English 読書会

My love for English didn’t begin with a textbook; it began with the macabre, rhythmic world of Edgar Allan Poe. I still remember that first spark of wonder—the way a single short story could shift the entire atmosphere of a room. From that moment, I was hooked.

 

Throughout school, while others saw literature as a chore, it was my sanctuary. I wasn’t just studying for the top marks I eventually earned; I was genuinely lost in the worlds these authors created.

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This early fascination led me to study English language and literature in college, where I achieved top grades before continuing my academic journey at university, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theology.

 

During this time I became deeply interested in the way language, philosophy, and literature intersect—how stories allow us to explore complex ideas and human experience through words.

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For me, a vacation has always meant a suitcase half-full of books. Whether it’s a sun-drenched afternoon or a silent winter day, there is nothing quite like the feeling of slowing down and stepping inside a story for a few hours.

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After years of traditional work in various British cities, I eventually decided to simplify my life. I traded the noise of office life for a small farm in the Portuguese hills. Life here is quieter, grounded in nature, and centred around my ever-growing library.

 

I realised that the “big questions” I once studied in philosophy and theology are often most alive when we explore them through the lens of a great novel.

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Over the past eight years as a professional English teacher, I have worked with learners from around the world, particularly Japanese students.

 

For the last seven years I have taught with a leading international online education platform, conducting thousands of lessons focused on helping learners develop confidence, clarity, and expressive ability in English.

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I am also TEFL qualified, and my teaching experience includes classroom teaching in both Europe and Africa prior to moving fully into online education.

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The English Reading Circle grew naturally out of this experience. I wanted to create a space where serious learners could move beyond simple conversation practice and instead experience English as it truly lives—through literature, ideas, and discussion.

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In each circle we read novels together slowly and thoughtfully, exploring the language, imagery, themes, and deeper meanings that lie beneath the surface of the text.

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Each group is intentionally kept small so that discussions remain relaxed, thoughtful, and genuinely collaborative.