How to attack advanced characters

[knickherboots]

Wushijiao has a good approach--I also find it necessary to push for volume because I tend to read too deeply and slowly. In fact, I'm pretty convinced that my reading comprehension skills in my native language, English, improved measurably after studying German and Chinese. The payoff, though, was that my reading speed in English also slowed down! The second suggestion by lollypop90210 is better for an intermediate learner who is focused on improving listening comprehension skills, not an advanced person focused on reading. And, even in the case of the former, it would be better to struggle through a couple of viewings of a Chinese movie (with Chinese subtitles) because the language is authentic. Stuff really does get "lost in translation" in a dubbed movie. 'Tis better to not understand something than think you understand something you don't.