The purpose of a book review is to give a prospective reader a well-informed idea of what to expect of a book. A book review is also subjective given that it involves a personal critique and recommendation.

A book review is also a great classroom assignment. It allows you to not only show your teacher you understand the content of a particular book, but to also demonstrate that you understand how it relates to other texts that are common in society. Being able to associate a text with other content — especially content that's not necessarily covered by your teacher or instructor — can be a significant indicator as a positive trait for a learner.

Additional notes and tips on writing a book review

The whole concept of a book review is to give the reader a thorough preview of what to expect by explaining your experience with the book/story. Assessment wise I find it’s a better assignment in comparison to a book report given that you have to compare it to other stories and to life in general.

Here are some notes based on some common questions I get in regards to the assignment in my classroom, along with notes on what I expect at particular grade levels.

• Book summary
  • We look at story arc for a reason. Stating the exposition here is key. However, you don’t want to give away the whole story, so after you state the goals and obstacles merely tease the climax and omit the resolution. And, of course, do this in paragraph form.
• Comparison to other books/stories
  • You want to compare it to other stories in order to give the reader an idea if they’re interested in the subjects it covers.
    • For Grade 11 and 12 students
      • I’m looking for you to get specific in terms of relating it to other stories. You can also go beyond actual stories. Compare it to world or societal issues or familiar news items.
      • I’m looking for you to be specific. Don’t just state that it’s similar to another story, say specifically how, and feel free to say how it’s also different.
    • For Grade 9 Students…
      • Being specific here is less emphasized given that this process involves you being much more sophisticated. For instance, you can achieve an Apprentice or even Going Pro mark for being general, whereas it’s more difficult to do so in the higher grades.
    • You can also touch on how the book relates to current or past societal issues. Looking at the book through a critical lens is helpful.
  • Your critique
    • Go beyond “good or bad”. Be specific.
    • If you’re going to criticize, a good strategy is to make a recommendation on how the author could have done better. This is what can help get you to the Pro/Master level. Due to differences in assignment length, I’m looking for more development from 11s and 12s.
    • Provide a critique whether you like the book or not
  • Your recommendation
    • After everything is said and done, recommend the book. This is done regardless of your personal taste. If you don’t like it, let the reader know what type of person would.

I also suggest keeping a reading log if you've been assigned a book review. Look at the requirements of a book review and keeps notes accordingly. I generally offer my students a tabled document to keep track of the story. Understanding story arc and theme are keys to writing an effective book review.