How to Create An Original Book Review

In academic writing there are two ways to write a book review.

  1. By composing a descriptive review
  2. By composing a critical review.

The main difference between a descriptive book review and a critical one is that the descriptive review gives a brief summary of the book, describes it's main topics, and describes the writers intentions. While, a critical review is mean to evaluate the book based on the reader's opinions.

Whether you are writing a descriptive or critical book review there are some specifics that you will want to include within your composition. These are; 1.) A summary of the book without giving away any spoiling details 2.) A background of the author, and 3.) Your own interpretation of the book's theme, you will want to discuss each of these elements in depth (within a paragraph or two) as well as include any other details that you found to be important. In a critical review you will want to conclude with your own opinion on the book. With a descriptive review you will want to include any scholarly notes or points that have been mentioned that may have been noted by experts.

One thing that is VERY IMPORTANT when you write a review is that you do not give away the ending or reveal any major plot points within your review. Unlike with a book report a book review should be readable by someone who has not yet read the book and may be interested in finding out more about it.

Writing A Book Review, The Easy Way!

If you like to read and write then authoring a book review may actually be quite a fun endeavor for you! It is a good opportunity for you to explore your own understanding of a book that you have just read as well as express your opinions and thoughts regarding the literature. Getting started isn't difficult. As you read the book keep notes on your observations as well as note the page number. This will save you time later on, because you will not have to go back and re-read pages in order to find the information that you want. Once, you have finished reading; take some time to reflect on the book before you begin to write. If at all possible, read some expert reports on the book and see if any of your observations are similar or different. Remember, it is okay to interrupt the book differently, as long as you can compose a good argument based on examples from the book that illustrate your findings. After you have looked at some other perspectives on the book you can begin to outline your review and conduct a little bit of research. You may find that your opinion on the book may change once you have found out more information about it's background and author. Finally, taking into account all of the information that you have collected, compose your book review. Try not to make it TOO long or overly detailed because you want the reader to be interested in reading the book them selves, not just finding out everything about it just from your paper.

 

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