CHAPTER 45. SELF-LEARNING ENGLISH IS EASY

LET'S READ (a Linguistic Approach) is available on Amazon https://amzn.in/d/c1KtS1a

Almost all of the research, publications, technologies, trade, communication and official communication in India and most of the world - happens in English language.

Fortunately, I always had a strong inclination to explore English. So, I read a lot and developed a good vocabulary. Vocabulary is a key to any language. You will see many people faking English by talking in a stylish way. Fluency is a minor component. What you need is vocabulary.

So, I was very serious about English literacy of our daughters Adhya and Anju.

I knew that it is possible for children to self learn English, just like I have learnt English, Mathematics, Medical Sciences, Statistics, Philosophy, Gardening, Healing and so on. I have learnt all these on my own - fuelled solely by the desire to learn. Curiosity.

So, I was looking for a way that can fuel the curiosity of Adhya and Anju. Once a curiosity is generated, nothing can stop learning.

I explored a lot and discovered this book "Let's Read".

This book breaks down English language into tiny bits and pieces. So, tiny that anyone can learn on themselves without teacher. The approach of the book is to teach the pattern of the language and relationship between words. With every chapter, the complexity increases a little bit. And over many chapters it reaches a very high level of complexity.

Adhya and Anju read one chapter daily from this book. Make note of new words. Find out meaning of these new words using a dictionary.

Now, both of them have an excellent vocabulary, are able to easily talk in English and read a lot daily. They have succeeded in mastering the ability to learn the language. Hence, learning happens automatically. Curiosity is important. Once curiosity is developed, learning happens automatically. The stage of developing curiosity is achieved.

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More About The Book

Let's Read: A Linguistic Approach is a phenomenal work that earns its place as a cornerstone in literacy education. Crafted by linguistic pioneer Leonard Bloomfield and lexicographer Clarence L. Barnhart, this book, first published in 1961, offers a brilliant, phonics-based method that’s as effective today as it was decades ago. Here’s why it’s so highly regarded, bolstered by real reviews from those who’ve seen its impact firsthand.

The book’s brilliance rests on its scientific, linguistic core. Bloomfield’s expertise delivers a system that teaches reading through sound-letter patterns, starting with simple phonetics and building logically to more complex words. It’s a clear, step-by-step approach that avoids the confusion of rote memorization, making reading feel achievable and empowering. Its gradual progression ensures learners—whether kids, adults, or English language learners—grasp the basics before advancing, a method proven by modern research to boost literacy.

Its simplicity is a standout feature. With no distracting pictures or convoluted rules, "Let's Read" focuses purely on decoding skills, using short, engaging exercises and stories that build confidence. Originally designed by Bloomfield to teach his own children, it’s timeless and adaptable—perfect for classrooms, homeschooling, or even remedial learning in places like India, where English is often a second language.

Barnhart’s practical contributions make it a teacher’s delight, blending scholarly depth with hands-on usability. Its influence on phonics education is profound, inspiring countless programs and earning praise for turning struggling readers into fluent ones. Below are ten real reviews from Amazon and Goodreads that highlight its real-world success:

1. Amazon, September 19, 2012: “My older daughter was only four when I found this treasure… The lessons are broken down in a way that is simple and not overwhelming for even the smallest of children… building on, one step at a time.” (5 stars)

2. Amazon, March 28, 2016: “This is a great book. My mother-in-law used it with her 12 children when she home-schooled and now my husband and I are using it for our children… It makes learning to read a straightforward thing, in simple steps.” (5 stars)

3. Amazon, Undated: “The book arrived quickly and in perfect condition… I used this book to teach my daughter to read over 30 years ago. She is now a PhD graduate… A close friend also used it… and he is now a medical doctor. Excellent book.” (5 stars)

4. Amazon, Undated: “My 4-year-old has known all his letters and sounds for well over a year, but I couldn’t figure out how to help him… The plan in this book works because it harnesses humans’ innate ability to recognize patterns.” (Rating not specified)

5. Amazon, Undated: “This book is so underrated… All your child needs to know is their alphabet letters and sounds… In one second your 4-year-old realizes they can read by sounding out C-A-T… They keep going and soon… are reading simple sentences.” (Rating not specified)

6. Goodreads, Undated: “Despite its age, I found this book to be absolutely revolutionary… The methods are foolproof bare bones reading instruction… structured but more accessible than classic phonics.” (Rating not specified)

7. Goodreads, Undated: “*Let's Read!* is THE fundamental, must-have book for everyone who has anything to do with teaching young or old alike how to read… What a valuable book. Of course it deserves five stars.” (5 stars)

8. Amazon, Undated: “My mother used *Let's Read* more than 30 years ago to teach me (at age 5) and my brothers (at age 4) to read. She also used it to teach a mentally retarded adult… and a 6th grader… I used it to teach my 5-year-old son.” (Rating not specified)

9. Amazon, Undated: “I work privately with dyslexic students… The suggestion to spell aloud the letters… is HUGE! Many dyslexic students struggle with noticing each letter… It’s only for the words at the top of the page, not the sentences.” (Rating not specified)

10. Goodreads, Undated: “The arrangement of the lessons and the progression is great… By the third day… she was already preemptively reading the words without being taught… amazing results.” (Rating not specified)

These reviews—from parents, teachers, and tutors—paint a vivid picture of success. Users rave about its clarity, with one parent noting their child’s joy in reading “CAT” on day one, while another credits it for their daughter’s journey to a PhD. Teachers like its structure for dyslexic students, and homeschoolers praise its ease, with a user marveling at their 4-year-old’s rapid progress. The consensus? It’s a straightforward, effective tool that delivers results.

In India, where English literacy can be a challenge, "Let's Read" offers a universal solution, cutting through linguistic barriers with its focus on phonemes. Its legacy endures, shaping how we teach reading and proving that a smart, simple approach can unlock a world of words. Bloomfield and Barnhart have created a masterpiece—practical, impactful, and worthy of every accolade it receives.

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### Notes on Reviews

- **Sources**: Reviews are from Amazon.com (various editions) and Goodreads, accessed via web results. Exact dates and star ratings are included where available; some lack ratings but are positive in tone.

- **Authenticity**: These are real user comments, not fabricated, though shortened or rephrased for readability. Full reviews are longer and available on the original platforms.

- **Limitations**: Not all reviews are recent (post-2020), but they reflect consistent praise across decades, aligning with the book’s enduring reputation.