Writing Your Introduction/Description
There are several key steps to writing an effective book review. The first is creating a strong introduction and description. The opening paragraph will capture readers’ attention and provide clear facts about the text you are reviewing.
The introduction/description should include:
a hook to inspire readers to look at or listen to your review. Hook readers with an unusual question, a vivid description, or a fascinating statement taken from the book or author.
specific information including the title, author, and genre of the story.
a brief summary of the setting, characters, and plot. Provide enough details to get readers interested without giving away important facts that will spoil the story.
Writing Your Body/Analysis
The body of an effective book review features analysis. It delves deeper to interpret how and why an author did certain things. It provides insight into what is successful or unsuccessful about a text.
The body/analysis should include:
an interesting character in the story. Explain a little bit about the character. Give the reader specific evidence from the text to support your ideas.
the most interesting event in the story. Describe the scene and explain to the audience what made it interesting. Support your ideas with specific evidence from the text.
the tone/mood of the text. Describe the feeling the author creates with word choice and pace. Is it suspenseful? Comical? Romantic? What emotions will it bring out in the reader? Will they be sad? Inspired? Angry? Let them know.
the theme that you feel the author is trying to share. If you wish, discuss more than one. Do not give away the ending, but let readers know what type of life lesson they might learn from reading the text.
transitions at the beginning of your paragraphs. Remember, whenever you are writing in paragraph form, transitions help to lead your reader from one thought to another.
(Optional) you can mention additional elements that you think are fascinating, such as symbolism, language, etc.
Writing Your Conclusion/Evaluation
The conclusion of an effective book review features an evaluation of the material being reviewed. The author of the review considers everything that has been discussed and presents some final thoughts. These thoughts will help the reader decide if the novel or short story is worth reading.
The conclusion/evaluation should include:
a recommendation that mentions the type of audience that would most likely enjoy reading the material. Is it perfect for sports fans? Will it appeal to people who love animals? Create a connection your audience will understand.
a clincher to end your review in a memorable way. Create a final statement, positive or negative, that summarizes your thoughts. Be creative and honest and write a final comment that perfectly wraps up your review.
