"Fluent in Three Months" by Benny Lewis is an inspiring and practical guide on how anyone can learn a new language within a specific timeframe. Much of what Lewis shares aligns with my own approach to language learning: it’s not merely about mastering grammar and vocabulary, but also about understanding idioms, melody, intonation, and pronunciation. Above all, immersion and dedication are key.

Lewis convincingly argues that it is possible to become conversationally proficient in a language within three months. However, this requires at least two hours of dedicated study each day, along with a strong commitment to immersing yourself in the language. This means engaging with podcasts, watching TV shows, reading books, and having conversations with native speakers. While this level of dedication might not be feasible for everyone, the book certainly reignited my passion for language learning.

One of the most motivating aspects of Lewis's book is his debunking of common myths, such as being 'too old' to learn a new language or the notion that some languages are insurmountably difficult due to complex grammar or pronunciation. Instead of a one-size-fits-all method, Lewis offers a wealth of practical tips drawn from his own experiences, many of which I found unique and insightful.

I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to learn a new language, regardless of their age or previous experience.

I think this could be a lot shorter and tell you the same info. There are some good tips in there, but there's too much to read to get to it if you ask me. He basically says start speaking as soon as possible even if you don't know much of anything you can say in your target language, and gives some tips around making that work.

I liked the idea of when you are "talking to yourself" to start to do that as much as possible in your target language and have a bilingual dictionary handy so you can look words up as you are "talking to yourself." Might work sometimes, but other times I won't want to be looking up every thought I have.

I also like the idea of telling yourself a story about the word in the target language so you can more easily remember it at first. Seems like a lot of work tho so may try that or may just do the spaced repetition he mentions. Lots of links to his website.

Must read if the goal is to reach conversational level (B1 by CEFR) asap. Besides inspirational ideas the book contains a lot of practical tips.

Key ideas:
- Speak from day one (the day when you are absolutely ready to start speaking will never come)
- Use language - not just learn
- The only true advantage children have over adults is that they are naturally less afraid to make mistakes
- Be specific about your goals
- Classical learn techniques are OK for mastering language (but not as good for absolute beginner)
- You can't speak target language better than you speak your native language
- Do not start watch TV or read newspapers if you are absolute beginner. It will just frustrate you.

I really enjoyed reading about another language learner's experience in learning languages. I also enjoyed the quick rundown of the several languages that the author, Benny Lewis, knows himself. After reading this book, I definitely have more tools and tricks to further myself in my journey to becoming a polyglot!

Two stars for good intentions.
And it is clear that the title is click-bait.
To explain: the title works, if you
a) define "fluent" as "language competence level B1" and
b) take on language learning as a full-time job and a full-time immersion hobby.

I have language mastery in three languages, and "read Wikipedia in about 16 languages" - so I think that I know something about learning languages. And I could not really relate to Benny Lewis's book (or rather audiobook, that I have listened to). The biggest issue is, that is it a deeply subjective view on learning languages "the way of the Benny" - that apparently works for him. And even that he acknowledges several times, that others may have different experiences with his methods of language learning, or have other ways, he also dismisses those "other ways" on several occasions. At the same time, his claims on language learning lack the backing of scientific studies or empirical data.

The positive thing to say about the book is that it reiterates "language learning is easy" so often, that people who read it, may actually start to believe this. (and this is good because he is right here)

I find Lewis's blog posts to be rather long-winded, but this book was just about the perfect length. Reading it reminded me to study more frequently! Hopefully that motivation will continue even now that I'm done with the book. It's also inspired me to go forth with finding an online teacher and language partner, as he says speaking with native speakers is the most productive way of learning. I recommended this book to a friend who said she wishes she had learned Japanese at a younger age, because I think she is exactly Lewis's target audience. Well worth a read for any language learner.