The Haircut Length Check
A free A1-level English story for language learners, readable online in English, with an option to listen via the free Storyteller app.
A hairstylist double-checks exactly how much Imogen wants cut before making the first snip.
Imogen wanted a small haircut before picture day. She walked into the salon after school. A stylist named Yusra greeted her.
"How much do you want off?" Yusra asked. Imogen held up two fingers. "Just two inches," she said.
Yusra looked at the length again. "Two inches, or two centimeters?" she asked. Imogen paused and thought about it.
"I mean two inches," Imogen said. "Not too short." Yusra nodded and marked the spot with her comb.
"I always ask twice," Yusra said. "Some people mean centimeters." She measured the hair with a small ruler.
Imogen watched in the mirror. Small pieces of hair fell to the floor. The cut looked neat and even.
"All done," Yusra said at last. She turned the chair around slowly. Imogen touched her hair and smiled.
"This is exactly right," Imogen said. She thanked Yusra and paid at the desk. She walked home with her new haircut. Her picture day was now two days away.
