How To Write A Book Report
How to Write a Book Review
by Bill Asenjo
A book review describes, analyzes and evaluates. The review conveys an opinion, supporting it with evidence from the book
Do you know how to write a book review? I didn't. And even though I knew I didn't, that didn't stop me from firmly inserting my foot in my mouth by agreeing to conduct a book review writing workshop for my local Barnes & Noble. I blithely assured myself it would simply be a matter of picking up Book Reviews for Dummies, or something to that effect. Au contraire. It's easier to find information on bomb-making than book review writing.
So I did what any other resourceful writer on deadline would do; I panicked. Well, for a moment. Quickly composing myself I scrounged the library and internet for every conceivable source that even hinted at the term "book review." What follows is the result of my gleaning
Before reading, consider:
• Title - What does it suggest?
• Preface or Introduction - Provides important information about the author's intentions or the scope of the book. Can you identify any limitations? Has the author ignored important aspects of the subject?
• Table of Contents - Shows how the book's organized -- main ideas, how they're developed (chronologically, topically, etc.)
Points to ponder as you read the entire book:
• What's the general field or genre? Does the book fit?
• From what point of view is the book written?
• Do you agree or disagree with the author's point of view?
• Make notes as you read, passages to quote in your review.
• Can you follow the author's thesis, "common thread"?
• What is the author's style? Formal? Informal? Suitable for the intended audience?
• Are concepts well defined? Is the language clear and convincing? Are the ideas developed? What areas are covered, not covered?How accurate is the information?
• Is the author's concluding chapter, the...
Please login to view the full essay...