Every ESL student will want a copy of this brand–new book. It teaches everyday conversational “American” English by making abundant use of classic Americanisms, informal one–liners, and old–fashioned expressions still in common use. It also includes timeless proverbs, childhood rhymes, lyrics of traditional American songs, and well–known quotations from American writers. Metaphors and their informal meanings include phrases like “in the doghouse” and “if the shoe fits.” There are also idioms of command, such as “pipe down” and “stay put.” Words and expressions are grouped thematically in chapters, and citations come with both meanings and word origins. Every page is filled with questions about America and American English that the reader can answer as a way of evaluating his command of American–style English. Reading is made easy and pleasant with word games and humorous cartoons.

Do You Really Know American English? is not a dictionary, but a virtual tour across America, offering informal history, cultural insights, and knowledge known to all Americans, but generally unfamiliar and often puzzling to people born abroad.