#reading in your second language feels like that medieval trap theyd put you in for puplic humiliation

[vveris]

Being at the level of fluency where you can conduct decent conversations and even think in the language from time to time, but struggle through middle schooler book is such a frustrating experience.

Like, it's been incredibly embarrassing to not be able to read a book without having to tediously translate-then-annotate. But conversely, reading books meant for preteens makes me feel a childlike wonder I haven't felt since reading Harry Potter for a grade 5 book presentation. It's grossly nostalgic, especially since I spent half my days in French class (clearly not learning much but I digress)

Come to think of it, I think my elementary schools extended French program was incredibly flawed. I mean, when you first get into grade school you're tested on reading comprehension. Why is that not in the curriculum???? I think that would have helped the fear of reading a French novel that I've carried for 9 years.