Minis
Mini Copy Book

Each post in this section is a short précis (summary) of a passage in The Copy Book. All of them are in modern English. They are intended for students of English as a Foreign Language at Elementary Level.

Music and Musicians

Beethoven’s First

Everyone wanted to know who Beethoven’s favourite composer was.

Length: 58 words

Music and Musicians

‘My English Joy’

In 1837 William Sterndale Bennett, then regarded as England’s most exciting young composer, made history in quite another... field.

Length: 53 words

Character and Conduct

A Very Special Correspondent

Pauline de Meulan’s magazine Publiciste was close to going out of business when an anonymous contributor stepped in.

Length: 60 words

Extracts from Literature

A Curious Incident

Sherlock Holmes has been engaged to find a missing thoroughbred, but seems more interested in some lame sheep and an idle dog.

Length: 110 words

Bible Stories Retold

The Story of Joseph

Joseph’s brothers decide they have had enough of their rival in their father’s affections.

Length: 47 words

Character and Conduct

Dr Johnson and the Critic’s Ambush

A literary man tries to trick Samuel Johnson into an honest opinion, which was neither necessary nor very rewarding.

Length: 60 words