Using Short Stories to Improve English Reading Skills: An Independent Study for ESL Learners

English is a key language for education and career development in Bangladesh. Many students learning English as a second language (ESL) face difficulties in reading comprehension and vocabulary growth. One practical way to support students is by using short stories in the classroom. This study explores how short stories can help improve reading skills for ESL learners. Using a review-based approach, it analyzes previous research on literature in English language teaching. Findings suggest that short stories provide authentic language exposure, motivate learners, and support comprehension development. This study recommends that English teachers use short stories as a flexible and engaging teaching tool.