Book excerpt: Close Reading 14-16 provides a wide selection of extracts with accompanying interpretation/comprehension-type questions, and is appropriate for pupils working towards Intermediate 2 English examinations, as well as Standard Grade. In addition, the 'Taking A Closer Look' section in each chapter focuses on a specific language feature from the passage and provides further explanations and practice exercises on that aspect of language, whilst a 'Looking at the Issues' section gives the opportunity to explore wider issues raised by the extract, plus ideas for extended writing. An edition of the book is available without answers