Lessing, Doris: 1919 - 2013
The Fifth Child, 1988 - Language/Style
- English Language Level: Medium
- Vocabulary – Most words are common everyday English, but there are occasional slightly old-fashioned or formal words (e.g., “domestic,” “disturbance”).
Sentence Structures – Lessing often uses descriptive clauses and multiple ideas in one sentence, which requires careful reading.
Themes & Subtext – Understanding characters’ emotions and implied meanings may need a higher level of comprehension.
Narrative Style – The novel is written in a realistic literary style, not conversational English.
- Vocabulary – Most words are common everyday English, but there are occasional slightly old-fashioned or formal words (e.g., “domestic,” “disturbance”).
- The language is generally clear and straightforward, but it includes some older vocabulary, complex sentences, and literary style that might challenge non-native speakers beyond basic English.