Owning the 5+ best English pronunciation books in British English & American English

Currently, there are various methods for learning English pronunciation, such as through videos, audio files, or online courses. However, an essential tool that should not be overlooked is improving pronunciation through books. Below is a list of the top 5+ best English pronunciation books that you should own for optimal results.

I. Why should you learn pronunciation through books?

In this modern age of technological advancements, there is an increasing number of learning methods through videos and applications. However, books remain a reliable and trustworthy source of information that should be utilized. Learning through books offers several benefits, including:

• Books are authentic and highly reliable sources of information. By selecting standard pronunciation books from their respective countries of origin, with reputable authors and reliable sources, you gain access to accurate information from the start. With the abundance of online books and materials without clear sources, there is a risk of encountering misleading knowledge that can negatively impact readers.

• Furthermore, most books nowadays come with supplementary learning methods, such as PDF formats that allow readers to carry them conveniently and study anytime, anywhere. Some books also include CDs that enhance effective listening practice.

So, which English pronunciation book can be trusted and used effectively?

II. Top English pronunciation books - British English Accent

Here is a list of recommended English pronunciation books in British English: 

1. English Pronunciation in Use

English Pronunciation in Use is published by Cambridge University, English Pronunciation in Use is a series of books suitable for learners of all levels, ranging from elementary to advanced pronunciation skills. The series consists of three main books:

• Pronunciation in Use Elementary: Comprising 50 lessons divided into 5 parts, these lessons progress from basic to advanced pronunciation.

• Pronunciation in Use Intermediate: With four parts and 60 topics, this book offers more advanced overall knowledge compared to the elementary edition.

• Pronunciation in Use Advanced: Focusing on improving pronunciation skills with complex and challenging sounds.

The series caters to learners at different proficiency levels. This English pronunciation book includes:

• CDs that provide pronunciation guidance, word and sentence readings, and dialogues.

• Explanations of phenomena, rules of linking sounds, and stress patterns.

• Practice exercises for specific sounds and phrases.

This English pronunciation book is undoubtedly a must-have for individuals who want to master pronunciation, from basic to advanced levels, suitable for learners starting from scratch up to higher proficiency levels.

DOWNLOAD ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION IN USE PDF

2. Ship or Sheep

"Ship or Sheep" is an English pronunciation book written by Ann Baker. First published in 1989, it has become one of the popular resources in English language education.

The English pronunciation book is divided into two parts: The first part guides pronouncing individual English sounds, including pronunciation rules and illustrative examples. The second part offers guidance on pronouncing pairs of words that are similar in sound but differ in meaning and/or spelling.

"Ship or Sheep" is an advanced version of "Tree or three," consisting of 50 units with 43 lessons. 

The English pronunciation book is presented in an easily understandable and well-organized manner, with numerous illustrative examples and exercises to help readers develop their pronunciation skills.

"Ship or Sheep" is highly regarded as a useful book for English learners, particularly those at a basic level.

DOWNLOAD SHIP OR SHEEP PDF

3. The Pronunciation book

The Pronunciation Book is an English pronunciation book by Martha C. Pennington. The book covers basic pronunciation techniques and methods for English learners, especially for non-native speakers.

The English pronunciation book is divided into 10 chapters, including topics such as pronouncing individual sounds and syllables, pronouncing single and complex words, intonation and stress patterns, and pronunciation practice exercises. It also includes paragraphs and vocabulary to help readers improve their language skills.

"The Pronunciation Book" is suitable for learners with basic English pronunciation skills. 

DOWNLOAD THE PRONUNCIATION BOOK PDF 

III. Top English pronunciation books - American English Accent

For American English accent, here are some recommended English pronunciation books:

1. American English Pronunciation

American English Pronunciation is written by Rachel Smith. This English pronunciation book is designed to help readers practice standard American English pronunciation with clear formulas and specific descriptions through easily understandable and well-organized content.

Book for learners at various levels, from basic to advanced, in the English-American pronunciation learning journey. With a clear and simple design, learners can quickly access pronunciation methods through comprehensive content:

• Complete pronunciation of vowels and consonants, stress, intonation, etc.

• Specific and clear examples for each theoretical section.

• Detailed and specific pronunciation instructions.

The English pronunciation book includes:

• Introduction

• Tools for Learning

• Getting Started

• Introduction to Stress, Rhythm and Intonation

• Vowels

• Diphthongs

• Consonants

• Consonant Clusters

• Rhythm and Intonation: Multi-Syllable Words

• Linking

• Rhythm and Intonation: Stressed Words

• Unstressed Words and Words that Reduce

• Contractions

• Gonna, Wanna, Gotta

• Putting it all Together

• Continuing to Work

• Answers

• Video Index

• Audio Index

• Sound Chart

DOWNLOAD AMERICAN ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION PDF

2. Mastering the American Accent

Mastering the American Accent for those who want to practice standard American English pronunciation, researched and compiled by author Lisa Mojsin (with over 20 years of experience in training and mastering American English pronunciation).

Mastering the American Accent targets individuals with basic or beginner levels of English or those who have lost touch with the language and wish to improve their American English communication skills, starting with pronunciation.

Mastering the American Accent consists of 9 chapters, addressing both fundamental and advanced aspects of American English pronunciation, such as:

• Detailed pronunciation of vowels and consonants.

• Pronouncing irregular sounds.

• Intonation and stress rules for sentences and emotions.

• Rules for linking and assimilating sounds in basic English pronunciation.

• Commonly mispronounced vocabulary for learners.

• Differentiating between American and British English accents.

Additionally, Mastering the American Accent includes 4 CDs containing audio files. Therefore, you can combine the use of books and CDs for optimal learning outcomes.

DOWNLOAD MASTERING THE AMERICAN ACCENT PDF

3. American Accent Training

American Accent Training is a book written by author Ann Cook, intended for learners with a fundamental understanding who want to practice American English pronunciation.

The English pronunciation book includes exercises and CDs covering the principles of pronunciation, stress, and intonation from basic to advanced levels. Additionally, the English pronunciation book provides a section called Nationality Guides, where the author points out common mistakes and provides detailed guidance on how to correct them for learners.

With over 805 practice exercises of various types, the English pronunciation book helps readers differentiate sounds, adjust intonation, and develop quicker reflexes. The accompanying CDs allow learners to be more proactive and not rely solely on a teacher.

DOWNLOAD AMERICAN ACCENT TRAINING PDF

III. Effective tips for learning English pronunciation

Learning English pronunciation requires time, an immersive environment, and diligent and smart revision techniques. Below are some effective tips for learning English pronunciation that Prep suggests for you, so don't miss out!

1. Learn the correct pronunciation of words that you often mispronounce

One of the basic principles to remember when learning is to identify your mistakes, understand where you make them, and find ways to correct them. Pay more attention to words you frequently mispronounce and practice reading them every day to develop a natural reflex and eliminate those errors.

2. Focus on sounds and intonation for accurate pronunciation

Focus on learning each sound, from vowels and consonants to diphthongs and consonant clusters, as accurately as possible. Building from these smallest units will help you develop a habit of precise pronunciation right from the start.

3. Learn to emphasize stress and use proper intonation 

Stress and intonation are factors that make your pronunciation sound more natural and closer to the native accent. After practicing correct pronunciation, aim for a pleasant and natural delivery. By listening to authentic materials and familiarizing yourself with various sounds, you will gain more confidence in communicating with native speakers and expressing your opinions accurately and naturally.

4. Practice listening with authentic materials and recognize various sounds

Listening to conversations, speeches, or native speakers' recordings is the fastest way to learn proper pronunciation and develop a natural reflex. Through extensive listening, you will become accustomed to the intonation and accent of native speakers. As a result, your communication skills will improve, your listening comprehension will become more accurate, and your own communication will feel more natural.

5. Note when studying pronunciation through English books 

When studying through books, you should pay attention to the following factors to practice more effectively:

• Choose a book that is suitable for your ability and needs. For example, if you have a basic level, choose the appropriate book, whether it's an English-English or English-American series.

• Make full use of supplementary materials in the book, especially the CD, as the audio files provide a lot of support for your pronunciation learning. Alternatively, you can use English pronunciation PDF books for easy studying anytime, anywhere.

• Develop the habit of taking notes when studying through physical books. Note-taking is an effective method for retaining knowledge.

• Combine theory with comprehensive pronunciation exercises. Follow the detailed answer key in the book to improve your skills faster.

6. Study in the Virtual Speaking Room of PREP

The virtual Speaking Room on PREP is an extremely effective space for practicing speaking skills.

• First and foremost, you have access to a speaking practice space with highly interactive AI judges, creating a feeling of being in a real conversation.

• With 60 sets of Speaking prompts, you will practice and take tests on various topics ranging from basic to advanced, suitable for different proficiency levels.

• The detailed grading and feedback system provided by AI judges is a highlight that helps you improve your pronunciation and speaking skills effectively. The AI judges will provide detailed feedback by detecting pronunciation errors, correcting them down to the smallest sound units, and offering suggestions for improvement based on specific criteria for the Speaking task.

• Currently, the Speaking Room primarily serves the purpose of preparing for IELTS Speaking exams. However, it is also a recommended environment to try if you are looking for a speaking partner to practice with daily.

Mastering pronunciation is the fundamental foundation for mastering the English language. PREP hopes that the information shared about English pronunciation books above will help you choose the most useful and suitable learning materials for yourself.