Writing a Book Review
Learn how to write an effective book review that summarises, evaluates, and recommends a book.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
A book review includes the title, author, genre, a brief summary, an evaluation, and a recommendation.
A summary retells the key events without spoiling the ending.
An evaluation explains what you liked or disliked, giving reasons and examples from the book.
A recommendation tells readers whether you think they should read the book and why.
Key Vocabulary
review
A written piece that evaluates and gives an opinion on a book, film, or product.
summary
A brief account of the main ideas or events without unnecessary detail.
evaluation
A judgement that considers the strengths and weaknesses of something.
recommendation
A suggestion that someone should (or should not) do or read something.
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
What should a summary in a book review include?
Question 2
In a book review, what does an evaluation include?
Question 3
Which sentence belongs in the recommendation section of a book review?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●A book review includes the title, author, genre, a brief summary, an evaluation, and a recommendation.
- ●A summary retells the key events without spoiling the ending.
- ●An evaluation explains what you liked or disliked, giving reasons and examples from the book.
- ●A recommendation tells readers whether you think they should read the book and why.