A book report summarizes the books contents. A book review is different from a book report. A review should be a critical analysis of the book, not merely an account of it contents or a summary of the "story." This assignment requires both. The reviewer should tell the audience when he or she agrees with the author, and disagreeing with the author when you do not like the authors organization, judgment, writing ability or character development. A reviewer should clearly state how much or how little the author has helped the reviewer understand the characters, plot, theme or themes, or setting. From this knowledge you will recommend or not recommend the book to potential readers.

The following questions should be kept in mind when writing a review:
 

1. What exactly is the subject or topic of the book? Does the author cover the subject adequately?
2. What is the point of view? Does the background of the author affect the subject of the book?
3. What is the nature of the books content? Is is factual?
4. What conclusion or conclusions does the author make? Does the conclusion differ from other books you have read?
5. How has this booked helped you understand the subject? Would you recommend this book to other readers?

1. Check for spelling and grammatical errors. Use a dictionary, thesaurus and basic English grammar whenever necessary. If you have grammar and spell-check software, be sure to pay attention to the underlines which the software provides you.
2. Word-process or type your final draft with double-spacing and one-inch margins. Carefully proofread what you have typed or word-processed, and make the necessary corrections in the standard way.
3. On the top of the first page, on the left hand corner, type your name, date, class, and teacher's name.
4. Remember that your name on the paper indicates that the review is entirely your own work.