Book Reviews 101

Here are 9 simple steps to keep in mind whengenre? If it is a mystery, did it keep you guessing?
creating a book review.Or, if for instance a how-to book, could one follow
However, a good book review is not simply a bookthe instructions and perform the tasks described?
report or a summary - it goes a step further and6. Let people know how you related to the book. Did
connects the book to the world around us.it make you laugh or cry? Try to share some
Some things to keep in mind when reviewing a book:highlights of the book without giving away too much.
1. State the name of the book, author and publicationShare your personal connection with the book. It
information exactly. This seems simple, but is sadlymakes the review interesting, and gives the person
often botched.watching or reading your review a sense of who you
2. Do your research and read the book carefully.are.
Don't review the book if you haven't completely read7. You don't have to, in a general sort of way, love
it.the book you're reviewing. Be specific and give
3. Never give away the whole story. The goal is tospecific examples out of the book that support your
entice readers with your review. Let them knowopinion.
what the book is about; while leaving them wanting8. Have you read other titles by the author?
more.Comparing the title you are reviewing to other books
4. What is the theme of the book? If a work ofby the same author will help people gauge their
fiction, how does the author use characters andinterest in the book.
setting to drive the plot?9.
5. What genre is the book? Does it live up to that