CD included: Listen to real English conversations with foreigners

This book features 20 unscripted talks by speakers from 10 countries, covering topics ranging from "bento" to "space development." By understanding the casual, casual conversations of people from around the world, you'll develop true listening skills necessary for a globalized world!

★ Live English from Multinational Speakers Speakers come from a total of 10 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Italy, and Singapore. You'll develop your ability to understand English spoken in a variety of countries.

★ Unscripted Free Talk to Take You to the Advanced Level This book captures the repetitions and hesitations that are unique to live conversations. The natural, unrestrained English, spoken at a natural speed, will take your listening skills to the advanced level.

★ Learn "Japan as Seen by the World" and "Global Common Sense Unknown to Japanese People" You'll be captivated by the talks about Japan from a foreigner's perspective, including gift-giving culture, pop culture, and Japanese food. By listening to diverse cultures and ways of thinking, you'll develop an international outlook that isn't intimidating even in multicultural settings.

★ Useful conversation techniques for everyday conversations and business. Each talk features three speakers. The conversational techniques unique to multiple speakers, such as bringing up the topic, gently denying, agreeing, and changing the subject, are useful in any situation, from everyday conversations to business. The "Communication Tips" column at the end of each talk offers tips and etiquette for smooth conversation.

This book is a re-edited version of 20 carefully selected articles published in the popular "This Month's Honest Talk" column of ALC's No. 1 correspondence course, "Hearing Marathon," from 2009 to 2013.

Table of Contents Introduction Introduction to the Speakers Featured in this Book Book Structure and How to Use It

Chapter 1: Daily Life 1. Make the Most of Your Time! 2. Convenient!? Online Shopping 3. Japanese Bento Culture and Lunch Situation in Other Countries 4. How to Meet Your Partner 5. Homeownership Around the World

Chapter 2: Society 6. Has Dads' Participation in Childcare Changed? 7. How Are Marriage Views Different in Japan and Around the World? 8. Considering University Life and Employment in Japan 9. Will Making English the Official Language in Companies Affect Career Advancement? 10. What Do You Think? Japanese Gift-Giving Culture

Chapter 3: Japan and the World 11. The Appeal of Japan as a Tourist Destination 12. Japanese Pop Culture Spreading Around the World 13. Is Learning Japanese Language Really Difficult? 14. Vegetarians and Japanese Food 15. Naming Children Around the World?

Chapter 4: Politics, Economics, and Science 16. Discussing the Future of the EU 17. Japan's Immigration Policy from a Global Perspective 18. Considering the Global Environment through "Food Mileage" 19. iPS Cells and the Frontiers of Medical Care 20. What Does the Future Hold for Space Development?