Writing a Book Review

A book review does more than retell the plot of a novel.  A book review expresses the reader's opinion of the book and provides reasons for that opinion.  For example, a reader might say he liked a novel because he could relate to the main character.  What specifically did the reader like---the interaction with other characters, the emotional stability, the lesson learned?   Why?

Another reader might say he liked the way the book ended.  Why?  With which character did he sympathize?  Why?  Describe this character and discuss the conflicts he/she faced.  How were the conflicts resolved?  

Yet another reader might say he liked a novel because he thought the author was trying to send an important message to the reader.  What was that message or theme?  How was it developed?  What makes the reader appreciate the theme? 

A review does not always have to be positive; a reader might not like a book.  For example, the reader did not like the way the antagonist, or bad guy, resolved his conflicts.  Why?  What did the character do to offend the reader?  What might have been a better way to handle these problems?

Another reader might say that he did not like the language in a book.  What specifically offended him?  Were the author's descriptions too graphic?  Did the subject matter offend the reader?  If so, why?  Was the vocabulary too hard?  Be specific and give examples to support your response. 

These are just a few of the many reasons why readers may or may not like a work.  Keeping these examples in mind, click here and post your book review. 

Home / Introduction / Activities / NC Curriculum Goals / Works Cited