Writing a book review is more than just a summary; it's also an opportunity for you to present a critical discussion of the book so others get an idea of what to expect.You should combine an accurate, analytical reading with a strong, personal touch in order to write a review.An effective book review describes what is on the page, analyzes how the book tried to achieve its purpose, and expresses any reactions and arguments from a unique perspective.
Step 1: Take notes while you read the book.
If you can, read the book multiple times, as repeat reads tend to lead a reader to view aspects of the story, the setting and the character in a different way.You can record your thoughts or impressions of the book by writing them down in a notebook or using a voice recorder.They don't have to be perfect, the idea is to come up with an idea of what you think of the book.A good way to understand how the book is structured is to summarize the major sections.
Step 2: Think about the book's field of study.
If the book doesn't fit in its field of study, consider how it fits.If you need to learn more about the field of study and the genre of the book, use outside sources.If you are reviewing a non-fiction book about the development of the polio vaccine in the 1950s, consider reading other books that examine the same scientific issue and/or period of scientific development.Hawthorne's book relates to other 19th-century works of romanticism and historical fiction set in the same time period as points of comparison.
Step 3: The major arguments and themes of the book should be determined.
The reader sees the overall message between the lines when they look at the theme.The fundamental and often universal ideas explored in a book can be included in the theme.Authors may have multiple themes in their writing.The themes will support the argument that the book is making.The book's major themes and viewpoint will likely be revealed by the content of the introduction, as well as any quotes or references.One way to determine a book's major themes is to sum it up in one word or sentence.The major theme of The Scarlet Letter could be "sin".When you have your one word summary, stretch the single word into a message or lesson, such as "sin can lead to knowledge but it can alsolead to suffering."
Step 4: The author's writing style should be considered.
Do you know if the style suits the book's intended audience?The way in which a subject is expressed or performed is known as a genre.The author can give different viewpoints to the intended audience.Hawthorne tries to combine the writing style of the Romantic Period (1800-1855) with the common, everyday language of American Puritans in The Scarlet Letter.Hawthorne does this with long, descriptive sentences that are strung together.
Step 5: The major areas or points in the book are developed by the author.
What areas are not covered?Why?Locating gaps in the time period or character development in fiction or nonfiction can help you think critically.Any well-developed elements of the book will help you create good points for your review.
Step 6: If relevant, make note of the book's format.
The book's layout, binding, and other elements.Context can be provided for the book.If the author provides maps, charts, and drawings, they should always consider how they contribute to the book's themes and arguments.Hawthorne begins the book with an introduction to the text narrated by an individual who has many autobiographical details in common with the author.The narrator tells the story of finding the manuscript bundled in a scarlet letter.When discussing the book as a whole, Hawthorne uses the narrative framing to create a story within it.
Step 7: Consider any literary device in the book.
Think about how plot structure is developed in the story if the book is a work of fiction.Take notes on the book's character, plot, setting, symbols, mood or tone and how they relate to the overall theme.It would be important to note that Hawthorne chose Hester Prynne as his main character and placed the religious, anti-sin Reverend Wilson in the role of antagonist.It would be helpful to consider why Hawthorne did this, and how it relates to the book's overall theme of sin.
Step 8: Think about how unique the book is.
Does it add something new to the genre?The rules of a genre may be challenged by the author.Consider how this may affect the intended audience's reception of the book.
Step 9: Determine how successful the book is.
Was the author successful in carrying out the overall purpose of the book and did you like the ending?Would you recommend this book to others?
Step 10: Go with a heading.
All the information about the book is included in the heading of most reviews.The standard heading is title, author, publisher, date of publication, and number of pages.
Step 11: An introduction is needed.
A good introduction will grab the reader's attention so they are interested in reading the rest of the review.If applicable, the author's previous work in the genre should be included in your introduction.The main themes you will be discussing in your review can be given an indication of your take on the book.There are several possible openings, including a historical moment, an anecdote, a surprising or intriguing statement, and declarative statements.Make sure your opening sentences relate to your critical response to the book and keep them short.If you don't know how to begin the review, write your introduction last.If you want to be sure that the introduction matches the body of the review, you should organize all of your supporting points and critical positions last.
Step 12: A summary of the book is needed.
You can move into a summary of the book's themes and main points once you have established your heading and introduction.To the point, and informative, keep the summary short.You can use quotes from the book to support your summary.Make sure you cite all quotes in your review.Don't read summaries that start with phrases like "This essay is about..." and "this book is the story of..."Focus on weaving a description of the book's setting, narrative voice, and plot within a critical analysis.Don't regurgitating the book's premise.Don't reveal the ending of the book in your summary or give away any other important information.You can mention this to potential readers if the book is part of a series.
Step 13: The book should be evaluated and critiqued.
After you have summarized the book and discussed the main themes and aspects, you can begin your critical analysis.Be as direct and clear as you can in your review.You should use the answers you came up with during your preparation for the review.How well the book has achieved its goal, how it compares to other books on the subject, specific points that were not convincing or lacked development, and what personal experiences, if any, you've had related to the subjects of the books are all things to address.Supporting quotes and passages from the book will back up your discussion.It gives the reader a sense of the writing style and narrative voice in the book and reinforces your viewpoint with a trustworthy source.One-half to two-thirds of the review should summarize the author's main ideas and at least one-third should evaluate the book, according to the general rule of thumb.
Step 14: The review needs to be wrapped up.
Your critical analysis of the book can be summarized in a concluding paragraph or several sentences.The conclusion should follow naturally if your position has been well argued.Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the book and if you would recommend it to others.Who do you think is the ideal audience for the book?In your conclusion, do not discuss a new idea or impression that was not examined in your introduction and body paragraphs.A numerical score, a thumbs up or thumbs down, or a starred rating can be given to the book.
Step 15: Take a second to read and revise your review.
If your book review isn't as perfect as you'd like, you can adjust it.If you want to gain perspective, put the review aside for a few days and then come back to it with fresh eyes.Correct spelling and use a spell check.A quality review can be undermined by bad spelling and grammar.All quotes and references should be cited in your review.
Step 16: Receive feedback.
If you can, get someone else to read the review before you submit it to an editor or professor.Asking a friend to read your review is a good way to find out if the introduction grabbed their attention and if your critical discussion was consistent.
Step 17: Be sure to submit your best work.
Make sure you include your revisions and feedback in the final draft.A good review will flow well from introduction to summary to critical analysis, have an interesting perspective on the book, and be free of any spelling errors to make it easy to read.