I already owned the same book, but the Basic English one. I have used it so much, that decided to try this one. So now I use both, one which focuses more on grammar and vocabulary and this one (English Conversation) that focuses on day to day pertinent situations. It has many great exercises and thorough explanations for common American sayings. Although I agree that perhaps a student will never hear some them, I do focus on those that are quite common. Yes and the students enjoy them a lot or say, "oh so that's what that meant.But what I love the most about this book is that every chapter has a dialogue. I literary own a library of I don't know how many teaching English books and I don't know why, most of them just bring a dialogue or two! Dialogues for me are essential for role playing, improving reading/pronunciation skills, etc. And in my case (English is not my first language), I have surprisingly learned a thing or two with these books. Highly recommend it, bought used and arrived like new!