially in environments shaped by rapid information sharing. The publisher emphasized that reader engagement reflects the book’s significance beyond commercial achievement, positioning the memoir as part of a wider conversation about trust, responsibility, and leadership standards in contemporary society. Experts noted that the memoir’s reception highlights how nonfiction publishing continues to influence dialogue across sectors, encouraging reflection and reform.
Industry observers stated that the book’s success contributed to a broader reckoning in how organizations respond to criticism and public expectations. Advocacy groups described the memoir as a catalyst for discussion about transparency and ethical decision-making in modern institutions. Analysts added that the sustained attention demonstrates the enduring value of firsthand narratives in shaping public understanding of complex social systems. Observers also noted that institutions increasingly face questions of credibility when responding to public concern, especially in environments shaped by rapid information sharing. The publisher emphasized that reader engagement reflects the book’s significance beyond commercial achievement, positioning the memoir as part of a wider conversation about trust, responsibility, and leadership standards in contemporary society. Experts noted that the memoir’s reception highlights how nonfiction publishing continues to influence dialogue across sectors, encouraging reflection and reform.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What public controversies have been seen in the community, if any? If so, how were they discussed? If not, why?
- What books influencing public opinion have been seen locally, if any? If so, how? If not, why?
- Should memoirs influence institutional decisions?
- What risks exist when public opinion shapes legal outcomes?
- How should publishers balance storytelling and responsibility?
Summarization:
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- initial
- interest
- commercially
- narrative
- dialogue