how to write a review novel

How to Write a Book Review: The Complete Guide

by Sue Weems | 23 comments

If you've ever loved (or hated) a book, you may have been tempted to review it. Here's a complete guide to how to write a book review, so you can share your literary adventures with other readers more often! 

You finally reach the last page of a book that kept you up all night and close it with the afterglow of satisfaction and a tinge of regret that it’s over. If you enjoyed the book enough to stay up reading it way past your bedtime, consider writing a review. It is one of the best gifts you can give an author.

Regardless of how much you know about how to write a book review, the author will appreciate hearing how their words touched you.

But as you face the five shaded stars and empty box, a blank mind strikes. What do I say? I mean, is this a book really deserving of five stars? How did it compare to Dostoevsky or Angelou or Dickens?

Maybe there’s an easier way to write a book review.

Want to learn how to write a book from start to finish? Check out How to Write a Book: The Complete Guide .

The Fallacy of Book Reviews

Once you’ve decided to give a review, you are faced with the task of deciding how many stars to give a book.

When I first started writing book reviews, I made the mistake of trying to compare a book to ALL BOOKS OF ALL TIME. (Sorry for the all caps, but that’s how it felt, like a James Earl Jones voice was asking me where to put this book in the queue of all books.)

Other readers find themselves comparing new titles to their favorite books. It's a natural comparison. But is it fair?

This is honestly why I didn’t give reviews of books for a long time. How can I compare a modern romance or historical fiction war novel with Dostoevsky? I can’t, and I shouldn’t.

I realized my mistake one day as I was watching (of all things) a dog show. In the final round, they trotted out dogs of all shapes, colors, and sizes. I thought, “How can a Yorkshire Terrier compete with a Basset Hound?” As if he'd read my mind, the announcer explained that each is judged by the standards for its breed.

This was my “Aha!” moment. I have to take a book on its own terms. The question is not, “How does this book compare to all books I’ve read?” but “How well did this book deliver what it promised for the intended audience?”

A review is going to reflect my personal experience with the book, but I can help potential readers by taking a minute to consider what the author intended. Let me explain what I mean. 

How to Write a Book Review: Consider a Book’s Promise

A book makes a promise with its cover, blurb, and first pages. It begins to set expectations the minute a reader views the thumbnail or cover. Those things indicate the genre, tone, and likely the major themes.

If a book cover includes a lip-locked couple in flowing linen on a beach, and I open to the first page to read about a pimpled vampire in a trench coat speaking like Mr. Knightly about his plan for revenge on the entire human race, there’s been a breach of contract before I even get to page two. These are the books we put down immediately (unless a mixed-message beachy cover combined with an Austen vampire story is your thing).

But what if the cover, blurb, and first pages are cohesive and perk our interest enough to keep reading? Then we have to think about what the book has promised us, which revolves around one key idea: What is the core story question and how well is it resolved?

Sometimes genre expectations help us answer this question: a romance will end with a couple who finds their way, a murder mystery ends with a solved case, a thriller’s protagonist beats the clock and saves the country or planet.

The stories we love most do those expected things in a fresh or surprising way with characters we root for from the first page. Even (and especially!) when a book doesn’t fit neatly in a genre category, we need to consider what the book promises on those first pages and decide how well it succeeds on the terms it sets for itself.

When I Don’t Know What to Write

About a month ago, I realized I was overthinking how to write a book review. Here at the Write Practice we have a longstanding tradition of giving critiques using the Oreo method : point out something that was a strength, then something we wondered about or that confused us, followed by another positive.

We can use this same structure to write a simple review when we finish books. Consider this book review format: 

[Book Title] by [book author] is about ___[plot summary in a sentence—no spoilers!]___. I chose this book based on ________. I really enjoyed ________. I wondered how ___________. Anyone who likes ____ will love this book.

Following this basic template can help you write an honest review about most any book, and it will give the author or publisher good information about what worked (and possibly what didn’t). You might write about the characters, the conflict, the setting, or anything else that captured you and kept you reading.

As an added bonus, you will be a stronger reader when you are able to express why you enjoyed parts of a book (just like when you critique!). After you complete a few, you’ll find it gets easier, and you won’t need the template anymore.

What if I Didn’t Like It?

Like professional book reviewers, you will have to make the call about when to leave a negative review. If I can’t give a book at least three stars, I usually don’t review it. Why? If I don’t like a book after a couple chapters, I put it down. I don’t review anything that I haven’t read the entire book.

Also, it may be that I’m not the target audience. The book might be well-written and well-reviewed with a great cover, and it just doesn’t capture me. Or maybe it's a book that just isn't hitting me right now for reasons that have nothing to do with the book and everything to do with my own reading life and needs. Every book is not meant for every reader.

If a book kept me reading all the way to the end and I didn’t like the ending? I would probably still review it, since there had to be enough good things going on to keep me reading to the end. I might mention in my review that the ending was less satisfying than I hoped, but I would still end with a positive.

How to Write a Book Review: Your Turn

As writers, we know how difficult it is to put down the words day after day. We are typically voracious readers. Let’s send some love back out to our fellow writers this week and review the most recent title we enjoyed.

What was the last book you read or reviewed? Do you ever find it hard to review a book? Share in the comments .

Now it's your turn. Think of the last book you read. Then, take fifteen minutes to write a review of it based on the template above. When you're done, share your review in the Pro Practice Workshop . For bonus points, post it on the book's page on Amazon and Goodreads, too!

Don't forget to leave feedback for your fellow writers! What new reads will you discover in the comments?

Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Want to Get Published?

Enter your email to get our free interactive checklist to writing and publishing a book.

How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to write a book review- a step by step guide.

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Since knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could improve? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair:Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with an additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

Timely Deliveries

No Plagiarism & AI

100% Refund

Calculate Your Order Price

Related blogs.

Connections with Writers and support

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

Average Quality Score

Join Discovery, the new community for book lovers

Trust book recommendations from real people, not robots 🤓

Blog – Posted on Wednesday, Apr 03

How to write a book review in 3 steps.

If the idea of reading for free — or even getting paid to read — sounds like a dream come true, remember that it isn’t a pipe dream. There are many places aspiring book reviewers can read books for free, such as Reedsy Discovery — a new platform for reviewing indie books. Of course, if you’re giving serious thought to becoming a book reviewer, your first step should be learning how to write a book review. To that end, this post covers all the basics of literary criticism. Let’s get started!

The three main steps of writing a book review are simple:

• Provide a summary: What is story about? Who are the main characters and what is the main conflict? 
• Present your evaluation: What did you think of the book? What elements worked well, and which ones didn’t? 
• Give your recommendation: Would you recommend this book to others? If so, what kinds of readers will enjoy it?

You can also download our free book review templates and use it as a guide! Otherwise, let’s take a closer look at each element.

Pro-tip : But wait! How are you sure if you should become a book reviewer in the first place? If you're on the fence, or curious about your match with a book reviewing career, take our quick quiz:

Should you become a book reviewer?

Find out the answer. Takes 30 seconds!

How to write a review of a book

Step 1. provide a summary.

Have you ever watched a movie only to realize that all the good bits were already in the trailer? Well, you don’t want the review to do that. What you do want the summary to do is reveal the genre, theme, main conflict, and main characters in the story — without giving away spoilers or revealing how the story ends.

A good rule of thumb is not to mention anything that happens beyond the midpoint. Set the stage and give readers a sense of the book without explaining how the central issue is resolved.

Emily W. Thompson's review of The Crossing :

In [Michael] Doane’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results.

An unnamed protagonist (The Narrator) is dealing with heartbreak. His love, determined to see the world, sets out for Portland, Oregon. But he’s a small-town boy who hasn’t traveled much. So, the Narrator mourns her loss and hides from life, throwing himself into rehabbing an old motorcycle. Until one day, he takes a leap; he packs his bike and a few belongings and heads out to find the Girl. Read more...

Here are a few more reviews with well-written summaries for you to check out. The summary tend to be the longest part of the book review, so we won’t turn this post into a novel itself by pasting them all here: Le Cirque Navire reviewed by Anna Brill, The Heart of Stone reviewed by Kevin R. Dickinson, Fitting Out: The Friendship Experiment reviewed by Lianna Albrizio.

Non-fiction summary tip: The primary goal of a non-fiction summary is to provide context: what problems or issues has the book spotted, and how does it go about addressing them? Be sure to mention the authors of the title and what experience or expertise they bring to the title. Check Stefan Kløvning’s review of Creativity Cycling for an example of a summary that establishes the framework of the book within the context of its field.

Step 2. Present your evaluation

While you should absolutely weave your own personal take of a book into the review, your evaluation shouldn’t only be based on your subjective opinion. Along with presenting how you reacted to the story and how it affected you, you should also try to objectively critique the stronger and weaker elements of the story, and provide examples from the text to back up your points.

To help you write your evaluation, you should record your reactions and thoughts as you work your way through a novel you’re planning on reviewing. Here are some aspects of the book to keep in mind as you do.

Your evaluation might focus heartily on the book’s prose:

Donald Barker's review of Mercenary : 

Such are the bones of the story. But, of course, it is the manner in which Mr Gaughran puts the bones back together and fills them with life that makes “Mercenary” such a great read. The author’s style seems plain; it seems straightforward and even simple. But an attempt at imitation or emulation quickly proves that simple it is not. He employs short, punchy sentences that generate excellent dialogue dripping with irony, deadpan humour and wit. This, mixed with good descriptive prose, draws the characters – and what characters they are – along with the tumultuous events in which they participated amidst the stinking, steaming heat of the South American jungle, out from the past to the present; alive, scheming, drinking, womanising and fighting, onto the written page.

You can give readers a sense of the book by drawing comparisons to other well-known titles or authors:

Laura Hartman's review of The Mystery of Ruby's Mistletoe :

Reading Ms. Donovan’s book is reminiscent to one of my favorite authors, Dame Agatha Christie. Setting up the suspects in a snowbound house, asking them to meet in the drawing room and the cleverly satisfying conclusion was extremely gratifying. I can picture Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot nodding at Ms. Donovan saying “Well done!”

Not everyone’s tastes are the same, and you can always acknowledge this by calling out specific story elements in your evaluation: 

Kevin R. Dickinson's review of The Heart of Stone :

Whether you enjoy Galley’s worldbuilding will depend heavily on preference. Galley delivers information piecemeal, letting the characters, not the author, navigate the reader through Hartlund. A notable example is the magic system, an enigmatic force that lacks the ridge structures of, say, a Brandon Sanderson novel. While the world’s magical workings are explained, you only learn what the characters know and many mysteries remain by the end. Similar choices throughout make the world feel expansive and authentic.

Non-fiction evaluation tip: A book’s topic is only as compelling as its supporting arguments. Your evaluation of a nonfiction book should address that: how clearly and effectively are the points communicated? Turn back to Stefan’s critique for an example of a non-fiction critique that covers key takeaways and readability, without giving away any “big reveals.”

Step 3. Give your recommendation 

At the end of the day, your critique needs to answer this question: is this a book you would (or wouldn’t) recommend to other readers? You might wrap up by comparing it to other books in the same genre, or authors with similar styles, such as: “Fans of so-and-so will enjoy this book.” 

Let’s take a look at a few more tips:

You don’t need to write, “I recommend this book” — you can make it clear by highlighting your favorable opinion:

Following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and William Least Heat-Moon, Doane offers a coming of age story about a man finding himself on the backroads of America. Doane’s a gifted writer with fluid prose and insightful observations, using The Narrator’s personal interactions to illuminate the diversity of the United States.

Despite his flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany The Narrator on his physical and emotional journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable road trip.

Add more punch to your rating by mentioning what kind of audience will or won’t enjoy the book:

Charleigh Aleyna Reid's review of The King of FU :

I would recommend this book to anyone who grew up in the 90’s and would like to reminisce about the time, someone who is interested to see what it was like to be a 90’s kid, or perhaps anyone who is looking for a unique, funny story about someone’s life.

Unless you found the title absolutely abhorrent, a good way to balance out a less favorable book review it to share what you did like about the book — before ultimately stating why you wouldn’t recommend the novel:

Nicola O's review of Secrets of the Sea Lord :

Overall, there are plenty of enjoyable elements in this story and fans of Atlantis and mer mythology should give it a try. Despite this, it does not rise above a three-star rating, and while I had some difficulty pinning down why this is, I concluded that it comes from a surprisingly unsophisticated vocabulary. There are a couple of graphic sex scenes, which is absolutely fine in a paranormal romance, but if they were removed, I could easily imagine this as an appealing story for middle-schoolers.

Non-fiction recommendation tip: As with fiction book reviews, share why you did or didn’t enjoy the title. However, in one of the starkest divergences from fiction book reviews it’s more important than ever that you mention your expectations coming into the non-fiction book. For instance, if you’re a cow farmer who’s reading a book on the benefits of becoming a vegetarian, you’re coming in with a large and inherent bias that the book will struggle to alter. So your recommendation should cover your thoughts about the book, while clearly taking account your perspective before you started reading. Let’s look once more at Stefan’s review for an example of a rating that includes an explanation of the reviewer’s own bias.

Bonus tips for writing a book review

Let’s wrap up with a few final tips for writing a compelling review.

• Remember, this isn’t a book report. If someone wants the summary of a book, they can read the synopsis. People turn to book reviews for a fellow reader’s take on the book. And for that reason...
• Have an opinion. Even if your opinion is totally middle-of-the-line — you didn’t hate the book but you didn’t love it either — state that clearly, and explain why.
• Make your stance clear from the outset. Don’t save your opinion just for the evaluation/recommendation. Weave your thoughts about the book into your summary as well, so that readers have an idea of your opinion from the outset.
• Back up your points. Instead of just saying, “the prose was evocative” — show readers by providing an actual passage that displays this. Same goes for negative points — don’t simply tell readers you found a character unbelievable, reference a certain (non-spoiler) scene that backs this up.
• Provide the details. Don’t forget to weave the book’s information into the review: is this a debut author? Is this one installment of a series? What types of books has the author written before? What is their background? How many pages does the book have? Who published the book? What is the book’s price?
• Follow guidelines. Is the review you’re writing for Goodreads? For The New York Times ? The content and tone of your review will vary a good deal from publication to publication.
• Learn from others. One of the best ways to learn how to write a great review is to read other reviews! To help you out with that, we’ve published a post all about book review examples .

Writing book reviews can be a rewarding experience! As a book-lover yourself, it’s a great opportunity to help guide readers to their next favorite title. If you’re just getting started as a reviewer and could use a couple more tips and nudges in the right direction, check out our comprehensive blog post on how to become a book reviewer . And if you want to find out which review community is the right fit for you, we recommend taking this quick quiz:

Which review community should you join?

Find out which review community is best for your style. Takes 30 seconds!

Finally, if you feel you've nailed the basics of how to write a book review, we recommend you check out Reedsy Discovery , where you can review books for free and are guaranteed people will read them. To register as a book reviewer, simply go here !

Continue reading

More posts from across the blog.

70 Best Game of Thrones Quotes from the Books and TV Series

Well, whether you loved or hated the hotly contested final season of HBO's Game of Thrones series, we can bet on one thing: you're sad to say goodbye to Sunday nights spent watching the Seven Kingdoms battle it out for the Iron Throne. True, we do have <...

30+ Best Young Adult Romance Books You Can't Miss Out On

If there’s one thing that we can all agree is universal, it’s that you never forget your first love. Ironically enough, first loves might also be one of the hardest things to capture in words — but, luckily, we have books for that. These brilliant authors

How to Become a Book Reviewer in 12 Steps

Most book critics have a pretty thankless job. If they give a bad review, they’re often accused of sour grapes (“If they could write, then they wouldn’t be reviewers”) and when their write-ups help a book to take off, they almost never get the credit (“the author...

Heard about Reedsy Discovery?

Trust real people, not robots, to give you book recommendations.

Or sign up with an

Or sign up with your social account

• Submit your book
• Reviewer directory

Want to be a book reviewer?

Review new books and start building your portfolio.

Sheila Loves Books

This blog is about my passion for books

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write a Book Review for Beginners

Writing a book review can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for book lovers. It allows you to share your thoughts and opinions about a book while helping others make informed choices. it provides an opportunity to connect with a community of readers who share similar interests. Here are the steps to write a book review and some tips for writing an effective one.

Why Write a Book Review?

• Share Your Opinion: Writing a book review allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and insights about a book.
• Help Others Make Informed Choices: Your review can assist potential readers in deciding whether a book aligns with their interests and preferences.
• Connect with a Community: Engaging in book reviews allows you to connect with fellow readers, exchange recommendations, and participate in meaningful discussions.

Steps to Write a Book Review:

• Read the Book Carefully: Take your time to read the book thoroughly, paying attention to its themes, plot, characters, and writing style.
• Take Notes and Highlight Key Points: Make note of important ideas, memorable quotes, and significant moments that stand out to you while reading.
• Structure Your Review: Organize your review into sections such as introduction, summary, plot analysis, writing style evaluation, personal thoughts, and conclusion.
• Begin with an Engaging Introduction: Capture the reader’s attention by providing a brief overview of the book and its significance.
• Provide a Brief Summary: Summarize the main plot and introduce the central characters without giving away any major spoilers.
• Discuss the Plot and Characters: Analyze the plot’s development, pacing, and twists. Evaluate the strength of the characters and their impact on the story.
• Evaluate the Writing Style and Organization: Assess the author’s writing style, use of language, and overall organization of the book.
• Share your Personal Thoughts and Opinions: Express your likes, dislikes, and thoughts on the book’s themes, messages, and overall impact.
• Give Examples and Supporting Evidence: Support your opinions with specific examples from the book, such as quotes or scenes, to strengthen your arguments.
• Write a Clear and Concise Conclusion: Sum up your review in a concise manner and provide a final verdict on whether you recommend the book or not.

Tips for Writing an Effective Book Review:

• Be Honest and Balanced: Present both the strengths and weaknesses of the book in a fair and balanced manner.
• Avoid Spoilers: Be mindful of not revealing major plot twists or giving away the ending to preserve the reader’s experience.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Write in a clear, concise, and engaging manner to keep the reader’s attention.
• Provide Context: Include relevant background information about the author, genre, or any historical context that may enhance the reader’s understanding.
• Support Your Opinions with Evidence: Back up your opinions with examples, quotes, and references from the book to add credibility to your review.
• Consider the Target Audience: Keep in mind the book’s intended audience and tailor your review accordingly to address their interests and expectations.

By following these steps and tips, you can confidently write a comprehensive and insightful book review that will help readers make informed choices and engage in meaningful discussions within the reading community.

Table of Contents

Key takeaways:

• Writing a book review allows you to share your opinion, help others make informed choices, and connect with a community of readers.
• To write an effective book review, carefully read the book, take notes, structure your review, and provide a brief summary, character and plot analysis, and evaluation of the writing style.
• When writing a book review, be honest and balanced, avoid spoilers, use clear and concise language, provide context, support your opinions with evidence, and consider the target audience.

Why write a book review? It’s more than just sharing your opinion on a page-turner. It’s a chance to help others make informed choices, connect with a community of book lovers, and take notes on key points that truly resonated. So, grab that pen and paper, and unleash your creativity! From an engaging introduction to a clear and concise conclusion, we’ll explore the structure, plot, characters, writing style, and more. Get ready to dive into the exciting world of book reviews!

Share Your Opinion

To effectively share your opinion in a book review, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, it’s important to be honest and balanced in your assessment of the book. Providing a fair evaluation will give readers a trustworthy perspective. Additionally, avoiding spoilers is crucial as it allows readers to discover the plot themselves, enhancing their reading experience.

To ensure your opinion is well-understood, it is essential to use clear and concise language. This will help convey your thoughts effectively and prevent any confusion. In addition, providing context by discussing the genre, themes , and target audience of the book will enrich your review. This allows readers to better understand the book’s intended audience and purpose.

To strengthen your opinion, supporting it with evidence is vital. Incorporate specific examples from the book to back up your arguments. This will demonstrate that your opinions are well-grounded and thoughtful.

Lastly, keep in mind the target audience when expressing your thoughts and opinions. Tailoring your review to match the interests and preferences of the intended readership will make your opinion more relevant and valuable to them.

By considering these guidelines, you can craft a book review that effectively shares your opinion while providing valuable insights for potential readers.

Help Others Make Informed Choices

Writing a book review can help others make informed choices when deciding what books to read. Here are some reasons why writing a book review is important:

• Share your opinion: Your review can give readers an insight into your thoughts and feelings about the book.
• Help others make informed choices : By sharing your evaluation of the book, you can help others make informed choices if it’s the right book for them.
• Connect with a community: Book lovers can connect and engage in conversations about books through reviews.

By writing a comprehensive and well-structured review, you can provide valuable information to potential readers, guiding them in their book selection process. So, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and help others make informed choices!

Connect with a Community

Connecting with a community is one of the benefits of writing a book review. It allows you to connect with a community and share your thoughts and opinions with others who have similar interests. By engaging in discussions with fellow readers , you can connect with a community, gain new insights, recommendations , and perspectives. Writing a book review provides an opportunity to connect with a community of readers and establish meaningful connections. So, whether it’s joining a book club , participating in online forums , or attending literary events , connecting with a community is a great way to enhance your reading experience.

Pro-tip : Join online book communities or social media groups dedicated to book discussions to connect with a larger community of readers and discover new books.

Read the Book Carefully

When writing a book review, it is essential to thoroughly read the book in order to provide a meticulous and thoughtful analysis. Pay close attention to the plot , characters , writing style , and themes that are explored in the book. Take detailed notes while reading to ensure you remember the important details and impactful quotes. By comprehensively understanding the book, you will be able to offer a well-informed review that provides valuable insights to potential readers. Remember to take your time and fully immerse yourself in the book to grasp its nuances and appreciate the author’s craftsmanship .

Take Notes and Highlight Key Points

Taking comprehensive notes and highlighting key points while reading a book is crucial for writing an effective book review. Noting down significant details, memorable quotes , and important themes is essential for providing a comprehensive analysis of the book. Here’s how to efficiently take notes:

By taking comprehensive notes and highlighting key points, you’ll have a solid foundation for writing an insightful book review. Keep in mind that the purpose of a review is not only to summarize the book but also to provide your personal analysis and evaluation.

Structure Your Review

• Structure Your Review by reading the book carefully to have a thorough understanding of its content.
• Take notes and highlight key points that you want to discuss in your review in order to effectively Structure Your Review .
• To Structure Your Review effectively, begin with an engaging introduction that grabs the reader’s attention.
• Provide a brief summary of the book to give readers an overview and help Structure Your Review .
• Discuss the plot and characters , exploring their development and impact on the story, as part of the process to Structure Your Review .
• Evaluate the writing style and organization , commenting on the author’s technique and how well the book flows to Structure Your Review .
• Share your personal thoughts and opinions, expressing what worked or didn’t work for you, as this is crucial to Structure Your Review .
• Give examples and supporting evidence from the book to strengthen your review and further Structure Your Review with concrete evidence.
• Write a clear and concise conclusion that summarizes your main points and final thoughts to Structure Your Review effectively.

Remember to be honest, avoid spoilers, use clear language, provide context, support your opinions with evidence, and consider the target audience. Have fun writing your book review!

Begin with an Engaging Introduction

When writing a book review, it is crucial to begin with an engaging introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. This introduction sets the tone for your review and piques the curiosity of your audience. You can start by providing a brief but captivating summary of the book, highlighting its main themes or unique aspects. Additionally, you can share your initial impressions or explain why you chose to read the book. However, it is important to avoid giving away any spoilers . By starting with an engaging introduction, you will hook your readers and leave them eager to continue reading your review.

In the realm of ancient literature , the art of storytelling has always held a special place in the hearts of readers. From Homer’s epic poems to Shakespeare’s masterful plays, the power of a well-crafted narrative has transcended time. Through the magic of literature , tales of triumph, tragedy, and everything in between have been passed down and cherished by countless generations. Therefore, when embarking on the task of writing a book review, it is essential to begin with an engaging introduction that draws readers into the enchanting world of words.

Provide a Brief Summary

A well-crafted book review includes the provision of a brief summary. It is essential to capture the main points of the book while avoiding excessive details or spoilers. The summary serves the purpose of giving readers a general understanding of the book’s content and what they can expect from it. A concise and clear summary emphasizes the crucial aspects of the plot, setting , and characters. By providing this brief overview, readers can quickly assess if the book matches their interests and make a decision regarding whether to read it. A noteworthy fact is that a skillfully written summary has the potential to entice readers to explore the book further, thereby increasing their interest and engagement.

Discuss the Plot and Characters

When writing a book review, it is crucial to thoroughly discuss the plot and characters in an insightful and detailed manner. Take the time to analyze the storyline , examining how the plot unfolds and develops, and evaluate how the characters contribute to the overall narrative. It is also important to assess the believability and depth of the characters, as well as explore their motivations and relationships . In addition, discuss whether the characters experience personal growth or remain stagnant throughout the book. Enhance your analysis by providing examples and specific evidence from the text to support your points. By delving into both the plot and characters, you will offer readers a comprehensive understanding of the book, allowing them to make an informed decision.

Evaluate the Writing Style and Organization

Evaluating the writing style and organization of a book is essential when writing a review. When analyzing a book’s qualities, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Clarity: Is the writing clear and easily understandable?
• Flow: Does the book transition smoothly between ideas, or are there sudden shifts?
• Structure: Does the book have a well-organized structure, including a clear beginning, middle, and end?
• Pacing: Does the book maintain an appropriate pace, or does it feel either too slow or rushed?
• Character development: Are the characters well-developed and believable?
• Plot progression: Does the plot progress logically, or are there any inconsistencies?

By evaluating both the writing style and organization, you can provide readers with valuable insights to guide them in determining if the book suits their preferences. It is worth noting that a well-written book with strong organization has the potential to enhance the reading experience and captivate its audience.

Share your Personal Thoughts and Opinions

When writing a book review, it is crucial to share your personal thoughts and opinions . By doing this, you allow readers to comprehend your perspective and assist them in making well-informed choices . It is important to incorporate specific examples and evidence from the book to substantiate your viewpoints. Additionally, strive to maintain honesty and balance in your assessment by presenting both positive and negative aspects of the book. Using clear and concise language is also essential in effectively conveying your thoughts. Furthermore, always bear in mind the target audience of the book and tailor your opinions accordingly. By openly expressing your personal thoughts and opinions, you can actively contribute to a dynamic and captivating book review community .

Give Examples and Supporting Evidence

When writing a book review, it is crucial to provide examples and supporting evidence to substantiate your opinions. By furnishing specific examples from the book, you can effectively demonstrate your points and aid readers in comprehending your perspective. For instance, if you discovered the characterization in the book to be robust , you could present examples of well-developed and relatable characters. Similarly, if you sensed that the plot was feeble , you could provide particular instances where the story lacked tension or resolution. Incorporating supporting evidence bolsters your review and enhances its persuasiveness to others.

Write a Clear and Concise Conclusion

• Summarize your main points: Briefly recap the key aspects of the book, including the plot, characters , and writing style .
• Evaluate the overall impact: Share your overall assessment of the book . Did it meet your expectations? Did it fulfill its purpose?
• Offer a recommendation: Based on your review, recommend whether or not others should read the book . Provide a concise reason for your recommendation.

A pro-tip for writing a conclusion: Keep it concise and impactful . Your conclusion should leave a lasting impression and encourage readers to take action, whether that’s picking up the book or skipping it.

Tips for Writing an Effective Book Review

Looking to write an effective book review? Look no further as we dive into some valuable tips that will elevate your review game. From being honest and balanced to avoiding spoilers, using clear and concise language, and providing context, we’ll cover it all. We’ll explore the importance of supporting your opinions with evidence and considering the target audience. With these guidelines, you’ll be equipped to write book reviews that captivate readers and offer valuable insights. So grab your pen and let’s get started!

Be Honest and Balanced

• To write an effective book review, it is crucial to be honest and balanced in your assessment.
• When evaluating the book , make sure to provide an objective and impartial evaluation, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses .
• Avoid allowing personal biases or preferences to overly influence your review, and give credit where it is due.
• Consider different perspectives and think about the potential audience for the book.
• Present a well-rounded viewpoint by acknowledging any flaws or shortcomings in the book alongside its positive aspects .
• Support your opinions with evidence from the book, such as specific examples or quotes .
• Communicate your thoughts using clear and concise language, without resorting to excessive praise or criticism.

Avoid Spoilers

When writing a book review, it’s crucial to avoid spoilers in order to preserve the suspense and surprise for other readers. Here are some tips to help you steer clear of spoilers when crafting your review:

• Emphasize the overarching themes and impressions of the book rather than divulging specific plot twists or endings.
• Steer clear of discussing significant character developments or surprises that may impact the reader’s experience.
• Instead of revealing specific details, delve into the author’s writing style, the pacing of the story, or the effectiveness of the narrative structure.
• Provide enough information to give readers an idea of what to expect without giving away crucial plot points.
• Consider using vague statements or generalizations to explore important aspects of the story without spoiling the specifics.

In a similar vein, when recounting a true historical event , it’s vital to gradually reveal the details in order to preserve the suspense and intrigue for the audience. By gradually unveiling the facts, it enables the reader or listener to engage with the event in a more captivating and profound manner.

Use Clear and Concise Language

When writing a book review , it’s crucial to incorporate the use of clear and concise language. This is important to effectively communicate your thoughts and opinions to the reader . Avoid the use of unnecessary jargon or complex vocabulary that may confuse the reader. Instead, focus on using straightforward sentences and expressing your ideas in a concise manner. Aim to be clear and direct in your language, getting straight to the point . By incorporating the use of clear and concise language, you can ensure that your book review is easily understandable and engaging for the reader. Always remember, simplicity is key in conveying your thoughts effectively.

Provide Context

To effectively provide context in a book review, it is of utmost importance to tactfully present readers with a brief background on the author , the genre , and any relevant historical or cultural context. This approach helps readers grasp the book’s significance and fully appreciate it within its specific context. For instance, when analyzing a historical fiction novel, mentioning the specific time period in which it is set, as well as any pertinent historical events that contribute to the story, becomes crucial. By incorporating context, readers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the book’s themes, characters, and plot. As a result, they are empowered to make well-informed decisions about whether the book aligns with their interests and preferences.

In a similar vein, a true story serves as a powerful exemplification of the profound impact of providing context. A book reviewer shared their initial confusion and lack of interest in a classic novel. However, after delving deeper into the historical context surrounding the book’s creation and the personal experiences of the author, they found a newfound appreciation for the story and its underlying themes. This anecdote beautifully underscores how the inclusion of context can significantly augment readers’ understanding and enjoyment of a book.

Support Your Opinions with Evidence

To write an effective book review, it is vital to support your opinions with evidence. Here are some ways to accomplish that:

• Present specific examples from the book to validate your arguments and opinions.
• Show references to quotes or passages that stood out to you and explain why they carried significance.
• Explore the author’s implementation of literary devices, such as symbolism or foreshadowing , and discuss how they influenced the story.
• Analyze the development of characters and provide instances of their actions or dialogue that illustrate your points.
• Draw comparisons between the book and other works by the same author or within the same genre to offer context and back your evaluation.

By incorporating evidence from the book, you can enhance your review and assist readers in making informed decisions about whether to read the book or not.

Consider the Target Audience

Considering the target audience is crucial when writing a book review . It is important to consider the target audience to ensure that your review is tailored to their specific needs and interests. By taking into account the age group , genre preferences , reading level , and cultural background of the readers, you can provide a more insightful and valuable review.

By considering the target audience , you can provide a more insightful and valuable review that caters to their specific needs and interests.

Some Facts About How to Write a Book Review:

• ✅ A book review should offer a critical perspective and engage in dialogue with the work’s creator and other audiences. (Source: UNC Writing Center)
• ✅ Reviews are typically brief and rarely exceed 1000 words. (Source: UNC Writing Center)
• ✅ A book review should provide a concise summary of the content, offer a critical assessment of the work, and suggest whether the audience would appreciate it. (Source: UNC Writing Center)
• ✅ Writing a book review can be daunting as it requires expressing opinions and making judgments. However, it is encouraged to provide concrete evidence for assertions and voice agreement or disagreement tactfully. (Source: UNC Writing Center)
• ✅ A good book review should be concise, avoid repetition, be supported by evidence from the book, and be proofread before submission. (Source: Grammarly)

Frequently Asked Questions

Faqs on how to write a book review, 1. how can i write a concise summary of a book in my review.

A concise summary of a book in your review can be written by focusing on the main ideas, key events, and central themes of the book. Include a brief description of the plot or contents, highlighting the significant aspects without getting into excessive detail.

2. How should I analyze a book in my review?

To analyze a book in your review, pay attention to its literary elements, such as themes, characters, dialogue, and the author’s style. Discuss how these elements contribute to the overall message or impact of the book. It’s also helpful to consider the book’s historical, social, or cultural context.

3. What are some key steps for writing an effective introduction paragraph?

When writing the introduction paragraph of your book review, start with a captivating opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention. Provide a brief overview of the book, including its title, author, and a short summary of its content. Finally, state your thesis statement, which outlines your main argument or evaluation of the book.

4. How can I offer a critical assessment of the book in my review?

To offer a critical assessment of the book in your review, carefully evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Discuss what aspects of the book worked well and what could have been improved. Support your assessment with specific examples, evidence from the book, and comparisons to relevant sources or similar works.

5. How do I write a conclusion paragraph for a book review?

The conclusion paragraph of your book review should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. You can also provide a final evaluation or recommendation for the book, explaining whether you would recommend it to others and why. Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion.

6. Where can I find additional resources to enhance my book review writing skills?

To enhance your book review writing skills, consider exploring academic journals, professional works, and recently written books in your field of interest. These sources can help you deepen your analytical skills and learn from expert reviewers. Additionally, online writing guides and resources provided by writing centers or universities can be valuable in improving your academic writing abilities.

American Author House: The Final Revival of Opal & Nev

American Author House: Philip Roth: The Biography

American Author House: The Hill We Climb: An Inaugural Poem for the Country

American Author House: The Midnight Library: A Novel

American Author House: Win

American Author House: The Hate U Give

American Author House: The Lost Apothecary: A Novel

American Author House: Good Company: A Novel

• Let's Get Started
• Book Writing
• Ghost Writing
• Autobiography & Memoir
• Ebook Writing
• Article Writing/Publication
• Book Editing
• Book Publishing
• Book Video Trailer
• Author Website
• Book Marketing
• Book Cover Design
• Custom Book Illustration
• Professional Audio Book

How to Write A Book Review: Definition, Structure, Examples

• July 2, 2023

Table of Contents:

Understanding the purpose of a book review, telling possible readers, providing constructive feedback, building a community of readers, increasing visibility, the structure of a book review, introduction, summary of the book, critical analysis, style of writing, plot and structure, messages and main ideas, difference and effect, examples and supporting evidence, examples of well-written book reviews, example 1: non-fiction book review, example 2: fiction book review, to kill a mockingbird by harper lee, essential elements, strategy and detailed insights.

Every writer must know to write a book review. It is an important skill for people who love to read and want to become writers. Not only does it help writers, but it also helps other users choose what to read.

It’s important to know why you write a book review before you get started on the actual process of doing so. A book review is important for many reasons, such as:

A well-written review summarizes the book, its main ideas, and what the reader should take from it. This helps potential readers decide if they want to read the book.

Reviews help writers figure out what worked and what didn’t in their book by telling them what worked and what didn’t. Helpful critiques can help writers improve their writing skills and improve their next works.

Book reviews help readers talk about what they’ve read, which builds a sense of community and shared experiences. American Author House help people talk about books and see them from different points of view.

Good reviews can greatly affect how well-known and sold a book is. They change how online sites work and help get the author’s work in front of more people.

Now that we know how important book reviews are, let’s look at how they are put together and what they should include.

The opening should immediately grab the reader’s attention and set the stage for your review. Most of the time, writing a book review has the following parts:

• Information about the book: Give the title, author’s name, release date, and subject as your first information. This helps people know which book you are talking about.
• Hook: Engage your readers with a catchy line that shows what the book is about or what makes it special. This could be a question that makes you think, an interesting quote, or a short story.
• Thesis Statement: Give a short and convincing summary of your feelings about the book. This gives the rest of your review a sense of direction.

Give a summary of the book’s plot, major ideas, and main characters in this part. Don’t give away details that could ruin the story for the reader. Focus on giving people a general idea of the book and how it feels.

The critical analysis is the heart of your book review, where you provide your thoughts and opinions. Think about how to write a book review. Read some of the following tips:

Evaluate the author’s writing style, including how they use words, pace, and tell a story. Talk about how well it tells the story and keeps the reader interested.

Look at how the story goes and how the book is put together. Comment on how well the story makes sense, moves along, and flows. Talk about whether the story keeps readers interested and whether the framework makes it easier to follow.

Analyze the major characters, how they change, and how they are important to the story. Talk about their good points, bad points, and general trustworthiness. Talk about the connections between the characters and how they affect the story.

Check out the book’s core ideas, messages, or social comments. Talk about how well the author handles these topics and if they make sense to the reader.

Think about how original the book is and how it affects the reader. Talk about whether the story shows something new or gives you new ideas. Then write a book review. Discuss how the book made you feel, what it taught you, and how it changed your morals.

Give specific examples and quotes from the book to back up your reasoning. These examples should back your arguments and help readers understand your view. Choose parts that are especially moving, well-written, or show how good the book is.

You can write a book review and conclude by combining your general opinion and summarizing your main points. Give a final suggestion to the people based on what you’ve learned. Use this part to leave a strong impact and get people interested in reading the rest of the book.

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg If you want to explore more examples of well-written book reviews and gain inspiration, you can check out our article on The Pros and Cons of Self-Publishing on Amazon .

In The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg explores the science behind habits and their impact on our lives. Using real-life examples and engaging anecdotes, Duhigg provides a fascinating look into how habits are formed, how they can be changed, and their influence on personal and professional success.

Duhigg’s writing style is informative and engaging, making complex concepts accessible to many readers. His meticulous research is evident throughout the book, as he presents compelling case studies and scientific findings to support his claims. The book’s structure seamlessly guides readers through exploring habit formation, change, and its applications in various domains.

By dissecting the underlying psychology of habits, Duhigg sheds light on the power of routine and the potential for personal transformation. The book offers actionable insights and practical strategies to help readers harness the power of habits in their own lives.

The Power of Habit is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the influence of habits on personal and professional development. Duhigg’s compelling storytelling and evidence-based approach make this book a valuable resource for individuals seeking to make positive life changes.

Summary: To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic novel set in the racially-charged atmosphere of the 1930s Deep South. Harper Lee’s timeless masterpiece explores themes of racial inequality, justice, and the loss of innocence through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama.

Lee’s evocative writing transports readers to a bygone era, vividly depicting the social complexities and prejudices of the time. Through Scout’s innocent perspective, the reader witnesses the profound impact of racism and intolerance on the community. The memorable characters, such as Atticus Finch and Boo Radley, are flawlessly developed, each contributing to the overarching narrative with depth and nuance.

The novel’s exploration of moral courage, empathy, and the pursuit of justice resonates as powerfully today as it did upon its publication. Lee’s ability to tackle sensitive subjects with sensitivity and authenticity sets To Kill a Mockingbird apart as a timeless work of literature.

Conclusion:

To Kill a Mockingbird is a literary masterpiece that confronts the complexities of racial injustice with grace and insight. Harper Lee’s remarkable storytelling and profound themes. If you’re interested in exploring more classic literature and book reviews, you can find valuable insights in our article about Fantastic Fiction: Discovering the Best Fantasy and Sci-Fi Books .

limited Time offer

50% off on all services.

REDEEM YOUR COUPON: AAH50

Recommended Blogs

100 excellent children’s book ideas for authors | vhba, children’s typewriters: fostering creativity and learning through play, how to be a book editor: a newcomer’s guide, let's have a conversation to streamline your book writing and publishing we offer a comprehensive, fully managed book writing and publishing service designed to help you save valuable time., 50% off on all services redeem your coupon: aah50.

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Home » Writing » How to Write a Good Book Review

Tips for Writing a Good Book Review 

Now that you’ve prepped what you want to say, how you want to say it, and who you want to say it to, it’s time to start writing. Below we’ve gathered our favorite tips to help you write a good book review. Wait… make that a GREAT book review.

1. Include general information

Make sure to include all the relevant book information for your audience , including the title, author, genre, and publisher in your review. While not necessary, it is also helpful to include the number of pages, list price, and ISBN number.

2. Provide a brief plot summary

After the hook, you can then move on to the brief plot summary. This summary shouldn’t be too long, but it can be a paragraph that explains the basic plot so that the reader better understands if it’s a topic of interest. One pitfall to avoid is to give away spoilers in the plot summary. Don’t give away any plot twists, and err on the side of caution if you feel that the information is too much. For example, tell the reader that the plot has unexpected twists rather than explain any surprises in the summary.

3. Focus on the book, not the author

Keep in mind that your main job as a reviewer is to share your opinion on the book, not to critique the author. Keep the focus on the story. Avoid referencing pitfalls in any of the author’s past books or what you about them as a writer. You can provide a brief introduction to the story mentioning the author and past books, but don’t spend too much time focused on the author. The review should focus on the content of the book and its characters.

4. Be clear and specific

It is not enough to just say that you did or didn’t like the book. Let your readers know why. Make your thoughts clear as early as possible and explain the reasons why you liked or disliked specific storyline components and characters. Be specific about what you loved about the writing, what drew you to the characters, or what left you feeling lukewarm about the plot. You don’t need to explain every aspect of the book, but the reader should walk away with a sense that they understand the basic plot and determine from the review if they want to read the book for themselves.

5. Remain subjective

Not all book reviews have to be glowing, but they should be subjective. Rather than just saying you didn’t like something, support it by letting your readers know why. We all gravitate towards different things, so what may not appeal to you may appeal to someone else. If you remain subjective, then you can explain to the reader the basic story and let them decide for themselves. The review can include your likes and dislikes, but they should focus on what you felt the story did well and what parts of the story you didn’t like. However, the main focus of the review should be to explain the story so that readers can determine if they want to read the book further.

6. Avoid spoilers

We know it can be tempting, but do your best not to let any spoilers slip in your book review. Have you ever been excited to see the latest blockbuster hit (or watch the season cliffhanger to your favorite TV show) and then someone spoils the end before you even have time to watch? That is exactly what you don’t want to do to your reader. As you explain the book in your summary, ask yourself if what you are explaining ruins any surprises or twists. As you write the review, keep it vague. For example, explain that there is a major plot twist but don’t go into the specifics.

7. Be transparent

Always share if you received an incentive to review the book, got an advance copy, or have any connection to the author. Your readers will appreciate your honesty. Plus, it helps you avoid the negative impact on your credibility if they find out later. Getting paid for a review is a perfectly reasonable excuse to read a book, but it does allow readers to determine if you’re being unbiased. By specifying if you have any relationship with the author, the reader can better trust your opinion, even if they feel you’re being more biased.

8. Keep it short

While book reviews can be any length, it is always best to keep it short and succinct. Pull in your reader with a strong first sentence that sets the tone of the review and end with your recommendation. Remember, most people start to scan when something gets too long. A book review is a short summary, so writing a novel-length review loses reader interests. Keeping it short will ensure that your readers will dive into your likes and dislikes and use your reviews to determine if they have an interest in the books.

9. Proofread before posting

The quickest way to lose credibility is to post a review filled with typos. Make sure to give your final book review a thorough read before posting it and double check the spelling of any character names or places that you mention. Even better, ask someone else to read it over. It is always good to have a fresh pair of eyes proof to catch any typos. If you don’t have a family or friend who will help with proofreader, you can join a writing community where members offer test reads and proofreading. Make sure that you don’t post the review publicly, because search engines will index it and the review will no longer be unique content.

Also, keep in mind that you will want to write different book reviews for different sites. Don’t just copy and paste the same review. Google search engines scan for duplicate content and if flagged, your review won’t appear.

10. Add a hook

The hook is one or two sentences that grab the reader and convince them to keep going. It should be interesting, but it should also stick with the topic without misleading readers. The hook could be a simple statement that explains the main character of the book, or it could ask a question that resonates with the reader. Don’t make the hook too sensational to avoid sounding like a sales pitch. It should simply provide an introduction that grabs reader interests.

11. Explain what you liked about the book

Writing your own book review is a way to explain what you liked about it, and what you liked could be of interest to another reader. This section allows you to personalize the review. You can explain what you liked about the characters, who was your favorite character, what part of the book was your favorite, and if the book invoked any personal feelings (e.g., you laughed or cried).

12. Explain what you disliked about the book

You likely have something that you disliked about the book, and this section explains what you wish would have been different about the storyline or the characters. Just like the other sections, make sure that you do not reveal too much and give away important plot lines that could be considered spoilers for the rest of the story.

13. Include brief quotes as examples

Brief quotes provide readers with better insight into characters. Using quotes from characters will help the reader follow the plot summary and determine if the characters are people they can relate to. Avoid using excessively long quotes. Since the reader hasn’t read the book, a long quote could ruin plot twists or overpower the review.

14. Reference similar books

A great way to introduce readers to a specific book is to compare your book review with other books. For example, you can explain to the reader that they will like the current book you’re reviewing if they like another similar book. Alternatively, you can also compare characters between books to provide better insight into the story’s characters and the dynamic between individual characters.

Ready to make your own book? Get started quickly and easily with our free bookmaking software, Bookwright .

This post doesn't have any comment. Be the first one!

This is a unique website which will require a more modern browser to work! Please upgrade today!

This is a modern website which will require Javascript to work.

Please turn it on!

How To Write A Book Review: 6 Steps To Take

Adiba Jaigirdar

Adiba Jaigirdar is an Irish-Bangladeshi writer, poet, and teacher. She resides in Dublin, Ireland and has an MA in postcolonial studies. She is currently working on her own postcolonial novel and hopes that someday it will see the light of day outside of her computer screen. Twitter:  @adiba_j

View All posts by Adiba Jaigirdar

Whether you’re a student, a novice blogger, or just someone looking to become a more active user of Goodreads, writing a book review is an important skill to have! Here are six steps for how to write a book review for school and beyond. 

1. Begin with a brief summary of the book

This is probably the best way to introduce any review because it gives context. But make sure to not go into too much detail. Keep it short and sweet since an official summary can be found through a quick google search!

2. Pick out the most important aspects of the book

I usually break this down with character, world-building, themes, and plot. But this might vary between books, genres, and your tastes!

Dedicate a paragraph to each of these important aspects, discussing how well the author dealt with it, along with what you enjoyed and what you didn’t enjoy.

3. Include brief quotes as examples

Including quotes is always a great idea, because it gives examples for everything that you’re saying! If your review talks about a character being particularly witty, a witty line from the character lets your readers see exactly what kind of witty character you’re dealing with here.

But be careful: lengthy quotes can take up big chunks of space and overpower your review. Short quotes will usually get your points across while letting your work shine through.

4. Write a conclusion that summarises everything

Like your introduction, keep your conclusion short and sweet! It should bring up the main points of your review, along with your overall opinion of the book.

5. Find similar books

A great way to wrap up a review is to find similar books to the one you’re reviewing. So you can say, “if you were a fan of X book, I think you’ll definitely like this one!”

You can also be more specific, looking at the exact things that might make two books similar. So you can suggest something like…“if you liked that the main character in X book was a kick-ass superhero, then you’ll love the main character of this book!”

6. Give it a star rating

A star rating is obviously encouraged in a lot of review sites, but they’re not necessary! If you do want to give a star rating, you can go the conventional “out of five/ten” route. You could also try something slightly less conventional, and break down your star-rating into different categories for character/plot/world-building, etc.

Now go forth and review! And share any tips you have for how to write a book review in the comments.

You Might Also Like

Book Reviews

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you write a book review, a report or essay that offers a critical perspective on a text. It offers a process and suggests some strategies for writing book reviews.

What is a review?

A review is a critical evaluation of a text, event, object, or phenomenon. Reviews can consider books, articles, entire genres or fields of literature, architecture, art, fashion, restaurants, policies, exhibitions, performances, and many other forms. This handout will focus on book reviews. For a similar assignment, see our handout on literature reviews .

Above all, a review makes an argument. The most important element of a review is that it is a commentary, not merely a summary. It allows you to enter into dialogue and discussion with the work’s creator and with other audiences. You can offer agreement or disagreement and identify where you find the work exemplary or deficient in its knowledge, judgments, or organization. You should clearly state your opinion of the work in question, and that statement will probably resemble other types of academic writing, with a thesis statement, supporting body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Typically, reviews are brief. In newspapers and academic journals, they rarely exceed 1000 words, although you may encounter lengthier assignments and extended commentaries. In either case, reviews need to be succinct. While they vary in tone, subject, and style, they share some common features:

• First, a review gives the reader a concise summary of the content. This includes a relevant description of the topic as well as its overall perspective, argument, or purpose.
• Second, and more importantly, a review offers a critical assessment of the content. This involves your reactions to the work under review: what strikes you as noteworthy, whether or not it was effective or persuasive, and how it enhanced your understanding of the issues at hand.
• Finally, in addition to analyzing the work, a review often suggests whether or not the audience would appreciate it.

Becoming an expert reviewer: three short examples

Reviewing can be a daunting task. Someone has asked for your opinion about something that you may feel unqualified to evaluate. Who are you to criticize Toni Morrison’s new book if you’ve never written a novel yourself, much less won a Nobel Prize? The point is that someone—a professor, a journal editor, peers in a study group—wants to know what you think about a particular work. You may not be (or feel like) an expert, but you need to pretend to be one for your particular audience. Nobody expects you to be the intellectual equal of the work’s creator, but your careful observations can provide you with the raw material to make reasoned judgments. Tactfully voicing agreement and disagreement, praise and criticism, is a valuable, challenging skill, and like many forms of writing, reviews require you to provide concrete evidence for your assertions.

Consider the following brief book review written for a history course on medieval Europe by a student who is fascinated with beer:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600, investigates how women used to brew and sell the majority of ale drunk in England. Historically, ale and beer (not milk, wine, or water) were important elements of the English diet. Ale brewing was low-skill and low status labor that was complimentary to women’s domestic responsibilities. In the early fifteenth century, brewers began to make ale with hops, and they called this new drink “beer.” This technique allowed brewers to produce their beverages at a lower cost and to sell it more easily, although women generally stopped brewing once the business became more profitable.

The student describes the subject of the book and provides an accurate summary of its contents. But the reader does not learn some key information expected from a review: the author’s argument, the student’s appraisal of the book and its argument, and whether or not the student would recommend the book. As a critical assessment, a book review should focus on opinions, not facts and details. Summary should be kept to a minimum, and specific details should serve to illustrate arguments.

Now consider a review of the same book written by a slightly more opinionated student:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 was a colossal disappointment. I wanted to know about the rituals surrounding drinking in medieval England: the songs, the games, the parties. Bennett provided none of that information. I liked how the book showed ale and beer brewing as an economic activity, but the reader gets lost in the details of prices and wages. I was more interested in the private lives of the women brewsters. The book was divided into eight long chapters, and I can’t imagine why anyone would ever want to read it.

There’s no shortage of judgments in this review! But the student does not display a working knowledge of the book’s argument. The reader has a sense of what the student expected of the book, but no sense of what the author herself set out to prove. Although the student gives several reasons for the negative review, those examples do not clearly relate to each other as part of an overall evaluation—in other words, in support of a specific thesis. This review is indeed an assessment, but not a critical one.

Here is one final review of the same book:

One of feminism’s paradoxes—one that challenges many of its optimistic histories—is how patriarchy remains persistent over time. While Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 recognizes medieval women as historical actors through their ale brewing, it also shows that female agency had its limits with the advent of beer. I had assumed that those limits were religious and political, but Bennett shows how a “patriarchal equilibrium” shut women out of economic life as well. Her analysis of women’s wages in ale and beer production proves that a change in women’s work does not equate to a change in working women’s status. Contemporary feminists and historians alike should read Bennett’s book and think twice when they crack open their next brewsky.

This student’s review avoids the problems of the previous two examples. It combines balanced opinion and concrete example, a critical assessment based on an explicitly stated rationale, and a recommendation to a potential audience. The reader gets a sense of what the book’s author intended to demonstrate. Moreover, the student refers to an argument about feminist history in general that places the book in a specific genre and that reaches out to a general audience. The example of analyzing wages illustrates an argument, the analysis engages significant intellectual debates, and the reasons for the overall positive review are plainly visible. The review offers criteria, opinions, and support with which the reader can agree or disagree.

Developing an assessment: before you write

There is no definitive method to writing a review, although some critical thinking about the work at hand is necessary before you actually begin writing. Thus, writing a review is a two-step process: developing an argument about the work under consideration, and making that argument as you write an organized and well-supported draft. See our handout on argument .

What follows is a series of questions to focus your thinking as you dig into the work at hand. While the questions specifically consider book reviews, you can easily transpose them to an analysis of performances, exhibitions, and other review subjects. Don’t feel obligated to address each of the questions; some will be more relevant than others to the book in question.

• What is the thesis—or main argument—of the book? If the author wanted you to get one idea from the book, what would it be? How does it compare or contrast to the world you know? What has the book accomplished?
• What exactly is the subject or topic of the book? Does the author cover the subject adequately? Does the author cover all aspects of the subject in a balanced fashion? What is the approach to the subject (topical, analytical, chronological, descriptive)?
• How does the author support their argument? What evidence do they use to prove their point? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Does any of the author’s information (or conclusions) conflict with other books you’ve read, courses you’ve taken or just previous assumptions you had of the subject?
• How does the author structure their argument? What are the parts that make up the whole? Does the argument make sense? Does it persuade you? Why or why not?
• How has this book helped you understand the subject? Would you recommend the book to your reader?

Beyond the internal workings of the book, you may also consider some information about the author and the circumstances of the text’s production:

• Who is the author? Nationality, political persuasion, training, intellectual interests, personal history, and historical context may provide crucial details about how a work takes shape. Does it matter, for example, that the biographer was the subject’s best friend? What difference would it make if the author participated in the events they write about?
• What is the book’s genre? Out of what field does it emerge? Does it conform to or depart from the conventions of its genre? These questions can provide a historical or literary standard on which to base your evaluations. If you are reviewing the first book ever written on the subject, it will be important for your readers to know. Keep in mind, though, that naming “firsts”—alongside naming “bests” and “onlys”—can be a risky business unless you’re absolutely certain.

Writing the review

Once you have made your observations and assessments of the work under review, carefully survey your notes and attempt to unify your impressions into a statement that will describe the purpose or thesis of your review. Check out our handout on thesis statements . Then, outline the arguments that support your thesis.

Your arguments should develop the thesis in a logical manner. That logic, unlike more standard academic writing, may initially emphasize the author’s argument while you develop your own in the course of the review. The relative emphasis depends on the nature of the review: if readers may be more interested in the work itself, you may want to make the work and the author more prominent; if you want the review to be about your perspective and opinions, then you may structure the review to privilege your observations over (but never separate from) those of the work under review. What follows is just one of many ways to organize a review.

Introduction

Since most reviews are brief, many writers begin with a catchy quip or anecdote that succinctly delivers their argument. But you can introduce your review differently depending on the argument and audience. The Writing Center’s handout on introductions can help you find an approach that works. In general, you should include:

• The name of the author and the book title and the main theme.
• Relevant details about who the author is and where they stand in the genre or field of inquiry. You could also link the title to the subject to show how the title explains the subject matter.
• The context of the book and/or your review. Placing your review in a framework that makes sense to your audience alerts readers to your “take” on the book. Perhaps you want to situate a book about the Cuban revolution in the context of Cold War rivalries between the United States and the Soviet Union. Another reviewer might want to consider the book in the framework of Latin American social movements. Your choice of context informs your argument.
• The thesis of the book. If you are reviewing fiction, this may be difficult since novels, plays, and short stories rarely have explicit arguments. But identifying the book’s particular novelty, angle, or originality allows you to show what specific contribution the piece is trying to make.
• Your thesis about the book.

Summary of content

This should be brief, as analysis takes priority. In the course of making your assessment, you’ll hopefully be backing up your assertions with concrete evidence from the book, so some summary will be dispersed throughout other parts of the review.

The necessary amount of summary also depends on your audience. Graduate students, beware! If you are writing book reviews for colleagues—to prepare for comprehensive exams, for example—you may want to devote more attention to summarizing the book’s contents. If, on the other hand, your audience has already read the book—such as a class assignment on the same work—you may have more liberty to explore more subtle points and to emphasize your own argument. See our handout on summary for more tips.

Analysis and evaluation of the book

Your analysis and evaluation should be organized into paragraphs that deal with single aspects of your argument. This arrangement can be challenging when your purpose is to consider the book as a whole, but it can help you differentiate elements of your criticism and pair assertions with evidence more clearly. You do not necessarily need to work chronologically through the book as you discuss it. Given the argument you want to make, you can organize your paragraphs more usefully by themes, methods, or other elements of the book. If you find it useful to include comparisons to other books, keep them brief so that the book under review remains in the spotlight. Avoid excessive quotation and give a specific page reference in parentheses when you do quote. Remember that you can state many of the author’s points in your own words.

Sum up or restate your thesis or make the final judgment regarding the book. You should not introduce new evidence for your argument in the conclusion. You can, however, introduce new ideas that go beyond the book if they extend the logic of your own thesis. This paragraph needs to balance the book’s strengths and weaknesses in order to unify your evaluation. Did the body of your review have three negative paragraphs and one favorable one? What do they all add up to? The Writing Center’s handout on conclusions can help you make a final assessment.

Finally, a few general considerations:

• Review the book in front of you, not the book you wish the author had written. You can and should point out shortcomings or failures, but don’t criticize the book for not being something it was never intended to be.
• With any luck, the author of the book worked hard to find the right words to express her ideas. You should attempt to do the same. Precise language allows you to control the tone of your review.
• Never hesitate to challenge an assumption, approach, or argument. Be sure, however, to cite specific examples to back up your assertions carefully.
• Try to present a balanced argument about the value of the book for its audience. You’re entitled—and sometimes obligated—to voice strong agreement or disagreement. But keep in mind that a bad book takes as long to write as a good one, and every author deserves fair treatment. Harsh judgments are difficult to prove and can give readers the sense that you were unfair in your assessment.
• A great place to learn about book reviews is to look at examples. The New York Times Sunday Book Review and The New York Review of Books can show you how professional writers review books.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Drewry, John. 1974. Writing Book Reviews. Boston: Greenwood Press.

Hoge, James. 1987. Literary Reviewing. Charlottesville: University Virginia of Press.

Sova, Dawn, and Harry Teitelbaum. 2002. How to Write Book Reports , 4th ed. Lawrenceville, NY: Thomson/Arco.

Walford, A.J. 1986. Reviews and Reviewing: A Guide. Phoenix: Oryx Press.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Make a Gift

How to Write a Book Review: Awesome Guide

A book review allows students to illustrate the author's intentions of writing the piece, as well as create a criticism of the book — as a whole. In other words, form an opinion of the author's presented ideas. Check out this guide from EssayPro — book review writing service to learn how to write a book review successfully.

What Is a Book Review?

You may prosper, “what is a book review?”. Book reviews are commonly assigned students to allow them to show a clear understanding of the novel. And to check if the students have actually read the book. The essay format is highly important for your consideration, take a look at the book review format below.

Book reviews are assigned to allow students to present their own opinion regarding the author’s ideas included in the book or passage. They are a form of literary criticism that analyzes the author’s ideas, writing techniques, and quality. A book analysis is entirely opinion-based, in relevance to the book. They are good practice for those who wish to become editors, due to the fact, editing requires a lot of criticism.

Book Review Template

The book review format includes an introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Introduction
• Describe the book cover and title.
• Include any subtitles at this stage.
• Include the Author’s Name.
• Write a brief description of the novel.
• Briefly introduce the main points of the body in your book review.
• Avoid mentioning any opinions at this time.
• Use about 3 quotations from the author’s novel.
• Summarize the quotations in your own words.
• Mention your own point-of-view of the quotation.
• Remember to keep every point included in its own paragraph.
• In brief, summarize the quotations.
• In brief, summarize the explanations.
• Finish with a concluding sentence.
• This can include your final opinion of the book.
• Star-Rating (Optional).

Get Your BOOK REVIEW WRITTEN!

Simply send us your paper requirements, choose a writer and we’ll get it done.

How to Write a Book Review: Step-By-Step

Writing a book review is something that can be done with every novel. Book reviews can apply to all novels, no matter the genre. Some genres may be harder than others. On the other hand, the book review format remains the same. Take a look at these step-by-step instructions from our professional writers to learn how to write a book review in-depth.

Step 1: Planning

Create an essay outline which includes all of the main points you wish to summarise in your book analysis. Include information about the characters, details of the plot, and some other important parts of your chosen novel. Reserve a body paragraph for each point you wish to talk about.

Consider these points before writing:

• What is the plot of the book? Understanding the plot enables you to write an effective review.
• Is the plot gripping? Does the plot make you want to continue reading the novel? Did you enjoy the plot? Does it manage to grab a reader’s attention?
• Are the writing techniques used by the author effective? Does the writer imply factors in-between the lines? What are they?
• Are the characters believable? Are the characters logical? Does the book make the characters are real while reading?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? The most important thing: would you tell others to read this book? Is it good enough? Is it bad?
• What could be better? Keep in mind the quotes that could have been presented better. Criticize the writer.

Step 2: Introduction

Presumably, you have chosen your book. To begin, mention the book title and author’s name. Talk about the cover of the book. Write a thesis statement regarding the fictitious story or non-fictional novel. Which briefly describes the quoted material in the book review.

Step 3: Body

Choose a specific chapter or scenario to summarise. Include about 3 quotes in the body. Create summaries of each quote in your own words. It is also encouraged to include your own point-of-view and the way you interpret the quote. It is highly important to have one quote per paragraph.

Step 4: Conclusion

Write a summary of the summarised quotations and explanations, included in the body paragraphs. After doing so, finish book analysis with a concluding sentence to show the bigger picture of the book. Think to yourself, “Is it worth reading?”, and answer the question in black and white. However, write in-between the lines. Avoid stating “I like/dislike this book.”

Step 5: Rate the Book (Optional)

After writing a book review, you may want to include a rating. Including a star-rating provides further insight into the quality of the book, to your readers. Book reviews with star-ratings can be more effective, compared to those which don’t. Though, this is entirely optional.

Count on the support of our cheap essay writing service . We process all your requests fast.

Dive into literary analysis with EssayPro . Our experts can help you craft insightful book reviews that delve deep into the themes, characters, and narratives of your chosen books. Enhance your understanding and appreciation of literature with us.

Writing Tips

Here is the list of tips for the book review:

• A long introduction can certainly lower one’s grade: keep the beginning short. Readers don’t like to read the long introduction for any essay style.
• It is advisable to write book reviews about fiction: it is not a must. Though, reviewing fiction can be far more effective than writing about a piece of nonfiction
• Avoid Comparing: avoid comparing your chosen novel with other books you have previously read. Doing so can be confusing for the reader.
• Opinion Matters: including your own point-of-view is something that is often encouraged when writing book reviews.
• Refer to Templates: a book review template can help a student get a clearer understanding of the required writing style.
• Don’t be Afraid to Criticize: usually, your own opinion isn’t required for academic papers below Ph.D. level. On the other hand, for book reviews, there’s an exception.
• Use Positivity: include a fair amount of positive comments and criticism.
• Review The Chosen Novel: avoid making things up. Review only what is presented in the chosen book.
• Enjoyed the book? If you loved reading the book, state it. Doing so makes your book analysis more personalized.

Writing a book review is something worth thinking about. Professors commonly assign this form of an assignment to students to enable them to express a grasp of a novel. Following the book review format is highly useful for beginners, as well as reading step-by-step instructions. Writing tips is also useful for people who are new to this essay type. If you need a book review or essay, ask our book report writing services ' write paper for me ' and we'll give you a hand asap!

We also recommend that everyone read the article about essay topics . It will help broaden your horizons in writing a book review as well as other papers.

Book Review Examples

Referring to a book review example is highly useful to those who wish to get a clearer understanding of how to review a book. Take a look at our examples written by our professional writers. Click on the button to open the book review examples and feel free to use them as a reference.

Book review

Kenneth Grahame’s ‘The Wind in the Willows’

Kenneth Grahame’s ‘The Wind in the Willows’ is a novel aimed at youngsters. The plot, itself, is not American humor, but that of Great Britain. In terms of sarcasm, and British-related jokes. The novel illustrates a fair mix of the relationships between the human-like animals, and wildlife. The narrative acts as an important milestone in post-Victorian children’s literature.

Book Review

Dr. John’s ‘Pollution’

Dr. John’s ‘Pollution’ consists of 3 major parts. The first part is all about the polluted ocean. The second being about the pollution of the sky. The third part is an in-depth study of how humans can resolve these issues. The book is a piece of non-fiction that focuses on modern-day pollution ordeals faced by both animals and humans on Planet Earth. It also focuses on climate change, being the result of the global pollution ordeal.

We can do your coursework writing for you if you still find it difficult to write it yourself. Send to our custom term paper writing service your requirements, choose a writer and enjoy your time.

Need To Write a Book Review But DON’T HAVE THE TIME

We’re here to do it for you. Our professionals are ready to help 24/7

Related Articles

• Writing & Editing

How to Write a Book Review (The Definitive Guide)

You should know how to write a book review, whether you want to help a writer friend with his or her book sales or just want to provide your two cents on a specific book.

A book review is a subtle yet effective way to show your reaction to a book, and it holds a great deal of weight with readers.

Let’s delve into book reviews and how to write them properly.

What is a book review?

A book review is a written assessment of a specific book. The book review is often well-regarded by book aficionados because they look for affirmation from a well-known source.

As a rule, if you are going to write a book review, you should make sure that you write the book review as effectively as possible.

Here is a step-by-step guide to on how to write a book review:

1. Read the book thoroughly

When you receive a copy of the book, the first thing you should do is read it thoroughly. Don't rush into writing a book review. You must be as thorough as possible and be familiar with the most subtle aspects of the book.

Keep in mind that the author is counting on you to write an objective and well-written review of his or her book. If you rush through the book review, you will be doing the author a grave injustice.

2. Choose a rating system

You should make sure to set up a rating system for your book review. By having a rating system, you will be able to convey whether a book is worth reading or not.

The rating system could be practically anything. It could be a five-star system, or any other rating system. What’s important is that your rating system is easy to understand.

3. Know what to include in your book review

While you are reading the book, you should already have a format for your book review. The review should have a set blueprint. As you write the book review, you should include an introduction, thesis, body, and conclusion.

Here is a short description of the book review parts:

Introduction

The introduction should describe the book's title and cover. It should also take note of any subtitles and the name of the author.

This part of the book review should have a quick description of the book’s contents and show the key points of the book. It is best to avoid making any opinions during this part.

Quote at least three parts from the book, and give your own take on them. You should make sure to separate each opinion into a specific paragraph.

The conclusion should include a summary of all the key points from the main body. This should also contain your rating and an overall opinion of the book. You should also explain why you have this specific opinion about the book.

4. Fairness is key

Once you finish reading the book and have written down all the key concepts in it, it is now time to write the book review. As you write your book review, it is important that you have one thing in mind. Fairness is of the utmost importance. Whether you like or don’t like the author, it is very important that you have an unbiased approach to reviewing their book.

5. Take your time with writing the book review

As you are writing the book review, you may be tempted to just write a generic review. What’s so important about honesty or detail, right? This is a very bad way of looking at book reviews.

Remember that readers will use your book review to gauge whether to buy the book. If your book review is half-hearted or rushed, they will not really heed your critique.

If you want readers to follow your book recommendation, you should write a well-written book review. Take the time to double check every aspect of the book review.

Make sure that your grammar, spelling, and word usage are all on point. Remember that readers will base their decision to buy a book on your expertise and experience as a writer.

However, if the book review itself does not make sense or has a lot of spelling and grammatical errors, then the readers may think twice about heeding your recommendations. If you don’t want to get embarrassed, you should make sure to double check every aspect of your book review.

Book reviews are a big part of the book publishing industry. A majority of book lovers often use book reviews to gauge whether they should read a specific book or not. 

Become a Self-Published Author in 3 Simple Steps

Powered by Experts, Published by You. Reach 40,000+ Retailers & Libraries Around the World. Concierge Service. Tailored Packages. BBB Accredited Business. 100% Royalty Program.

Related Articles

If you are a newbie writer writing a novel of your very own may feel like an insurmountable challenge. This is because there are so many aspects of the novel...

With Hollow’s eve around the corner, it is the perfect time to write a Halloween themed story of your very own. The creepy and spine tingling atmosphere of...

Get started now

Privacy Policy: Writers Republic will not give, sell, or otherwise transfer addresses to any other party for the purposes of initiating, or enabling others to initiate, electronic mail messages.

Privacy Policy

Privacy commitment to our authors, effective date:.

Writers Republic abides to every author’s personal information being entrusted to us. And with that, we have stipulated a privacy policy that will show the processes of our ways in collating our clients’ personal details as needed in the publication process. As an established publishing company, our prohibitions strictly includes sharing, selling, or any illicit transactions of personal information from our clients.

Personal Details Needed:

• b) E-mail Address
• c) Phone Number(s)
• d) Physical/Billing Address
• e) Book Information

Authors can find our privacy policy through all forms of compiled and submitted information to either the company’s employees, through e-mail and phone, or from our website www.writersrepublic.com.

Information Usage

The use of the author’s personal information will take place in completing registrations, necessary materials to be used in publication arrangements with our specialists, and payment transactions that will be accomplished from our services and packages.

Registration Process

Users must fill out and complete any registration form before they can access anywhere in the Site as they wish to. These include the services, promos, blogs, and rest of the facets they can explore once they are registered to the system. The authors are entitled to a free publishing guide to give you a brief idea about self-publishing. Relevant features also include the Authors’ Lounge that teaches you some publishing tips you will be needing during the procedure.

Providing the user’s contact information like his/her name and email address during the registration will be necessary for our specialists in keeping in touch with the client anytime in regards to the manuscript submission, publishing, and finally, expanding his/her book’s publicity by any means. Our registered authors are free from accessing the website with his/her personal data or they may reach our customer service representatives through telephone or e-mail for further information and updates on our services. Aforementioned, all of the author’s personal data submitted to us will be kept confidential.

Information Sharing

Sharing of the client’s personal data to third parties is considered a violation unless it is conducted in a way it is indicated strictly in the privacy policy. Authors must understand that we are required to provide their personal data to other businesses that will to provide the required assistance in succeeding the publishing procedure, the following involves payment processor or a third party vendor benefit. These associated firms has established the consent to use the client’s personal data for necessary purposes of providing a quality service to Writers Republic.

In any case that Writers republic will conduct a union with associated companies, procurement, or sale of all or a share of its properties, authors will be notified through a notice in our website or sent through email of any ownership change or the utilization of the user’s personal data, in addition to the selections provided regarding his/ her personal information.

The company solely shares the collected information to the firms we do business with to acquaint them with the services or assistance needed for the publication. The data required plainly comprises with order completion, payment transactions, and the rest of the necessary processes. We can guarantee our users that the submission of these information will not be concomitant to any confidentialities that will identify a person’s identity. Privacy rules include prohibitions of sharing, or keeping of any private information for unrelated businesses to our company.

Data Protection

Our authors’ confidentiality comes first all the time. We follow the widely accepted preference in safekeeping the user’s personal data during its transmission and by the moment it is stored in our system. Writers Republic ensures both online and offline security of all information provided by our authors through the website. Any electronic transmittal over the internet may not be overall safe, hence the company cannot commit to an absolute protection.

The client’s agreement entails his/her responsibility in sustaining the account access, any personal information, benefits, company’s services, logins, and passwords. The author’s adherence to these sanctions include acquainting Writers Republic through phone, e-mail, or any means of communication, should there be any inadmissible access to the author’s account and all the applicable company data and services. Any direct, involuntary, minor, or distinctive damages caused due to client’s failure to adhere and/or inefficiency in utilizing the company’s site, services, and transactions will not be held liable to Writer’s Republic.

Any messages received or consequences resulted due to the user’s technical unfamiliarity or insufficient knowledge will not be held accountable to Writers Republic. Furthermore, any damages incurred due to negligence to the information entered or impermissible access will leave no liability to the company. These reparations may denote to but not restricted to revenue loss or reduced profit from the entire process.

Electronic Tracking Tools and Site Traffic Usage

Writers Republic website collects SSI (Standard Statistical Information) about the site visits and keeps a record of it as much as other websites do. Please be advised that the IP addresses, browser information, its timestamps, and referred pages are tracked for the sole purpose of maintenance and to construct the site noticeable and valuable as it can be. No accumulated data is joined routinely to other information we collect from our users.

The site server gathers fundamental technical data from our site visitors which include their IP address, domain label, and referral information. Alongside with the said above, the site also tracks the total count of the site activity from our online visitors for the intention of analyzing the flows of our site traffic. For our statistic intents, we may incorporate the information from one visitor with another into group facts, which will probably be shared on a cumulative base.

The technologies in particular: beacons, cookies, tags, and scripts are utilized by writersrepublic.com, our publishing & marketing associates, publicity service providers. These innovations are used in examining trends, website managing, tracking users’ navigation anywhere on the site and to collect public data about our user in entirety. We may obtain news founded on the utilization of these innovations by these firms on an individual as well as on an accumulated basis.

Writers Republic affiliates with third parties to offer positive features on website or to exhibit advertising based upon your web navigation activity also uses Local Storage Objects (LSOs) such as HTML 5 to gather and keep some data. Browsers may provide their own administrating tools in taking out HTML LSOs. To manage LSOs please click the link provided: http://www.macromedia.com/support/documentation/en/flashplayer/help/settings_manager07.html

Removing or Updating Your Information

Don’t hesitate to reach us directly anytime when you want to delete, update, or correct information you give over the phone or e-mail. For safety purposes, Writers Republic takes functional regulations in authenticating your identity before we grant you the access in changing and updating personal details. Your personal record and other data will be kept so long as you stay active as our site user or as necessary to offer you services. Please note that we’ll be using your information for necessary compliance of lawful commitments, imposing of agreements, and determination of disputes.

Contributors

Writers Republic will be requiring your contributors’ names to be indicated in the book publication when you opt to add them as contributors for your book publishing service. We will store your contributors’ personal details for the sole purpose of fixing their names on one of the pages of your book. Your contributors may reach us at [email protected] to request for removal of personal information from our system.

3rd Party Sites Link

Our company recommends you to carefully go over to the privacy policy of any website you visit or send personal information to. Our website comprises links to other sites whose norms and privacy regulations may contrast to ours. Accordingly, providing of personal data to these websites is administrated by their privacy rules and not ours.

Social Media Features & Widgets

Writers Republic website involves social media features such as: Facebook “Like” button and widget, such as the interactive mini-programs that run on our site or the “Share This” button. Please note that these features may set a cookie to allow the feature to appropriately function. It may also collect your IP address and which page you are visiting on our site. Your interactions with these features are either presented directly on our website or by a third party.

Announcements and Newsletters

Writers Republic will be inquiring your e-mail address if you’re interested to subscribe from our self-publishing updates, newsletters, articles, or periodic product and service announcements. You may choose to unsubscribe by clicking on the “Unsubscribe” button at the end part of the mail sent to you should you no longer want to receive emails from us.

Discounts and Promos

We offer promos and special deals on out publishing and marketing services from any given point of time. Thus, we may request for your contact details that includes your name, shipping address, demographic data, and educational attainment which will be utilized to inform the winners and prizes. Participation in any contest and promo is voluntary. The purpose for our promos, discounts, and contests, will be employed to assess and enhance eminence of or services to our clients.

Policy Changes

Any modifications or changes to be applied in our Privacy Policy will oblige Writers Republic to provide a notice on the website or by email before the change will take effect. Therefore, we recommend you to go over this page for any probable alterations and updates on our privacy norms. You may send us an email at [email protected] for all concerns, queries, and updates of personal details such as your email and mailing address. This also serves as your alternative to reach us if you want to withdraw your service or if you no longer want to receive any updates from our end.

Writers Republic will not be held accountable for any check payment issues, apart from the checks that are delivered to the address indicated below.

Writers Republic Publishing 515 Summit Ave. Unit R1, Union City, NJ 07087, USA

How to Write a Book Review: The Ultimate Guide

WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW?

Traditionally, book reviews are evaluations of a recently published book in any genre. Usually, around the 500 to 700-word mark, they briefly describe a text’s main elements while appraising the work’s strengths and weaknesses. Published book reviews can appear in newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. They provide the reader with an overview of the book itself and indicate whether or not the reviewer would recommend the book to the reader.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BOOK REVIEW?

There was a time when book reviews were a regular appearance in every quality newspaper and many periodicals. They were essential elements in whether or not a book would sell well. A review from a heavyweight critic could often be the deciding factor in whether a book became a bestseller or a damp squib. In the last few decades, however, the book review’s influence has waned considerably, with many potential book buyers preferring to consult customer reviews on Amazon, or sites like Goodreads, before buying. As a result, book review’s appearance in newspapers, journals, and digital media has become less frequent.

WHY BOTHER TEACHING STUDENTS TO WRITE BOOK REVIEWS AT ALL?

Even in the heyday of the book review’s influence, few students who learned the craft of writing a book review became literary critics! The real value of crafting a well-written book review for a student does not lie in their ability to impact book sales. Understanding how to produce a well-written book review helps students to:

●     Engage critically with a text

●     Critically evaluate a text

●     Respond personally to a range of different writing genres

●     Improve their own reading, writing, and thinking skills.

Not to Be Confused with a Book Report!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOOK REVIEW AND A BOOK REPORT?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are clear differences in both the purpose and the format of the two genres. Generally speaking, book reports aim to give a more detailed outline of what occurs in a book. A book report on a work of fiction will tend to give a comprehensive account of the characters, major plot lines, and themes in the book. Book reports are usually written around the K-12 age range, while book reviews tend not to be undertaken by those at the younger end of this age range due to the need for the higher-level critical skills required in writing them. At their highest expression, book reviews are written at the college level and by professional critics.

Learn how to write a book review step by step with our complete guide for students and teachers by familiarizing yourself with the structure and features.

BOOK REVIEW STRUCTURE

ANALYZE Evaluate the book with a critical mind.

THOROUGHNESS The whole is greater than the sum of all its parts. Review the book as a WHOLE.

COMPARE Where appropriate compare to similar texts and genres.

THUMBS UP OR DOWN? You are going to have to inevitably recommend or reject this book to potential readers.

BE CONSISTENT Take a stance and stick with it throughout your review.

FEATURES OF A BOOK REVIEW

PAST TENSE You are writing about a book you have already read.

EMOTIVE LANGUAGE Whatever your stance or opinion be passionate about it. Your audience will thank you for it.

VOICE Both active and passive voice are used in recounts.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TEXTS

⭐ Make  MOVIES A MEANINGFUL PART OF YOUR CURRICULUM  with this engaging collection of tasks and tools your students will love. ⭐ All the hard work is done for you with  NO PREPARATION REQUIRED.

This collection of  21 INDEPENDENT TASKS  and  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS  takes students beyond the hype, special effects and trailers to look at visual literacy from several perspectives offering DEEP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES by watching a  SERIES, DOCUMENTARY, FILM, and even  VIDEO GAMES.

ELEMENTS OF A BOOK REVIEW

As with any of the writing genres we teach our students, a book review can be helpfully explained in terms of criteria. While there is much to the ‘art’ of writing, there is also, thankfully, a lot of the nuts and bolts that can be listed too. Have students consider the following elements before writing:

●     Title: Often, the title of the book review will correspond to the title of the text itself, but there may also be some examination of the title’s relevance. How does it fit into the purpose of the work as a whole? Does it convey a message or reveal larger themes explored within the work?

●     Author: Within the book review, there may be some discussion of who the author is and what they have written before, especially if it relates to the current work being reviewed. There may be some mention of the author’s style and what they are best known for. If the author has received any awards or prizes, this may also be mentioned within the body of the review.

●     Genre: A book review will identify the genre that the book belongs to, whether fiction or nonfiction, poetry, romance, science-fiction, history etc. The genre will likely tie in, too with who the intended audience for the book is and what the overall purpose of the work is.

●     Book Jacket / Cover: Often, a book’s cover will contain artwork that is worthy of comment. It may contain interesting details related to the text that contribute to, or detract from, the work as a whole.

●     Structure: The book’s structure will often be heavily informed by its genre. Have students examine how the book is organized before writing their review. Does it contain a preface from a guest editor, for example? Is it written in sections or chapters? Does it have a table of contents, index, glossary etc.? While all these details may not make it into the review itself, looking at how the book is structured may reveal some interesting aspects.

●     Publisher and Price: A book review will usually contain details of who publishes the book and its cost. A review will often provide details of where the book is available too.

BOOK REVIEW KEY ELEMENTS

As students read and engage with the work they will review, they will develop a sense of the shape their review will take. This will begin with the summary. Encourage students to take notes during the reading of the work that will help them in writing the summary that will form an essential part of their review. Aspects of the book they may wish to take notes on in a work of fiction may include:

●     Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their motivations? Are they convincingly drawn? Or are they empathetic characters?

●     Themes: What are the main themes of the work? Are there recurring motifs in the work? Is the exploration of the themes deep or surface only?

●     Style: What are the key aspects of the writer’s style? How does it fit into the wider literary world?

●     Plot: What is the story’s main catalyst? What happens in the rising action? What are the story’s subplots? 

A book review will generally begin with a short summary of the work itself. However, it is important not to give too much away, remind students – no spoilers, please! For nonfiction works, this may be a summary of the main arguments of the work, again, without giving too much detail away. In a work of fiction, a book review will often summarise up to the rising action of the piece without going beyond to reveal too much!

The summary should also provide some orientation for the reader. Given the nature of the purpose of a review, it is important that students’ consider their intended audience in the writing of their review. Readers will most likely not have read the book in question and will require some orientation. This is often achieved through introductions to the main characters, themes, primary arguments etc. This will help the reader to gauge whether or not the book is of interest to them.

Once your student has summarized the work, it is time to ‘review’ in earnest. At this point, the student should begin to detail their own opinion of the book. To do this well they should:

i. Make It Personal

Often when teaching essay writing we will talk to our students about the importance of climbing up and down the ladder of abstraction. Just as it is helpful to explore large, more abstract concepts in an essay by bringing it down to Earth, in a book review, it is important that students can relate the characters, themes, ideas etc to their own lives.

Book reviews are meant to be subjective. They are opinion pieces, and opinions grow out of our experiences of life. Encourage students to link the work they are writing about to their own personal life within the body of the review. By making this personal connection to the work, students contextualize their opinions for the readers and help them to understand whether the book will be of interest to them or not in the process.

ii. Make It Universal

Just as it is important to climb down the ladder of abstraction to show how the work relates to individual life, it is important to climb upwards on the ladder too. Students should endeavor to show how the ideas explored in the book relate to the wider world. The may be in the form of the universality of the underlying themes in a work of fiction or, for example, the international implications for arguments expressed in a work of nonfiction.

iii. Support Opinions with Evidence

A book review is a subjective piece of writing by its very nature. However, just because it is subjective does not mean that opinions do not need to be justified. Make sure students understand how to back up their opinions with various forms of evidence, for example, quotations, statistics, and the use of primary and secondary sources.

EDIT AND REVISE YOUR BOOK REVIEW

As with any writing genre, encourage students to polish things up with review and revision at the end. Encourage them to proofread and check for accurate spelling throughout, with particular attention to the author’s name, character names, publisher etc. 

It is good practice too for students to double-check their use of evidence. Are statements supported? Are the statistics used correctly? Are the quotations from the text accurate? Mistakes such as these uncorrected can do great damage to the value of a book review as they can undermine the reader’s confidence in the writer’s judgement.

The discipline of writing book reviews offers students opportunities to develop their writing skills and exercise their critical faculties. Book reviews can be valuable standalone activities or serve as a part of a series of activities engaging with a central text. They can also serve as an effective springboard into later discussion work based on the ideas and issues explored in a particular book. Though the book review does not hold the sway it once did in the mind’s of the reading public, it still serves as an effective teaching tool in our classrooms today.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BOOK REVIEW GRAPHIC ORGANIZER (TEMPLATE)

101 DIGITAL & PRINT GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS FOR ALL CURRICULUM AREAS

Introduce your students to 21st-century learning with this GROWING BUNDLE OF 101 EDITABLE & PRINTABLE GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS. ✌ NO PREP REQUIRED!!! ✌ Go paperless, and let your students express their knowledge and creativity through the power of technology and collaboration inside and outside the classroom with ease.

Whilst you don’t have to have a 1:1 or BYOD classroom to benefit from this bundle, it has been purpose-built to deliver through platforms such as ✔ GOOGLE CLASSROOM, ✔ OFFICE 365, ✔ or any CLOUD-BASED LEARNING PLATFORM.

Book and Movie review writing examples (Student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of book reviews.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to both read the movie or book review in detail but also the teacher and student guides which highlight some of the key elements of writing a text review

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of book review writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with to gain a broader appreciation of this text type .

BOOK REVIEW VIDEO TUTORIALS

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO BOOK REVIEWS

Transactional Writing

How to write a text response

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

How to Write Excellent Expository Essays

How to Write a Book Review: 9 Hot Tips

by Tom Corson-Knowles | 2 comments

While writing a rockstar-quality book review is far more art than science, there are a few hard rules you should follow when writing one. Here are some great tips from our crack team of bestselling authors, editors, and avid readers on how to make the next book review you write the best it can possibly be.

Why Write a Book Review?

Here’s the thing. Not only are book reviews crucial in helping your fellow readers understand what a particular book is about and whether they should invest time in reading it, an honest and well-written book review can help your favorite authors as well.

Reviews boost visibility of books on sites like Amazon, helping more people find (and purchase) the books you love.

Plus, reviews provide valuable feedback for the author…or at the very least, some much-needed praise and support. But to be effective, you’ll need to know how to write a book review that is both thorough and honest.

How to Write a Book Review

Below are 9 tips that will show you how to write a book review that others will actually read.

1. Pay Attention and Take Notes

If you’re planning to write a book review, you should pay extra attention as you’re reading and take the time to jot down any notes or ideas as they come to you.

Not only is this a great way to write a better book review, it’s also helpful in helping you remember the information you’re reading, and in developing your critical thinking skills. Not to mention, the physical action of taking notes helps you commit information about the plot, characters, and themes to memory, which will aid you in writing a great review much quicker than you would otherwise be able to be.

2. Read the Whole Book

It might sound obvious, but you really should read the entire book before you write your review.

Jumping to conclusions about a book before you’ve finished it is unfair to you, the author of the book, and your fellow readers because you’ll be missing critical information (a twist ending, for instance) that might affect the review you ultimately write.

However, Did Not Finish (DNF) reviews are a thing…but if you purposely do not finish a book for whatever reason, make sure to justify it in your review.

3. Be Specific

When you write your review, be sure to share facts, like a quotation from the book or statement about the plot. The more specific your review is, the more it will help both the reader and the author.

A book review without specific details will be seen as less credible and less objective than a review that can posit at least one simple fact about the book.

4. Share Your Opinion

Other readers don’t want to hear just the facts. They also want to know what you think about the book, and how it made you feel!

This is a review, after all, not just an essay on the book. Did you like the story? Hate it? Why?

But don’t just state your opinion—back it up! Explain your feelings towards the book as best you can. What particularly excited you? What made you want to throw the book away? What do you think the author did well? What do you think the author could have done better?

5. Share Ideas

In addition to sharing your opinion of a particular book, it can often be helpful to share some ideas or analysis that came to mind while you were reading.

For example: something I picked up from Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment is that purposely committing an act you know to be morally wrong, especially an act of violence, will always make your life much worse, no matter what you hope to gain by doing it. Guilt and stress and anxiety will drag on you like a great weight, and there is almost no way of ridding yourself of these feelings once the deed is done.

Now, you might have to guess at the ideas presented in a novel, or they may be glaringly obvious in a nonfiction book, but either way, you should mention some of the ideas you come across, in case other readers are not so astute as you.

6. Watch Your Formatting

While most book review sites don’t allow you to heavily format your reviews, there are some formatting rules you should follow when crafting your review to make it more easily readable and enjoyable by other readers:

• Avoid writing just one big block of text. Space out your paragraphs so your review is easily readable.
• Don’t use ALL CAPS ever.
• Don’t use punctuation excessively, such as using multiple exclamation points or question marks.

7. Post an Honest Rating

You should rate the book accurately based on your assessment of it, not based on what the review “should be.”

In other words, if you think a book was good, but not good enough, you should probably rate it at 3 or 4 stars out of 5.

Don’t give a book a rating of 1 or 2 just because you think the average review should be lower. Save your 1- and 2-star ratings for books you really don’t like or for books that have really serious issues other readers need to know about.

If you think a book was excellent, or even near-perfect, you should rate it a 5 out of 5 stars.

Keep in mind the average review rating for a book on Amazon is 4.3 stars, so anytime you rate a book at 4 or less stars, you’re basically rating the book as below average.

Your goal should not be to make the author, publisher, or any third party happy with your review. Your goal should be to accurately assess the book from your own perspective so that other readers can benefit from your knowledge and experience.

8. Double Check Your Work

Make sure you edit your book review before you post it, and always double-check your work. A simple typo or error in your book review might discredit your review in the eyes of readers.

You can use a free tool like Grammarly to help spot any obvious grammar or spelling issues as well.

9. Where to Post Your Book Review

You should post your book review on the website of the retailer you bought the book from, whether it be Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com .

You might also want to post your book review on Goodreads.com because it’s a great place to connect with other readers and authors.

If you run a blog or website, you should also post your book review on your site. Posting reviews on multiple sites are to be encouraged: not only will it raise the profile of the book, but it will also reach more potential readers that way and raise your site’s profile as well.

How to Review a Book

Reviewing books can help authors improve their work, and potentially even bring more traffic to your own site.

By learning how to write a book review that’s fair and accurate, you’ll be able to introduce your readers to new books and learn how to better articulate what you’ve read.

Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you liked this post, here are some other articles you might love:

• How Self-Published Authors Can Get Professional Book Reviews
• How To Find and Work with Book Review Bloggers
• The Ultimate Guide To Getting More Amazon Book Reviews (Part 5)

Tom Corson-Knowles is the founder of TCK Publishing, and the bestselling author of 27 books including Secrets of the Six-Figure author. He is also the host of the Publishing Profits Podcast show where we interview successful authors and publishing industry experts to share their tips for creating a successful writing career.

Thanks, Tom.

You’re so right about double-checking your work. It’s impossible to trust a review filled with grammatical errors and typos, especially if it complains about grammatical errors and typos in the book being reviewed.

I don’t want to take notes as I read. That pulls me out of the story and defeats the purpose of reading. A person with a book blog might do that, and I might on the second read, but never on the first. However, I sometimes jot notes between reading sessions.

Thank you, Kathy!

For bringing up the point about being pulled out of the book. In regard to grammar and misspelled words, unfortunately, that is not my best subject I have to go over my writing several times a day. for example, just in this paragraph I see several mistakes I need to go back and fix.

i understand not taking notes on the first read, I read books over and over sometimes. To always read through first time then go back and takes notes after the first read. Mainly for personal use. Readers may want to be immersed int the story, and to be taken out of reality.

Learn More About

• Fiction (223)
• Nonfiction (71)
• Blogging (46)
• Book Promotion (28)
• How to Get Reviews (9)
• Audiobooks (17)
• Book Design (11)
• Ebook Publishing (13)
• Hybrid Publishing (8)
• Print Publishing (9)
• Self Publishing (70)
• Traditional Publishing (53)
• How to Find an Editor (11)
• Fitness (4)
• Mindfulness and Meditation (7)
• Miscellaneous (116)
• New Releases (17)
• Career Development (73)
• Online Courses (46)
• Productivity (45)
• Personal Finance (21)
• Podcast (179)
• Poetry Awards Contest (2)
• Publishing News (8)
• Readers Choice Awards (5)
• Reading Tips (145)
• Software (17)
• Technology (15)
• Contests (4)
• Grammar (59)
• Word Choice (64)
• Writing a Book (62)
• Writing Fiction (195)
• Writing Nonfiction (68)

• Craft and Criticism
• Fiction and Poetry
• News and Culture
• Lit Hub Radio
• Reading Lists

• Literary Criticism
• Craft and Advice
• In Conversation
• On Translation
• Short Story
• From the Novel
• Bookstores and Libraries
• Film and TV
• Art and Photography
• Freeman’s
• The Virtual Book Channel
• Behind the Mic
• Beyond the Page
• The Cosmic Library
• The Critic and Her Publics
• Emergence Magazine
• Fiction/Non/Fiction
• First Draft: A Dialogue on Writing
• Future Fables
• The History of Literature
• I’m a Writer But
• Just the Right Book
• Lit Century
• The Literary Life with Mitchell Kaplan
• New Books Network
• Tor Presents: Voyage Into Genre
• Windham-Campbell Prizes Podcast
• Write-minded
• The Best of the Decade
• Best Reviewed Books
• BookMarks Daily Giveaway
• The Daily Thrill
• CrimeReads Daily Giveaway

How to Review a Novel

London review of books editor mary-kay wilmers on the language of criticism.

How do novel reviews begin? Just like novels very often:

Motherless boys may be pitied by mothers but are not infrequently envied by other boys.

For the friends of the Piontek family, August 31st, 1939 was a red-letter day.

All her life Jean Hawkins was obedient.

It looks as though the writers of these reviews have set out not to summarize the plot but to tell the story, with the drawback, from the novelist’s point of view, that readers may content themselves with the reviewer’s version. Other reviews begin with a different sort of story—the reviewer’s:

Halfway through Beryl Bainbridge’s new novel I found I was laughing until the tears ran down my cheeks.

Some start by characterizing the novel:

An aura of death, despair, madness and futility hangs over the late James Jones’s posthumous novel.

Others by characterizing the reviewer: “Count me among the Philistines,” says Jerome Charyn, inauspiciously, at the start of a review in the New York Times . Some begin with a paragraph on the novel now; some begin by addressing the reader:

You might not think there would be much wit or lyricism to the story of a subnormal wall-eyed Balkan peasant who spends 13 years masturbating in a pigsty . . .

Some kick off at the end: “ Final Payments is a well-made, realistic novel of refined sensibility and moral scruple”; and others at the beginning: “The five writers under review have been browsing . . .”

Different openings suggest different attitudes, both to the novel and to the practice of reviewing novels. There are ideologies of the novel and ideologies of the novel review, fictional conventions and reviewing conventions. They don’t necessarily overlap. A regular reviewer, confident of his own constituency, may describe a novel in terms of his own responses to it: he wouldn’t for that reason applaud a novelist for writing in a similarly personal vein.

What reviews have in common is that they must all in some degree be re-creations: reshapings of what the novelist has already shaped. The writer’s fortunes depend on the reviews he gets but the reviewer depends on the book to see that his account of it—his “story,” to use the language of the newspaper composing room—is interesting. Dull novels don’t elicit interesting reviews: not unless a reviewer decides to be amusing at the novel’s expense or tactfully confines himself to some incidental aspect of it. A generous reviewer may also invent for the novel the qualities it might have had but hasn’t got.

The most brusque reviews occur in the most marginal newspapers: “The new novel by Camden author Beryl Bainbridge,“ said the Camden Journal , “took just a few hours to read yet cost £3.95 . . . The story is fairly interesting, mildly amusing and a little sad.” A hundred years ago the most brutal things were said about novelists and their works (cf. Henry James on Our Mutual Friend : “It is poor with the poverty not of momentary embarrassment, but of permanent exhaustion”).

Today many literary editors, alert to the fact that the novel is under pressure, ask their reviewers to be kind and most of them are. Kind to the old novelist because he is old; kind to the young novelist because he is young; to the English writer because he is English (“all quiet, wry precision about manners and oddities”) and not American or German; to others because they are black (or white) or women (or men) or refugees from the Soviet Union. Every liberal and illiberal orthodoxy has its champions.

Failings are seen to be bound up with virtues (“there are rough edges to his serious simplicity”); even turned into them (“though inelegant and sometimes blurred, their heaviness and urgency create their own order of precision”); but seldom passionately denounced, and although every novelist has had bad reviews to complain of, it sometimes seems as if novel reviewing were a branch of the welfare state.

The reasons have a lot to do with the economics of publishing. In the 1920s Cyril Connolly described the reviewing of novels as “the white man’s grave of journalism”: “for each scant clearing made wearily among the springing vegetation,” he sighed, “the jungle overnight encroaches twice as far.” The jungle has now dwindled to something more like a botanic garden (“it is a knockdown miracle that publishers continue to put out first novels,” noted a reviewer in the Times ), and far from having to hack his way through the springing vegetation, the critic is required to give the kiss of life to each week’s precarious flowering.

“SAVE THE NOVEL,” implored the novelist Angus Wolfe Murray addressing reviewers. Only in the case of such writers as Harold Robbins or Sidney Sheldon, whose fortunes or morale he cannot affect, does the reviewer have the freedom to write as he pleases.

Given that the novel is to be saved, what claims do reviewers make for it? John Gardner in his book On Moral Fiction (1978) complains of the flimsiness of “our serious fiction”:

The emphasis, among younger artists, on surface and novelty of effect is merely symptomatic. The sickness goes deeper, to an almost total loss of faith in—or perhaps understanding of—how true art works. True art, by specific technical means now commonly forgotten, clarifies life, establishes models of human action, casts nets towards the future, carefully judges our right and wrong directions, celebrates and mourns.

But it is clear from the exhilarated comments they make that many reviewers regularly find in the novel they have been reading the kind of guidance and instruction Gardner has in mind:

In the vaunted creative process, he has transcended himself and given us an access to liberty.

Her book is full of lessons about the art of creative literature, and about life, and how each reflects and enhances and deepens the meaning of the other.

Its indignation is blazingly imaginative, furiously vital and gives us hope.

A truer and deeper perception of the world’s agony comes from the . . . stories . . . about her native land.

There is no suggestion here that novelists are suffering from diminished responsibility or reviewers from any cramping of their responses. But it depends which reviewers one reads. Hope, agony, the meaning of life and of art, a transcending of the self: for every critic who finds these in the novels sent to him for review—and a critic who finds them once tends to find them once a week—there are more who see confusion, ambivalence, ambiguity, and count themselves well pleased:

The best English novelists are getting more ambiguous all the time.

I suppose this is what Iris Murdoch means when she distinguishes between philosophy and fiction—that what the novel does superlatively is mirror our continuing confusion and muddle.

Gardner is not eccentric in detecting among both novelists and critics an active commitment to uncertainty; as a reviewer in the Times Literary Supplement observed apropos of a novel involving a mystery and its detection: “Once upon a time novels and readers and detectives discovered things; now they fail to discover them.” An achieved character is a mixed-up character: “his grief and obsession lack ambiguity and don’t feel real”; he “is confused but by that token the more convincing.”

Gardner finds repugnant the notion that confusion may be the most appropriate response to a confusing world, but on countless occasions novels are praised for making it clear that nothing is clear, that a trouble-free verisimilitude can no longer be expected:

The book is convincingly comic, and at the same time ambiguous and nervy enough to suggest that nothing is as solid as it seems.

His theatrical memoir-scribbling existence is the best (i.e. most problematic) metaphor for how most of us function.

The brackets here reinforce the point, assuming as they do a coincidence of meaning between “best” and “most problematic.” In another review Frank Tuohy’s stories of English life are said to have a “grim predictability” but when he writes about Englishmen abroad his “subtle talent emerges”:

The barriers of language and culture give rise to a slightly baffled and tentative querying of reality; perspectives shift and blur, appearances bemuse and all our certainties suddenly lack foundation.

The writer should not merely baffle but himself be baffled: a way perhaps of acknowledging, and absorbing into a naturalistic tradition, the more exigent dubieties of such postmodernist writers as Borges, Sarraute, or Robbe-Grillet, whose ritual dismemberings of plot and character, especially when mimicked by native writers, have not gone down well among either reviewers or the public.

The baffled writer has various ways of disclaiming verisimilitude. In Renata Adler’s Speedboat , for instance, the narrative is fragmented into a series of discrete events, anecdotes, perceptions. Elizabeth Hardwick, writing about the book in the New York Review , showed her respect for it by adopting in her review the novel’s own fragmentary procedures. Likening it to some of the work of Barthelme, Pynchon, and Vonnegut, she claimed for all of them an “honourable” attempt to deploy “the intelligence that questions the shape of life and wonders what we can really act upon”; but then added:

It is important to concede the honor, the nerve, the ambition—important even if it is hard to believe anyone in the world could be happier reading Gravity’s Rainbow   than reading Dead Souls .

The old, unreconstructed pleasures of reading sometimes slip the reviewer’s mind but a conflict between enjoyment and the “honourable” measures writers take to accommodate doubt and perplexity has to be acknowledged. Take Robert Nye’s Merlin . Instead of a plot, it offers, as many non-conventional novels now conventionally do, a sprawling of plots, lists, jokes, and retelling of old stories. A prospective reader may be more grateful for a review that tells him what it is like to read such a novel (“In the end, it is just too much . . . rather like finding a hotel that serves you a Christmas dinner three times a day”) than for one written in the spirit of the novel itself and dedicated to teasing out its many “implications about art and reality.”

The most frequent recourse of the baffled writer is to offer himself as part of his fiction, stepping into the novel either in person (Margaret Drabble in The Realms of Gold ) or in the guise of another novel writer purportedly engaged in writing this novel or another novel contingent on it, so that the novel tells two stories concurrently, its own and the novelist’s, thereby foreshadowing, and in some cases forestalling, its own reviews.

Two recent instances have been T he World According to Garp by John Irving and John Wain’s The Pardoner’s Tale . The latter links a conventional account of a novelist’s life with the equally conventional novel he is currently writing. Malcolm Bradbury, a critic committed to the notion of the text that doubts itself, praised it as being “among [Wain’s] best novels, realism modestly considering itself.” Reviewers often talk about realism as if it were something tangible (Tim O’Brien’s Going After Cacciato contained, according to the New Statesman , “a strange and impressive balance of realisms”), the idea being that where intention and meaning are in doubt, literary styles and devices have a life of their own.

The World According to Garp is a much more complicated book, baroque, labyrinthine, full of internal fictions and comments on those fictions. One reviewer remarked that “there is little one can say about the book or its author that Irving has not in some way anticipated in his own text.” The baffled writer, it turns out, has this advantage over his critics: he can tell them what is wrong with his novel before they tell him.

Just as some novels supply their own reviews, so many reviews supply their own novels. It isn’t so much a matter of different interpretations (which are unavoidable: one reviewer saw in The Pardoner’s Tale “the lineaments of gratified desire . . . persuasively drawn . . . an amorous haze spreading delight,” another “a man who has evaded what real love requires”) as of giving a novelistic account of the novel. For instance:

William Trevor’s characters . . . seem to live perpetually in an afternoon sun which filters through the Georgian fanlight onto a balding carpet.

Whether “she“ is Nell or Julie or Ellen there’s always the same tearstained voice, stuffing old love letters into the mouth to hold back the sob at parting.

That Beryl Bainbridge has a quirky way of doing things may be put straightforwardly:

She views life from so odd an angle that normal proportions and emphases are disconcertingly altered.

or, if you like, mimetically:

The characters proclaim their loves and loathings dimpled with breadcrumbs, adorned with swellings, fiddling with troublesome socks.

Mary-Kay Wilmers

Previous article, next article.

• RSS - Posts

Literary Hub

Created by Grove Atlantic and Electric Literature

Sign Up For Our Newsletters

How to Pitch Lit Hub

Advertisers: Contact Us

Privacy Policy

Support Lit Hub - Become A Member

Become a Lit Hub Supporting Member : Because Books Matter

For the past decade, Literary Hub has brought you the best of the book world for free—no paywall. But our future relies on you. In return for a donation, you’ll get an ad-free reading experience , exclusive editors’ picks, book giveaways, and our coveted Joan Didion Lit Hub tote bag . Most importantly, you’ll keep independent book coverage alive and thriving on the internet.

Become a member for as low as $5/month

How to Write a Book Review? 12 Step Guide with Examples

Last Updated on February 18, 2023 by Dr Sharon Baisil MD

Do you have a burning desire to write an engaging book review? Writing a book review is often thought of as a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be a case of “throwing the baby out with the bathwater”. With these tips and tricks in mind, you can easily craft a well-structured and captivating piece that will leave your readers wanting more.

Writing reviews is like cooking up something special – you need just the right ingredients to make it work. To get things started on the right foot, let’s begin by looking at how to grab people’s attention from the beginning. We all know first impressions last forever, so why not use one idiom or catchphrase to set the tone for your review? This could be something along the lines of ‘a rollercoaster ride’ or ‘an absolute gem’. these phrases will instantly draw people in and help them understand what kind of journey they are about to embark upon.

What is the Purpose of Writing a Book Review?

Getting a feel for the book you just finished can be an exciting experience. Writing down your thoughts in a book review is one of the most effective ways to share what you think with others. So, why write a book review? It’s simple: by writing a review, you help people decide whether they should read something or not.

When it comes to crafting a well-thought-out book review, analyzing the main character and their journey are essential points that need to be included. Additionally, providing a star rating at the end will also give readers an idea about how much you enjoyed the story overall. after all, everyone wants to see if other people like it too! With this information in mind, make sure to incorporate these elements when writing your book reviews and provide insight into what made the story unique – was it suspenseful ? Was there romance? Did it surprise you in any way?

Writing thoughtful reviews is no easy task but once done right, they serve as great recommendations for bookshelves everywhere!

Step 1: Read and Take Notes on the Book

Reading and taking notes on the book is an essential part of writing a great book review . To start, you should read through every page carefully to understand the author’s message. As you’re reading, pay attention to bibliographic information such as title, author’s name, publisher, date of publication, and so forth that can be included in your book report . Additionally, make sure to jot down any thoughts or opinions – this will help when forming your evaluation of the book later on.

While it may seem tedious at first, making detailed notes while reading is key for creating an insightful and comprehensive review. Keep track of plot details like main characters and their motivations; look out for themes and symbols used by the author; also consider how techniques like foreshadowing are employed. Having taken all these into account, you’ll be able to form a well-rounded opinion about what makes the story unique – which could then become one of the focal points in your book review!

Step 2: Analyze the Book’s Strengths and Weaknesses

If you’re looking to take your writing skills up a notch, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of a book is an excellent way to go. This step in creating a critical book review will help uncover the true value of the book’s contents and allow readers to appreciate the work for what it is. Here are some tips that can get this process started:

• Understand the author’s argument – getting familiar with their purpose as well as how they support it.
• Break down each element of the book – from its structure, use of language, and imagery, to character development .
• Make sure all questions have been answered – did the author reach their goal? What was missing?

It may not always be easy, but taking time to dissect each aspect of the novel can lead to thoughtful insights on both the good points and potential areas for improvement. By engaging in this analysis, readers gain a better understanding of why certain elements were included or excluded from the story—allowing them to more fully appreciate any underlying themes or messages being communicated by the author.

Step 3: Research the author and the Book’s Background

Engrossing yourself in a great read can be an amazing experience. But, before diving into the book, it is essential to research the background of both the author and the book itself. This includes looking at the book jacket for any reviews or awards given to the book as well as searching online for new books by that author. We’ll take a look at some steps you can take to help get familiar with what you’re about to read.

First, try researching information on the author’s previous works and biographical details related to them. Look through interviews with them and see if they have won any awards for their work or been featured in literary magazines. You should also find out where they are from and what other books or genres they write about besides this one.

Next, check out reviews on websites such as Goodreads, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble – these usually provide helpful insight into how readers reacted to the book when it was first released. Additionally, search for blog posts discussing its content – often people will discuss specific plot points and characters’ motivations which could give you more context around reading this particular piece of literature.

When all your research is done, make sure to use those keywords: great read, book jacket, and new books while writing your review so you can draw attention from your target audience! Don’t forget what we’ve discussed here today; even though it may not seem like much fun now, doing research beforehand will ultimately enhance your appreciation of any new book you decide to pick up!

Step 4: Consider How the Book Compares to Similar Works

When considering how to write a book review, it’s important to look at how the work compares to similar ones. It can be helpful to think of it as tasting different flavors of ice cream – you don’t just want one scoop, you want several so that you can discern what makes each unique. When analyzing a book this way, readers can get an understanding of its main points and why they should recommend it (or not) to their fellow readers.

To do this effectively, try looking for key elements in other books within the same genre or by the same author . What were their successes? How does your current read differ? Take note of any similarities and differences between them; use these observations as evidence when discussing the appeal of the new book. Don’t forget to consider if there is something special about this particular text – some signature style from the author or overarching theme – that sets it apart from others in its category.

By taking into account both broader contexts and fine details, we are better able to form opinions on our reading experiences and share those views with others who may benefit from hearing them. Such reviews can help people make informed decisions on what works best suit their interests and tastes.

Step 5: Outline Your Book Review

Outlining your book review is an essential part of the process. You’ll want to make sure you have all the information you need to write a thorough and thoughtful assessment . There are several different ways to go about this, depending on what kind of angle you’d like to take with your opinion of the work.

First, consider jotting down some notes as you read – making note of characters, plot points, and any other elements that stood out in particular. additionally, it’s always helpful to identify themes or ideas proposed by the author throughout their writing; these will help form the basis for your analysis later on. Lastly, try summarizing each part of the book so that when writing up your final review, you can quickly reference them for accuracy and consistency.

It’s important to be objective while also drawing attention to subjective elements such as style and tone during your review-writing session. always keep in mind that there should be evidence presented within your text – whether facts from the narrative itself or quotes taken directly from its pages – to back up any claims made regarding the quality of the work being discussed. By following these steps and incorporating keywords into your review, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a comprehensive overview of whatever subject matter you’re tackling!

Step 6: Write an Engaging Introduction

Writing an engaging introduction can make or break your book review, so it’s important to find the perfect balance between creative and informative. Following these five steps will help you craft an introduction that captures readers’ attention:

• Ask yourself questions about what makes this book unique and worth reading
• Make sure to include relevant details from the story
• Summarize the main points quickly without giving away too much content
• Respectfully convey your opinion while maintaining objectivity
• Check with the writing center for more tips on summarizing the plot

Incorporating all these elements into your introduction will ensure readers stay engaged throughout their journey through your book review. Plus, following questions like these when crafting an introduction helps you get inside readers’ heads—what do they want to read? What kind of information are they looking for? Knowing those answers will guide you as you create a memorable and exciting start to your book review.

Step 7: Summarize the Plot

When writing a review it’s important to provide readers with enough information about the story without giving away too much – so they have the incentive to buy and read the book themselves!

A summary of the plot should include where and when the story takes place, as well as any pivotal points in the narrative arc. If the book has been part of a series, mention that fact as well as how it fits into or differs from other installments. Be sure to reveal if there was ever a twist in the first place or whether it remained consistent throughout the entire novel. also don’t forget to give out some details regarding the author and their place of publication – this helps boost credibility for potential readers and gives them more context around why certain parts may have been included in the book.

To ensure accuracy while summarizing, try re-reading key passages or chapters. This will help you identify pertinent elements like characters’ motivations and reactions during particular scenes that might otherwise go overlooked but could still be beneficial for someone considering buying the book (e.g., did they find something funny or poignant?). By providing such details within your review, readers will gain insight into what makes this particular piece special – setting it apart from all those other titles vying for their money and time!

Step 8: Evaluate the Characters

In this day and age, a great way to evaluate the characters in a book review is by taking a deep dive into their personalities. Whether it’s on your personal blog or published in an academic journal, analyzing the characters can be incredibly insightful!

When evaluating characters, ask yourself questions like: are they likable? Do they have flaws or redeeming qualities? How do they interact with other characters? What kind of journey do they go through throughout the story? Answering these questions gives you greater insight into how well-rounded the characters are and whether or not the author has done justice to them. It also helps you understand if the character was written for any particular purpose.

It’s important to remember that even though some books may contain more complex characterization than others, every character should still be uniquely rendered with depth and nuance. Not only will this make for an interesting read but it will also give you as a reader clear insights about who each person is and why they matter to the overall story. Keep this in mind when writing your book review – it could be one of many ways to assess the quality of a piece of literature!

Step 9: Analyze the Setting and Subplots

Aspects of the book, particularly it’s setting and subplots, are key elements in any successful novel. When writing a book review, it’s important to take time to analyze these components and evaluate how they contribute to the overall story.

The setting can often provide insight into the characters’ motivations and actions. By analyzing the different locations that take place throughout a book, you can get an idea of how the plot develops over time. Similarly, examining the various subplots can give readers more information about what is going on behind the scenes. Both elements work together to create a full picture for readers, allowing them to form their own opinions about the story being told.

Taking all this into account, it’s easy to see why evaluating settings and subplots when writing your book review is so important. It helps bring clarity and context as well as provides valuable insights for both authors and readers alike. That said, don’t forget to consider other aspects of the book too – such as character development or themes – before forming your final judgment!

Step 10: Discuss the themes

Captivating stories always have interesting themes that keep the reader interested. Uncovering these underlying messages can be a rewarding experience and often gives readers an insight into the author’s perspective. When writing a book review, it is essential to discuss the prominent themes present in order to provide a comprehensive analysis of the work.

Themes are usually conveyed through characters and their actions as well as the setting and plot. It is important to pay attention to any symbols or motifs used by the author; this will help to identify what is being communicated throughout the novel. In addition, looking for patterns in dialogue and examining how characters develop over time provides further context for understanding each theme’s importance within the story. By exploring all these aspects, you can gain a greater grasp of the overall message of the book and make connections between events more easily.

It is also beneficial to look at how individual elements interact with one another. How does an event affect later scenes? Does it introduce new ideas or build upon existing ones? these questions allow you to explore deeper levels of meaning and better understand why certain things happen in relation to others. after thoroughly analyzing each element separately, drawing conclusions about which themes dominate will give your book review added depth.

Step 11: Make a Final Assessment of the Book

Putting pen to paper and creating a book review is an art like no other. Crafting the perfect words that can captivate your audience and draw them in, all whilst providing an honest assessment of the work – it’s a daunting task. But by breaking down each part – from discussing its themes to making a final judgment on how successful you found the piece – there’s nothing stopping you from delivering an insightful critique!

When it comes to making a final assessment of the book, consider all aspects : Was it interesting? Did it keep your attention throughout? How were the characters written, and did they drive the story forward? Were any cultural or social issues addressed within its pages, and if so, how effectively were they handled? all these questions will help build up a picture of whether or not this was something worth reading; logically weighing up pros and cons before coming to a verdict can give your opinion gravitas. Make sure to state what age group you think would best appreciate this book too – after all, everyone has different tastes when it comes to literature!

Ultimately, writing a book review requires careful consideration as well as creative flair. You need to be able to articulate both good points and bad ones with confidence, backed up by strong evidence. So take some time out for yourself, grab your favorite beverage, sit back…and get inspired!

Step 12: Write a Catchy Conclusion

Wrapping up your book review with a catchy conclusion is like the cherry on top of an ice-cream sundae. It’s what ties together all the elements, giving it that perfect finishing touch. Here are 5 tips to make sure you write a great ending :

• Showcase any central themes or ideas that resonated with you in the book – this will give your readers something to think about after they’re done reading.
• Sum up your overall thoughts and feelings on the book by providing a brief evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses.
• offer some insight into why other people should read (or not) this book – making sure to include any relevant details such as genre or author credentials.
• End with a thought-provoking quote from either yourself or the author – this can be especially effective if it relates back to one of the main points discussed earlier in your review.
• Give praise where it’s deserved, but don’t hesitate to point out areas for improvement too – remember, honest reviews are key!

By following these simple steps, you’ll have written a memorable and engaging conclusion that leaves readers wanting more! Make sure to tie everything together neatly so that all strands come full circle and reflect upon each other effectively; this way, they will leave feeling satisfied and eager to explore similar books in the future.

Book Review Example 1: The Catcher in the Rye

Author : J.D. Salinger

Summary of Plot : The Catcher in the Rye tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a 16-year-old boy who has been expelled from his boarding school in Pennsylvania. After being expelled, Holden decides to go to New York City. In New York, he visits old friends and makes new ones, but is ultimately unable to connect with anyone. He spends his days wandering the city aimlessly, reflecting on his own loneliness and disillusionment with the world. His journey eventually leads him to a mental hospital, where he begins to come to terms with his identity and his place in the world.

Theme Analysis : The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age story, in which Holden struggles to find his place in the world. The main theme of the book is alienation, as Holden is unable to find a sense of belonging despite his efforts. He feels disconnected from the adults around him and is unable to form meaningful relationships with his peers. The book also touches on themes of maturity and innocence, as Holden struggles between his desire to remain in a state of innocence, and his need to grow up and face the world as it is.

Character Analysis : Holden Caulfield is the protagonist of the novel. He is an unreliable narrator , as he often lies, exaggerates, and omits details in order to fit the story he is telling. Despite his flaws, Holden is an idealistic, sensitive, and thoughtful person. He is an outsider, struggling to find his place in the world, and his journey is one of self-discovery.

Critique: The Catcher in the Rye is an iconic work of literature and an important commentary on the human experience. Salinger’s writing is vivid and captivating, and his characters are complex and multi-dimensional. One of the book’s main strengths is the way it captures the confusion and uncertainty of adolescence. Despite its strengths, the book does have some weaknesses. Some readers may find the protagonist’s narration to be overly self-involved and annoying, and some may find the ending unsatisfying. However, these criticisms do not detract from the overall power of the novel.

Book Review Example 2: The Hunger Games

Author : Suzanne Collins

Summary of Plot : The Hunger Games is a thrilling novel set in a dystopian future in the nation of Panem. The story follows Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old girl, who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the Hunger Games, an annual televised event in which 24 teenagers from 12 districts fight to the death until one victor remains. Along the way, Katniss must navigate a dangerous world of political intrigue, manipulation, and the power of the media in order to survive and emerge victorious.

Theme Analysis : The Hunger Games is a story about the power of hope and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a story of individuals struggling against oppressive systems and finding strength within themselves and from those around them. The novel also touches on themes of courage and strength, as well as the power of friendship and love in the face of impossible odds.

Character Analysis : Katniss Everdeen is the novel’s protagonist and heroine. She is a strong, independent individual who is determined to survive the Hunger Games and protect those she loves. Her bravery, resourcefulness, and loyalty make her a compelling protagonist and an easy one to root for. Peeta Mellark is another major character in the novel. He is the other tribute from District 12 and helps Katniss survive the Hunger Games. He is a kind, gentle soul who ultimately sacrifices himself to protect Katniss.

Critique: The Hunger Games is a thrilling, action-packed novel that is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed and engaging, and the novel explores themes of courage, strength, and resilience in the face of impossible odds. The only weakness of the novel is that some of the themes are a bit heavy-handed and may not appeal to all readers.

Book Review Example 3: The Kite Runner

Author: Khaled Hosseini

Summary of Plot: The Kite Runner follows the story of Amir, a young boy from Kabul, Afghanistan. He is raised by his wealthy father, Baba, and has a best friend, Hassan, who is a servant in their household. The two boys form a strong bond, but ultimately Amir betrays Hassan in a shocking act of cowardice. Years later, Amir moves to the United States and is overwhelmed with guilt and regret for his actions. He eventually decides to return to Afghanistan to make amends with Hassan and his family. Along the way, he faces many obstacles and learns valuable lessons about self-forgiveness and redemption.

Theme Analysis: The Kite Runner is a story of redemption and self-discovery. Amir has to confront his guilt and learn to forgive himself in order to move forward in life. The novel also explores the power of relationships and how they can be both influential and destructive. In addition, it examines the notion of identity and belonging, as Amir struggles to reconcile his Afghan heritage with his new American life.

Character Analysis: Amir is the protagonist of the novel and is a complex character. He is initially portrayed as a timid and cowardly boy, but as the novel progresses, he learns to overcome his guilt and find his courage. Hassan is a loyal and brave friend to Amir and is a foil to his character. Baba is Amir’s father and is a strong and proud man who is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his son.

Critique: The Kite Runner is a powerful and thought-provoking novel. Hosseini does an excellent job of capturing the emotions and experiences of his characters, and the story is both heartbreaking and uplifting. A major strength of the novel is its vivid depiction of the cultural and political landscape of Afghanistan before and after the Soviet invasion. The only weak point of the novel is its somewhat abrupt ending, as Amir’s journey to redemption feels unfinished.

In conclusion, writing a book review is an important skill to have. It takes time and effort to read and analyze the book as well as research its background before making an assessment. after this process is complete, it’s time to write your review! Make sure you include catchy conclusions that will make readers remember your opinion of the book.

When constructing those concluding paragraphs, don’t forget to use anachronisms! Something like ‘this timeless tale will remain evergreen in our hearts’ can be a great way to add some flair while still being accurate. Your unique perspective on the work should come through in these last few sentences – that’s what makes a memorable review!

At the end of the day, if you take all these steps into consideration when crafting your book reviews you’ll be able to confidently share your thoughts with others. From there, it’s just a matter of perfecting them until they are ready for publication or sharing with friends and family. Happy reviewing!

Most Read Articles in 2023:

Hi, I am a doctor by profession, but I love writing and publishing ebooks. I have self-published 3 ebooks which have sold over 100,000 copies. I am featured in Healthline, Entrepreneur, and in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology blog.

Whether you’re a busy professional or an aspiring author with a day job, there’s no time like now to start publishing your ebook! If you are new to this world or if you are seeking help because your book isn’t selling as well as it should be – don’t worry! You can find here resources, tips, and tricks on what works best and what doesn’t work at all.

In this blog, I will help you to pick up the right tools and resources to make your ebook a best seller.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Entertainment

How Writing 'The Sicilian Inheritance' Led Jo Piazza to Investigate a Murder in the Family

'The Sicilian Inheritance' became a book, a podcast and a hunger to know the truth about what happened to a murdered matriarch

Courtesy of Jo Piazza

When I first started writing a novel loosely based on the murder of our family matriarch in Sicily, I didn’t want to know the real story. I wanted to let my imagination run wild. I wanted to craft the characters and the mystery in my head using only this nugget of information about a murder of a woman left behind while her husband made his fortune in America. 

But once my novel The Sicilian Inheritance was put to bed and in my editor’s hands, something told me the story wasn’t finished. I needed to know the truth about what happened to my great-great-grandmother Lorenza Marsala. I became obsessed with solving Lorenza’s actual murder and, because I am an incredibly thorough content creator, decided to make a true crime podcast about it.

My family has been passing down the tale of Lorenza’s murder for more than a hundred years. It changes depending on who is doing the telling, with numerous theories and tangents and mythologies involved. We are Italian Americans and we love embellishing and entertaining an audience with our lore. 

But what has always remained the same is the fact that our family matriarch was murdered before she could join her husband Antonino and five of her children here in America in 1916.

Theories abound about my great-great-grandmother's death

Some of my family members claim the murder was done by the local mafia, who they always refer to as the Black Hand. They believe that she was killed because the Black Hand wanted her land, or they wanted to steal her money after she sold it. One even believes she was working for the mafia herself.

My dad, who passed away seven years ago, always thought she was killed because she was a witch, or a healer, and that someone important died under her care and then she was killed in revenge for not being able to save them. Or maybe they just didn’t like witches.

Because this story might involve the mafia, the primary research isn’t without risks. I didn’t completely believe this until I spoke to Barbie Latza Nadeau, a reporter and expert in the Italian mafia. Barbie told me that there is still danger in researching mafia crimes, even if they happened decades ago.

“You always have to be careful what you're digging up when you're sifting through the ashes because you may end up stumbling upon something that someone doesn't want you to find out about,” she explained. “I'm not trying to scare you. I just think you just have to be vigilant.”

Some family members warned me not to investigate

Not everyone in my family is happy about my digging into the past either and many of them tried to warn me off of it.

My Uncle Jimmy cautioned me not to go to Sicily to uncover the truth. “Why are you opening old wounds?” he asked me. “ You're going to wind up starting our vendetta again.” He was joking, but also not joking. 

I’m not the first in my family to seek the truth. Many of my relatives have gone to the village of Caltabelotta, where our family is from, to try to find information and some have encountered weird things along the way. My cousin Laura  claims that when she mentioned Lorenza’s name to a local official, lightning struck the church in the town square. Another says they were thrown out of the town’s municipal office by the mayor when they asked to see her death record. 

Family members have found some birth certificates, but no actual proof about what happened to Lorenza.

How could I go about solving a hundred-year-old homicide? None of the people who were there are still alive. I had no idea how to get any records about a death in a foreign country, particularly one that happened so long ago. 

First: The Internet. Next: A Family Trip to Sicily

I started out on Ancestry.com, which gave me a birth and a death date for Lorenza. I quickly learned the limitations of research in the United States. There was no way I could solve this thing from my laptop at my desk. So last summer I packed up my entire family, including three kids under the age of seven, and set off for Sicily to do some original research on Lorenza Marsala. 

Could I find the official death record? Was there a police report? Was anyone prosecuted and if so are there records of a trial? I was about to find out.

There is another story that my family has passed down about what happened after Lorenza was killed: Her sons drew straws to see who would go back to Sicily to avenge her death. Many relatives believe that a son named Giuseppe drew the short straw and returned to avenge his mother by murdering her killers during a rabbit hunt and then disappeared. 

If that is true, surely some record of it must exist. 

When I arrived in Caltabelotta, I made my way cautiously up the mountain to the small town. Caltabelotta is beautiful, one of the most striking places you’ve ever seen and the road is narrow and winding. If a car speeds down the mountain,you have to pull over to let it pass. The old stone houses seem to spill off the jagged cliffs jutting out the top of the mountain. Clouds often shroud the very top, making the scene both beautiful and ominous. 

I had made an appointment in the local municipal office. The guides and interpreters whom I hired, Ciro and Ettore told me I would be better received with an appointment. I still worried.

Finding Clues in the 'Death Book'

But lightning didn’t strike when I mentioned Lorenza’s name in the commune hall and asked if I could see the record of her death. In fact, the town administrator brought out a massive, two-foot-tall cloth book, the Atti di Morte , or what locals call the “Death Book,” that listed every death in the village in the year 1916. 

The book is divided into two sections, A and B, both handwritten in careful cursive. There is one important difference between section A and section B—section A lists people who have died of natural causes, usually in their homes. The second is unnatural causes, accidents or homicides. The second is where we found Lorenza. It was the first real evidence I had that she had been murdered more than a century earlier. 

My entire body tensed up as I looked at the page. Here she was. This was real. It was no longer just a story told over cocktails at a family wedding. Lorenza Marsala was born here and died here, possibly in a terrible way.

At first, the town administrator and our translators didn’t think there was anything suspicious about Lorenza being in the book of unnatural deaths. She was a farmer in her fifties in 1916. Farming was dangerous business. Her death record didn’t list a cause of death, just the date, the time and the location where her body was found—five kilometers outside of town.

A suspicious finding, and a cold case warmed up

But just as the administrator was about to slam the book and head out to lunch, I asked him to look again. Something told me we weren’t finished. Call it the intuition of the great-great-granddaughter of a Sicilian witch. He reopened the book and looked at the one other entry beneath Lorenza’s. He gasped and his eyes widened. “There is something here,” he whispered in Italian. 

That other person was killed at the exact same time, in the exact same location outside of town as Lorenza. His name was Nicolo Martino, a name I had never heard before. A name no one in my family had ever heard before. 

It was clear, finally, that Lorenza’s death was no accident. In a time before cars or gas-powered farming equipment, it would have been rare for two people to die in the same location at the same time. 

For the first time since I heard this story as a child, I truly believed that my great-great-grandmother was murdered, but there was a lot more work to do to find out how and by whom. There were police reports to hunt down, court records to dig through, local elders to interview. It would take more than a year and another trip across the ocean to learn anything more.

But staring down at the book of deaths and seeing her name alongside a stranger is the moment I knew, perhaps because I have a little bit of that Sicilian with blood running through my veins, that the truth would absolutely be stranger than the fiction.

The Sicilian Inheritance is out April 2, and available for preorder now, wherever books are sold.

Related Articles

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Author Interviews

Don winslow ends trilogy, and his writing career, with final novel 'city in ruins'.

Scott Simon

NPR's Scott Simon talks to best-selling suspense author Don Winslow about what he says is his final novel, "City in Ruins."

SCOTT SIMON, HOST:

Danny Ryan, who's been a Rhode Island mobster, dockworker and fugitive from the law, is now a pillar of the community in Las Vegas. He's got a palatial home to which good citizens come to pay homage and enjoy his hospitality, his young son he loves and the companionship - well, three times a week, anyway - of an accomplished and compelling woman he respects. What could possibly go wrong? "City In Ruins" is the third and final novel in the bestselling Danny Ryan trilogy by Don Winslow. It follows "City On Fire" and "City Of Dreams," and Don Winslow says quite explicitly, "City Of Ruins" is my final book - no loopholes I could detect. He joins us now from Julian, Calif. Thanks so much for being with us.

DON WINSLOW: Thanks for having me. I appreciate it.

SIMON: The book opens with an implosion, a famous old Las Vegas hotel, now owned by Danny Ryan, being brought down from the inside. Is implosion a kind of theme for Danny Ryan's life, too?

WINSLOW: Yeah, it sure is. Looking over the arc of these three books, I think we're looking at a certain kind of self-destruction with dynamite, if you will, or explosives that were laid many years earlier on a long fuse, to torture the metaphor, and so implosion's definitely a theme.

SIMON: In earlier books, Danny had used what I'll just refer to as ill-gotten gains from a criminal enterprise to buy his way into a respectable hotel and gaming enterprise. He's got a dream. In fact, a hotel - I guess it's called the Dream in Italian.

WINSLOW: It is. Yeah, Il Sogno.

SIMON: Tell us about this place he wants to bring into being.

WINSLOW: Well, he wants to bring into being a new kind of megahotel where people walk in and it's literally a dream with images shifting constantly on the walls of beauty and action and all kinds of things. And I think it's reflective of his own dream of trying to create a new kind of life for himself and for his son.

SIMON: What stands in the way?

WINSLOW: Well, a number of things. For one thing, this valuable piece of real estate that this old hotel sat on is critical to power on the Las Vegas Strip. And he basically undermines a rival in order to acquire it. And then it turns out that both Danny and this rival have mob ties from the past that each of them is trying to escape and trying to leave behind him, and neither one of them can. And so those things really get in the way of Danny's dream.

SIMON: You've written so many other books over the years, including "Savages," "The Force," "The Cartel," bestsellers made into screen properties. What's kept you coming back to Danny Ryan?

WINSLOW: You know, it took me almost 30 years to complete this trilogy. You know, it's funny. You look back on your life. When I started the Danny Ryan books, my now-adult and married son was a toddler. What I was - set out to do was to write a fully contemporary crime epic that took its stories and characters, however, from the Greek and Roman classics, principally the Aeneid, but also the Odyssey and the Iliad and certain Greek tragic dramas. I kept failing at it. I would write some of the book, and some of it worked, and a lot of it didn't. And so at times, I was discouraged, thinking that either, A, it was a bad idea, or, B, it was a good idea and I didn't have the chops to carry it out. But I kept coming back to it 'cause I couldn't leave it behind. And then later on, a couple of decades down the road - you know, I live mostly in California - I started to go back to Rhode Island, where a lot of the first book is set, and I fell in love with the place again, and I felt that I could write it, perhaps in a better and more mature way than I could have done 20 years earlier.

SIMON: Did you feel a kinship with Danny?

WINSLOW: I think so. You know, I grew up with a lot of Danny'. I played pond hockey with them. I went to the beaches with them, you know, to the bars and restaurants and all kinds of things. So it's funny how little self-awareness you can have. The second volume of this book, "City Of Dreams," is basically Danny wandering the country trying to find a place to set his feet. I was deep into writing the third book before I looked back on the second book and realized how connected I was to Danny in that regard. You know, I left Rhode Island when I was 17 and spent decades wandering not only the country but the world, doing various kinds of jobs trying to make a living, trying without a notable degree of success to become a writer and finally kind of made that happen and found a place, if you will, to set my feet.

SIMON: You mentioned all the jobs you had. You were a private eye in Times Square.

WINSLOW: Yes, sir.

SIMON: Is that as exciting as it sounds, or is it a lot of keyhole peeping?

WINSLOW: (Laughter) Not too much keyhole peeping, thank God. You know, I didn't do what they call matrimonial work. But, no, it was not romantic at all. I was basically what is known as a street rat. And so I started that by investigating embezzlement and thefts in cinemas and legit movie theaters on Times Square - there were a few in those days - and then graduated, if you want to call it that, to being a troll. I would walk around Times Square trying to get mugged, and there were big tough guys, which I am not, behind me jumping in like riders at the rodeo and then eventually chasing runaways and trying to get to them before the pimps did.

SIMON: By the way, not that I'm interested in doing this, how do you arrange to get mugged?

WINSLOW: (Laughter) Well, for one thing, you arrange to be 5'6 and 130 pounds. That helps. And then you walk around looking like you don't know where you're going, like you're a tourist, with a wallet prominently in your back pants pocket.

SIMON: Wow. Sounds like it was indispensable to your literature.

WINSLOW: In some ways. You know, I mean, I think that being a PI, and then later I did it out in California, out here, on a much higher kind of level. But it got me in that world. I got to know cops and crooks and street people and lawyers and judges and courtrooms and all of that. But I think the most important influence it had on my work was in terms of investigation itself. I learned how to do research. I learned how to interview people. And the same skills that I would have used as an investigator are the skills that I brought to researching the novels.

SIMON: All of this steers us to asking about your goodbye. The acknowledgments you write include hundreds of people, parents...

WINSLOW: Yes.

SIMON: ...readers, old teachers...

WINSLOW: Sure.

SIMON: ...Even your agent.

WINSLOW: Especially my agent. Yeah.

SIMON: And as you say, goodbyes are hard. So why are you retiring?

WINSLOW: It's the confluence of two streams, if you will. One is that having finished this trilogy felt like an ending to me. It felt like, yeah, kind of my life's work. The second, though, major stream, and probably more important one, is that I just think that we're at a time in this country of crisis and a time where democracy is under a severe threat. And I think that the response to that needs to be more immediate than one can do in a novel, you know? You know, I'm not young. I'm 70. And I think whatever energies and time I have are better spent in that fight.

SIMON: Don Winslow, his new and insists his last novel, "City In Ruins." Thanks so much for being with us, and thanks for everything.

WINSLOW: Thank you very much. That's gracious of you to say.

(SOUNDBITE OF SONG, "CASCADE")

Copyright © 2024 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

StarsInsider

How to write a novel

Posted: March 29, 2024 | Last updated: March 29, 2024

If you're thinking about starting to write your own book , this gallery is for you. Writing a novel might sound like a daunting task, but it's actually doable.

We've brought you some great tips to help you achieve your dream of writing a novel. Click through and get started today!

You may also like: Can you recognize these actors?

Read. A lot.

If you want to write, you need to read first. Authors are influenced and shaped by other authors. Get inspired by your favorite writers.

Follow us and access great exclusive content every day

Set daily goals

Some authors like to go with the flow, but daily goals are a good thing to have, especially if you’re starting out. For example, you can aim to write 2,000 words a day. Considering how many words your novel will have, this is not such a crazy number.

You may also like:

Make a list

Why do you want to write? Write down a list of your motivations for writing and refer back when you have doubts. It can be great to motivate you.

Good habits

You’re likely not going to be writing your first novel full time, so it’s important to manage time around your other responsibilities. The key is to develop good habits when it comes to writing. Set aside blocks of time to do so, in a specific place. Make it a habit, and it will stick.

Think ahead

Before you sit down to write, think about it. Where is that storyline taking you? Do you need to do some research first? It’s best to think ahead so you can make the most of your time writing.

Save your work

If you write on a computer, make sure you have security copies in a cloud and maybe even in a physical device such as a USB pen. If you’re more into pen and paper, don’t worry: taking pictures with your phone will ensure your words are quickly safe.

You may also like: The most beautiful flags in the world

A thesaurus can be your best friend

You will likely need one, and you will need it quite a few times. Just find one you like to use and embrace it.

Write anything

Action precedes inspiration, not the other way round. Many times you just need to start writing to then start thinking. It’s the opposite of the romanticized version of creativity.

You may also like: Incredible hidden attractions in US cities

Write about what you know

E.g. if you’re a musician, it will be easier for you to tell a story involving musicians, right? You know how it is, how it feels, how things go. Writing about what you know not only makes the story more believable, it also makes it easier to write.

Your story should move you

If you’re writing an emotional story and it doesn’t move you, don’t expect the reader to feel differently. Conversely, if you shed a tear or two during the process, readers might just share the same feeling when they read your words.

You may also like: Celebs reveal the stories behind their stage names

Read it out loud

This is the best way to ensure the pace of the sentences is good. Rhythm is very important when it comes to writing. Listening to yourself reading aloud can really help.

Who’s telling the story?

Choose a point of view to tell the story. Is there a narrator? Is the story told in the first or second person?

Show (but don’t tell)

Think of writing fiction in these terms. You want to show the story to the reader. You want them to imagine and be enriched by the experience.

Characters, characters, characters

Sure, a good plot is very important, but it has to be based on good characters first. Think about a main character strong enough to carry the story, and things will flow more easily.

You may also like: Who invented the plane? For many people in the world, it was not the Wright brothers

Don’t make your characters sound cliché

Creating multi-dimensional characters is a good thing. Say you’re writing about a Parisian woman; maybe a beret will just be too stereotypical. Why not give her other particular characteristics? Make her a competent employee, or passionate about a specific music genre, for instance.

Motivation of characters

Your characters need some sort of motivation. This is especially important when you’re struggling to give a character a direction. Just ask yourself: “What does this character want?”

You may also like: The world's fastest (and most expensive) police cars

Don’t go overboard with detailed descriptions of characters

It is true that some authors manage to pull it off, and of course you can give physical descriptions of the characters. Just avoid doing so in a manner that the reader will switch off and want to skip the paragraph.

Don’t open the novel with weather

Unless it has a direct effect on a person, e.g. a character’s reaction to the weather. If it’s just to set the atmosphere, then be brief and move on to people, which is what most readers will be looking for in the opening lines.

You may also like: The world's most beautiful roads and routes

Skip the prologue

Prologues kind of work in non-fiction, but when it comes to novels they don’t make much sense. Unless you really need to establish a backstory right there and then, a prologue can just be slightly annoying. Whatever you were meant to write in the prologue can, most times, be included elsewhere in the book.

Control the use of regional dialects and patois

These can give character to your novel, but they can also be somewhat distracting, with all the sounds described using apostrophes.

You may also like: The most popular destinations for fall travel

Keep your exclamation points in check

A good rule of thumb is to use two or three per 100,000 words.

Stick to "said" to carry dialogue

There is no need to get fancy when it comes to carrying dialogue. It will only deviate the reader’s attention from the dialogue itself. Any other words, such as "grumbled" or "cautioned," can be intrusive and distracting.

You may also like: Disturbing consequences of eating avocados

And don’t use an adverb to modify the verb "said"

Elmore Leonard’s '10 Rules of Good Writing' tells us to “Never use an adverb to modify the verb 'said.'" This will break the rhythm and indeed be distracting for the reader.

Never use the words "suddenly" or "all hell broke loose"

Leonard reminds us that these are no-nos when it comes to writing a novel. Those who do use the word “suddenly” also seem to have a tendency to use more exclamation marks than they should.

You may also like: Accident-prone celebrities pictured

Don’t play book critic

The analysis of the text is better left out for later. The last thing you want is to be worried about labeling the genre of your book. Leave it for critics.

Your first draft is just...your first draft

There is no need to stress over it. It’s a first draft, with mistakes, with lots of words that need to be edited and proofread. Don't try to make it perfect straight away. Let the first draft be the first draft.

You may also like: Discover the differences between psychopaths and sociopaths

Find a good editor

Working with a good editor is key. A good partnership can make a huge difference in how your book turns out.

Believe in yourself

Yes, doubt is a pain. You’ll go through it many times. Ultimately, you should just trust your gut and go with it when it comes to your novel. It’s your novel, after all, not someone else’s!

You may also like: Do you remember these superhero movies?

Allow yourself to change your mind

Reading back the first 50 pages and are not sure about something? Go back, rewrite, and change the story if need be. It’s yours, and you can do whatever you want with it.

Rules are meant to be broken

Yes, everyone is different and we work in different ways. These are guidelines at most. Many authors will tell you they do the exact opposite and are successful!

Sources: (MasterClass) (The New Yorker) (The Guardian) (The New York Times)

See also: The most influential authors of the 20th century

More for You

17 Things You Need to Do When Your Spouse Dies

What is imitation crab actually made of, and should you be using it?

What Vitamins Should Not Be Taken Together?

You Shouldn’t Be Able to Pay With Cash OR a Card at a National Park. They Should Be Free.

I worked for Beyoncé for a year. She wasn't a diva and wasn't passive — it was a master class in executing a creative vision

15 things you should eat in the Pacific Northwest

Is It a Good Idea To Prepay for Your Own Funeral?

'Sanford and Son': The Cast Through The Years

Putin orders 150,000 conscripts into military service

4 Chain Restaurants With The Absolute Best Chicken Pot Pie And 4 With The Worst

I’ve Worked on Cruise Ships for 10 Years—These Are 18 Mistakes Every Traveler Should Avoid

18 Things Introverts Don’t Like Doing (so Don’t Make Them)

This Is How Dehydration Can Affect Your Blood Pressure

The Original ‘Star Trek' Cast: Where They've Boldly Gone, Then and Now

Was Jesus a man of color? Why this question matters more than ever

Florence Pugh Transforms Into Cammy in Street Fighter Reboot Artwork

The one food you should eat in every state

18 Common Misconceptions About Poverty That Are Widely Believed

The Link Between Health Problems And Microplastics Just Got A Lot Stronger

Best Buy's 24-hour sale is now live — here's the 11 deals I personally recommend

Advertisement

More from the Review

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Best of The New York Review, plus books, events, and other items of interest

• The New York Review of Books: recent articles and content from nybooks.com
• The Reader's Catalog and NYR Shop: gifts for readers and NYR merchandise offers
• New York Review Books: news and offers about the books we publish
• I consent to having NYR add my email to their mailing list.
• Hidden Form Source

April 18, 2024

Current Issue

A Hell of a Performance

April 18, 2024 issue

Norman Mailer; illustration by Lorenzo Gritti

Submit a letter:

Email us [email protected]

The Naked and the Dead and Selected Letters, 1945–1946

Writing in 1998, fifty years after the publication of his first novel, The Naked and the Dead , Norman Mailer called his younger self an “amateur,” by which he intended something between self-deprecation and self-praise, leaning toward the latter. He had grown up in Brooklyn in a Jewish family that was modest in both means and manners. “The one personality he found absolutely insupportable,” he wrote in middle age, was “the nice Jewish boy from Brooklyn.” For much of his life, with mixed success, he did everything he could to put that personality behind him.

In September 1939, soon after Britain and France declared war on Germany, he went off to Harvard intending to study engineering, in part because of his boyhood interest in aviation but also to please his parents with the promise of a career. He stuck with the plan long enough to graduate in 1943 with an engineering degree, but along the way his ambitions shifted. In his sophomore year he wrote a gritty story that was published in Whit Burnett’s prestigious Story magazine about a boy conned and beaten up by pool hustlers. Mailer was en route to becoming Big Literary Man on Campus—a Hemingway wannabe who dropped into a boxer’s crouch and brandished his fists at anyone who displeased him. Six months out of college he was drafted and soon deployed to the Philippines, where he experienced “a couple of firefights and skirmishes” before serving in occupied Japan as a cook who, according to a friend, “never did learn to separate the yellows from the whites of the eggs.”

After returning from Japan and a short stint back in Brooklyn, Mailer resumed his sprint toward celebrity. He rented a shack on the dunes outside Provincetown with his first wife, Beatrice Silverman, whom he had met when she was a music student at Boston University and with whom he defied Harvard’s parietal rules with loud lovemaking in his dorm room. Intellectually and sexually adventurous, she introduced him to Freudian psychology and Marxist political theory, neither of which took up much space in the Harvard curriculum. In January 1944, a few weeks before his induction into the army, they married. “You love me,” he told her, “because I’m the only man you could ever ballast, all other men were ballast for you.”

In a series of remarkable letters to Bea written while he was in the army, from which his biographer and editor J. Michael Lennon includes a selection in the seventy-fifth-anniversary Library of America edition of The Naked and the Dead , Mailer described the “feeling of elation and excitement and awareness” of riding by night in an open army truck over trails vulnerable to ambush:

You know the thrill, love, of driving at night when there is only the singing of the tires and the lights of the vehicle cutting their brief swath through the vastness of the dark. When you add to that the animal awareness of danger and feel the solidness of the gun stock against your chest, it is really a heady experience. And of course all the men in the gloom of the van with the odd lights and glints on their helmets and faces and rifles, and the tension that holds them all as they peer into the night.

In another letter he describes his encounter with the corpse of an enemy soldier, its intestines protruding in “a thick white cluster like a coiled white garden hose” and “genitals…burnt away to tiny stumps.” “Here was a man,” he wrote to Bea, “and he wanted things, and the thought of his own death was always a little unbelievable to him. He had a childhood, a youth, and a young manhood, and there were all the dreams and all the memories. I wonder what he was like.”

Back from the war, in their snug bungalow on the Cape, Mailer drew on these letters for a novel about an assault on a fictional Japanese-held island called Anopopei. The result—the first big American novel to come out of World War II—may have been the work of an amateur, but any pro could have counted it as a hell of a performance.

Like many young writers, Mailer was in love with his own talent. He had an image-making mind and was loath to give up extravagant passages that should have been cut. When the Japanese break through the American perimeter, he compares the task of repelling them to “ejecting the rump of a fat man who had broken a hole through the stuffing of a couch and was now spluttering and wriggling his backside in an effort to escape.”

Sporadically overwritten, the book was also derivative—a pastiche of devices borrowed from writers who had impressed him in his college days. From John Dos Passos’s U.S.A. he appropriated the idea of “time-machine” segments—extended flashbacks into the lives of his characters before the war. From Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick (“the biggest influence on Naked ,” he later told The New York Times ) he took the technique of breaking up the narrative with choral interludes in which characters step out of the story as if onto a stage to speak from a script. From James T. Farrell’s Studs Lonigan he got the ambition to make them sound authentically local: Roy Gallagher, an angry tough from South Boston; Julio Martinez, “small, slim and very handsome,” from San Antonio; “Red” Valsen, drained from years of riding flatcars to escape from coal mining in Montana. But all the “fugs” and “Ahms” and “gits” (“Ach” and “Ai” were reserved for Joey Goldstein from New York) tend to blur into a generic working-class patter. Early in the novel one soldier says to another, “You talk like something out of a comic book,” which an unfriendly critic might have said of the author himself. “ BAA—ROWWMM ” signifies mortar fire. “ BEE-YOWWWW…BEE-YOWWWW ” is the sound of ricocheted bullets spattering dirt.

But the juvenilities did little to diminish the power of the book. Mailer wrote about these men with a rare mixture of compassion and candor, as when he described Gallagher’s numbness at the news, delivered by the chaplain, that his wife has died in childbirth, and then his mute agony as, day after day, he receives letters from her reporting her preparations for the baby’s arrival. The writing is precise and graphic—a far cry from magazine platitudes about G.I. Joe, or what Mailer called “the smiling soldiers in the advertisements.” Men shit themselves out of fear, savor pornographic thoughts as aids to masturbation, find themselves stirred by the sight of other men’s bodies, fart in winning competition with the smells of the jungle, and torment defenseless prisoners before shooting them—bothered by “killing . . . far less than discovering some ants in their bedding.”

In fact the book was so raw that Little, Brown, the first publisher to which Mailer offered it, rejected it on the grounds of obscenity. Rinehart and Company made a better call. Published on May 4, 1948, The Naked and the Dead hit the top of The New York Times ’s best-seller list and stayed there for three months, selling more than 200,000 copies in the first year and over three million since.

Writing some twenty years later in the midst of the Vietnam War, Diana Trilling recalled that to her generation (she was eighteen years older) Mailer seemed to speak with “the hot breath of the future.” He set the stage, and the standard, for decades of war writing to follow: James Jones on cruelties inflicted with impunity by officers upon enlisted men, J.D. Salinger on what we would now call post-traumatic stress disorder, Joseph Heller on the fine line between madness and sanity, to name a few. The themes of The Naked and the Dead —the inability of reason to constrain instinct; the vicissitudes of chance; the inscrutability of motive; the unknowability of other lives; the impulse to blame others, especially the “fuggin Yids,” for one’s suffering; the male fear of female sexuality as rapacious and unappeasable (the soldiers are haunted by thoughts of their women back home in the arms of other men)—stayed with Mailer for the rest of his writing life.

But the real distinction of the book was the propulsive force of the narrative, which follows a platoon through perilous terrain behind enemy lines on a mission that turns deadly for some and proves futile for all. Despite long stretches of enervating days and nights during which the men do little but search through memories for something to distract them from their dread, Mailer managed to sustain an atmosphere of unrelenting tension. Their senses, dulled by exhaustion, come alive in spikes of panic as the men move through the “dark and murmurous” jungle, straining to distinguish the sound of enemy footsteps from the hum of “the crickets and frogs and lizards thrumming the brush, the soughing of the trees.”

Although they patrol in groups or pairs, each man is radically alone, confined to a blinkered view of a war whose larger contours are invisible to him as he concentrates on his own survival. The landscape through which he makes his solitary way is both real and allegorical, as if he were not a particular person but a fragile, pitiable, yet somehow dignified representative of humankind.

In charge of these men is Major General Edward Cummings, “a tyrant with a velvet voice” who commands a force of six thousand facing—but rarely seeing—a slightly smaller Japanese force dug in a few miles east of where the Americans have come ashore. Cummings thinks back fondly to the last war, when, as a junior officer, he watched infantrymen advance through no-man’s-land toward the enemy trench:

The men move slowly now, leaning forward as if striding into the wind. He is fascinated by the sluggishness of it all, the lethargy with which they advance and fall. There seems no pattern to the attack, no volition to the men; they advance in every direction like floating leaves in a pool disturbed by a stone, and yet there is a cumulative movement forward. The ants in the final sense all go in one direction.

But in this new war, venturing out of the bivouac means entering the jungle equivalent of no-man’s-land, and the “ants” are less compliant. Platoon leaders file false patrol reports after nights spent sheltering in a ditch. Wounded men scratch and pull at their stitches in the hope of delaying their release from the field hospital.

To overcome the feigning and stalling, Cummings determines to turn his men into instruments of his will. He is Mailer’s Ahab. Like the mad captain of Moby-Dick , he has what Melville called “unsurrenderable wilfulness” in his “riveted glance.” One “could touch the surface of Cummings’s eyeballs,” Mailer writes, “and the eyes would not blink.”

So Cummings devises a plan. He will dispatch a reconnaissance platoon by sea to the south coast of Anopopei, from which it will make its way northward through the jungle and across a mountain range that bisects the length of the island like a spine. The platoon’s mission is to take and hold Botoi Bay, an inlet on the north shore, until a battalion of assault troops can land there to attack Japanese forces. Cummings boasts to himself of the “psychological soundness” of this plan, because once the attack force reaches the bay, the men will find that “their only security would be to drive ahead and meet their own troops.” With their backs to the sea, their fear of retreat will overcome their fear of advance.

Cummings is a connoisseur of fear. “I don’t care what kind of man you give me,” he explains to his favorite junior officer, Lieutenant Robert Hearn. “If I have him long enough, I’ll make him afraid.” Hearn is Starbuck to Cummings’s Ahab. (Lest we miss the point, Mailer makes Hearn a Harvard man who has written a senior thesis entitled “The Cosmic Urge in Herman Melville.”) The general explains to him that fear is the key not only to the war but to the postwar social order. Hitler—not the timid bureaucrats of the Allied democracies—is the best “interpreter of twentieth-century man” because he understands that people are driven not by a craving for solidarity or justice (as sentimental liberals would like to believe) but by hatred, terror, and awe. “You can consider the Army…a preview of the future,” Cummings says, because this “is going to be the reactionary’s century.” Germany will lose the war, but the concept of fascism has already proved “sound enough,” and the United States will inherit it and carry it to fruition.

Mailer found these prophecies all too persuasive. Two days after the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, he wrote to Bea that while “a good part of me approves anything which will shorten the war and get me home sooner,” the news filled him with dread. What had been a “pleasurable calculation in the physics I studied” has propelled humanity toward “the final victory of the machine.” Henceforth the world will be “controlled by a few men, politicians and technicians” who regard the masses as nothing more than grunts and fodder. He told Bea that he had met such men, for whom war was an abstraction in which human beings are incinerated by weapons fired from a hygienic distance, and that “the personification they give their machines nauseates me.”

When that letter was written, in August 1945, the roster of characters in Mailer’s planned novel had not yet fully taken form. Cummings would be the cold “technician” who regards war as an abstract game of charts and maps. But in a preview of Dr. Strangelove (Mailer was enthralled by Kubrick’s film when it appeared in 1964), Cummings surprises himself by becoming aroused by “the mass of the gun” when he fires a piece of ordnance—a pleasure he hasn’t felt since his cadet days at West Point:

Just before he fired he could see it all, the sharp detumescent roar of the gun, the long soaring plunge of the shell through the night sky, its downward whistle, and the moments of complete and primordial terror for the Japanese at the other end when it landed. An odd ecstasy stirred his limbs for a moment, was gone before he was quite aware of it.

This figure of the pallid technocrat who channels his obstructed libido into a kind of necrophilia was to reappear in many variations in Mailer’s subsequent writing. In a shabby bit of pop psychology, he associated Cummings with homosexuality, planting clues of another Melvillean model: just as Mr. Claggart in Billy Budd transmutes his self-contempt into hatred for the man he wants to love, Cummings comes to loathe Hearn.

By 1955, in an essay entitled “The Homosexual Villain,” Mailer disavowed what he called his “homosexual bias” and confessed that “I have been as guilty as any contemporary novelist in attributing unpleasant, ridiculous, or sinister connotations to the homosexual (or more accurately, bisexual) characters in my novels.” But he never quite delivered on the mea culpa. As Kate Millett put it in a memorable takedown in Sexual Politics (1970), Mailer remained “a prisoner of the virility cult”—though she conceded that he was “never incapable of analyzing” the cult to which he belonged.

Beginning in the early 1950s he did just that: he analyzed the cult in scores of essays, stories, and novels, often with caustic humor at his own expense. In “Great in the Hay” (1950), he turned the rivalry between a pair of Hollywood producers—Bert and Al, both bald, short, and nominally married—into a mock parable. Bert, eager to understand why so many women crave Al’s company in bed, hires a detective to find out. The sleuth proceeds to interview a sampling of Al’s lovers but comes away with nothing more than a “mish-mosh” of contradictory testimonials. He’s a “master of sexpertise,” says Hortense; he loves to spend money, says Georgia; he “lets me throw him around,” says Claudia Jane; he makes love “with purity and simplicity,” according to Fay, “which intensifies my hard-won religious conversion.” Meanwhile, hopelessly depressed despite the accolades, Al blows his brains out. Bert’s only reaction is regret at having failed to discover the secret of Al’s bedroom success.

At the other end of the decade, in “The Time of Her Time” (1959), Mailer produced a comic tour de force that was again somehow both frivolous and serious. A retired bullfighter renowned for his sexual stamina (this one’s for you, Papa Hemingway) exhausts himself over several nights trying to bring a Jewish college girl to her first orgasm. His failures provoke her to shame him, initially with words (“I hate inept men”), then with a finger in his anus that sends him off to the races again. After he manages at last to get her to the finish line by returning the favor of penetrating her “seat of all stubbornness, tight as a vise,” she gathers up her things and sneers at his reputation for priapic prowess: “Your whole life is a lie . . . and you do nothing but run away from the homosexual that is you.” Once she’s gone, her would-be conquistador reports that “like a real killer, she did not look back, and was out the door before I could rise to tell her that she was a hero to me.”

In these preposterous stories—the former a padded joke, the latter a rollicking farce—Mailer held up for scrutiny men who use women as props in a variety show starring themselves. Swaggering, proud, always randy, they are avatars of the author, whom the shrewd critic Richard Poirier once called a “worried copulator”—a cocksure advocate of the unregulated life who was simultaneously appalled by his unrestrained self.

Mailer reveled in his contradictions. In “The Time of Her Time” he savored the psychological victory of a young woman over a self-appointed “Village stickman.” A decade later, responding to Millett in the infamous The Prisoner of Sex (1971), he railed against feminism as an emasculating plot against men acting in accordance with their instincts. In the best book of his later years, The Executioner’s Song (1979), he portrayed a murderer insouciant about his cruelty yet desperate for his own execution. In An American Dream (1965), about a jealous husband who murders his wife for taunting him with her infidelities, he reprised with a mixture of shame and self-exoneration the most odious act of his own life—his 1960 attack on his second wife, Adele Morales, whom he almost killed in an alcoholic rage by stabbing her with a penknife.

With an unstable mixture of self-indulgence and self-awareness, Mailer celebrated men akin to himself for using women as equipment for recreation, but he also recoiled from such men. He was often glib, as when he wrote in a 1960 essay on JFK that “violence was locked with creativity.” But he could be bracingly honest too, as in The Armies of the Night (1968), where he acknowledged that the

modest everyday fellow of his daily round was servant to a wild man in himself: the gent did not appear so very often, sometimes so rarely as once a month, sometimes not even twice a year, and he sometimes came when Mailer was frightened and furious at the fear, sometimes he came just to get a breath of air. He was indispensable, however, and Mailer was even fond of him for the wild man was witty in his own wild way and absolutely fearless…. He would have been admirable, except that he was an absolute egomaniac, a Beast—no recognition existed of the existence of anything beyond the range of his reach.

Given Mailer’s irresolution about himself, it’s not surprising that his most incisive critics have often been divided among and within themselves in their judgments of him. Joan Didion greeted An American Dream as “the only serious New York novel since The Great Gatsby .” Elizabeth Hardwick, with equal conviction, deemed it “an intellectual and literary disaster, poorly written, morally foolish and intellectually empty.” Yet she suspected that the novel’s hero-villain was “only pretending, wretchedly hoping to be an evil spirit,” and she went on to muse that “perhaps Mailer’s mistake has been to think that he should be, in his writings, a new Lucifer. The odd thing is that his best gifts are often genial. These gifts are serious ones, always unexpected and original.”

A few months ago I dipped into the Harvard archive hoping to learn more about Mailer’s early years. Among the treasures is a trove of letters from his college friend Adeline Lubell, who, as a junior editor at Little, Brown, championed The Naked and the Dead , and who treated him for the rest of his life to equal measures of censure and affection. In a letter of June 5, 1952, there’s a wonderfully vivid sentence: “You carry the myth of yourself in your hand all the time and open your palm to look at it.” But a few lines later she thanks the incorrigible narcissist for his “sweetness” and “munificence” and for being a steadfast friend.

It is often remarked that The Naked and the Dead , published to huge acclaim when Mailer was twenty-five, “ruined” him (Caleb Crain’s word). It’s true that early success overfed his ravenous ego, but it’s also true that he recognized the corrosive effects of his fame. As the rave reviews rolled in, he wrote in his journal:

I feel trapped. My anonymity is lost, and the book I wrote to avoid having to expose my mediocre talents in harsher market places has ended in this psychological sense by betraying me…. I feel myself more empty than I ever have, and to fill the vacuum…I need praise.

Mailer saw in himself a man spiraling down into addiction. “Each good review gives fuel, each warm letter, but as time goes by, I need more and more for less and less effect.”

After the failed experiments Barbary Shore (1951) and The Deer Park (1955), seeking to retrieve the taste of fame, he began to deflect his energies into what Crain calls his “metaliterary career”—actor; boxer; TV talk show chattermeister; political candidate; journalist reporting mainly on himself; champion of Jack Henry Abbott, another incarcerated murderer who, upon release, murdered again * ; filmmaker; serial provocateur. There was a kind of antic mania in Mailer the self-publicist, who likened himself to “the publicity made actress who has to see her face and name more and more to believe in her reality, and of course loses the line between her own personality, and the one created for her by the papers.”

Seventy-five years on, reading the work that first made him famous is an exhilarating experience. When the older Mailer looked back and called his younger self an amateur, part of what he had in mind was the joy of a young man defying his limits. This was the joy he relished in Melville (he complained to Lubell that “none of the reviewers…have seen fit to see…the Melville influence”), who was just past thirty when he published Moby-Dick and brayed to the world of his own genius. With the same genial arrogance, Mailer proclaimed in Advertisements for Myself (1959) that “my present and future work…will have the deepest influence of any work being done by an American novelist in these years.”

But already in The Naked and the Dead one finds the peculiar combination of bravado and diffidence that distinguished him throughout his career. Writing in the fiftieth-anniversary edition, he acknowledged a second literary master. He recalled that “most mornings before he commenced his own work,” he read Anna Karenina , which enlarged “the limited perceptions of a twenty-four-year-old” through “what he learned about compassion from Tolstoy.” What he learned was that “compassion is of value and enriches our life only when compassion is severe”—that to feel pity or sorrow for the suffering of others is not to forgo judgment or excuse their cruelties. Tolstoy did not countenance Karenin’s callousness, or Vronsky’s vanity, or Anna’s adultery, yet he loved them all the same.

Mailer was an amalgam of those characters—vain, sometimes callous, chronically adulterous, and guilty of self-adulation, as if auditioning for the not-yet written role of Mickey Sabbath. But behind the macho posturing was an almost sheepish gentleness. An egotist of “curious disproportions” (his words), he harbored “endless blendings of virtue and corruption.” The Naked and the Dead remains a book of undiminished force because he loved its fallible warriors—who combined within themselves courage and cowardice, lying and truth-telling, selfishness and selflessness—with the same clear-eyed devotion that he lavished on himself.

The Corruption Playbook

Ufologists, Unite!

Human Resources

Subscribe to our Newsletters

More by Andrew Delbanco

The history of university coffers suggests a centuries-long conversion of blood money into benefactions.

June 23, 2022 issue

Though Stanley Kubrick was often characterized as icy, his life and filmography reveal that his heart was as large as his mind.

May 13, 2021 issue

January 14, 2021 issue

Andrew Delbanco is the Alexander Hamilton Professor of American Studies at Columbia and President of the Teagle Foundation. (April 2024)

The New York Review published several pieces by Abbott, beginning with excerpts from his letters under the title “In Prison,” introduced by Mailer, in the issue of June 26, 1980.  ↩

Short Review

November 20, 1980 issue

Thoughts on Autobiography from an Abandoned Autobiography

Not only have I failed to make my young self as interesting as the strangers I have written about, but I have withheld my affection.

April 29, 2010 issue

At Lady Ottoline’s

July 17, 2003 issue

Short Reviews

April 14, 1977 issue

‘Knee Deep in the Hoopla’

December 21, 1989 issue

Neither Here Nor There

June 25, 1998 issue

Mozart in the Stacks

August 5, 1965 issue

Home of the Brave

April 20, 1995 issue

Subscribe and save 50%!

Get immediate access to the current issue and over 25,000 articles from the archives, plus the NYR App.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

By the Book

Deion Sanders Still Believes in ‘The Little Engine That Could’

That kids’ classic “completely changed my life,” says the former football star, now the University of Colorado’s “Coach Prime.” His new book is “Elevate and Dominate: 21 Ways to Win On and Off the Field.”

Credit... Rebecca Clarke

Supported by

• Share full article

Describe your ideal reading experience (when, where, what, how).

Peace! I need my peace. I usually read in my office, where I have extraordinary peace and joy, and nobody can interfere with those moments. I read to get a deeper meaning, a deeper understanding, and to edify myself.

What book (fiction or nonfiction) best captures the game of football as you know it?

The Bible. This has been my guiding book throughout my life, on and off the field, in and out of the boardrooms, and throughout my home.

What’s the best book you’ve ever received as a gift?

“The Little Engine That Could.” This book completely changed my life, and is my favorite book, next to the Bible.

Several engines passed that train up — because they were too good or too mighty, too this or too that — and they wouldn’t dare waste their time because it didn’t fit their ideal description. Some of y’all in life “don’t fit the ideal description” and are working to get over that track. Sitting on the side of the road, on that track, just waiting and saying, “I think I can, I think I can.” What are you gonna attach yourself to in life to get you to the other side, where you can bless a multitude of people that have faith in you?

You’ve written a book about winning that comes after a losing season as a coach. Why should readers take your advice?

See, my definition of winning is much different than yours. If we win on the field but some of my players lose in the classroom — DID WE WIN? If we win on the field, excelled in the classroom, but no one goes pro — DID WE WIN? If we do all the above but I have several players getting into trouble and foolishness in life — DID WE WIN? Winning has nothing to do with the scoreboard; winning has something to do with the inner feeling of life. I’m here to help change and propel people’s lives, both on and off the field. What’s your definition?

How would you coach a writer struggling with his work?

First, I need to find out who he or she is and what they are. What his or her goals and ambitions are. What their purpose of writing is. Because all things in life must have a purpose. You need a why, or a rabbit, as I talk about in my book — something that’s right in front of you and attainable so you can keep on building and get to the destination.

Is this a book to be read or to be listened to?

Both! Personally, I always like to have the physical copy so I can write down my notes and go back and recall certain passages that caught my attention. That said, it was extremely important to me to be able to record the audio to my book, too. It’s coming straight from the source, it’s raw, it’s intimate.

How will you know that this book has succeeded?

You may not know that until 10 years down the road, when you’re walking through an airport or grocery store, and somebody said they read your book and that it provoked them to stay right instead, when they were ready to take a left.

Which of your football teammates would you most like to see write an autobiography?

Tim Green, who I played with on the Atlanta Falcons, has written several books. I love him, adore him, and he is a great novelist. I would want to read his autobiography.

Who would you want to write your life story?

My man! The one and only John Maxwell.

Because John Maxwell is informative, inspirational, intellectual. He’s a phenomenal storyteller. He’s wise … he’s thoughtful … he’s exhilarating!

You’re organizing a literary dinner party. Which three writers, dead or alive, do you invite?

John Maxwell, Clarence Jones (speechwriter for Martin Luther King Jr.) and Don Yaeger, who co-wrote my book with me.

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

James McBride’s novel sold a million copies, and he isn’t sure how he feels about that, as he considers the critical and commercial success  of “The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store.”

How did gender become a scary word? Judith Butler, the theorist who got us talking about the subject , has answers.

You never know what’s going to go wrong in these graphic novels, where Circus tigers, giant spiders, shifting borders and motherhood all threaten to end life as we know it .

When the author Tommy Orange received an impassioned email from a teacher in the Bronx, he dropped everything to visit the students  who inspired it.

Do you want to be a better reader?   Here’s some helpful advice to show you how to get the most out of your literary endeavor .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

Advertisement

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

The Washington Book: How to Read Politics and Politicians review – unpicking the lexicon of America’s leaders

New York Times columnist Carlos Lozada examines the speeches, writing and linguistic tics of presidents and members of Congress to expose ‘inveterate deceivers’

P oliticians mince or mash words for a living, and the virtuosity with which they twist meanings makes them artists of a kind. Their skill at spinning facts counts as a fictional exercise: in political jargon, a “narrative” is a storyline that warps truth for partisan purposes. Carlos Lozada, formerly a reviewer for the Washington Post and now a columnist at the New York Times , specialises in picking apart these professional falsehoods. Analysing windy orations, ghostwritten memoirs and faceless committee reports, the essays in his book expose American presidents, members of Congress and supreme court justices as unreliable narrators, inveterate deceivers who betray themselves in careless verbal slips.

Lozada has a literary critic’s sharp eye, and an alertly cocked ear to go with it. Thus he fixes on a stray remark made by Trump as he rallied the mob that invaded the Capitol in January 2021. Ordering the removal of metal detectors, he said that the guns his supporters toted didn’t bother him, because “they’re not here to hurt me”. Lozada wonders about the emphasis in that phrase: did it neutrally fall on “hurt” or come down hard on “me”? If the latter, it licensed the rampant crowd to hurt Trump’s enemies – for instance by stringing up his disaffected vice-president Mike Pence on a gallows outside the Capitol.

Tiny linguistic tics mark the clash between two versions of America’s fabled past and its prophetic future. Lozada subtly tracks the recurrence of the word “still” in Biden’s speeches – for instance his assertion that the country “still believes in honesty and decency” and is “still a democracy” – and contrasts it with Trump’s reliance on “again”, the capstone of his vow to Make America Great Again. Biden’s “still” defensively fastens on “something good that may be slipping away”, whereas Trump’s “again” blathers about restoring a lost greatness that is never defined. Biden’s evokes “an ideal worth preserving”; Trump’s equivalent summons up an illusion.

At their boldest, Lozada’s politicians trade in inflated tales about origins and predestined outcomes, grandiose narratives that “transcend belief and become a fully formed worldview”. Hence the title of Hillary Clinton’s manifesto It Takes a Village , which borrows an African proverb about child-rearing and uses it to prompt nostalgia for a bygone America. Lozada watches Obama devising and revising a personal myth. Addressed as Barry by his youthful friends, he later insisted on being called Barack and relaunched himself as the embodiment of America’s ethnic inclusivity; his “personalised presidency” treated the office as an extension of “the Obama brand”. In this respect Trump was Obama’s logical successor, extending a personal brand in a bonanza of self-enrichment. The “big lie” about the supposedly stolen 2020 election is another mythological whopper. Trump admitted its falsity on one occasion when he remarked “We lost”, after which he immediately backtracked, adding: “We didn’t lose. We lost in the Democrats’ imagination.”

All this amuses Lozada but also makes him anxious. As an adoptive American – born in Peru, he became a citizen a decade ago – he has a convert’s faith in the country’s ideals, yet he worries about contradictions that the national creed strains to reconcile. A border wall now debars the impoverished masses welcomed by the Statue of Liberty; the sense of community is fractured by “sophisticated engines of division and misinformation”. Surveying dire fictional scenarios about American decline, Lozada notes that the warmongers enjoy “a narrative advantage”: peace is boring, but predictions of a clash with China or an attack by homegrown terrorists excite the electorate by promising shock, awe and an apocalyptic barrage of special effects. Rather than recoiling from Trump, do Americans share his eagerness for desecration and destruction?

Changing only the names of the performers, The Washington Book has a shadowy local replica. Here in Britain, too, ideological posturing has replaced reasoned argument, and buzzwords are squeezed to death by repetition. Whenever Sunak drones on about “delivering for the British people”, I think of him as a Deliveroo gig worker with a cooling takeaway in his backpack, or a weary postman pushing a trolley full of mortgage bills.

Though such verbal vices are international, a difference of scale separates Washington from Westminster. In America, heroic ambition is brought low by errors of judgment or moral flaws that for Lozada recall “the great themes of literature and the great struggles of life”: Kennedy’s risky confrontations with Cuba, Lyndon Johnson mired in Vietnam, Nixon overcome by paranoia. To set against these tragic falls, we have only the comic spectacle of Boris Johnson gurning on a zip wire or Liz Truss vaingloriously granting an interview atop the Empire State Building; neither of them had the good grace to jump off. American politics is dangerously thrilling because it is so consequential for the rest of the world. In Britain we are doomed to sit through a more trivial show, an unfunny farce played out in a theatre that is crumbling around us.

• Politics books
• The Observer
• US politics

Most viewed

Don Winslow says farewell to fiction writing in high style

With ‘city in ruins,’ winslow wraps up a spectacular crime fiction trilogy, a sweeping story that morphs and expands over time.

And so, we come to the end. The end of an exemplary crime fiction trilogy and the self-chosen end of a popular author’s writing career. But I’ve gotten ahead of myself.

With “ City on Fire ” (2022), “ City of Dreams ” (2023) and now “ City in Ruins ,” Don Winslow has written a near-perfect saga: He’s created great characters who grow and develop while remaining true to their essence, and a sweeping story that morphs and expands over time, with the stakes escalating until they reach nosebleed heights at the end. Winslow says he has given up writing novels to devote his time to political activism: “I wanted in the fight. I didn’t want to be writing a fiction obituary of America losing democracy,” he told the Los Angeles Times . With “City in Ruins,” he is saying farewell in high style.

Winslow modeled this trilogy on Virgil’s Roman tragedy “The Aeneid,” an intention made obvious by the epigrams in all three novels. However, you needn’t be a Roman or Greek scholar to enjoy these books (and though it is best to read them in order, it’s not vital). These novels wear their inspiration lightly. The epic poems do not bleed into Winslow’s story but linger like ghosts in the background.

At the center of the three “City” books is Danny Ryan, a Rhode Island version of “a Springsteen kind of guy,” a onetime Providence waterfront worker from a scrappy Irish American family. Over the course of the series, he has gotten mixed up with the mob, fought epic (yet doomed) battles and resurrected himself in Hollywood. After marrying into the family of the king of the Irish mob in Providence, he ends up their reluctant leader in a fatalistic war with the Italians, runs to the West Coast with his family and crew to lie low when it all blows up, manages to claw back his life, gets involved with a movie that’s being made about the Rhode Island mob, and falls in love with a celebrity superstar.

In the final moments of “City of Dreams,” Ryan is in a bad place: in the desert, facing off against a Mexican gang lord who wants to end him. The woman he loves is dead, and he blames himself. Ryan’s life has turned around in the opening of “City in Ruins.” He now owns a casino on the Las Vegas Strip; he’s being a good dad to his son, Ian, with whom he escaped from Rhode Island six years earlier; and he has a psychotherapist girlfriend who’s very different from his previous love interests — in other words, good for him.

But then Ryan decides to indulge his ambition by building a billion-dollar resort casino complex — Il Sogno, which sounds like Las Vegas’s latest wonder, the Sphere , expanded into a full-blown resort. Winslow shows us step by step what it takes to do something this grandiose in Vegas, where everything is supersize, especially the egos.

The project puts Ryan on a crash course with one of his hitherto friendly rivals. Vegas being Vegas, everyone has some connection to the mob, even if it’s distant, and before long Ryan — who thought he had successfully left his gangster past behind — finds himself up to his eyebrows in trouble as old vendettas are resurrected.

Peter Moretti Jr., son of one of Ryan’s former rivals, returns to the States after serving a tour in Iraq only to find out that his mother and her lover are responsible for his father’s death. In a scene involving the clan godfather, Winslow shows how an innocent like Peter Jr. is manipulated into carrying the water for his late father’s crime gang. The rest of this thread is devoted to the courtroom battle between the good district attorney who wants to see Peter Jr. pay for his crimes and the sharpshooting defense attorney who uses every trick at his disposal to get the young man freed.

There’s also Chris Palumbo, the late Peter Sr.’s second-in-command, who took to the wind after a partnership with a crooked FBI agent went south. We see him holed up in Nebraska with a hippie-ish woman (a la Odysseus and Circe in “The Odyssey”) until he comes to realize that he must return to his wife and children back East. He knows he must face the music for his misdeeds and confront the Providence crime gang that wants him dead.

Winslow immerses readers in the hidden world of organized crime, highlighting its inner workings. Whether it’s jousting between lawyers, etiquette among wiseguys or the history of the mob in Las Vegas, Winslow knows how to make the reader feel like one of the cognoscenti. For instance, he shows how he toed the line through the first two books so that Ryan can be in the casino business in Book 3: “Danny’s lawyers argued his cause. ‘There isn’t a single fact linking Mr. Ryan to organized crime,’ the lead attorney said. ‘Not an arrest, not an indictment, never mind a conviction. All you have are rumors and a few articles in the tabloids.’ … The appeal was an effort to keep Danny out of the [Nevada Gaming Control Board’s] dreaded Black Book, which would have prevented him from even entering a casino.”

You can read “City in Ruins” as a meditation on honor, revenge and justice, but the book also challenges readers to examine beliefs about morality. In “City in Ruins,” whether you’re in the world of gangsters or law enforcement or the casino industry, Winslow shows us that morality rides a sliding scale. Ryan is the closest thing the novel has to a hero, trying to inflict the least amount of pain and suffering while saving his family and friends, and willing to sacrifice his dreams as payment for his past sins. In absolutist terms, however, he’s no hero — yet the reader continues to root for him. Even the villains in “City in Ruins” question whether the gods are protecting Danny Ryan or if he will ever get his comeuppance. For the answer, you’re going to have to read the book.

Alma Katsu is the author of eight books, including the Taker trilogy, “The Hunger,” “The Deep” and “The Fervor.” Her latest is “Red London.”

City in Ruins

By Don Winslow

William Morrow. 400 pp. $32

More from Book World

Best books of 2023: See our picks for the 10 best books of 2023 or dive into the staff picks that Book World writers and editors treasured in 2023. Check out the complete lists of 50 notable works for fiction and the top 50 non-fiction books of last year.

Find your favorite genre: These four new memoirs invite us to sit with the pleasures and pains of family. Lovers of hard facts should check out our roundup of some of the summer’s best historical books . Audiobooks more your thing? We’ve got you covered there, too . We also predicted which recent books will land on Barack Obama’s own summer 2023 list . And if you’re looking forward to what’s still ahead, we rounded up some of the buzziest releases of the summer .

Still need more reading inspiration? Every month, Book World’s editors and critics share their favorite books that they’ve read recently . You can also check out reviews of the latest in fiction and nonfiction .

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.