How to write a book review

 

Writing the Review:

• Include title, author, place, publisher, publication date, edition, pages, special features (maps, etc.), price, ISBN.
• Hook the reader with your opening sentence. Set the tone of the review. Be familiar with the guidelines -- some editors want plot summaries; others don't. Some want you to say outright if you recommend a book, but not others.
• Review the book you read -- not the book you wish the author had written.
• If this is the best book you have ever read, say so -- and why. If it's merely another nice book, say so.
• Include information about the author-- reputation, qualifications, etc. -- anything relevant to the book and the author's authority.
• Think about the person reading your review. Is this a librarian buying books for a collection? A parent who wants a good read-aloud? Is the review for readers looking for information about a particular topic, or for readers searching for a good read?
• Your conclusion should summarize, perhaps include a final assessment. Do not introduce new material at this point.
• To gain perspective, allow time before revising.
• Points to Ponder:
  
  • What was the story about?
  • Who were the main characters?
  • Were the characters credible?
  • What did the main characters do in the story?
  • Did the main characters run into any problems? Adventures?
  • Who was your favorite character? Why?
  Your personal experiences
  • Could you relate to any of the characters in the story?
  • Have you ever done or felt some of the things, the characters did?
    
  Your opinion
  • Did you like the book?
  • What was your favorite part of the book?
  • Do you have a least favorite part of the book?
  • If you could change something, what would it be? (If you wish you could change the ending, don't reveal it!)
  Your recommendation
  • Would you recommend this book to another person?
  • What type of person would like this book?
  • Info from:www.writing-world.com/freelance/asenjo.shtml