Letter Sample #166 – A magazine wants to include contributions from its readers

GT Writing Task 1 (Letter Writing) Sample # 166

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

A magazine wants to include contributions from its readers for an article called ‘The book that influenced me most’.

Write a letter to the editor of the magazine about the book that influenced you most. In your letter,

• describe what this book was about
• explain how this book influenced you
• say whether this book would be likely to influence other people

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear Sir or Madam,

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Model Answer 1:

Dear Sir or Madam,

This is indeed an excellent opportunity for me to be able to contribute something to your magazine’s article called “The book that influenced me most”. The book, which I wanted to share my thoughts about, is titled “A very ordinary life”, written by one of the relatively “unknown” female writers of the 20th century, called “Phyllis Knight”. The book proved out to be one of the most inspirational stories for me.

This book tells us the story of a German-born woman, who immigrated to Canada sometime between the Great Wars. She was a simple woman who never invented anything or started any socio-political movements. She was neither a celebrity nor anything special. She was just an ordinary woman, trying to scratch out a living for herself and her small family. But the story takes us into the depth of a time when life was much different. Her effort in life makes her and the story extraordinary!

I found this woman’s story really inspirational, in how she faced the hardest and most oppressive of times with steadfast resolve, perseverance, and defiance. Even in the final years of her life, when almost everything was taken away from her, she managed to find beauty and humour in the world. I am pretty sure that this book would influence others also because it teaches how to survive even under the most trying circumstances.

I hope you would include this book and my writing in your article. Thanks in advance.

Yours faithfully,

Linda Harper

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Model Answer 2:

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to share my profound admiration for the opportunity to contribute to your forthcoming article titled “The book that influenced me most” in your esteemed magazine. The book that has left an indelible impact on my life is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, and I would like you to write something about this book and my impression of it.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a literary masterpiece set in the 1930s, addressing themes of racial injustice, social inequality, and moral courage. The story revolves around Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the racially divided town of Maycomb, Alabama, and her father Atticus Finch, a lawyer defending a wrongly accused black man. The book’s narrative not only portrays the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination but also emphasizes the importance of empathy, tolerance, and standing up for what is right.

This book deeply influenced me by fostering a profound understanding of social issues and the importance of empathy in promoting positive change. Atticus Finch’s unwavering moral compass and the struggles faced by the characters in the face of adversity have inspired me to confront injustice and advocate for equality.

I strongly believe that “To Kill a Mockingbird” has the power to influence a wide range of readers. Its timeless themes and universal messages resonate with people from various backgrounds, transcending time and culture. The book’s ability to evoke empathy and ignite a sense of social responsibility makes it an essential read for individuals seeking to broaden their perspectives and contribute to a more inclusive society.

Thank you for considering my contribution to your article.

Yours faithfully,

Florence Rose