Writing a Powerful Book Review

A book review is a form of academic writing that provides a succinct ( brief & clear ) yet critical analysis
evaluating the content, style, merit and significance of a book. The reader should gain insight into the strengths
and weaknesses of the book, aided by input from the reviewer.

The four stages of writing a book review are:

- introducing the book,

- outlining its contents,
- highlighting parts of the book by selecting particular chapters or themes, and
- giving a detailed evaluation.

Reviews typically:

- range from 500-750 words, but may be longer or shorter.

- not written in the first person (no ‘I’ or ‘we’)
- should have four to five paragraphs.

 One paragraph identifying the thesis, and whether the author achieves the stated purpose of the book.
 One or two paragraphs summarizing the book.
 One paragraph on the book's strengths.
 One paragraph on the book's weaknesses.

The 5 Steps:

1. State your general opinion and level of enthusiasm.

Did you like this book? How much? Did you dislike it? A little or a lot? Your opinion and enthusiasm
go a long way in helping other people decide whether this is something they’d appreciate and enjoy.
Example: I truly couldn’t put this book down once I started it. It usually takes me a week or more to
read a novel, and I ended up reading the entire thing in one evening!
 
2. Describe what it is you liked (or disliked) most about the book.

Was there something unique about this book that caused you to feel the way you did? Was it the
characters, the descriptions, the plot twists?
Example: The author really made me feel like I was traveling to another world, and the relationship
between the hero and her partner was very different than what I was expecting.
 
3. Give a specific example (without spoilers if possible) of something in the book that you liked.

Was there a particular part of the story that you vividly remember? Go ahead and describe it. You can
avoid spoilers by talking about your reactions without getting into specifics.
Example: When the characters got into trouble, they did something totally different than I expected!
 
4. Describe who you think the book is for.
 Comparison is one of the best ways for people to quickly know whether something is for them. If you
can think of another book, movie, or TV show this reminded you of, go ahead and mention it!
Examples: This book is the perfect thing to read after the Hunger Games. I think this book would be
great for grown-ups who loved Harry Potter when they were kids.
 
5. Make a personal statement.

Good reviews should be a little bit personal. This is your opinion after all … Go ahead and make a
statement about your relationship with the book, the author, or the series!
Examples: I can’t wait to read whatever the author does next! I’m really looking forward to the next
book in the series! I’m definitely going to be reading this book again!