Fluentish: Language Learning Planner & Journal

by Joanna Franco

Everyone is capable of learning a language... the secret is knowing  how  to learn.

- Struggling to find a logical pathway through all those books, apps, and foreign films?
- Frustrated by your lack of progress?
- Easily lose motivation?

Netflix travel host, serial language learner, and lifelong journaler, Jo Franco has combined a powerful framework and inspiring journal to make the path to fluency achievable, meaningful and joyful.

The first half of this simple guide provides a practical blueprint to help you plan and organize your learning while developing skills and good habits for success. It includes all the tools you   goal setting, habit tracking,  a clever  workspace area  to jot down and summarize notes, sections for  vocabulary lists, verb tables,  and more.

The second half guides you through over  60 journal prompts  in a range of thought-provoking topics that will build both your self-awareness and language awareness. You will be able to identify language gaps, practice what you've learned and start writing your story in a new language.

Through journaling,  you will connect both emotionally and logically to your target language  which will create context based on your unique outlook on the world. This 'emotional learning' style will use memory and feeling to help you engage authentically with your study material and grow your fluency one entry at a time. The Fluentish  method creates a mind-body connection to take your learning off the page and into the real world.

Whether you are learning your first or your fifth language, in the classroom or on your own, The  Fluentish   Language Learning Planner and Journal  is the ideal companion to keep you organized, interested, and progressing in a new language. As Jo says,  journaling in a new language is like hiding the vitamins in the you learn a language while embarking on the ever-fascinating quest for self discovery.

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Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Language, Writing

240 pages, Hardcover

Published November 7, 2023

Reviews

[Sibil · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Thanks to NetGalley and to the Editor. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

This is an amazingly good journal for learning languages. I love the title, and I love her explanation of it, I think that everyone who is learning languages or anyone who is a polyglot can relate to it. A lot.
And I like that she talks about the process of learning languages, giving some background to this journal, in a concise but concrete way. The big chunk of the book is the journal part, but the introduction is interesting, and I love that the author keeps constantly in mind that language learning is, for a big part, a personal process: not everything works for everyone, but this journal is quite flexible and it keeps that in mind, and you can see it in its versatility. It would help you structure your learning, but it is also quite flexible and you can adapt to your ways.
Also, there are a lot of prompts that you can use (or totally ignore, if you prefer) and I really enjoyed them!
All in all, I think this is an amazing tool to have in your arsenal for language learning!

[Nicki Markus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am learning nine foreign languages (some started only in the last 2-3 years, others I have studied since high school (20+ years ago)), so I have experience with many different approaches to language learning. I think Jo Franco's Fluentish: Language Learning Planner & Journal is a very useful resource to come onto the market, especially for those who are either new to self-study language learning or those who struggle to maintain motivation and need a structure to follow. In this latter regard, the book opens by encouraging you to set goals and a study plan, and then it revisits those same questions at the end, so you can assess your progress. There are also sections for recording new vocabulary and grammar patterns you learn, and so can be used in place of separate grammar and vocabulary notebooks. Writing a language is a big part of learning, and the journal prompts provided (organised from beginner to advanced) offer an aid to those unsure what to write about for practice. In short, this book offers one place to record your progress in a language, make notes as you study and practice your writing. I am giving this book four stars. This approach won't be for everyone, but for those with a suitable study style, it could be a valuable tool.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some worthwhile tips and ideas in this journal for practicing language skills. I chose to review this journal because I am a language learner as well as a language teacher. I would be willing to try this journal in my own studies and would recommend it as a learning tool for my students. I currently give students journals with writing prompts and encourage this method of practical application.
This journal is well organized with various sections to record verb conjugations, grammar rules, etc. in addition to journal entries, progress reports, and goals.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[ABG · Rating 5 out of 5]

A flexible language learning tool that changed how I thought about fluency, language learning, and journaling.

I’m someone who usually dislikes journaling and struggles with learning the languages that I’m trying to learn. But this journal completely changed my perspective on both of those things. It emphasises a very reflective approach to language learning — it makes you think of all the reasons you want to learn this language, when you’re going to learn, and how. And that’s super beneficial, I think, because if you don’t plan you obviously plan to fail, and this book really helps you plan in a way that will align with your own life and your own goals.

It also takes an interesting approach to fluency, asking how you define it. Which made me think — what will fluency mean to me? And that inspired me, because something that I think a lot of us don’t have while language learning is a concrete end goal in mind. When are we where we want to be with our target language? And this book really makes you think about that, think about where you want to end up and by what metric you want to measure your success with.

That being said, while this book makes you think, it also makes you do. There are a variety of flexible exercises and ideas for one to do to improve at grammar, vocabulary, etc. I didn’t try all of them, as I’m not that far into my target language yet, but they seem tried and true, and encouraging an enjoyment and understanding of the language rather than strict accountability and reprimands. Which works!

If you’re like me and languages don’t come easy to you, I think definitely pick this up - even if you, like me, don’t really like journaling. You’ll be pleasantly surprised - this isn’t your usual journal :)

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Lauren Nishi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a great concept, but I do wish it had more space to write the notes in.

[Victoria Ortega · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has been following Jo Franco since her early days on Youtube, and a member of JoClub for more than half a year, I had somewhat of an idea of what to expect from her debut book dedicated to language learning, but I was still blown away by how well-structured and well-researched this book is! Jo immediately sets the tone for the book by explaining her "Fluentish" method, describing how nuanced and varied the concept of true "fluency" can be, and encouraging readers to pursue something more akin to consistency instead. As such, the Monthly Goals and Monthly Planner sheets she's organized both work beautifully in tandem for adjusting goals for each month, with helpful "Tips" and "Missions" towards the bottom for how to vary your learning so that it's not dull and one-sided (and both her Tips and Missions also rather reminiscent of the "Challenge" portion of her 21-Day Language Learning Challenge, which I am also a part of at the time of this review!).

I love that Jo points out the mind-body connection that journaling in a foreign language can foster, as well as how journaling in a foreign language about topics that are more personal and introspective can help us feel more emotionally connected and motivated within our target language. The prompts are extraordinarily well thought-out, where even seasoned Intermediate and Advanced learners can easily find ways to answer each level of the prompts provided.

I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy of this book! In fact, I may need to grab a few copies, since I can see this being a helpful tool in my language learning journey for the various languages I plan to study in the future. This is a fun, interactive way to spice up and keep track of your language learning journey, and I can see it being a helpful addition whether for personal study or for a language class taken in a formal classroom for school credit, etc.

Should this book be updated in the future, I wouldn't mind seeing a folder pocket on the inside cover or something similar to collect spare bits of scrap paper or notes, etc., or perhaps a little bit more of a visual component to the book if possible (perhaps some charts, some color coding, some country flags, etc.), or maybe even a bigger version with more blank journal pages, etc. if we intend to use this book for longer than a few months.

All in all, a fantastic and exciting new resource!!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this review and more on my blog, uncovered-books.

I received a free copy of Fluentish from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

I have been attempting to learn Korean for a few years now on and off, and have been struggling to be constant with my practice, and honestly actually retain much from what I learn. I constantly doubt if what I think is correct is actually correct which keep my going over the same basic level of learning that I should be well past by now. Fluentish is here to help you if you are struggling to keep forward progress in your own language learning journey.

This journal has 7 main sections, as well as around 7 pages at the start to introduce the book, author and other resources that the author uses for language learning. The seven sections that you will use are as follows: Habit Tracker, Monthly Planner & Goal Setting, Monthly Self-Assessment & Check-In, Workspace, New Language, Prompts, and Journal. As you can probably guess from each sections title, a lot of thought has been given to how langue learning is a process that is ongoing, and not just a box to tick. As you continue with your language learning, you will find certain things are retained easier than others, which is why monthly check-ins and plannings are a good place to see how you are progressing.

The section that I personally have found the most use is the prompts and journal section, which are designed to work in tandem. There are 3 level of prompts, and some of the intermediate and advanced prompts can be used in a more limited capacity for lower levels. These prompts are an amazing way of getting your brain to use the league instead of just acquiring it. You could even verbally respond as well as write it to get some spoken practice in at the same time!

I received a digital copy, so I cannot give a fully honest opinion since I do not know the size of the pages and whether there is ample space provided. But what I could gauge is that for the size of journal, that there would be enough written space for most people.

I would recommend this journal to anyone who is serous about language learning, and I see myself using it for the foreseeable future.

[Caylee Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been learning German for the past 8 years, and I loved the practical tips given. This is unlike any other language learning book.

"Set goals, track habits, organise notes, and tell your story in a new language"
BEAUTIFUL. It makes my heart sing. This is what other language learning books forget. This is what makes it better than any other language learning tool I've discovered.

A section designed to "help you develop your personality in your new language"! Speaking in a language other than your own removes your personality. Using a journal for developing that side of me is magical.

I found the monthly planners and check-ins a bit redundant. I am living in Germany and learning the language, so I don't need this kind of accountability, though I can imagine it'd be good for someone with a deadline. Part of learning is actually showing up, so this along with the habit tracker would be helpful if you need those kinds of things.

The best section for me was the prompts section. Even as a journaler, I had never thought to explore prompts in my non-native language. The prompts are thoughtful and beautiful.

Loved this journal.

Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fluentish by Joanna Franco is a refreshing cross between language learning and journaling. It’s a brilliant companion to language learning journeys at any stage. Littered with writing prompts, exercises, planner spreads, motivational quotes and top tips, Franco encourages you to explore new approaches to language learning that are fun, immersive, and (most importantly) sustainable. I would recommend picking up a physical copy of this title to make the most of the hands-on journaling activities. This wasn’t quite a five star for me because I personally would prefer more reading material on language learning even if it’s at the expense of the journal pages.

If you are learning a new language and don’t know where to start, or (like me) have never managed to stay consistent - do consider investing in a copy!

Fluentish is out now. Thank you to the publisher, Teach Yourself, for my Netgalley review copy.

[Alec ⟠]

Fluentish is a really handy language-learning journal, which is designed to better help people learn new languages and hold themselves accountable in doing so. Although this ARC was only a digital copy, it looked great and made me want to buy a physical copy so I can write in it myself! I loved the different sections on aspects of language learning, including the monthly goals and habit trackers, but my favourite part was the prompt section, as I found the questions to be very interesting and thought-provoking, and I’d like to work through these with my own language learning. I would recommend this to anyone learning a new language or trying to maintain their knowledge in a language, as it is a very well-organised book and I had a lot of fun reading through and imagining what I would write in each section.

[Jennyfer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fluentish is a habit tracker, practice planner, resource guide, and all round language tool to aid in the learning of a new language. Got some vocab you've just learned - there's a section for that. Got a tricky intonation or conjugation you need to master? There's a section for that too.

There are frequent self-check ins, for you to assess your own confidence and proficiency of your language, and tips to maintain accountability to yourself. There are pages to track your practice, and monthly goal setting to help keep you on track.

This is a "mostly" blank workbook, for you to fill in at your own pace. I am currently learning Thai, and this will help me keep my notes organised and keep on track.

A highly useful resource to anyone starting on a language journey

~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.~

[(a)lyss(a) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this journal through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Since I received a digital copy of this journal I can't speak to how a physical version would read. I liked the layout of the journal and how it builds on its self. It gives you space to set your goals, indicate how you'll measure them, include vocabulary words, and track your progress. There's overviews by day and month to help you track over time and drill down to specific lessons. It's written in a way to help with repetition of words and practice so if you use it as intended I can see it helping reinforce learning habits.

[Katie Troh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been wanting to journal in French, & I've looked up prompts (even from the author), but I wind up not doing them. I have ADHD & I think it's because the prompts are scattered around & in my rather hectic phone. I've learned a bit of Japanese using a workbook & I've found that if I have a book that tells me what to do I'm MUCH more likely to do it. This journal is a great option for that. Language learning is a journey & you need various materials. The author talks about that, as well as her experience becoming fluentISH. It has several steps to take, like goal setting, but the best part for me is the prompts. I look forward to doing them

[Megz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and Nicholas Brealey publishers, I was able to preview this language-learning journal. I am a massive fan of journals for any purpose, and Fluentish does not disappoint. It is clear that Franco is familiar with learning languages - not simply out of natural affinity, but through work and ingenuity. Obviously, I haven't used the journal for an entire language-learning journey, but I can see the sections being incredibly useful. This isn't a book ABOUT learning languages, so don't expect a treatise. It is a journal, to guide you in accountability. I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy.

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Fluentish" by Jo Franco is a fun journal to help you master a second language by journaling in your second language. The prompts help to push you to use more vocabulary, while the charts allowing you to track your language learning habits reinforce your practice. This is an excellent tool for anyone pushing themselves in their second language.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This workbook is really awesome and there are so many things that I can't wait to use while working on my language learning. Part journal, part habit tracker, and part traditional language workbook! Love the way fluency is discussed and the concept of taking your learning into your own hands. Great option for those looking to grow their language learning and study skills!

[Ru · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really useful to help give me a focus and direction to both my language learning and my journaling. The ebook is obviously not the ideal format but I will be buying the print version for myself. I'm also a language teacher and I'll be adding it to my list of recommendations to my students.

*Thank you to NetGalley for the free ARC. I gave chosen to leave a review*

[Jayasree B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is definitely not for everyone. If one is interested in learning languages seriously, then this book is a great help. It has many helpful tools and techniques to get fluent. For those who enjoy learning and studying this book will be a great read.

[Bonnie Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great journal for language learning!

[Corbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully designed planner for language learners. It has habit trackers, check in pages, learning tips and fun missions to keep you motivated in your learning.