As a reader, it may be difficult for you to know what you can or can not write in a book review. Book reviews are important for authors, they help them to understand why their book has a good reach or on the contrary why it is a flop. Let’s see how to do it!
What is a book review?
It is an honest reaction to a book. It analyzes its plotline, characters, and theme. The analysis is written in the first person. What you like or think should be more developed as objectively as you can.
People reading your review should be able to know if they would like to read the book. Don’t forget to justify your statements. For instance, why didn’t you like a book that could interest other readers? You can, of course, give your opinion on how the book impacted you.
Make sure you don’t add any spoils!
Book review structure
Book reviews have a similar layout to an essay with an introduction, a body part in several paragraphs, and a conclusion.
1. Introduction
A book review should have an introduction that summarizes the book’s main theme. Mention the title of the book and the author. You could tell the previous book written by the author (bestseller, literature prices).
2. Body part
A summary of the book
It should contain the following elements :
- Plot Summary: mention the initial situation or the starting point of the story.
- Main Characters: the one dealing with the internal conflict and maybe one or two characters very close to the main character.
- Setting the Context: describe the settings where the story takes place (time and location).
Evaluation of the book
Talk about the writing style. It can be the use of language (figure of speech, ease) tone, or pacing.
Tell what you find effective and what could have been improved. It may be too many scene descriptions that lose you or unnecessary dialogues.
Share about the development and complexity of characters.
3. Conclusion
Conclude with your overall impression of the book and why you would recommend it or not along with your rating.
Tips
Avoid repetition: ensure you don’t repeat the same information twice or more.
- Be Concise: Don’t tell too much. The goal isn’t, to the point, people reading your review don’t have to read the book.
- Add Your Reflections: Share how the book impacted your emotions. Is there a particular scene that was moving? A character you could relate to? Why?
- Quotes: You can add quotes that support your analysis.
Take some notes while reading the book.
Example of phrases/vocabulary you can add for your book review.
Background
The story is set/takes place …
Plot
The plot focuses on …
The story begins/is about …
Opinion and comments
“Book name” ….
…is a non-stop reading.
…is a fast-paced story.
…has a tragic/surprising end.
…is an inspiring story.
Language
Intelligible
Literal / Figurative
Explicit
Slangy / colloquial
Precise
A specific part of a book
A Slow Start: It is at the beginning of a novel where the plot develops gradually.
Gripping Climax: The most exciting, intense, or suspenseful part of a story. The internal conflict reaches its highest point and the outcome becomes imminent.
The Cliffhanger Ending: The conclusion of a story is made abruptly in a moment of high tension or suspense. It leaves an unresolved key plot, leading to a strong curiosity about what will happen next.
Twist in the Tail: An unexpected or surprising end. The plot twist changes the outcome in an unforeseen way.
Resolution: It is the answer to the initial internal conflict.
Recommendation
“Book name” is well worth reading.
It is certainly at the top of my book list.
“Book name” is a must.
“Book name” is a bore to read.
I wouldn’t recommend this because …
The weakest area of the book is…
The only/main/greatest weakness/drawback of the book is…
You now have all the elements to write a book review yourself!
So, now you’ve learned how to write a book review. The next question is, where to publish my book reviews? Introducing Ivan Stories’ Book Review Submission, Where You can submit your reviews with the above-mentioned details. Click the link below to join now.
Ivan Stories’ Book Review Submission
Do not forget to create an account to have access and have fun !!!
