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Writing Book Reviews

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Writing Book Reviews

Help a classmate decide whether to read a book. Read the short sample review, notice how it works, then plan and write a review of a book you know. Keep the ending secret!

A sample review

Read this review. The made-up book is called The Lighthouse Lunchbox by Hana Rangi. The Lighthouse Lunchbox by Hana Rangi is an adventurous story about cousins Maia and Wiremu, who discover a mysterious lunchbox near an old lighthouse. Their search for its owner takes them along a windy stretch of coast. The lively setting made me feel as if I were exploring beside them. I especially enjoyed the cousins’ clever teamwork, although I wanted a little more time with the lighthouse keeper. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy mysteries and seaside adventures. The clues make you want to keep turning the pages!

1.What is the sample review mainly trying to do? Choose one.

Retell every event in the story
Help readers decide whether the book might suit them
Explain how to build a lighthouse
Describe the author’s daily routine

2.Find the sentence that gives the reviewer’s recommendation. Copy it, then name the kind of reader it recommends the book to.

3.Which detail is an opinion supported by a reason? Choose one.

The book is called The Lighthouse Lunchbox.
The cousins find a mysterious lunchbox.
The lively setting made the reviewer feel as if they were exploring beside the cousins.
The author is Hana Rangi.

4.The reviewer says, “although I wanted a little more time with the lighthouse keeper.” What does although help the writer do?

Plan a spoiler-free review

Choose a book you have read. Jot down useful details before you write. If you do not remember the author, write “author unknown” rather than guessing.

5.Record the book’s title and author. Add its genre, such as fantasy, mystery, realistic fiction or information text.

6.In two sentences, explain the book’s starting situation and main challenge. Do not reveal how it ends.

7.Choose one feature to comment on: a character, setting, plot, illustrations or information. What did you think of it? Give one specific example as evidence.

8.Who would enjoy this book, and why? Name a kind of reader and link your reason using because, since or for example.

Write and polish

Turn your notes into a review with a clear beginning, middle and ending. Give enough information to interest a reader, but keep important surprises secret.

9.Write your book review in about 100–150 words. Include the title and author, a brief spoiler-free summary, an opinion with a specific reason, and a recommendation for a particular reader. Use linking words to connect ideas.

10.Edit your review. Find one sentence where you gave a reason or example. Underline the linking word that connects your ideas. If you have not used one, add because, although, also or for example where it makes sense.