BEST IELTS General Reading Test 21

Table of Contents

BEST IELTS General Reading Test 21

GENERAL READING TEST 21 – PASSAGE 1

GENERAL READING TEST 21

Read the text below and answer Questions 1-8.

How to become a successful crime writer

British authors have always excelled in one genre in particular: that of crime fiction. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie for some are synonymous with the genre, attaining the same celebrity status as their fictional creations, the eponymous Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot, respectively. In the creation of such memorable characters, these two authors raised the bar for future crime fiction writers. So how can you. Too, write gripping fiction that also will stand the test of time? Here are some simple tips that will help you on your way and improve your chances of getting into print.

Tip 1 The fiction world is awash with different types of crime novels. Before you put pen to paper, devour as many fiction novels as possible with varying storylines. In this way you will learn how to create cre-dible fictional characters and plots. Of course, the make-or-break in any crime novel is the ending. Surprise revelations or an unexpected turn-of-events will delight readers. After all, even the experienced armchair detective likes to be kept guessing until the end.

Tip 2 We have established that a great cliff-hanger of a novel is the key ingredient to all crime novels. But how do we build up the suspense and throw the reader off the scent of the real culprit? Well, the answer is to use as many red herrings and sub-plots as possible without becoming too involved. The sub plots and false clues should never obscure the main plot entirely; otherwise the reader will become lost in all the intricacies and minutiae of the sub-plots.

Tips 3 it is important to establish your facts. If setting your novel in the past, beware of including modern day devices or inventions that did not exist at the time you are writing. Many a Hollywood blockbuster has been spoiled by anachronisms, the wearing of a watch in ‘Gladiator’ set in the Roman era is one such example. The Same holds true for the written word.
If, on the other hand, you are using a contemporary setting the ensure you are fully knowledgeable of modern hi-tech detection methods and forensic techniques. Internet search engines such as Google will help you get your head around the most up-to date procedures. Your research should include:

– DNA analysis
– Forensic anthropology and pathology
– Forensic criminology, psychiatry and psychology
– Fingerprinting
– Interviewing techniques
– Computer forensics

Tip 4 Don’t lose the plot! Keep a track of not just your leading but also minor characters and their actions. It is important to have good continuity throughout. Whilst people may not be so rational or consistent real life, your fictional creations need to have a certain level of consistency in their thoughts and actions otherwise they may cease top maintain credibility with the reader. Sketching out a general overview of the plot before writing will also help to maintain structure to your novel.

Tip 5 Lacking inspiration? They say truth is stranger than fiction so why not look to real-life events to inspire you? A rummage through a few local and national papers may uncover a potential story-line. After all, it worked for celebrated crime author Jeffrey Archer, so why not you? It goes without saying that a degree of fictional embellishment of real-life people is necessary to avoid being accused of libel and a sudden curtailing of an otherwise budding career.

Tip 6 Now you have written your best-selling novel all you need to do is find a publisher! Again, research on the Internet will reveal a list of publishers most likely to publish your literary genre. Should you fail to find a publisher keep trying. After all, some of the most celebrated authors were initially turned down on their first attempt!

Questions 1-8

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text? In boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet, write

TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

1. So famous were the fictional characters of Conan Doyle and Christie’s crime novels, that they eclipsed the fame of their authors. ………………………………………

2. The novels of Conan Doyle and Christie are less accomplished than those of modern crime writers. …………………

3. It is more challenging to portray fictional than real life characters in a novel. ……………………………

4. To write about modern crime detection techniques, some knowledge of forensics may be required. ………………….

5. Would be crime authors should always write about their own life experiences. …………………….

6. Characters based on real-life people is a practice best avoided. ……………………..

7. First-time crime authors may be turned down by publishers. …………………………

8. Seasoned crime novel readers like being able to guess the culprit in advance. …………………………..

Questions 9-14

Read the text below and answer questions 9-14

A. Buttercup cafe
Enjoy the cosy atmosphere of this cafe and sample the good, ‘no-frills’ honest home-cooked food. If, however, you are looking for a light snack, then sample one of our delicious sandwiches filled with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. The cafe is not licensed but there is a large selection of teas and soft drinks available.

Cafe open: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm
Weekends: Sat 11 am-6pm
Sundays closed

B. Dolce Vita Restaurant
Antonio and Lucia are the proud owners of this small, authentic Italian pizzeria which has been recently awarded Trip Advisor’s ‘Certificate of Excellence”.
Whilst Antonio is essentially responsible for front-of-house duties, he has been known to give a hand on the kitchen, turning out his own speciality pizza.
His wife usually stays behind the scenes turning out simply delicious dishes, the recipes for which were handed down from her grandmother. For that special occasion, tailor-made private parties and large dinner groups can be accommodated. A striking function room, ideal for an intimate gathering is also available.

Restricted weekday opening (please check our website for details). Open every weekend from 11 am-midnight . website: www.dolcevita.com

C. Chiquito Restaurant
Boasting an extensive menu, you really are spoilt for choice at Chiquito’s, if Mexican is your thing. The kitchen team offers a first-rate experience for all diners, no matter what the occasion. With a variety of meat dishes ranging from succulent chicken served over fajita vegetables to beef chilli burgers or a full rack of lip-smacking ribs, whatever you choose, you can’t go far wrong.

Opening hours: Weekdays 12pm-10pm
Weekends 11am- 1pm

D. Frankie and Benny’s
A great little restaurant with plenty of atmosphere. This is a family-run restaurant where everyone in the family helps with the cooking in equal measure. All the delicious dishes have been created by two head chefs, Dario and Alessandro and their highly trained team. Together they have created a menu of contemporary dishes which is quite regularly updated. Diners are encouraged to make use of the covered terrace for a spot of alfresco dining and people-watching.

E. Gelato Gusto
Extending over two storeys this cafe is bright, stylish and down-to-earth. The sheer variety of ice-cream flavours available is impressive. Bespoke concoctions also on offer. You can also buy takeaway tubs of ice-cream to enjoy at your leisure.

Questions 9-14

Look at the five advertisements, A-E. which venue offers the following?

Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 9-14 on your answer sheet.

You may use any letter more than once.

9. Only non-alcoholic drinks…………………………
10. Custom-made orders……………………………….
11. An outside seating area………………………………
12. A room specially designated for small parties.………………………….
13. A constantly-changing menu……………………..
14. Simply-cooked food……………………..