How to write a book report

How to Write a Book Report 

Aims: think more deeply about a book; demonstrate understanding.

Introduction

Provide basic information about the book, and what your report will be about.

Including:

1. Title (underlined)/Author
2. Genre
3. A brief (1-2 sentences) introduction to the book and the report.

Body

There are differences between reports on fiction and non-fiction.

But both include:

1. Explanation of the author’s purpose
2. Main themes of the book.

For fiction or other creative writing:

1. Brief descriptions of the setting
2. Point of view (who tells the story),
3. Protagonist
4. Other major characters.
5. Distinct mood or tone (if available).
6. Concise plot summary
7. A sequence of major events including:

Climax and resolution,

Literary devices such as foreshadowing.

For non-fiction:

1. General overview of the author’s topic, main points, and argument.
2. Thesis and important conclusions
3. Don’t try to summarize each chapter or every angle. Choose the ones that are most significant and interesting to you.

Analysis and Evaluation

Analyze or critique the book.

Give your own opinions; be sure you can explain and support them with examples.

Some questions you might want to consider:

• Did the author achieve his or her purpose?
• Is the writing effective, powerful, difficult, beautiful?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the book?
• For non-fiction, what are the author’s qualifications to write about the subject?
• Do you agree with the author’s arguments and conclusions?
• What is your overall response to the book? Did you find it interesting, moving, dull?
• Would you recommend it to others? Why or why not?

Conclusion

Briefly summarize how the book ends and what impression it has left on you.