book report vs summary

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Book Review vs Book Report: Here’s How They Compare

by  Antony W

April 19, 2023

In this post, we do a front to back comparison on book review vs book report.

In particular, we’ll look at the differences between the two so that you can easily tell them apart and have an easy time writing.

Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

• A book review and a book report have aspects that easily overlap. For example, they both give a summary of a book to help readers determine the value of a book.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is an assessment of a literary work, typically written by a critic or reviewer.

It aims to provide a detailed analysis of the book's content, quality, and style, and may take various forms such as opinion pieces, scholarly reviews, or summary reviews.

Book reviews can be found in a variety of outlets, including newspapers, magazines, online directories, academic journals, and websites.

They serve as valuable resources for readers seeking to make informed decisions about what to read, and for authors seeking feedback on their work.

In both high school and college, teachers often assign book reviews as a way to assess students' ability to analyze the complexities of scholarly texts and synthesize research to demonstrate their understanding of the book's content.

You have the responsibility to read the book and provide a thorough and critical evaluation of its significance.

The length of your review will vary, ranging from a few paragraphs to an average of 2,000 words, depending on the instructor's guidelines or the complexity of the book.

It is important to remember that a book review reflects your personal opinion and taste, and what you think about a particular work of literature may differ from someone else's perspective.

What is a Book Report?

A book report is a comprehensive summary of a book's key elements, including its title, setting, plot, characters, and author.

It should also indicate the publication year and genre.

When writing a book report, it's important to focus on the most important points and key ideas addressed by the author.

Including relevant quotations from the book can also support your general observations, as long as you properly cite them.

In addition to summarizing the book's content, a good book report should also include your personal response to the material.

You may also need to evaluate the book's strengths and weaknesses to help potential readers decide whether to read it.

Book Review vs Book Report: What are the Differences?

It's common for students to conflate book reports with book reviews, which can result in poor grades if not properly understood.

Although there are similarities between the two, it's essential to differentiate their purposes and formats.

The following table provides a concise overview of the key differences between a book review and a book report.

Structure of a Book Review

A book review requires a sophisticated and elaborate structure, involving an in-depth examination of the book's elements to assist potential readers in making an informed decision about whether to read it or not.

Typically, book reviews range between 500 and 2,000 words, although the length can vary depending on the book.

The Structure of a Book Report

In contrast, a book report has a more straightforward structure and only provides a basic summary of the book's content.

Due to its simplicity, book reports are usually shorter, spanning between 200 and 500 words.

Writing a Book Review

When writing a book review, the focus should be on shedding new light on the book for the target audience and providing reasons to read or not read it.

While it is acceptable to discuss the plot, climax, biography, and characters of the story, the review should primarily focus on the author's intent, symbols, and thematic elements.

It should also evaluate the relevance of the story to its historical context and the author's effectiveness in covering the subject matter.

While it is optional to discuss the tone of the author and look at whether it is sympathetic or biased, it is not necessary.

In addition to discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the book, the review should help potential readers determine the value of the book.

Writing a Book Report

A book report typically includes biographical information about the author, such as their place of birth, education, residence, and family.

This information helps readers understand the author's perspective in writing the book.

The report should also include a summary of the book, covering important details such as the main characters, setting, plot, and climax.

While it is uncommon, some instructors may ask students to identify and discuss relevant symbols and themes in the book report, which can help readers understand the book better.

Get Help with Book Review Writing

Despite having a clear understanding of the distinction between a book review and a book report, completing the assignment can still be a challenging task.

If you find yourself struggling with a book review project, there's no need to worry.

Our team of book review writers is available to assist you in completing the task within the shortest possible time.

Simply reach out to us, and our team of professional writers and editors will guide you in the right direction.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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Difference between a book review and book report

Imagine you work really hard to produce a good book review : it seems like you are doing everything diligently to present all the points that seem relevant to you. So you obviously expect the “A” grade for the assignment. But what you get is not an “A” and not even “B” or “C”. The shock can be too overwhelming when such things happen. There are a lot of students who find themselves in the situations like this simply because they fail to understand the difference between a book review and a book report. In most cases when students get low grades for a book review, the issue is that they actually turn in a book report which is different from a book review. So the reason why students receive such low grades is sometimes because they never take time to check and understand book review requirements which should be the number one step when writing any type of assignment. In this article we are going to talk on the difference between a book report and book review and also where a book summary falls in between these two.

Book Report vs Book Review

First of all, a book report is simpler in its structure and it doesn’t require any deep text analysis as opposed to a book review. That is why professors and teachers grade papers very low when they receive reports instead of reviews. They take it as a student choosing a shortcut to make his/her job easier when in fact one may simply have not understood the difference between the two assignments. Well, in order to prevent that from happening we would like not simply to list the characteristics of a good book review but rather to approach these assignments at a very practical angle. Below you can find some insightful tips on how to write both a book report and book review from scratch. Before we do that, let us briefly explain the terms and how they are different.

Whenever you are asked to write a book report, all you need is to explain the topical details about the author of the book and its plot. Usually book reports present biographical data about the author in order to establish a background for the book. This should also help the reader understand the perspective the author had when he/she approached writing the novel. After the bio goes the summary of the story (the plot, setting, climax, etc.) along with the list of main characters. So as you can see, book report requirements are not that demanding as opposed to those of a book review.

When you are required to write a book review, you are basically asked to analyze the story. Students always have to fight the temptation to simply retell the story in their own words as this is not what a book review requires of a student. The whole point of this assignment is to bring some new light or perspective to the people reading, let’s say, the novel. This paper may still present the information about the plot, main characters and the bio of the author but these sections have to be very brief because they are not the main focus of the writing. The core of every book review is to discover the intent of the author, specific symbols that have significant meaning in the interpretation of the story and thematic elements contributing to the overall purpose of the work. A good review would also discuss where the novel fits in the historical context and whether the author has fully covered the chosen subject. This assignment should also dwell on the limitations of the book discussing whether or not it will have value in the generations to come. As you may have noticed, a book review is all about the in-depth analysis of the literary work.

How to Write a Book Report?

• Before you sit to read the book, note down and consider the information about the author, title, publisher and number of pages.
• As you read, take note of the main characters, main ideas, and the quotes that appear interesting to you.
• Start your report from introducing the general information about the book and its author.
• Explain what happens in the book and you also can discuss a few things that you believe require special attention.
• Answer the questions “What did you like the most?” and “How would you evaluate the book in general?” That is where you have to dwell on the themes, motifs and different terms of the novel.
• End with your recommendations for those willing to read the book. Even if you didn’t like it, still explain why.

Further reading: 7 Effective Tips on How to Write a Book Report

How to Write a Book Review?

• Before you get down to writing, you need to consider some of the elements that you will need to include into your review. These elements include but are not limited to:
• Author (Who is the author and what is his/her writing style? What works of this author do you know were written before this particular book?)
• Genre (Fiction, romance, poetry, etc. – which genre does the book belong to and what makes you think so?)
• Title (Why do you think the author came up with this title? Does it reflect the main message of the book?)
• Preface (Is there any important information here that helps us understand the author’s intent?)
• Take notes of the characters, themes, key ideas and style of the book when reading.
• Determine how you will structure the summary/background information section first. Don’t list too much information here, this is not a report after all.
• Establish a background for the readers – make sure that everybody will be engaged with your review even those who have never read the book.
• Then talk on the most important ideas of the text. Choose those that seem to be the most pressing ones.
• Keep in mind that your evaluation should be in the center of the entire project. Pick a few points to discuss about the text.
• Include the information about the publisher and price of the book.

Comparison of Book Reviews and Book Reports

Book summary vs book review.

The difference between a book review and summary is something we would like to close the article with. There are those who confuse two terms and as a result don’t know which of the two requires what. Well, we have already covered what a book review is – an in-depth analysis of the book. While a review gives an evaluation of the book along with the background information about the author, a summary is to describe what the book is all about. A summary usually presents the main idea of the book and may list one or two intrigues developed in the text. The purpose of a summary is to help people who have never read the book, understand what it is all about, how the author developed his/her thought, and what are the key ideas that are interwoven within the text. Summaries can be a part of book reviews as well as autonomously stand alone. The requirements of a summary are similar to the book report requirements although they have some substantial distinctions that keep them as separate assignments.

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How to write a book review and a book report

A book review is a descriptive and critical/evaluative account of a book. It provides a summary of the content, assesses the value of the book, and recommends it (or not) to other potential readers.

A book report is an objective summary of the main ideas and arguments that the book's author has presented. The purpose of the report is to give enough information to help decide whether the book will be of use or interest to any potential readers.

Common points that both book reviews and book reports share are presented below. The last point, Critical Comments, is intended only for those writing book reviews.

Bibliographical Information

Give the author's name; full title of book including subtitle; editor, if any; place, publisher and date of publication; edition, if necessary; and the number of pages - all this in the appropriate bibliographical style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) under the title of the review or report.

Background information

Supply any information about the author which shows their credentials for writing in this field or which reveals any influences which may have affected the author's point of view. Note any interesting circumstances that led to the writing of the book.

Intended audience

The author's intention may be apparent by the way the subject of the book is treated. Is the material meant for specialists, students, or the general public? Is it focused on a specific subject or is it a general survey of a wider subject? Several areas may provide clues: appendices, bibliographies and general indexes usually accompany scholarly works; prefaces and introductions often contain an author's explicit statement of intention; the content and style of expression will be a good indication of the intended audience.

Subject and thesis statement

What is the book about? Tell your reader not only the main concern of the book in its entirety (subject) but also what the author's particular point of view is on that subject (thesis statement). If you cannot find an adequate statement in the author's own words or if you feel that the stated thesis statement is not that which the book actually develops (make sure you check for yourself), then you will have to compose a thesis statement that does cover all the material. This statement must be brief (a sentence or a paragraph), accurate and comprehensive.

Summary of content

The summary is based on your reading notes, follows the author's order, and consists solely of the main ideas which advance the author's argument. It may be presented with the analysis of structure or discussed separately.

Critical comments (book reviews)

Critical comments should form the bulk of the book review. State whether or not you feel the author's treatment of the subject matter is appropriate for the intended audience. Ask yourself:

• Has the purpose of the book been achieved?
• What contribution does the book make to the field?
• Is the treatment of the subject matter objective?
• Are there facts and evidence that have been omitted?
• What kinds of data, if any, are used to support the author's thesis statement?
• Can the same data be interpreted to alternate ends?
• Is the writing style clear and effective?
• Does the book raise issues or topics for discussion?

Support your evaluation with evidence from the text. In conclusion, you may want to state whether you liked or disliked the book.

Sources on writing book reviews

Concordia Library sources:

• Buckley, J. (2013). Fit to print: the Canadian student's guide to essay writing . (see pages 180-185).
• Drewry, J. E. (1974). Writing book reviews .

Sources on writing book reports

• Northey, M. & McKibbin, J. (2010). Making sense: A student's guide to research and writing .
• Teitelbaum, H. (1982). How to write book reports .
• Purdue Online Writing Lab. (2011). Writing a Book Report

For more information, ask a librarian

How to Write a Book Report

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Book Report Fundamentals

Preparing to write, an overview of the book report format, how to write the main body of a book report, how to write a conclusion to a book report, reading comprehension and book reports, book report resources for teachers .

Book reports remain a key educational assessment tool from elementary school through college. Sitting down to close read and critique texts for their content and form is a lifelong skill, one that benefits all of us well beyond our school years. With the help of this guide, you’ll develop your reading comprehension and note-taking skills. You’ll also find resources to guide you through the process of writing a book report, step-by-step, from choosing a book and reading actively to revising your work. Resources for teachers are also included, from creative assignment ideas to sample rubrics.

Book reports follow general rules for composition, yet are distinct from other types of writing assignments. Central to book reports are plot summaries, analyses of characters and themes, and concluding opinions. This format differs from an argumentative essay or critical research paper, in which impartiality and objectivity is encouraged. Differences also exist between book reports and book reviews, who do not share the same intent and audience. Here, you’ll learn the basics of what a book report is and is not.

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

This article, written by a professor emeritus of rhetoric and English, describes the defining characteristics of book reports and offers observations on how they are composed.

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab outlines the steps in writing a book report, from keeping track of major characters as you read to providing adequate summary material.

"How to Write a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

This article provides another helpful guide to writing a book report, offering suggestions on taking notes and writing an outline before drafting. 

"How to Write a Successful Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

Another post from ThoughtCo., this article highlights the ten steps for book report success. It was written by an academic advisor and college enrollment counselor.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and an Essay?

"Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing" ( Classroom)

In this article from the education resource Classroom,  you'll learn the differences and similarities between book reports and essay writing.

"Differences Between a Book Report and Essay Writing" (SeattlePi.com)

In this post from a Seattle newspaper's website, memoirist Christopher Cascio highlights how book report and essay writing differ.

"The Difference Between Essays and Reports" (Solent Online Learning)

This PDF from Southampton Solent University includes a chart demonstrating the differences between essays and reports. Though it is geared toward university students, it will help students of all levels understand the differing purposes of reports and analytical essays.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and a Book Review?

"How to Write a Book Review and a Book Report" (Concordia Univ.)

The library at Concordia University offers this helpful guide to writing book report and book reviews. It defines differences between the two, then presents components that both forms share.

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s writing guide shows the step-by-step process of writing book reviews, offering a contrast to the composition of book reports.

Active reading and thoughtful preparation before you begin your book report are necessary components of crafting a successful piece of writing. Here, you’ll find tips and resources to help you learn how to select the right book, decide which format is best for your report, and outline your main points.

Selecting and Finding a Book

"30 Best Books for Elementary Readers" (Education.com)

This article from Education.com lists 30 engaging books for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It was written by Esme Raji Codell, a teacher, author, and children's literature specialist.

"How to Choose a Good Book for a Report (Middle School)" (WikiHow)

This WikiHow article offers suggestions for middle schoolers on how to choose the right book for a report, from getting started early on the search process to making sure you understand the assignment's requirements.

"Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers" (Common Sense Media)

Common Sense Media has compiled this list of 25 of the best books for middle school book reports. For younger students, the article suggests you check out the site's "50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12."

"50 Books to Read in High School" (Lexington Public Library)

The Lexington, Kentucky Public Library has prepared this list to inspire high school students to choose the right book. It includes both classics and more modern favorites.

The Online Computer Library Center's catalogue helps you locate books in libraries near you, having itemized the collections of 72,000 libraries in 170 countries.

Formats of Book Reports

"Format for Writing a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

Here, Your Dictionary supplies guidelines for the basic book report format. It describes what you'll want to include in the heading, and what information to include in the introductory paragraph. Be sure to check these guidelines against your teacher's requirements.

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

Nancy Barile’s blog post for Scholastic lists the questions students from middle through high school should address in their book reports.

How to Write an Outline

"Writer’s Web: Creating Outlines" (Univ. of Richmond)

The University of Richmond’s Writing Center shows how you can make use of micro and macro outlines to organize your argument.

"Why and How to Create a Useful Outline" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab demonstrates how outlines can help you organize your report, then teaches you how to create outlines.

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

EasyBib, a website that generates bibliographies, offers sample outlines and tips for creating your own. The article encourages you to think about transitions and grouping your notes.

"How to Write an Outline: 4 Ways to Organize Your Thoughts" (Grammarly)

This blog post from a professional writer explains the advantages of using an outline, and presents different ways to gather your thoughts before writing.

In this section, you’ll find resources that offer an overview of how to write a book report, including first steps in preparing the introduction. A good book report's introduction hooks the reader with strong opening sentences and provides a preview of where the report is going.

"Step-by-Step Outline for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This article from Classroom furnishes students with a guide to the stages of writing a book report, from writing the rough draft to revising.

"Your Roadmap to a Better Book Report" ( Time4Writing )

Time4Writing offers tips for outlining your book report, and describes all of the information that the introduction, body, and conclusion should include.

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

This ThoughtCo. post, another by academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, demonstrates how to write a pithy introduction to your book report.

"How to Write an Introduction for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief but helpful post from Classroom  details what makes a good book report introduction, down to the level of individual sentences.

The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

Plot Summary and Description

"How Do You Write a Plot Summary?" ( Reference )

This short article presents the goals of writing a plot summary, and suggests a word limit. It emphasizes that you should stick to the main points and avoid including too many specific details, such as what a particular character wears.

"How to Write a Plot for a Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

In this article from a resource website for writers, Patricia Harrelson outlines what information to include in a plot summary for a book report. 

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

Using Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone as an example, this WikiHow article demonstrates how to write a plot summary one step at a time.

Analyzing Characters and Themes

"How to Write a Character Analysis Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kristine Tucker shows how to write a book report focusing on character. You can take her suggestions as they are, or consider  incorporating them into the more traditional book report format.

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

The SixMinuteScholar Channel utilizes analysis of the film  Finding Nemo to show you how to delve deeply into character, prioritizing inference over judgment.

"How to Define Theme" ( The Editor's Blog )

Fiction editor Beth Hill contributes an extended definition of theme. She also provides examples of common themes, such as "life is fragile."

"How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story" ( ThoughtCo )

This blog post from ThoughtCo. clarifies the definition of theme in relation to symbolism, plot, and moral. It also offers examples of themes in literature, such as love, death, and good vs. evil.

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

"How to Choose and Use Quotations" (Santa Barbara City College)

This guide from a college writing center will help you choose which quotations to use in your book report, and how to blend quotations with your own words.

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

This PDF from Ashford University's Writing Center introduces the ICE method for incorporating quotations: introduce, cite, explain.

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

This video from The Write Way YouTube channel illustrates how to integrate quotations into writing, and also explains how to cite those quotations.

"Using Literary Quotations" (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison)

This guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writing Center helps you emphasize your analysis of a quotation, and explains how to incorporate quotations into your text.

Conclusions to any type of paper are notoriously tricky to write. Here, you’ll learn some creative ways to tie up loose ends in your report and express your own opinion of the book you read. This open space for sharing opinions that are not grounded in critical research is an element that often distinguishes book reports from other types of writing.

"How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief article from the education resource  Classroom illustrates the essential points you should make in a book report conclusion.

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Writing Center lays out strategies for writing effective conclusions. Though the article is geared toward analytical essay conclusions, the tips offered here will also help you write a strong book report.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Pat Bellanca’s article for Harvard University’s Writing Center presents ways to conclude essays, along with tips. Again, these are suggestions for concluding analytical essays that can also be used to tie up a book report's loose ends.

Reading closely and in an engaged manner is the strong foundation upon which all good book reports are built. The resources below will give you a picture of what active reading looks like, and offer strategies to assess and improve your reading comprehension. Further, you’ll learn how to take notes—or “annotate” your text—making it easier to find important information as you write.

How to Be an Active Reader

"Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read" (Princeton Univ.)

Princeton University’s McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning recommends ten strategies for active reading, and includes sample diagrams.

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

The Open University offers these techniques for reading actively alongside video examples. The author emphasizes that you should read for comprehension—not simply to finish the book as quickly as possible.

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

In this post, Grace Fleming outlines seven methods for active reading. Her suggestions include identifying unfamiliar words and finding the main idea. 

"5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments" (YouTube)

Thomas Frank’s seven-minute video demonstrates how you can retain the most important information from long and dense reading material.

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

Take this online, interactive test from a publishing company to find out your reading level. You'll be asked a number of questions related to grammar and vocabulary.

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

ACCUPLACER is a placement test from The College Board. This 20-question practice test will help you see what information you retain after reading short passages.

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

The English Maven site has aggregated exercises and tests at various reading levels so you can quiz your reading comprehension skills.

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

ThoughtCo. recommends five tips to increase your reading comprehension ability, including reading with tools such as highlighters, and developing new vocabulary.

"How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar provides ideas for improving your reading comprehension, from expanding your vocabulary to discussing texts with friends.

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video equips you with tools to read more effectively. It will help you determine how much material you need to read, and what strategies you can use to absorb what you read.

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

From a pre-reading survey through post-reading review, Education Corner  walks you through steps to improve reading comprehension.

Methods of In-text Annotation

"The Writing Process: Annotating a Text" (Hunter College)

This article from Hunter College’s Rockowitz Writing Center outlines how to take notes on a text and provides samples of annotation.

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

This video from the SchoolHabits YouTube channel presents eleven annotation techniques you can use for better reading comprehension.

"5 Ways To Annotate Your Books" ( Book Riot )

This article from the Book Riot  blog highlights five efficient annotation methods that will save you time and protect your books from becoming cluttered with unnecessary markings.

"How Do You Annotate Your Books?" ( Epic Reads )

This post from Epic Reads highlights how different annotation methods work for different people, and showcases classic methods from sticky notes to keeping a reading notebook.

Students at every grade level can benefit from writing book reports, which sharpen critical reading skills. Here, we've aggregated sources to help you plan book report assignments and develop rubrics for written and oral book reports. You’ll also find alternative book report assessment ideas that move beyond the traditional formats.

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

These reading templates courtesy of Unique Teaching Resources make great visual aids for elementary school students writing their first book reports.

"Elementary Level Book Report Template" ( Teach Beside Me )

This   printable book report template from a teacher-turned-homeschooler is simple, classic, and effective. It asks basic questions, such as "who are the main characters?" and "how did you feel about the main characters?"

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

ABC Teach ’s resource directory includes printables for book reports on various subjects at different grade levels, such as a middle school biography book report form and a "retelling a story" elementary book report template.

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

This page from Busy Teachers’ Cafe contains book report templates alongside reading comprehension and other language arts worksheets.

Teaching Middle School and High School Students How to Write Book Reports

"How to Write a Book Report: Middle and High School Level" ( Fact Monster)

Fact Monster ’s Homework Center discusses each section of a book report, and explains how to evaluate and analyze books based on genre for students in middle and high school.

"Middle School Outline Template for Book Report" (Trinity Catholic School)

This PDF outline template breaks the book report down into manageable sections for seventh and eighth graders by asking for specific information in each paragraph.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( Classroom )

In this article for Classroom,  Elizabeth Thomas describes what content high schoolers should focus on when writing their book reports.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kori Morgan outlines techniques for adapting the book report assignment to the high school level in this post for The Pen & The Pad .

"High School Book Lists and Report Guidelines" (Highland Hall Waldorf School)

These sample report formats, grading paradigms, and tips are collected by Highland Hall Waldorf School. Attached are book lists by high school grade level.

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

This free resource from Teachers Pay Teachers allows you to edit your book report rubric to the specifications of your assignment and the grade level you teach.

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

This PDF rubric from a city school district includes directions to take the assignment long-term, with follow-up exercises through school quarters.

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

Perfect for oral book reports, this PDF rubric from North Carolina State University's Midlink Magazine  will help you evaluate your students’ spoken presentations.

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

This article from the Scholastic website lists creative alternatives to the standard book report for pre-kindergarteners through high schoolers.

"Fresh Ideas for Creative Book Reports" ( Education World )

Education World offers nearly 50 alternative book report ideas in this article, from a book report sandwich to a character trait diagram.

"A Dozen Ways to Make Amazingly Creative Book Reports" ( We Are Teachers )

This post from We Are Teachers puts the spotlight on integrating visual arts into literary study through multimedia book report ideas.

"More Ideas Than You’ll Ever Use for Book Reports" (Teachnet.com)

This list from Teachnet.com includes over 300 ideas for book report assignments, from "interviewing" a character to preparing a travel brochure to the location in which the book is set.

"Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report" (National Council of Teachers of English)

In this PDF resource from the NCTE's  English Journal,  Diana Mitchell offers assignment ideas ranging from character astrology signs to a character alphabet.

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Writing a Book Report

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Book reports are informative reports that discuss a book from an objective stance. They are similar to book reviews but focus more on a summary of the work than an evaluation of it. Book reports commonly describe what happens in a work; their focus is primarily on giving an account of the major plot, characters, thesis, and/or main idea of the work. Most often, book reports are a K-12 assignment and range from 250 to 500 words.

Book reviews are most often a college assignment, but they also appear in many professional works: magazines, newspapers, and academic journals. If you are looking to write a book review instead of a book report, please see the OWL resource, Writing a Book Review .

Before You Read

Before you begin to read, consider what types of things you will need to write your book report. First, you will need to get some basic information from the book:

• Publisher location, name of publisher, year published
• Number of Pages

You can either begin your report with some sort of citation, or you can incorporate some of these items into the report itself.

Next, try to answer the following questions to get you started thinking about the book:

• Author: Who is the author? Have you read any other works by this author?
• Genre: What type of book is this: fiction, nonfiction, biography, etc.? What types of people would like to read this kind of book? Do you typically read these kinds of books? Do you like them?
• Title: What does the title do for you? Does it spark your interest? Does it fit well with the text of the book?
• Pictures/Book Jacket/Cover/Printing: What does the book jacket or book cover say? Is it accurate? Were you excited to read this book because of it? Are there pictures? What kinds are there? Are they interesting?

As You Read

While reading a work of fiction, keep track of the major characters. You can also do the same with biographies. When reading nonfiction works, however, look for the main ideas and be ready to talk about them.

• Characters: Who are the main characters? What happens to them? Did you like them? Were there good and bad characters?
• Main Ideas: What is the main idea of the book? What happens? What did you learn that you did not know before?
• Quotes: What parts did you like best? Are there parts that you could quote to make your report more enjoyable?

When You Are Ready to Write

Announce the book and author. Then, summarize what you have learned from the book. Explain what happens in the book, and discuss the elements you liked, did not like, would have changed, or if you would recommend this book to others and why. Consider the following items as well:

• Principles/characters: What elements did you like best? Which characters did you like best and why? How does the author unfold the story or the main idea of the book?
• Organize: Make sure that most of your paper summarizes the work. Then you may analyze the characters or themes of the work.
• Your Evaluation: Choose one or a few points to discuss about the book. What worked well for you? How does this work compare with others by the same author or other books in the same genre? What major themes, motifs, or terms does the book introduce, and how effective are they? Did the book appeal to you on an emotional or logical way?
• Recommend: Would you recommend this book to others? Why? What would you tell them before they read it? What would you talk about after you read it?

Revising/Final Copy

Do a quick double check of your paper:

• Double-check the spelling of the author name(s), character names, special terms, and publisher.
• Check the punctuation and grammar slowly.
• Make sure you provide enough summary so that your reader or instructor can tell you read the book.
• Consider adding some interesting quotes from the reading.

How to Write a Book Report With Examples in 4 Easy Steps

Learn how to write a book report in just a few easy steps.

Rijvi Ahmed

Last updated on Mar 14th, 2024

When you click on affiliate links on QuillMuse.com and make a purchase, you won’t pay a penny more, but we’ll get a small commission—this helps us keep up with publishing valuable content on QuillMuse.  Read More .

Table of Contents

Do you have a book report to complete and want to know how to write a book report? We are right here for you! Book reports are useful in learning because they help students enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. At the same time, they give authors a detailed look at a text’s composition and stylistic aspects. 

This essay will show us how to write a book report efficiently. It’s a skill that helps you not only get more out of what you’re reading but also write a report that accurately describes how great the book is. Let’s get started. 

What is a book report?

You may ask, “What does a book report look like?” So, before we go into how to write a book report, let’s first define it. The report consists of the plot, characters, and style of the essays. It usually focuses on a single activity, but can also relate to a topic or theme. The report is usually a high school assignment designed to help students improve their communication and research skills. It also teaches students how to express themselves in many areas of their lives.

Book Report vs. Book Review

A book report and a book review are sometimes mistaken, although they are not the same. A book report summarizes a book’s content and analysis, whereas a book review evaluates its substance, style, and value. A book review is often written for a more advanced readership and is frequently published in a literary journal or newspaper.

What exactly is the aim of a book report?

There are some main purposes for writing a book report:

• Give the book a quick glance to make it more readable.
• Provide enough information so that the reader may readily understand the text.
• Show the book’s style and tone.
• Encourage the reader or buyer to read and purchase the book.
• Discuss a book’s main parts.
• Provide a summary and evaluation of a piece of fiction.

Furthermore, creating a report helps the student enhance their analytical and communication skills. They can express themselves through creative or critical thinking in the texts they read.

Also Read: How to Write a Book About Your Life

What are the parts of a great book report?

Introduction including Title and Author : Consider how to start a book report with an appealing introduction. Mention the book’s title, author, and genre, and provide a brief storyline summary. Explain your major theme or point of view. Sometimes it includes the book’s publishing date.

Content summary : This part should include an overview of the book’s plot, including the main characters, setting, and conflict. Provide a succinct summary of the plot. Highlight important events and turning points. Avoid spoilers. 

Analysis and perspective : Examine the main characters, including their characteristics, motives, development, and plot roles. Investigate important themes, symbols, and motifs, as well as how they affect the narrative. Examine the author’s writing style and perspective, as well as how they affect the plot.

Conclusion : Summarize your key ideas. Restate your general opinion of the book and perhaps recommend who might enjoy it or what types of readers would benefit from it. This part should sum up your thoughts on the book and its significance.

How to Start Writing A Book Report

When you start writing, you should be familiar with the essential processes. However, if you are unsure, there is no need to worry. Instead, look at the methods below to help you write a superb report.

1. Choose the book Carefully

Choosing the right book is a vital step in your writing process. Some teachers assign books to you, and you have no choice. However, if you choose a novel for yourself, make sure it interests you.

2. Properly Read the Book

Reading is a vital element of producing a good report since it helps you to delve into the details of the narrative. Unfortunately, many students believe they can get by with just the overview, notes, and details, but this is not the case if they want an A.

3. List the key points

Every time you read an excellent book, make a note of the most important topics and situations in your notebook. This assures that no matter where or when inspiration strikes, all of these riches are only a page away.

4. Create a thesis statement

The thesis statement is the most crucial aspect of your paper. It should be a claim you think to be correct. Furthermore, it might be backed by good instances from the book, enhancing the strength of your writing work. 

5. Make the Book Report Outline

It is critical to have a decent and solid outline when creating the best report. When drafting the outline, be sure to include all of your ideas and opinions. It helps authors stay organized and focused on what needs to be done next. 

Also Read: How to Become a Book Editor

How to Write A Book Report

When you start writing, you need to be familiar with the essential processes. However, if you are unsure, there is no need to worry. Here’s a comprehensive guide to writing a book report to get you started:

1. Write the introduction

The opening is the most significant element of your report because it introduces and presents the topics that will be covered in greater detail. As a result, the introduction paragraph should include both an attention-grabbing hook statement and a thesis statement that sums up everything.

2. Write the body paragraphs

The body of the report describes three major things:

• Main purpose

You should also consider the book’s theme or motif, as well as the character’s interactions with others. 

3. Write the conclusion

The conclusion is where you mention three major points:

• Finish up the complete report.
• Describe what you learned from the book.
• Please state whether or not you would recommend it.
• Express your opinion about the book.

Also, this section should be concise, no longer than one paragraph. However, make sure it communicates everything that has to be expressed before closing with a suitable conclusion. 

4. Proofreading

Once you’ve finished writing it, start proofreading. First, correct all grammatical, punctuation, and vocabulary errors. Also, modify the complex and tough words or sentences. Finally, strive to make it error-free and understandable to the audience.

Also Read: Best Writing Websites for Writers

Tips for Writing a Book Report

When writing a book report, keep the following factors in mind:

• Read Very carefully : Pay close attention when reading to ensure that you thoroughly grasp the material. Take notes on essential topics such as themes and characters.
• Follow the Guidelines : Stick to what your teacher or whoever assigned the report expects. Make sure your work is the appropriate length and covers the appropriate topics.
• Outline Structure : Determine how your report will be organized. A simple outline with parts for introduction, summary, analysis, and conclusion can help you stay organized.
• Introduce the Book : Begin your report by providing basic information about the book, such as its title, author, genre, and a summary of why it is essential. 
• Summarize and Analyze : Discuss what happened in the book while also delving into why it matters. Discuss the characters and how they evolve during the novel. 
• Evaluate and Reflect : Discuss your ideas on the book, including what you liked, disliked, and why. Consider how the book touched you personally.
• Use Evidence : Back up your claims using examples from the text. Quotes or specific scenarios might assist you in illustrating your point and demonstrate that you truly grasped what you read.
• Proofread : Before submitting, go back and check for errors. Check for typos, spelling problems, and anything else that could make your report difficult to comprehend. 

Example of a great book report

To present a clear example of a book report, let’s look at “ The Adventures of Tom Sawyer ” by Mark Twain.

Introduction

“The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” is a popular novel written by Mark Twain and published in 1876. It follows Tom Sawyer through the childhood adventures and troubles of a mischievous and inventive little boy in a fictional village in St. Louis . . . . Petersburg, Missouri with comedy, suspense, and poignant observations about society And just right, this timeless story continues to appeal to readers of all ages.

Plot Summary

Set in the 19th century, the novel begins with Tom Sawyer living with his Aunt Polly, his brother Sid, and his cousin Mary. Tom is known for his fun spirit and willingness to get into trouble. He falls in love with the new girl in town, Becky Thatcher, and also develops a close relationship with his friend Huckleberry Finn, an outcast.

Throughout the story Tom is in a series of escapades, such as whitewashing a fence as punishment, searching for treasure with Huck, attending his funeral, and witnessing a murder These experiences illustrate Tom’s philosophy, n ‘mind, and growing maturity as he learns important lessons about friendship, responsibility and the impact of his actions Are known.

The story ends with Tom and Becky trapped in a cave, sparking a dramatic rescue that draws the community together and Tom finally emerges as a hero who has overcome the physical danger of the cave and its emotional challenges, the victory of youth.

Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” offers more than just a simple children’s story. It subtly depicts life in small-town America in the 19th century, focusing on social interactions, cultural attitudes, and youthful innocence. Twain’s subtle style of writing and human behavior and her sly gaze make the story both funny and thought-provoking.

Tom Sawyer is a particularly interesting character, displaying the defiance and curiosity associated with infancy. Readers will experience the joys and challenges of growing older through Tom’s eyes, from the joys of discovery to the heartache of pain. Twain masterfully captures the essence of childhood, making one approachable and memorable.

Furthermore, the work delves into issues of autonomy, identity, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing society. Whether Tom defies authority, faces ethical challenges, or makes friends across social boundaries, his journey reflects a universal struggle to find his place in society while staying true to himself.

In conclusion, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” remains a timeless work that continues to captivate readers of all ages. Mark Twain’s vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and insightful comments on society ensure the novel remains relevant and engaging more than a century after its publication. Through Tom Sawyer’s Escape, readers are reminded that the journey to adulthood is about the enduring power of imagination, friendship, and adventure.

What length should a book report be?

The length of a book report varies according to the assignment criteria. Book reports are typically one to three pages long, but they can be lengthier for more detailed assessments.

Should I add my opinion to a book report?

Yes, you should include your perspective in a book report. However, be careful to back up your thoughts with facts from the text. Your comments and evaluations contribute to the report’s interesting and informative nature. 

Do I have to read the whole book to write a book report?

While it is preferable to read the full book to produce a thorough analysis, you can still write a book report based on substantial chunks of it. However, make sure you fully comprehend the plot, characters, and themes.

How should I format a book report?

Follow any formatting guidelines specified by your instructor or institution. Book reports are typically written as essays, having an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Can I utilize outside sources for my book report?

It depends on the assignment’s requirements. In some situations, you may be asked to use outside sources to supplement your analysis.

Should I use quotes from the book in my report?

Yes, using quotes from the book can help to strengthen your analysis and provide evidence for your observations. Simply make sure to correctly cite any quotations using the required citation style.

How should I conclude a book report?

At the end of your book report, summarize your main themes and share your final thoughts on the book. You can summarize your overall assessment and describe the book’s significance or impact.

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• Mar 14th, 2024
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Book Report: Definition, Guidelines, and Advice

Glossary of Grammatical and Rhetorical Terms

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A book report is a written composition or oral presentation that describes, summarizes , and (often, but not always) evaluates a work of fiction or nonfiction .

As Sharon Kingen points out below, a book report is primarily a school exercise, "a means of determining whether or not a student has read a book" ( Teaching Language Arts in Middle Schools , 2000).

Characteristics of a Book Report

Book reports generally follow a basic format that includes the following information:

• the title of the book and its year of publication
• the name of the author
• the genre (type or category) of the book (for example, biography , autobiography , or fiction)
• the main subject, plot , or theme of the book
• a brief summary of the key points or ideas treated in the book
• the reader's response to the book, identifying its apparent strengths and weaknesses
• brief quotations from the book to support general observations

Examples and Observations

• "A book report is a way for you to let others know about a book you have read. A good book report will help others decide whether they want to read the book or not." (Ann McCallum, William Strong, and Tina Thoburn, Language Arts Today . McGraw-Hill, 1998)
• Contrasting Views on Book Reports - "Keep in mind always that a book report is a hybrid, part fact and part fancy. It gives hard information about the book, yet it is your own creation, giving your opinion and judgment of it." (Elvin Ables, Basic Knowledge and Modern Technology . Varsity, 1987) - "Your instructor may occasionally assign a book report . A book report is to be sharply distinguished from a research paper , for it deals with one book in its entirety—not with certain aspects of several books and documents . . .. The book report is also to be clearly distinguished from a book review or a critical essay , for it merely reports on a book without undertaking to compare it with other books or to pass judgment on its value." (Cleanth Brooks and Robert Penn Warren, Modern Rhetoric . Harcourt, 1972) - "A book report is a summary of the contents, plot , or thesis of a particular book, . . . preceded by a full bibliographical citation . The writer of a book report is not required to evaluate the author, although he oftentimes does so." (Donald V. Gawronski, History: Meaning and Method . Sernoll, 1967)
• Quick Tips "I'll give you some tips on how to write a good book report right now. "Tell the name of the book. Tell the name of the author. The Wizard of Oz was written by L. Frank Baum. "Tell if you think he's a good writer. Tell the names of all the characters in the book. Tell what they did. Tell where they went. Tell who they were looking for. Tell what they finally found. Tell how they treated each other. Tell about their feelings. "Tell that you read some to your sister. Tell that she liked it. "Read some to a friend. Then you can even tell that your friend liked it." (Mindy Warshaw Skolsky, Love From Your Friend, Hannah . HarperCollins, 1999)
• Problems Associated With Book Reports "Typically a book report is a means of determining whether or not a student has read a book. Some teachers also consider these reports as a major part of their composition program. However, there are several problems associated with book reports. First, students can generally find out enough about a book to write a report without actually reading it. Second, book reports tend to be boring to write and boring to read. The writing is usually uninspired because students have no ownership of the task and no commitment to it. Furthermore, book reports are not real-world writing tasks. Only students write book reports." (Sharon Kingen, Teaching Language Arts in Middle Schools: Connecting and Communicating . Lawrence Erlbaum, 2000)
• The Lighter Side of Book Reports "I took a speed-reading course and read War and Peace in 20 minutes. It involves Russia." (Woody Allen)
• How to Write a Great Book Report
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What a book report is

The differences between a book report and a book review

The skills you use and develop when writing book reports

Getting an assignment to write a book report

How to write a good book report

How to structure a book report

Tips for formatting a book report

How to create a PDF book report template

Write a book review using a PDF template.

Writing a book review for the first time can feel a bit intimidating. A whole book?! If that’s what you’re thinking, you’re not alone. It doesn’t have to be as daunting as you might think though. The secret to writing a good book report or book review is about taking a systematic approach. Start with your teacher’s instructions, work through our guide to writing and formatting a book report here and then use and adapt our free downloadable PDF book report template. You’ll not only find you have that book reviewed and report written in no time, but you’ll likely enjoy the process and look forward to the next one!

What is a book report?

A book report is an original and concise written summary and analysis of a book’s contents. Book reports should show your understanding of the contents of the book — the plot, theme, setting and characters. A book report will usually include a brief and objective summary of the key elements of the book and then your reaction to it. Book reports can be written about both fiction and non-fiction books.

Is there a difference between a book report and a book review?

Book reports and book reviews are similar and the terms are often used interchangeably, but there are differences. While both book reports and book reviews involve discussing and analysing the contents of a book, the focus and purpose of each do differ. A book report primarily provides a summary of your reflections, while a book review offers a more in-depth critical analysis and personal opinions on the book.

Three key differences between a book review and a book report include —

1. The purpose. The primary purpose of a book report is to provide a summary of the book's content. A book report typically includes details about the plot, characters, setting and other key elements of the story. Book reports are often assigned as academic exercises at all levels of education to assess a student's understanding of the material.

In comparison, a book review may include a summary of the book, but the primary purpose of a review is to offer a critical analysis and evaluation. Book reviews express more of the reviewer's opinions on the quality of the writing, the themes explored, the author's style and other aspects of the book. Book reviews also often form part of academic assignments and they are also often written for a broader audience and formal publications.

2. Your personal opinion and reflection. Generally, book reports are more focused on presenting factual information about a book. Book reports include your reactions, but the emphasis is on providing a neutral and objective summary.

Book reviews, on the other hand, tend to require more subjective opinions and judgements. A book review may include your response to the book, your discussion of what worked well and what did and whether you would recommend the book to others.

3. The length and level of detail. Book reports are usually shorter, more straightforward and focused on summarising the book’s content. They tend to cover the main elements of a book without delving too deeply into analysis.

Book reviews can be more extensive and in-depth. A book review may delve more into the book's themes, characters, style and the author's possible intentions. With a book review, you may also provide more detailed insights and discuss the book's broader implications or connections to other works.

The skills you develop when writing book reports.

The process of writing a book report or book review helps you to develop a range of analytical and communication skills. The skills used in book reports are not only useful while you are a student, but they’re also skills that you’ll always use in your both personal life and career. Writing book reports helps to cultivate —

Time management skills. Being able to complete a book report assignment to meet a deadline needs a few time management skills. You’ll need to allocate time for reading, researching, taking notes and writing and editing your book review.

Reading comprehension skills. Writing a book review or book report requires you to first read and understand the book’s content. Reading comprehension is all about being able to process what you read and understand the content’s meaning.

Research and note-taking skills. Notetaking, researching and exploring elements of the book, such as the author, characters and context, all help to fine-tune and apply all those individual skills and your ability to both seek and summarise information.

Critical thinking skills. Evaluating the contents of a book encourages your critical thinking skills. You’ll be reporting on how each of the elements contribute to the book and possibly identifying strengths and weaknesses depending on how in-depth you go. Learning how to provide constructive criticism on strengths and weaknesses when you express your opinions is a valuable interpersonal skill.

Perspective-taking skills. Understanding the characters, the author's perspective and the themes in a book helps to develop skills in being able to understand different perspectives and have empathy for others. This ability to see the world from different points of view is invaluable in today’s world.

Analytical skills. Breaking down a book into its components and critically evaluating them improves your analytical skills. This involves assessing the plot, characters, writing style, themes and any other relevant elements.

Communication and writing skills. Being able to express your thoughts and opinions clearly and concisely in writing is crucial when writing a book report. You may also have the opportunity to speak about your book report with your class. This helps improve your overall communication skills, including effectively articulating and arguing your ideas.

Crafting a well-organised, coherent and engaging book report will help to develop your writing skills. In writing a book report, you’ll be structuring your thoughts logically, using appropriate language and paying attention to grammar and style.

Getting an assignment to write a book report.

You may be assigned to write a book report in class or as homework throughout your education. Being able to understand a piece of written work is a great skill to have and something we all need in a world full of written information and communication.

Your teacher or lecturer will provide guidance or instruction on the specific requirements and level of understanding your book report or book review should demonstrate. Follow their guidance first and foremost. They will have determined the level of analysis you are required to show for your class or coursework.

Then, work through our guide for writing and formatting a book report and try our free downloadable PDF book report template to present your assignment.

How to write a good book report.

When you write a book report, you’ll be summarising the key elements of a book in an organised and thoughtful way. To get started, follow this step-by-step guide on how to write a book report.

Understand your assignment requirements. Review your assignment instructions to understand any specific requirements of your book report. Pay attention to the length, format and any specific questions or prompts that your teacher or lecturer wants you to cover in your book report.

Read the book and take notes as you do. Read the book in its entirety from cover to cover. Yes, you do need to read the whole thing! Take notes while you’re reading on any key plot points, characters, themes and any significant quotes or passages. Choose the topics you want to highlight. As you read, jot down your reactions, thoughts and questions you may have. This will help you to remember your thoughts when it's time to write your book report or review.

Start with basic information. Begin your book report by completing the essential information such as the book title, the author, genre and publication date of the book. Writing this information is a great way to start getting focussed on the writing process and can also be included in your introduction.

Write the introduction. Start your book report with a brief introduction that includes the book's title, author, genre and publication date. Clearly state the purpose of your book report. A clear statement of purpose helps you to stay focused and set the scene for your review. You may also mention any relevant background information about the author or the book itself in the introduction.

Summarise the key elements of the book. Summarise the main events, characters and themes of the book into different paragraphs and/or sections. Keep your summaries of the key elements concise and to the point.

Identify and analyse the central themes, ideas and messages conveyed in the book. Explore their significance and relate them to the broader context. Use relevant examples and quotes from the text to support and strengthen your analysis. Focus on the most crucial aspects, key events and significant turning points of the plot, without giving plot twists or major spoilers. Highlight the elements that contribute most to the story’s development.

Discuss the main characters in the book. Describe their personalities, motivations, roles and relationships within the story. Consider how the characters evolve or change over the course of the narrative. Write about how the themes contribute to the overall impact of the book or any deeper meaning of the story.

Consider your audience. While a book report is mostly objective, it's also helpful to consider your potential audience and what they might find valuable in a review. Remember to tailor your book report to the specific requirements of your assignment and consider the target audience for your report, for example, your classmates, teacher or a general audience or publication.

Write your reaction and evaluation. Share your reactions and opinions to the book. Did it engage you emotionally? Did it make you think? Did you enjoy the experience of reading it? Talk about what you liked or disliked. Be specific and provide examples or quotes from the book to support your opinions. Be honest but remember any criticism should always be constructive.

Write a conclusion. Write a brief conclusion that summarises your overall assessment of the book. Mention whether you would recommend it to others and why or why not. End your report with a strong concluding statement that summarises your key points.

Proofread. Always proofread your book report or book reviews before you submit them. Use the grammar and spellcheck tools in your software but re-read it again as well. Check and correct any grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. Well-written and well-edited book reports demonstrate your attention to detail and add credibility to your work.

How to structure a book report.

A basic book report typically follows a standard structure of four main parts. A typical book report format or structure includes —

A title or cover page. Include your name, your course or class name and the date you write your book report. List the book title, the author, the publisher and publication date and the book’s genre.

An introduction. Start with a brief introduction that includes the title and author of the book. You can also mention the genre and any relevant background information about the author or the context in which the book was written.

Body paragraphs and/or sections with your summary and analysis. The body paragraphs or different sections of your book report will be your summaries of the plot, characters, setting and theme, along with your reaction and evaluation.

A conclusion. Your conclusion should be one paragraph that summarises your main arguments and key points in one paragraph. Highlight how the details you’ve mentioned support your book report or review.

How to format a book report.

Submitting a well-formatted book report not only enhances readability but also creates an impression that you care about your work and are committed to presenting assignments or homework that meets standard presentation requirements.

Book report formats can vary depending on the guidelines provided by your teacher, an instructor and the requirements of your assignment, such as the length.

Some design and layout tips to ensure your book report is organised, easy to navigate and visually pleasing to your reader, include —

Choose clear and easy-to-read fonts. Make sure you choose clear and easy-to-read fonts. Fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri are often used in assignments, textbooks and other types of printed material because they are easy to read. Body text is typically 12 points and headings are a few point sizes larger.

Use spacing and paragraph breaks. Proper spacing between lines and paragraphs improves readability. Book reports and assignments often have requirements of double spacing or 1.5-line spacing throughout, with a blank line between paragraphs. This provides visual breaks, makes text easier to read when marking and makes it clear where the next paragraph starts.

Add headings and subheadings. Add headings and subheadings to help organise and present your book reports and assignments. Make headings and subheadings different from your main body text by using a larger font size or a bold font. This helps your readers to navigate and read your different book report sections at a glance.

Align and indent text. Always align your text to the left margin to maintain consistency and make your book report easy to read. If your book report contains a lot of paragraphs, consider indenting the first line of each paragraph to add another visual cue that you are starting a new topic or paragraph.

Add page numbering. Include page numbers at the top or bottom of every page. Page numbers enable your readers to find their place in your document quickly and easily.

Be consistent. Be consistent with your formatting and presentation style throughout your book report. This includes your margins, spacing, font styles and sizes. Consistent formatting will enhance the overall presentation and readability of your book report.

How to create a PDF book report template.

Create a book report template that you can quickly complete every time you have to do a book report or review. That way, you’ll save time with the next one.

Portable document format (PDF) files are ideal for submitting assignments because they can be sent and viewed from any device and none of the formatting is lost. All others need to be able to view and read your book review in a PDF is the free Adobe Acrobat reader on their mobile or computer.

There are a couple of ways to create and use a PDF book report template.

Create and convert a Word template to PDF. Use Word, PowerPoint or Excel to create a book report template and then easily convert files to PDF online .

Use Adobe Acrobat to create a book report template. If you’re in an academic setting, make the most of the Adobe Acrobat pricing for students and teachers and create a PDF template from scratch in an Acrobat application.

Download a free book report template. Try our free downloadable book report template . You can download this free book review template and use it as it is or adapt it to meet the requirements of your class or course.

For example, it’s easy to —

• Edit a PDF online
• Add pages to a PDF
• Add page numbers to a PDF
• Rearrange PDF pages

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How to Write a Good Summary for a Book Report

Last Updated: January 28, 2024

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. This article has been viewed 314,191 times.

Many grade school and high school English classes require their students to complete book reports. Often, it is difficult to know what to include and leave out of your report. A summary tells your readers about the most important points and elements of a book you read in your own words. Depending on your teacher's requirements, you may also need to give your opinion of the book, such as what you enjoyed or disliked about it. If you do a little careful prep work, writing a summary for a book report is nothing to be scared of!

Preparing for Your Book Report

• If you can, pick a book on a topic that interests you, as this will make it more enjoyable for you to read.

• Don't confuse a book report with a book review. A book report typically summarizes a book and may offer your opinion on a book, but it usually focuses more on facts about the book. A book review usually describes what a book says and evaluates how the book works.
• If you have any questions, ask your teacher. It's much better to ask questions when you don't understand something than to try to muddle through only to produce work that isn't what your teacher expected.

• Characters. If your book is fiction (or a biography or memoir), keep track of who the major characters are. What are they like? What do they do? Are they different at the end of the book than the beginning? Did you like them?
• Setting. This category mainly applies to fiction. The setting of a book is where and when the story takes place (for example, the Harry Potter novels' main setting is the school of Hogwarts). The setting may have significant influence on the characters and the story.
• Story. What happens in the book? Who did what? Where in the book (beginning, middle, end) do important things seem to happen? Were there any clear “turning points” in the story, where things seem to change from what came before? How did the story resolve? What parts are your favorite parts of the story?
• Main ideas/themes. This category will be slightly different for nonfiction or fiction. Nonfiction may have a very clear main idea, such as presenting a biography of a famous historical figure. For fiction, there will probably be a key theme that runs throughout the book. Think about this in terms of what you learned from the book that you didn't know before reading it. You may find it easier if you take a few notes on each chapter.
• Quotations. A good book report not only tells, but shows. For example, if you really enjoyed the author's writing style, you could use a quotation in your book report that shows why you liked it. A juicy quote that sums up the main idea of the book could also be a good idea. You don't have to use every quotation that you write down in your report, but jot down any quotations that catch your attention.

Drafting Your Book Report

• Pro: You can go in chronological order, which could be helpful when you're summarizing books with a lot of plot elements.
• Con: This kind of organization can be more difficult to figure out if you need to talk about multiple chapters in one paragraph.
• Pro: You can tackle a lot of plot summary in very little space. The paragraphs are clearly divided, so you know what to cover in each one.
• Con: This may not be appropriate if your assignment is mostly to summarize the book rather than give your opinions about it.

• For chronological order: Give each chapter or section of the book its own section. Write down the most important story elements and character developments that happened in each chapter.
• For thematic organization: Put your notes about the various elements, such as characters, plot, and main ideas, into separate sections. Each will become a paragraph.
• When you write your first draft, think about what elements move the story forward, because those will probably be the most important. You can give more detail as you revise, if you want.
• For example, many things happen in Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games, but you can't talk about them all. Instead, focus on the overall movement of the story. Begin by explaining what the Hunger Games are and how Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark are chosen. Then you would summarize their time in the Capitol, including information on how sponsorship works. Following that, you would summarize the most important moments from the Games, such as Katniss injuring her leg in the fire, the attack by tracker-jackers, Rue's death, the kiss in the cave, Cato's final battle, and the decision to eat the poisonous berries. Then, you would conclude by wrapping up the most important moments from the book's ending.

• Give publication information for the book, including the book's title, author, year of publication, and genre. Your teacher may ask you to include other information. If your book was written by someone important, won an award, or is a best-seller, give that information too.
• For example, a short overall summary of Lois Lowry's The Giver might look something like this: “Lois Lowry's young-adult novel The Giver was published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 1993, and it won a Newbery Medal in 1994. It is set in what appears to be a utopian society that thrives on 'Sameness.' There is no hunger, sadness, or poverty in this society. However, this utopia depends on keeping its people from feeling true emotions. This lack of emotion causes serious issues for the main character, Jonas, once he is chosen to become the new Receiver of Memory.”
• For a nonfiction book, summarize the author's main idea or purpose for writing the book. State what you think their thesis is. For example, a short overall summary for the book I Am Malala might look like this: “The youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, Malala Yousafzai tells her incredible true story in I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban. This book was published by Little, Brown and Company in 2013. Malala wants to inspire other young people to believe in their power to change the world by sharing her own experience about the value of education and peaceful protest.” [5] X Research source

• For nonfiction, your summary should focus on what you think the author's main idea is and how that idea is developed in the book. What important points does the author make? What evidence or stories from their personal experience do they use to support their points?

• Introductory paragraph: summarize the book in general and gives the publication information.
• Body paragraph 1: summarize Gandalf's plot to get Bilbo Baggins to become a burglar for Thorin Oakenshield and the party of Dwarves. End with Bilbo's choosing to go on an adventure (because this is a major changing point for the character).
• Body paragraph 2: summarize the adventures Bilbo and the Dwarves have, such as almost being eaten by trolls, getting kidnapped by goblins, and Bilbo finding Gollum and the One Ring. There are a lot of adventures, so you wouldn't talk about them all; instead, pick the most important points. You might end with the Dwarves being captured by the Wood-Elves, because this is another "turning point" in the story. Bilbo has to decide whether he is brave enough to rescue everyone.
• Body paragraph 3: summarize the interactions between the Dwarves and the Lake Town people, Bilbo getting into the Lonely Mountain and talking to Smaug, Smaug destroying everything and getting killed (spoiler!), and the many groups of Dwarves, Elves, and Men deciding to fight over the spoils. This is a good place to stop this paragraph, because it's the climax of the story and your reader wants to know the resolution, or how everything turns out okay.
• Body paragraph 4: summarize how Bilbo tries to stop the fighting, the argument Bilbo and Thorin have, the outcome of the battle, and Bilbo coming home to discover all of his stuff is being sold off. You can also talk about how the main character, Bilbo, ends up as a different character than the way he started off. That would be a good transition into...
• Conclusion paragraph: talk about the main ideas of the book and what you learned. You might talk about how important it is to learn to be brave, or how greed is criticized in the book. Then, wrap up with your opinion about the book overall. Would you recommend it to a friend?

• Begin with a VERY brief plot summary. Talk about the type of book it is, where the book is set (Hogwarts, outer space, a mythical past), what the main character is trying to do or learn, and how the plot ends up.
• For example, a paragraph about the characters in The Hobbit would probably focus the most on Bilbo Baggins, the "protagonist" or hero of the novel. It would probably also need to talk a little bit about the other important characters: Thorin Oakenshield and Gandalf the wizard. This paragraph would consider Bilbo's character development from someone who starts off afraid of new things to someone who ends up being brave and saving his friends.
• For example, if you were writing about The Giver , you might want to discuss the importance of feelings in human lives. You could also talk about the idea that in order to experience life fully, you have to experience pain as well as pleasure. Another big theme is the idea of becoming your own person: the hero Jonas has to learn how to reject the "Sameness" of society to follow his own path.

• Imagine your conclusion as a way of telling others whether they should read the book or not. Would they enjoy it? Should they read it? Why or why not?

Revising Your Book Report

• As you read, ask yourself: if you were telling this summary to a friend who hadn't read the book, would they understand what happened? Would they have a good idea of whether or not they would like the book?

• For example, instead of beginning sentences with just the word “This” or “It,” remind your reader what happened in the previous sentence. “This” is vague, but “This (contest, lottery, murder)” is clear.

• Don't tell your friend what the book is about or what you're focusing on before you have them read your report. That way, they will have to focus only on what's on the paper -- which is what your teacher will be doing too.

Expert Q&A

• Try to think about how you would tell the story to a person who doesn't know it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't wait until the last minute! Start early and read and summarize one chapter a day. This will give you less work to do all at once. It also helps to write your summary right away, while it's fresh in your mind. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• For parents: quickly read each chapter's summary. If you can't understand it, tell your child what information you feel like is missing so that they know what they need to add when they revise. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Jake Adams. Scholarship & Admissions Counselor. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/703/01/
• ↑ http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/malala-yousafzai/i-am-malala/9780316322409/
• ↑ http://library.concordia.ca/help/howto/bookreports.html

About This Article

A good book report summary includes the most important points of the book and explains what your opinion of it is. As you read, take detailed notes of the main characters, the setting, the main ideas, and any important quotations, since this will make putting your book report together a lot easier. Then, when you’re done reading, outline each chapter so you can keep track of everything. When you write your summary, give a basic idea of the book, what it’s about, and what themes it covers, such as growing up, poverty, or perseverance. You should also include when the book was published and if it has won any awards. After this, briefly explain whether or not you liked the book and why. To learn how to revise your book report, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Book Summary vs. Book Report: Unveiling the Similarities

• June 16, 2023
• Book Summaries

Have you ever found yourself confused about the difference between a book summary and a book report? Fear not, dear reader, for we are here to shed light on this murky topic! In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the similarities between book summaries and book reports, providing you with expert insights and advice along the way.

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Book Summary: The Essential Elements
• Book Report: A Closer Look
• Similarities Between Book Summary and Book Report
• Quick Tips and Facts

1. Introduction

Before we embark on this enlightening journey, let's clarify what a book summary and a book report actually are. A book summary is a concise overview of the main ideas and key points of a book, written in a reader-friendly style. On the other hand, a book report is a more in-depth analysis that includes not only a summary but also an evaluation of the book's content and structure.

Now, let us dive deeper into the unique characteristics of each form.

2. Book Summary: The Essential Elements

When it comes to book summaries, there are a few key elements that set them apart from book reports:

• Brevity : A book summary aims to condense the essence of the book's content into a concise format, capturing the main ideas and plot points within a limited word count. This allows readers to get a quick overview of the book without delving too deeply into the details.
• Objective Tone : Unlike a book report, which includes personal opinions and evaluations, a book summary focuses solely on presenting the facts and main ideas in an objective manner.
• Reader-Friendly Style : Book summaries are designed to be easily understood by a wide audience, using accessible language and avoiding excessive jargon or academic terminology.

To get a better idea of what a book summary looks like, let's take a look at an example: "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Book Summary of "The Great Gatsby" :

In the roaring twenties of New York City, Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, throws lavish parties in the hopes of capturing the heart of his long-lost love, Daisy Buchanan. As the story unfolds, we witness the tragic consequences of unfulfilled dreams and the destructive power of wealth and obsession.

From this example, you can see how a book summary provides a concise overview of the main plot points, capturing the essence of the story in a few sentences.

3. Book Report: A Closer Look

Now, let us turn our attention to the book report, which expands upon the elements found in a book summary:

• In-depth Analysis : Unlike a book summary, a book report goes beyond summarizing the main plot points and dives deeper into the book's themes, characters, and literary devices. It provides a thoughtful and critical examination of the author's message and techniques.
• Personal Evaluation : Unlike a book summary, which remains objective, a book report allows the writer to express their personal opinions and judgments about the book. It often includes a detailed analysis of the book's strengths and weaknesses, as well as the writer's thoughts on its overall impact.
• Structure and Style : A book report may also include an examination of the book's structure and the author's writing style. This analysis helps readers gain a deeper understanding of how the author constructs their narrative and conveys their ideas.

To illustrate the difference more clearly, let's take a look at an example of a book report for "The Great Gatsby":

Book Report on "The Great Gatsby" :

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel, "The Great Gatsby," set amidst the opulence of the Jazz Age, the author explores themes of wealth, love, and the elusive American Dream. Through the character of Jay Gatsby, Fitzgerald unveils the hollowness of material wealth and the tragic consequences of unfulfilled dreams. The vivid descriptions and lyrical prose used by Fitzgerald transport the reader into a world of excess and decadence, serving as a scathing critique of the hollow values of the American society of the time. While the novel has received widespread acclaim for its evocative portrayal of the era, some critics argue that the female characters, such as Daisy Buchanan, are underdeveloped and serve only as symbols rather than fully realized individuals.

In this example, the book report delves into the book's themes, author's techniques, and critical assessment, offering a more comprehensive analysis.

4. Similarities Between Book Summary and Book Report

Now that we have a clearer understanding of the differences between book summaries and book reports, let's explore the similarities they share:

• Content Overview : Both book summaries and book reports provide readers with an overview of the book's content, helping them determine whether the book aligns with their interests.
• Promotion of Reading : Both forms aim to promote reading by enticing readers with a glimpse into the world of a book, sparking their curiosity, and encouraging them to explore further.
• Conciseness : While book reports tend to be more detailed and expansive than book summaries, both forms require writers to condense and distill the book's essence, presenting the information in a concise and coherent manner.
• Analysis of Literary Elements : Although book summaries focus more on the plot, they still touch upon certain literary elements, such as characterization and setting. Book reports, on the other hand, engage in a deeper analysis of these elements.

In essence, both book summaries and book reports serve as valuable tools in helping readers navigate the vast world of literature. Whether you prefer a quick summary to get the gist of a book or a thorough analysis to deepen your understanding, both forms have something to offer.

Is a book review the same as a book summary?

While a book review may include a summary of the book, it is important to note that a book review and a book summary are not the same thing. A book review is a critical analysis that assesses the book's strengths and weaknesses, evaluates its content, and provides an opinion on its overall quality. On the other hand, a book summary is a condensed overview of the book's main ideas and plot points. While both may contain elements of summarization, the purpose and approach differ.

What might be some similarities between a chapter summary and a whole book summary?

A chapter summary and a whole book summary share the common goal of providing an overview of the book's content. Both types of summaries aim to capture the main ideas and key points, allowing readers to grasp the essence of the book without reading every word. However, while a whole book summary provides an overview of the entire book, a chapter summary focuses solely on a specific section, offering a more detailed analysis of that particular part.

Are book reports and book reviews the same type of assignment?

While book reports and book reviews may seem similar on the surface, they serve different purposes and require different approaches. Book reports are more commonly assigned in an educational setting and focus on summarizing the book's main content, analyzing its themes, and evaluating its structure. On the other hand, book reviews are often written for a more general audience and include personal opinions and critical assessments of the book's quality. So, though they both involve writing about a book, the goals and intended audiences differ between these two types of assignments.

6. Quick Tips and Facts

Here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind when navigating the world of book summaries and book reports:

• Know Your Audience : When writing a book summary or report, consider the intended audience. Are you writing for teachers, fellow students, or the general public? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your writing style and content accordingly.
• Cite Your Sources : Remember to provide proper citations when referencing the book or other external sources. This adds credibility to your work and enables readers to explore the book further if they wish.
• Read Actively : Whether you're reading a book to write a summary or a report, make sure to read actively by taking notes, highlighting key points, and jotting down your initial reactions. This will help you remember important details and facilitate the writing process.
• Balance Summarization and Analysis : When writing a book report, strike a balance between summarizing the book's content and providing thoughtful analysis. Avoid including excessive plot details at the expense of critical examination, and vice versa.
• Proofread and Edit : Finally, always proofread your work and edit it for clarity and coherence. This step ensures that your writing is polished, error-free, and impactful.

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, while book summaries and book reports share similarities in providing readers with a valuable overview of a book's content, they have distinct differences in terms of depth and analysis. A book summary offers a concise outline of the main ideas and plot points, while a book report delves deeper into the themes, characters, and structure of the book. Both forms serve their unique purposes, catering to different reading preferences and needs. Whether you're looking for a quick summary or a thorough analysis, both book summaries and book reports will guide you on your literary journey.

So, the next time you find yourself faced with a task of summarizing or analyzing a book, you can confidently navigate the realms of book summaries and book reports, armed with the knowledge of their similarities and differences. Happy reading and writing, dear book-lovers!

Reference links:

• Book Report VS Book Review: Similarities and Differences
• The 10 Best Book Summary Websites and Apps

Review Team

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What’s the Difference Between a Book Summary and a Book Review?

Published on April 21, 2014 by Igor Mateski

Our weekly Book Summaries here at Books At a Glance are available only to our premium members , and it was suggested that we explain what you are missing if you’ve not joined!

First, what is the difference between a Book Summary and a Book Review ? The easy way to say it is that a Book Review is evaluative in nature and interactive, whereas a Summary is simply a condensed re-presentation of the book’s contents. In a Review our staff will tell you generally what a book is about and then offer comments assessing the work, commending or criticizing this or that about its contents, and so on. But in our Summaries we “crunch” the book into 7-10 pages, condensing the argument(s) of each chapter into a paragraph or two.

Book summaries are the heart of what we do here. They are designed to help you keep up to date and informed regarding new and significant publications. After reading a given summary you will know what that book is about and how it develops its thoughts. From there you can decide if that is all you need or if you should purchase the book yourself to study the matter further.

“Executive summaries” like these have a long and proven value in the business world, and we are excited to bring the same to Christian readers and students of biblical studies.

As an example, we posted a summary of Greg Beale’s The Morality of God in the Old Testament (P&R, 2013), in which Beale addresses the question of the seemingly “cruel” treatment of the wicked, such as in Joshua and the imprecatory Psalms. Here is a sample paragraph from that Summary:

Some attempts to answer the question have been offered that Beale finds to be less than completely satisfying, and he recites them briefly. Most would acknowledge that there is a “wartime ethic” that stretches the normal bounds of justice, but even the extenuating circumstances of war do not account for the intentional extensiveness of the commands God gives to the Israelites concerning the Canaanites. So also, even if these commands were not to be understood literally, details remain that such considerations simply cannot handle. And in any case, it certainly appears that the commands were intended to be taken (at least essentially) literally. This latter suggestion (that the extermination commands are not to be understood literally) would dissolve the problem considerably, and as such it is an important consideration, and so Beale treats it separately in a 10-page excursus at the end of the book.

Beale proposes his own five-fold approach to the question. In his own words, this approach is as follows. First, how does the killing of the Canaanites demonstrate God’s justice and righteousness? Second ….

As you can see, our Book Summaries take you a long way in tracing out the book’s arguments, from beginning to end.

Our members receive a Book Summary every week, and you can see how quickly and easily they keep up to date!

Note that we offer a free, one-month trial membership with no obligation. Give us a try, and see what you’re missing!

Claim your free, one-month trial membership by clicking HERE .

Thanks for checking us out!

Jim Zaspel Business Manager, Books At a Glance

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Book Report Vs. Book Review (Differences and Similarities)

Many of us become accustomed to writing book reports at a very young age. Elementary classrooms are often decorated with templates for this paper: author, title, characters, setting, problem/conflict, main events, conclusion, etc. These common stepping stones are in place to prepare students for years of formal book reporting. The good news is that they actually do represent the necessary components. If this is what a book report entails, what sort of things the review will offer?

A book review is an analysis or critical review of a story that evaluates how well it achieves its purpose. Ultimately, did the author accomplish what they set out to do?

• Did they efficiently convey their argument to the reader?
• Were you convinced by their evidence and support statements?
• Was their writing organized?
• How well did they compare to similar pieces in the same category?

In this article, we will look at the key elements of and the difference between a book report and book review and how to avoid confusing the two. We will also provide a guide to writing a paper that will fit all the needed criteria.

Book Report: Main Characteristics

A book report is primarily a factual account of the contents of a story. Your main goal would be to accurately summarize the information in the piece. You would need to provide the reader with the author's name, title, the number of pages, publication date, author's thesis, main events or main ideas, the organization of the book, and setting and characters (if you can apply it).

The book report should also give the reader a full picture of the story by including an equal summary of each section. Lastly, you are allowed to, and should, insert some of your final thoughts and the opinions of the piece. Your opinion should be small in comparison to your summary but may highlight your recommendations or any particular things that you liked or disliked. You may want to indicate your preferences of a particular genre or writing style. Do you normally prefer fiction books over non-fiction ones? If this is a non-fiction piece, did that aspect influence your opinion about it at all?

Book reports are easy to prepare and straight to the point. Keeping your summary substantial and your final thoughts minimal should ensure you've prepared a suitable paper.

The Tricky Part: Book Review

A book review can be seen as a more sophisticated approach to understanding and relaying the same information presented in a report. It can be described as "sophisticated" in that the work requires a greater level of effort, thoughtfulness, and is an analysis as compared to a book report. As students grow, so does their ability to think critically. The graduation from a report to a review enables an individual to take the information obtained in a report and apply it to higher order thought processes: analyzing, criticizing, persuading, and evaluating.

At times, the greatest challenge for students is establishing solid points of analysis and identifying what aspects of the book are worth exploring. Before attempting to probe any area of the story, students should have:

• a precise understanding of the author's main argument (that requires you to read the book);
• a preliminary list of issues addressed with appropriate evidence;
• a clear position on whether to recommend the novel to others and why.

This is the information about the piece that your review will include. When explaining your position, you can argue about many issues in favor or disfavor of the plot. Examples include the author's voice and writing style. Was it clear? Did you enjoy the style of writing? What changes would you like to see and why?

After reading and identifying these key points, you will hopefully be more prepared to provide a critical assessment. Keep in mind that your end goal is to persuade the audience and provide clear arguments.

Evaluation Areas to Consider

Look for some key points found in an evaluation rubric for a writing assessment.

• audience/purpose
• organization
• elaboration (support details)
• use of language

Think of it as "checking" the author's work and reviewing it as you would be a peer or, in some respects, as a teacher would for a student. Though you should not be as much concerned about the technical setup as you should be about how well of a job the author did when writing a book conveying the message and achieving the purpose of their writing.

Additionally, note any significant flaws in the author's general writing ability and highlight their strengths. A strength would be an area in which the author did an exceptional job exhibiting their point to the reader.

Sample Book Review Setup

• Introduction/Background. This section of your review is self-explanatory and should contain the title, publication information, author's name and background, category of writing they present, a bit of history, the purpose of the writing, and your main thesis statement.
• Short Summary. In this brief section, you will replicate what is done by simply summarizing the piece. Keep it concise. Try to only highlight the main events and noteworthy aspects.
• Analysis/Assessment. This is the meat of your paper and the main reason for writing. As stated earlier, your purpose is to analyze and evaluate. Here, you should provide a critical assessment of the story's central argument, evidence to support it, organizational structure, and how well it fulfills its objective.
• Conclusion. Sum up what you have been suggesting throughout your review. Restate your opinion in a concise sentence or two and provide a final statement. Would you recommend it or not? How does it fit in on a larger scale as it relates to its impact and contribution to its genre and literature?

Avoiding Confusion

A lot of the confusion usually lies with the book review . It's not difficult for many people to write a report because it is primarily a summary. If asked to write a review, the student may extend the summary section a bit too far and include details that do not support their argument (to persuade the reader one way or the other). Likewise, when doing a report, the writer should be cautious of not inserting too much opinion and losing the focus which is to relay factual information.

Maintaining the needed balance between fact and opinion is one of the best ways to successfully write both book reports and reviews.

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How to Write a Summary of a Book: Steps, Examples, FAQs

Summarizing a book might sound like a dull chore, but it doesn't have to be! Anyone can do it well with the right approach. Whether you're dissecting a novel for a report or just want to capture the heart of a story you love, you're in the right spot.

Our guide offers practical tips and examples to help you nail it. It doesn't matter if it's a novel, non-fiction, or any other type of book - these methods will make summarizing easier and guarantee you capture the essence of the book spot-on! And if you're still secretly wishing 'if only someone would ‘ write my papers ' - consider it done with our expert assistance!

What Is a Book Summary

A book summary provides a brief version of a book, emphasizing its main points and core ideas. It offers readers an insight into the book without delving into all the details. Similar to a snapshot or a concise overview, it encapsulates the book's essence. Rather than exploring every minor detail, a summary zeroes in on the broader themes and messages.

It's a method to grasp the essence of a book without needing to read it in its entirety. Summaries serve numerous purposes; they can assist you in determining whether a book is worth your time, refresh your memory on books you've previously read, or offer a handy reference for crucial details. A book summary is a condensed version presenting the key points in a brief format.

Finished a Book but Feeling Uninspired to Summarize?

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Why Write a Book Summary in the First Place

Let's explore why creating a book summary is beneficial. To start, it's an excellent method for condensing the essential points and central concepts of a book into a brief format. This approach makes the material more accessible and simpler to grasp, particularly for readers who lack the time to read the entire book. ‍ Writing a book summary can also enhance your critical thinking and analytical abilities. By pinpointing the book's key elements and summarizing them concisely, you are engaging in a form of analysis and interpretation. ‍ Moreover, summarizing a book can be an excellent learning aid. It enables you to reflect upon and absorb the book's content, aiding in retaining information and enhancing your comprehension of the topic. Creating a book summary allows you to convey the insights you've gained. You can use your summary to discuss the book with others, whether in a classroom setting, a book club, or casual conversations with friends. It's a means of disseminating knowledge and sparking discussions.

Meanwhile, you always have an alternative option to buy essay online and save yourself some time. If that sounds like a better plan, feel free to reach out to us whenever you need to!

Book Summary Vs. Book Review

Now, let our book review writing service experts clear up the difference between a book summary and a book review. While they may seem similar, they serve different purposes. A book summary gives you the gist of what a book is about, focusing on the main points and key ideas. For example, if you were summarizing 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald, you'd focus on the key themes like the American Dream, love, and wealth, giving a brief overview of the plot without going into too much detail about each event.

Now, let's say you're writing a review of the same book; instead of just outlining the plot, you'd share your thoughts on the characters, the writing style, and how the story affected you. For instance, you might discuss how Fitzgerald's elegant prose transported you to the glamorous world of the 1920s or how the tragic love story left you pondering the emptiness of materialism.

So, while a summary gives you the gist of the book's content, a review dives deeper into your personal impressions and reflections on the book. Both are useful in their own way, helping readers decide which books to pick up and offering insights into what makes a book memorable. And if you're not quite sure how to write a book review , make sure to check out our guide with more details.

How Long Should a Book Summary Be?

Now, let's tackle the question: How long should a book summary be? Well, the answer isn't set in stone—it depends on various factors such as the length and complexity of the book, as well as the purpose of the summary. As a general rule of thumb, a book summary should be concise and to the point, capturing the main points and key ideas without delving into every little detail.

For shorter books or novels, a summary of around 250 to 500 words may suffice to cover the essential elements effectively. On the other hand, for longer or more complex works like textbooks or academic papers, a summary may need to be longer, ranging from 500 to 1,000 words or more, to encompass all the important concepts and arguments.

Ultimately, the goal of a book summary is to provide a clear and succinct overview of the book's content, making it accessible to readers who want to grasp the main ideas quickly.

How to Write a Summary of a Book in 6 Steps

Writing a book summary might not seem as tough now that you have all the info we've shared. But with these 6 easy steps, we'll make it even simpler for you to get to the heart of any book. Whether it's an exciting story or an enlightening non-fiction piece, our custom essay writing service experts will walk you through crafting a summary that's clear, concise, and spotlights the key ideas.

Start with an Introduction (Title, Author, and Context)

The first step in writing a book summary is to introduce the book by providing its title, author, and a bit of context to set the scene.

For example, let's consider summarizing the book 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger. We would start by introducing the book like this:

'Introducing 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger, a classic novel that takes readers on a journey through the mind of its protagonist, Holden Caulfield. Set in post-World War II America, the story follows Holden's adventures in New York City as he grapples with the complexities of adolescence and the loss of innocence.'

In this introduction, we provide the title of the book ('The Catcher in the Rye'), the author's name (J.D. Salinger), and a brief overview of the context in which the story takes place (post-World War II America). This sets the stage for our summary and gives readers a sense of what the book is about before diving into the details.

Identify the Main Characters and Setting

Once you've introduced the book, the next step is to identify the main characters and setting. This helps readers understand who and where the story revolves around.

For instance, if we continue with our example of summarizing 'The Catcher in the Rye,' we would identify the main character and setting like this:

'Our main character is Holden Caulfield, a rebellious teenager who narrates the story in first-person. He's a complex character, struggling with feelings of alienation and disillusionment. As for the setting, much of the story takes place in New York City during the 1950s, where Holden wanders the streets and encounters various people and situations.'

In this step of your book summary, we focus on introducing the protagonist (Holden Caulfield) and briefly describing his character traits. We also mention the setting (New York City during the 1950s) to provide context for the events that unfold in the story. This helps readers understand the backdrop against which the events of the book take place, setting the stage for the summary to come. And, if you're looking for another example to learn from, you can also take a peek at Pride and Prejudice summary .

Outline the Central Plot or Main Idea

After introducing the characters and setting, it's time to outline the central plot or main idea of the book. This step helps readers grasp the overall storyline and understand the key events that drive the narrative forward. If it's a philosophical work like The Divine Comedy summary , you could discuss the main concepts the author explores and the questions they raise.

Continuing with our example, we would outline the central plot like this:

'The central plot of 'The Catcher in the Rye' revolves around Holden Caulfield's journey of self-discovery and rebellion. After getting expelled from his prep school, Holden decides to leave early and spends a few days wandering around New York City. Throughout his escapades, Holden grapples with themes of identity, alienation, and the loss of innocence. Along the way, he encounters various characters and experiences that shape his perspective on life.'

In this step of summarizing a book, we provide a brief overview of the main storyline, highlighting the protagonist's journey and the themes explored in the book. This gives readers a sense of the overarching plot.

Summarize Key Events or Themes

Here, highlight the most significant events or recurring themes in the book. Events could include major plot twists, character developments, or key moments of conflict. Themes, on the other hand, are recurring ideas or messages that the author explores throughout the narrative. This step of how to write a summary of a book helps readers understand the most significant moments and ideas that drive the story forward or convey its message.

Using our example, we would summarize key events or themes like this:

'Throughout 'The Catcher in the Rye,' Holden Caulfield encounters a series of memorable events and grapples with various themes. From his interactions with his family and peers to his encounters with strangers in New York City, each experience contributes to his ongoing search for authenticity and connection. Themes of innocence, alienation, and the loss of childhood innocence permeate the narrative as Holden navigates the complexities of adolescence and the adult world.'

Condense Supporting Details

After summarizing the key events or themes, the next step is to condense supporting details. This involves focusing on the most essential aspects of the story while omitting minor details or subplots that are not crucial to understanding the main narrative.

Continuing with our example, let's include subplots, character relationships, or descriptive elements that enrich the reading experience.

‘Throughout his journey in New York City, Holden Caulfield encounters a variety of characters, including his sister Phoebe, his former teacher Mr. Antolini, and a young prostitute named Sunny. These interactions provide insight into Holden's character and his struggles with loneliness, disillusionment, and the desire for authenticity. Despite his rebellious nature, Holden ultimately longs for connection and understanding in a world he perceives as phony.'

You can also check out our Othello summary to see how we focus on summarizing key supporting details that contribute to the overall narrative and character development.

Conclude with a Recap

In the final step, briefly recap the main points you've covered in your summary. Then, offer your own reflections or insights about the book. Did you enjoy it? What aspects did you find most compelling? This section allows you to share your personal reaction to the book and provide a conclusion to your summary.

'In conclusion, 'The Catcher in the Rye' is a timeless coming-of-age novel that explores themes of identity, alienation, and the search for authenticity. Through the journey of its protagonist, Holden Caulfield, readers are invited to reflect on the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of navigating the adult world. While Holden's rebellious nature may initially alienate some readers, his underlying desire for connection and understanding resonates deeply with audiences of all ages. Overall, 'The Catcher in the Rye' remains a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.'

You'll also catch a glimpse of how we tie together the threads of the summary and offer some insights on the book's significance in our Hobbes Leviathan summary .

Book Summary Example

Bringing everything together, we've created a polished book summary example for you to help you structure your own work when you're feeling uncertain.

Closing Remarks

In wrapping up, tackling how to write a book summary isn't a walk in the park—it demands your time, energy, and hard work. Yet, if you stick with it and keep at it regularly, you're setting yourself up for success. So, keep pushing through and watch as your skills and knowledge grow. Trust us; the payoff down the road will be well worth the effort you put in!

Lost for Words in the Book Summary?

Entrust our experts to create a stellar summary that hits all the right notes!

What Is the Purpose of a Summary?

How to start a book summary, what point of view should you use in a summary.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Difference Between Book Review And Book Report?

Imagine you try to pull off a great book report. So you expect a perfect A+ grade. But you couldn’t even get ‘B’ or ‘C.’  It’s no wonder that some students get help with assignments to ease this overwhelming shock. 

There are good numbers of students who find themselves in a similar situation. It’s not because they don’t understand the subject matter. It’s a question of structure. They cannot differentiate a book report from a book review.

Tutors must have provided some requirements tailored to book reviews or reports on the instruction board. Hence, most students get bad grades because they don’t pay attention to these details. In any case, the first step in getting an assignment right is by following simple instructions. 

This article will walk you through how you can tell the difference between a book report and a book review. 

• 1.1 Elements of a Book Review
• 2.1 Parts of a Book Report
• 3 Key Differences  between a Book Review and Book Report 
• 4.1 Scope/Purpose
• 4.2 Word Count
• 4.3 Perspective
• 5 Conclusion

What is a Book Review?

A book review is an illustrative, subjective, evaluative, and critical account of a book. It typically describes a book based on style and content. 

Book reviews typically range from 600 to 2,000 words. However, it could be more depending on the assignment requirements.

Elements of a Book Review

You may think that a book review is all about a brief opinion of a book. No more, no less. That’s not true. This is not only the piece of information that your tutor wants from you. 

A resourceful book review comprises four elements. They are as follows:

• Short Summary

It’d best to assume that your audience does not know what the book is about. This way, you can summarize the book better. A good summary requires you to map out the main ideas and why they are essential. 

Another information to include in a book review is the book’s background. A solid background requires comparing the author’s argument to related historical information. This applies to both fiction and non-fiction works. 

• Author’s Information

It’s also essential to incorporate the author’s information into the review. For instance, what is the author’s educational background? Does it influence his beliefs? This way, your reader can understand why the author has raised a specific argument. 

Evaluation is the conclusive part of the review. It’s an appraisal of the strengths and pain points of the book. An evaluative account also shows how the book has achieved its purpose. 

Note that book reviews may also include your opinions. However, you should reread your assignment instructions to determine whether it’s part of its requirements. 

Now that you know what a book review is let’s get to a book report. 

What is a Book Report?

Unlike a book review, a book report discusses a book from an objective and informative perspective. People often interchange with book reviews. But it tilts toward a book summary than a critical account of it. 

Book reports give a concise account of what happened in a book. They navigate through the thesis and characters of a work.

Most book reports stretch from 250 to 500 words. 

Parts of a Book Report

• Introduction

The first part of a book report should include the title of the work and the author’s name. After that, you may open with an exciting extract from the creation to grab the reader’s attention. 

If it is a story, you should introduce the specific place where it takes place. For non-stories, we recommend that you include the integral setting. Integral setting means the societal elements in work, such as language. 

Introduce the main ideas

It’d be best to mention every character in your report. 

• Evaluation/Recommendation

Key Differences  between a Book Review and Book Report 

Now that we’ve walked you through the basics let’s get to business. , scope/purpose.

A book review analyses the work. It encompasses the main ideas in a piece of work critically. Hence, a book review aims to shed new light on the readers.

On the other hand, a book report rehashes the work. The purpose of a book report is to give information about the work. In any case, a book review takes a diagnostic approach that tests the significance of the text. 

A book review typically ranges from 600 to 2,000 words. It’s because teachers expect students to write as much as possible in book reviews. However, it would help if you stuck to the word count in your assignment instructions. 

On the other hand, a book report typically stretches from 250 to 500 words. It’s because your teachers don’t expect you to write beyond what happened in a book. However, you may highlight your recommendations. 

Perspective

A book report requires you to write from an objective perspective. 

On the other hand, a book review requires you to write from a subjective perspective. That is to say, your opinions matter.

It can be challenging to strike a balance between opinion and facts. However, mastering them will go a long way in helping you to differentiate a book review from a  book report. 

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• What is a Book Review or Book Report?
• What is a Literature Review?

Also referred to as a book report, a  book review  consists of "critical comments on a book, especially when it is first published" ("Book Review, 2006). 

Similar to a short essay, a book review typically includes several of these elements:

     •  Description of the book's main topic, purpose and/or point of view, answering questions such as:

            •  What is the genre of the work (i.e. novel, non-fiction, memoir etc.)?

            •  Who is the intended audience?

            •  If a fictional work, what are the key themes, motifs, and/or plot devices?

            •  If a non-fictional work, what are the main arguments and ideas?

      •  Assessment of the book's main points, biases or flaws

      •  Critical analysis of the book's strengths and weaknesses, literary value and/or overall quality and contribution to the subject area

      •  If non-fiction, an explanation of how the book fits into the academic or popular discourse on a topic or subject area

Book Review. (2006). In P. Collin (Ed.),  Dictionary of publishing and printing . London, United Kingdom: A&C Black. Retrieved from http://search.credoreference.com

Follow these links to learn more about book reviews:

• Book Reviews - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• How to Write Book Reviews - Queens University
• How to write a book report and a book review - Concordia University Libraries

A literature review is a "comprehensive study and interpretation of literature that addresses a specific topic" (Aveyard, 2010).

Literature reviews are generally conducted in one of two ways:

1) As a preliminary review before a larger study in order to critically evaluate the current literature and justify why further study and research is required.

In this case, the researcher must "systematically search, critique and combine the literature to demonstrate a gap in the existing research base" while demonstrating "their understanding of both the research and the methods previously used to investigate the area" (Aveyard, 2010).

2) As a project in itself that provides a comprehensive survey of the works published in a particular discipline or area of research over a specified period of time.

Sometimes referred to as a systematic literature review or meta-analysis, this type of literature review is a critical survey that attempts to "evaluate and interpret all available research evidence relevant to a particular question" (Glasziou, 2001).

Aveyard, H. (2010). Doing a literature review in health and social care: A practical guide (2nd ed.). Bershire, United Kingdom: Open University Press.

Galsziou, P. (2001). Systematic reviews in health care: A practical guide . New York, NY: Cambridge University Press.

Learn more about literature reviews:

• Guidelines for writing a literature review - University of Minnesota Duluth A step-by-step guide for writing a literature review
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A Book Report vs. a Book Review

The difference between book report and book review is critical, so you have to pay close attention to what you are expected to come up with: if you need to sum up and enumerate, you’re in for a book summary (book report), but if you need to analyze, you want to write a book review.

There is a great deal of confusion when it comes to discussing book reports and book reviews. As a matter of fact, these two terms keep used quite interchangeably, while a deeper dig-in shows some principal differences between the two.

If you submit a book report and you were asked to write a book review, your grade is most likely to go down. The opposite situation, i.e. when you submit a book review instead of a book report, may also entail adverse consequences. Book review writing is believed to require greater intellectual effort than book reports, that’s why your marker will most likely ‘forgive’ you this mistake.

Speaking of differences, first of all, you will have to understand that a book report is simpler (a more primitive if you will) kind of writing, where you have to narrate & re-tell the story.

A book report is practically identical to a book summary and they can be used interchangeably. In contrast, a book review requires you to analyze the book and see beyond the obvious. In it, you will need to examine its contents, understand the plot, the main message of the book, see if the author has managed to convey the message to the reader; you will also have to state strong and weak sides of the book and say whether or not you like it. More differences between the two terms are as follows:

LENGTH.  Book report will usually take 200-250 words. Book reviews will range from 200 words if it’s a simple book to 1000+ words if it’s a piece of scholarly literature that needs thorough analysis and evaluation.

ACADEMIC LEVEL.  Book report is considered to be a K-12 level assignment. Book review is more of a college-level type of assignment.

STRUCTURE.  The structure of two papers resemble one another: first off, you would need to introduce the author, the book, state when and who the book was published by. You would need to mention characters, mention the plot, genre, and major themes.

MESSAGE.  If you write a book report, you would need to simply sum up the book plot, characters, state major themes and say a few words about the major characters. If you are writing a book summary, the main idea is to say whether or not you like the book, whether or not you would recommend this book to other readers and why.

HOW TO WRITE A BOOK REPORT

Either of these assignments is generally easy to write, however, each has its own nuances that you need to know. If you have either a book report or a book review to write, feel free to contact us for assistance and we will be happy to help. Our team of professional writers will be glad to help you through book report or book review writing. In the end of our cooperation, you will have learned how to tackle these assignments effectively and ace your assignments.

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Full list of the most trending argumentative essay topics

Top-50 topics you would love to work on PLUS useful tips on writing a flawless argumentative essay. As you may already know, an argumentative essay is a writing genre where the student establishes a position on a given or chosen topic and then uses evidence…

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Com escriure un informe de llibre?

• Equip Editorial Smodin
• Publicat: Pot 30, 2024

No importa si estàs a l'escola mitjana o si estàs abordant un projecte a nivell universitari; escriure un informe de llibre que sigui clar i impressionant no és fàcil. Però això no és del tot cert, ja que cal saber com fer-ho.

En aquesta guia, us guiarem a través de diferents passos per escriure un informe de llibre. Des de la preparació fins a la redacció d'un resum argumental atractiu fins a la creació d'una anàlisi crítica sòlida, compartirem diferents exemples i les millors maneres d'escriure un informe de llibre que us pugui obtenir bones notes.

Segueix llegint amb aquests senzills consells i aviat dominaràs els passos i impressionaràs als teus professors i professors!

1. Preparació per escriure un informe de llibre

Abans de començar a escriure un informe de llibre, una mica de preparació pot ajudar en gran mesura a facilitar el procés d'escriptura.

El primer pas per aprendre a escriure un informe de llibre és reunir tota la informació que necessiteu. Un cop ho hàgiu preparat, és una qüestió senzilla d'organitzar els vostres pensaments. Seguiu aquests passos.

• Llegeix el llibre : Comenceu per llegir el llibre sencer, encara que no sigui ficció, per entendre la història i els punts importants de la trama. Preneu notes mentre llegiu per identificar els personatges principals, els temes principals i els esdeveniments clau. Assegureu-vos de destacar passatges memorables o exemples específics que destaquen.
• Entendre la tasca: Assegureu-vos de conèixer els requisits, com ara el tipus de lletra correcte, el nombre de paraules i qualsevol directriu específica. Esbrineu si l'informe del llibre ha d'incloure una anàlisi crítica, una opinió personal o una anàlisi de personatges.
• Esquema el teu informe : Creeu un esquema bàsic que us ajudi a guiar la vostra redacció. Dividiu el vostre informe en seccions lògiques, com ara un paràgraf introductori, un resum de la trama, els paràgrafs del cos i els paràgrafs finals. Això també implica anotar elements clau per incloure en cada secció, com ara una declaració de tesi o els punts principals del vostre argument.
• Investigar informació de fons : Google el títol del llibre, l'estil d'escriptura de l'autor, la data de publicació i una breu descripció per obtenir més context. També és possible que vulgueu explorar la portada del llibre per veure com pot influir en la vostra comprensió del llibre.
• Organitza els teus pensaments: Estudis han trobat un vincle directe entre la presa d'apunts i l'èxit acadèmic, mostrant la importància que poden ser les notes en diversos contextos. Organitzeu les vostres notes per centrar-vos en els temes principals, els aspectes importants de la trama i els vostres pensaments personals. A continuació, penseu en com analitzareu l'estil d'escriptura de l'autor i l'ús dels dispositius literaris.

2. Escriu la Introducció

La introducció prepara l'escenari per a tot el vostre informe del llibre. És la vostra millor oportunitat per captar l'atenció del lector mentre li doneu informació bàsica clau i enmarqueu els vostres punts principals. A continuació s'explica com podeu crear un paràgraf introductori que capti els lectors i els deixi amb ganes d'aprendre més.

• Presenta el llibre : Comenceu sempre amb el títol del llibre entre cometes o cursiva i, a continuació, incloeu el nom de l'escriptor just després. També és important proporcionar la data de publicació i qualsevol context històric que sigui rellevant per entendre el llibre, com ara un conflicte en curs o una invenció recent.
• Proporcioneu una breu visió general : Proporcioneu un resum molt concís de tot el llibre per donar als lectors una idea de què esperar. Destaca el gènere del llibre i una breu descripció de l'entorn. També heu d'esmentar si es tracta d'un llibre de ficció o de no ficció.
• Presentar la declaració de la tesi : aquest és pràcticament el punt o argument central que farà el vostre informe. Això pot requerir una mica de pràctica, però formuleu una declaració de tesi clara que reflecteixi la vostra anàlisi del llibre. La vostra tesi hauria de revelar els temes principals, els elements clau i els exemples específics que parlareu als paràgrafs del cos.
• Implica el lector : Obre amb un ganxo enganxós, com una cita vívida del llibre o un fet interessant sobre l'autor. També podeu fer una pregunta o fer una declaració sorprenent relacionada amb els temes principals del llibre. Quan feu això, assegureu-vos d'utilitzar un llenguatge viu per fer que el lector tingui curiositat.
• Sigues clar i concis : Eviteu carregar la introducció amb massa detalls. Recordeu que voleu deixar el lector amb prou, perquè desitgi més informació. Feu-ho breu i concentrat.
• Practica la teva declaració de tesi : No us quedeu només amb la primera declaració de tesi que creeu. Reviseu-lo un parell de vegades fins que il·lustre el vostre argument principal d'una manera clara i interessant.
• Sigues específic : Assegureu-vos que la declaració de la tesi sigui específica i estigui directament relacionada amb l'anàlisi que esteu a punt de presentar.
• Previsualitza l'estructura : doneu una pista del que els lectors trobaran als paràgrafs del cos, com ara l'anàlisi del tema o l'anàlisi de caràcters.

3. Escriu el resum argumental

Quan el vostre resum argumental estigui ben escrit, els lectors tindran una bona idea de la història. També aprendran aspectes importants dels esdeveniments i els temes del llibre.

• Comenceu sempre per les bases. Indica breument el títol del llibre i el nom del personatge principal.
• Proporcioneu un breu resum de l'entorn per ajudar els lectors a visualitzar on està passant la història.
• El següent pas és descriure els esdeveniments clau, que implica identificar els principals esdeveniments o punts argumentals que defineixen la història.
• Resumeix com es desenvolupa la trama des del principi fins al clímax i la resolució, centrant-te en el conflicte central i els esdeveniments principals del llibre.
• Eviteu els spoilers: per a informes de llibres més llargs, aneu amb compte de no revelar massa sobre el final.
• Sigues fidel a la història: assegureu-vos que el vostre resum representi amb precisió l'estil d'escriptura de l'autor i els temes del llibre.
• Segueix prenent notes: mentre escriviu el resum, feu referència a les notes que heu fet mentre llegiu. Això us assegurarà que hàgiu capturat tots els punts clau.

Mentre escriu el resum de la trama, és important que sigui concís i clar. No intenteu esprémer tots els detalls; destacar només els punts essencials de la trama. Si és pertinent, esmenta els recursos literaris significatius que va utilitzar l'autor. Sovint es tracta d'elements com la prefiguració o el simbolisme, però no entreu en massa detalls en esmentar-los.

Connecteu els esdeveniments principals amb els temes principals del llibre o amb el missatge subjacent. Això ajudarà a mostrar com les accions dels personatges principals configuren la progressió de la història.

En tot això, també és important mantenir-se neutral i ser cronològic. El resum argumental ha de ser un relat objectiu de la història, no una crítica subjectiva. Guarda les opinions personals per a l'anàlisi i la conclusió. Juntament amb això, assegureu-vos de presentar els esdeveniments de la història en el mateix ordre que succeeixen al llibre. Això ajuda a mantenir el flux lògic.

4. Escriu l'Anàlisi

Escriure una anàlisi contundent pot portar el vostre informe de llibre a un altre nivell. També pot mostrar com enteneu els temes, els personatges i els detalls clau del llibre. A continuació s'explica com elaborar una anàlisi reflexiva:

• Destaca els temes principals: Identifiqueu els temes principals del llibre i com afecten la història. Després has d'explicar com afecten aquests temes al personatge principal i al seu desenvolupament al llarg de la història. Proporcioneu exemples específics que il·lustren com l'autor explora aquests temes.
• Feu una anàlisi de caràcters: Centra't en el personatge principal, explicant les seves motivacions, què els fa funcionar i el seu paper a la trama. Després de fer-ho, analitzeu com les seves accions configuren la història i com evolucionen al llarg del temps. Parleu sobre les relacions entre el personatge principal i els altres per revelar més sobre la dinàmica de relació del llibre.
• Examinar els recursos literaris : Els informes de llibres solen quedar curts quan passen per alt l'estil d'escriptura i l'ús dels dispositius literaris. Descomprimir el simbolisme, les imatges o els motius que aprofundeixen els temes del llibre o milloren la trama. Esmenta com aquests dispositius contribueixen a l'impacte global del llibre.
• Oferir coneixements crítics : Desglossa la manera com l'autor escriu per influir en el to del llibre. És important comparar el llibre amb altres obres del mateix autor o llibres similars per oferir perspectiva. Doneu al lector una breu ressenya del llibre dins de l'informe que destaqui els seus punts forts i febles alhora que recolza la vostra anàlisi.
• Mantingueu-vos centrat en els detalls clau : Mantingueu l'anàlisi alineada amb la vostra declaració de tesi i discutiu només els punts rellevants. Assegureu-vos d'organitzar la vostra anàlisi d'una manera que tingui sentit per al lector.

5. Escriu la Conclusió

La conclusió és el pas final del procés i, si ho encertau, podríeu tenir un informe força bo a les vostres mans. Aquesta secció hauria d'acabar perfectament el vostre llibre resumint els punts clau i aportant una reflexió final. Aquí teniu com fer-ho.

• Reformula l'enunciat de la tesi : Comença la teva conclusió reafirmant l'enunciat de la tesi però de manera diferent. L'objectiu aquí és resumir el vostre argument principal, lligant-lo a la vostra anàlisi del tema, els personatges i la trama del llibre.
• Resum dels punts clau : Proporcioneu un resum concís dels punts clau que heu comentat als paràgrafs del cos, com ara els temes principals, el desenvolupament del personatge i l'estil d'escriptura utilitzat. També hauríeu de destacar les idees més crucials que ofereix el vostre informe del llibre sense crear repeticions.
• Connecteu-vos a la introducció : Relacioneu la vostra conclusió amb el paràgraf introductori fent referència al ganxo o pregunta inicial plantejat al principi. Això crearà una sensació satisfactòria de tancament al vostre informe.
• Oferir reflexions finals : Si escau, compartiu la vostra opinió personal sobre el llibre en conjunt i si ha complert les vostres expectatives. Suggereix qui pot gaudir llegint aquest llibre i ofereix recomanacions.
• Deixa una forta impressió : Acaba la teva conclusió amb una afirmació contundent que faci reflexionar el lector sobre el llibre i les teves anàlisis. També podeu considerar enllaçar els temes o lliçons del llibre amb idees més àmplies o altres llibres.

Consells addicionals per escriure un informe de llibre

Abans de començar a escriure, aquí teniu alguns consells pràctics a tenir en compte:

• Busca un llibre interessant : Trieu un llibre que us interessi realment. El teu entusiasme es reflectirà en la teva escriptura i et mantindrà motivat durant tot el procés d'escriptura.
• No llegiu cansat: Aquest és un gran error, ja que no podreu digerir de manera efectiva tot el que ofereix el llibre. Recordeu que aquest és un reportatge de llibre i no només llegir per gaudir. Per tant, opteu sempre per llegir amb ulls nous per identificar amb precisió els elements clau i prendre notes.
• Utilitzeu les cites amb moderació : inclou només les cites més impactants que donen suport directament a la teva anàlisi.
• Trobeu un angle diferent : Això és especialment aplicable si esteu fent un informe sobre un llibre popular. Intenta aportar una nova perspectiva o interpretació que sacsegi una mica les coses. Compte, és important no forçar-ho. La nova perspectiva que aporteu encara hauria de tenir sentit d'acord amb els temes del llibre.
• Seguiu el tema: Quan un llibre és interessant, pot ser temptador voler incloure i enllaçar tots els elements. No facis això. Assegureu-vos que cada paràgraf s'alinea amb la vostra declaració de tesi i proporciona informació valuosa.
• Corregir i revisar : comproveu la claredat, l'ortografia i els errors gramaticals per assegurar-vos que l'informe estigui polit i ben estructurat.

Fes fàcil escriure un informe de llibre amb Smodin

Smodin ofereix eines impulsades per IA que simplifiquen la redacció d'un informe de llibre. Aquestes són algunes de les funcions que poden ajudar:

• Escriptor d’IA : Genereu text estructurat i d'alta qualitat amb referències, de manera que sigui molt més fàcil escriure l'informe del vostre llibre.
• Resumidor : creeu ràpidament resums de notes concisos. T'ajuda a condensar els detalls clau en una breu visió general del teu informe. També podeu utilitzar-lo per oferir una bona visió general del llibre.
• Màquina de citació : genera automàticament referències precises en formats MLA i APA. Afegeix credibilitat a la teva anàlisi.
• Solucionador de deures : Utilitzeu aquesta eina per trobar respostes a qualsevol pregunta que tingueu durant la preparació del vostre informe.
• AI Grader : Obteniu comentaris detallats per ajudar-vos a refinar els vostres arguments i l'estil d'escriptura.

I aquí ho teniu, tot el que necessiteu saber sobre com escriure un bon informe de llibre. Confieu en nosaltres: si seguiu aquests passos, elaborareu cada secció amb confiança i deixareu als vostres avaluadors un informe de llibre que serà l'estàndard d'or.

Recordeu trobar un llibre atractiu, organitzar les vostres idees i utilitzar eines pràctiques com Smodin per facilitar el procés d'escriptura.

How to Write a Book Report Plus 5 Southern Novels to Consider

Writing a book report can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, with the right approach and structure, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience that enhances your understanding and appreciation of the book. We’ll guide you through the process of writing an effective book report—step by step.

Writing a book report involves summarizing the key elements of a book, analyzing the main themes and providing your personal evaluation. For students who find this task challenging, a professional book report writer can offer valuable assistance. Academized.com writing service provides specialized services that cater to students’ needs, ensuring a well-structured and insightful report that meets academic standards. Their expertise is particularly relevant for those seeking to enhance their writing skills or manage their workload effectively.

The Assignment

Before you begin, it’s crucial to understand what your teacher or professor expects from the book report. Read the assignment carefully and make note of any specific requirements, such as the length, format or specific elements that need to be included. Pay attention to details like whether you need to include quotes or cite sources in a particular style. Clarify any uncertainties with your instructor to ensure you meet all expectations.

Read the Book Thoroughly

This may seem obvious, but it’s essential to read the book thoroughly and attentively. As you read, take detailed notes on the main characters, plot, themes and any other significant details that might be relevant to your report. Note down character descriptions, key events and passages that resonate with you or illustrate important themes.

Identify the 5 Key Elements

Most book reports should include an introduction, summary of the book, analysis of the book, personal reflection and a conclusion. Let’s explore each of these elements in detail:

Introduction

For those who need help, Academized offers professional support to ensure your book report is well-written and insightful. The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide a brief overview of the book you’re reporting on. This is where you’ll include the book’s title, author, genre and a one-sentence summary of the book’s premise. You can also include some background information about the author or the book’s historical context to set the stage.

Summary of the Book

The summary should provide a concise overview of the book’s plot, main characters and major events. Be careful not to reveal too many spoilers or give away the ending. Your goal is to give the reader enough information to understand the book’s basic storyline without revealing all the details. Focus on the key turning points and character developments that drive the story forward.

Analysis of the Book

This is where you’ll delve deeper into the book’s themes, symbolism and literary devices. Analyze the author’s writing style, character development and the book’s overall message or significance. Provide examples and quotes from the text to support your analysis. Explore how the author uses techniques like foreshadowing, metaphor or irony to convey deeper meanings.

In your analysis, you can also discuss the book’s strengths and weaknesses. What did the author do particularly well? Were there any areas that fell short or felt underdeveloped? How does the book compare to other works in the same genre or by the same author?

Personal Reflection

In this section, you’ll share your personal thoughts and opinions about the book. Did you enjoy it? What did you like or dislike about the book? How did it impact you or change your perspective? Be specific and provide examples to support your reflection.

You can also relate the book’s themes or characters to your own life experiences or observations. Did the book’s exploration of a particular issue resonate with you in a personal way? How did the characters’ struggles or triumphs mirror or contrast with your own?

The conclusion should summarize your main points and provide a final evaluation of the book. Reiterate your overall impression and whether you would recommend the book to others. You can also suggest potential audiences who might particularly enjoy or benefit from reading the book.

Formatting and Style

Different teachers or professors may have specific formatting requirements, so be sure to follow their guidelines. Generally, book reports should be written in a clear, concise and well-organized manner. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation and ensure that your writing flows smoothly from one section to the next.

Divide your report into logical sections with appropriate subheadings to guide the reader. Use transitional phrases and sentences to connect your ideas and create a cohesive flow. Vary your sentence structure to maintain the reader’s interest and avoid monotony.

Southern Novels

If you’re looking for Southern novels with powerful themes, memorable characters and compelling settings to write a book report on, here are a few suggestions:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee This classic novel, set in the 1930s Alabama, explores themes of racial injustice, courage and the loss of innocence. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, readers witness the trial of Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of a crime, and the resilience of Atticus Finch, Scout’s father and a moral beacon in the community.

The Color Purple by Alice Walker This powerful novel, set in rural Georgia, follows the life of Celie, a young black girl who endures abuse and hardship but ultimately finds her voice and self-worth. Through a series of letters to God and her sister Nettie, Celie’s story unfolds, tackling themes of racism, domestic violence and the search for love and acceptance.

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd Set in 1964 South Carolina, this novel tells the story of Lily Owens, a young white girl who flees her abusive home and finds refuge with an eccentric group of black beekeepers. As Lily unravels the mystery of her mother’s death, she discovers the power of female solidarity and the importance of confronting the past.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett This novel, set in Jackson, Mississippi, during the 1960s, explores the relationship between white families and their black maids—and the struggles they faced during the Civil Rights Movement. Through the perspectives of Aibileen, Minny and Skeeter, readers gain insight into the harsh realities of segregation and the resilience of those who fought against it.

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy This novel follows the life of Tom Wingo, a former college basketball player from South Carolina, as he confronts his troubled family history and personal demons. Conroy’s vivid prose and exploration of themes like mental illness, family dynamics and the complexities of the human psyche make this a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Remember, a well-written book report should not only summarize the book but also provide insight into its themes, characters and significance. With careful reading, thoughtful analysis and clear writing, you can create a compelling and informative book report that will impress your teacher or professor and deepen your understanding of the literature.

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Keila Shaheen’s “The Shadow Work Journal” shows how radically book sales and marketing have been changed by TikTok.

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Glay is part of the army of TikTok influencers who helped turn “The Shadow Work Journal” into a mega best seller. He’s so closely associated with the book that people often assume he wrote it. “It became a daily thing to tell people I’m not the author,” he said.

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The real creator of “The Shadow Work Journal” is Keila Shaheen, a 25-year-old writer from Texas with a background in marketing who self-published the book in 2021, and has since been crowned “the self-help queen of TikTok .”

After the journal blew up on TikTok, Shaheen went on to sell more than a million copies. Most of those — nearly 700,000 copies — were sold through the TikTok shop, and were marketed relentlessly by passionate influencers like Glay, who earn a 15 percent commission on each sale from Zenfulnote, Shaheen’s company.

Shaheen’s unusual path to bestsellerdom shows how radically book marketing and sales have been changed by TikTok. Over the past few years, publishers have frantically rushed to harness the power of the platform as viral videos and reviews by influencers have propelled sales for blockbuster authors like Colleen Hoover, Emily Henry and Sarah J. Maas.

But Shaheen is perhaps the first self-published nonfiction author to break out in a big way on the platform, a feat she accomplished by fully harnessing its potential not just for marketing, but for direct sales.

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Simon & Schuster won her over with an unusual arrangement: a seven-figure advance, plus a 50-50 profit share. Publishers typically give authors an advance and then a 15 percent cut of royalties if they earn back the advance. The deal included a new, expanded edition of “The Shadow Work Journal,” which was released in late April, with a first printing of 100,000 copies, plus two new books by Shaheen.

“We really wanted to show Keila that we had a long-term vision,” said Michelle Herrera Mulligan, the vice president and associate publisher of Primero Sueño Press/Atria, the Simon & Schuster imprint that signed Shaheen. “There is still a huge untapped audience for this book.”

In person, Shaheen comes across as soft-spoken and reserved, not as a hyper-driven entrepreneur or a charismatic wellness guru.

During an interview in late April at a restaurant in Midtown Manhattan, Shaheen seemed slightly stunned by the flood of attention, and money, that her book has generated. The next day, she appeared on “Good Morning America” to promote the new edition of “The Shadow Work Journal,” then had meetings at her publisher and literary agent’s offices.

Shaheen, who has suffered from acute social anxiety in the past, was surprised by how calm she felt, she said.

“I’m a huge introvert, so that was a testament to how much I’ve grown,” she said.

Shaheen first encountered the idea of shadow work in 2021, when she was feeling anxious and adrift in the wake of the pandemic. After graduating from Texas A&M in 2020 with a degree in business and psychology, she found work in online retail and marketing — including a stint as a creative strategist for TikTok. Coming out of the isolation of Covid, Shaheen felt disconnected, and found working in a corporate environment overwhelming.

One day, while searching online for therapeutic journaling prompts, she came across references to the Swiss psychoanalyst Carl Jung’s idea of the shadow self, which holds that parts of our unconscious can mask hidden fears and desires. She learned about a practice called shadow work, a somewhat fringe field that draws on Jung’s ideas to guide people as they interrogate their shadow selves, with the goal of accepting parts of themselves that make them feel guilty, ashamed or afraid.

Shaheen started posting videos on Instagram and TikTok about shadow work exercises she was trying, and began getting messages from viewers asking for a printed guide. So in the fall of 2021, she self-published the journal, and began selling copies for $19.99.

The first edition — which didn’t even have Shaheen’s name on the cover — was a slim paperback that guided readers through shadow work with interactive exercises, including Mad Lib-style fill-in-the-blanks (“As a child, I was told not to ___, this made me very ___”), inner child affirmations (“I am protected”) and journaling prompts (“What is your biggest fear in life?”).

Sales were slow at first. Then, in late 2022, TikTok expanded into online retail. The platform started selling products directly through the app, and created an affiliate program, which allowed influencers to post videos about products in the store and earn a commission. Once Shaheen started selling the journal through TikTok, requests came pouring in from influencers who wanted free copies in exchange for video promotion.

TikTok was soon flooded with emotional videos of users filling out the journal’s pages; some gushed that the journal is cheaper than therapy .

The journal also drew some skepticism. Some on social media attacked shadow work as anti-Christian and even demonic. Others said it failed to live up to the hype, or complained that their feeds seemed to be wallpapered with ads for the journal.

Still others questioned Shaheen’s credentials as a mental health guide. Shaheen — who is described in her author bio as “a certified sound healer and behavioral therapy practitioner” — completed an online training course in cognitive-behavioral therapy, but is not a licensed therapist.

Some experts in Jungian psychology worry that “The Shadow Work Journal” oversimplifies Jung’s ideas.

“My concern about it is that the shadow is really complex,” said Connie Zweig, a retired psychotherapist who has published several books on shadow work. “It can be risky to go exploring in the dark without guidance, without expertise.”

Shaheen said that she always intended the journal to be an introduction to shadow work, not a comprehensive guide.

“The journal is meant to be a bridge,” she said. “I wouldn’t say that it’s created to replace therapy.”

By September, the book hit No. 1 on Amazon. In October, Shaheen met with two agents from United Talent Agency, Rebecca Gradinger and Albert Lee. The agency could help her build an international audience and get her book in physical stores, they told her.

Shaheen signed with them about a week before the Frankfurt Book Fair, the largest fair for international rights in publishing, and the agency then sold translation rights to “The Shadow Work Journal” in 27 countries, Lee said.

Shaheen was still reluctant to hand over U.S. rights to “The Shadow Work Journal.” She was already a best seller, and “the initial offers weren’t compelling,” she said. Her agents agreed that a typical publishing deal might not benefit her.

“Keila’s at the vanguard of unlocking this entirely new market and ecosystem,” Lee said. “It became very obvious that in traditional publishing, we were all well behind what Keila was doing.”

Shaheen was swayed by Primero Sueño’s profit-splitting offer, which came with a plan to publish and market Spanish-language editions. Shaheen, whose father is from Puerto Rico and whose mother is from Brazil, saw the potential to expand her reach among Spanish speakers.

It’s still unclear whether “The Shadow Work Journal” will catch on with a wider demographic, or if it owes its popularity to a viral trend that has waned. So far, the new edition has sold nearly 18,000 copies, according to Circana Bookscan — a healthy amount, but hardly a hit.

Herrera Mulligan, Primero Sueño’s publisher, said “The Shadow Work Journal” is just the beginning: “We really want her to be the new empress of self-help.”

Primero Sueño is now aiming to saturate the self-help market with Shaheen’s books, and has set an aggressive publishing schedule, releasing two more of Shaheen’s self-published titles this year — one in July, another in October. The titles, along with her poetry collection, are big on TikTok and have sold around 100,000 copies collectively on the platform.

She is also working on two new books: one about the origins and applications of shadow work and another titled “The Light Work Journal,” which prompts readers to reflect on and enhance their strengths.

And Shaheen, no longer held back by social anxiety, seems ready to embrace the spotlight. Unlike the first edition of “The Shadow Work Journal,” the new edition features her name in large font — under a banner that says “more than 1 million copies sold.”

Alexandra Alter writes about books, publishing and the literary world for The Times. More about Alexandra Alter

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Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing

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Book reports share some similarity with essay writing: both can rely on exposition to communicate information, and both should share some prewriting organizational strategies, such as brainstorming, outlining, drafting and revision. However, essays are significantly more complex than book reports, in both the forms an essay can take as well as the individual challenges faced when writing one.

Purpose of a Book Report Vs. an Essay

A book report focuses primarily on providing a summary of a book rather than making an argument about it. The objective is to give brief descriptions of the plot, characters, setting and theme, along with other basic information such as the title and name of the author. An essay, even a descriptive or expository essay, requires a thesis, or a claim that you are trying to prove by means of a logical written investigation.

Structure Differences

The common length of a book report is anywhere from 250-500 words and doesn't have to adhere to any particular construction: it could be a single paragraph or two or three, depending on the teacher's directions or the choice of the student. an essay, however, must follow a formal structure, which is slightly different depending on the type of essay. For example, all essays must have separate paragraphs for the introduction, body and conclusion, as well as for each separate idea in the body. Some essays, like the extended definition, should also have a separate paragraph for exposition before the main body.

Differences in Methods

Essays rely on rhetorical strategies to prove their claims. The three appeals of logos, pathos and ethos are often applied. Logos refers to the use of facts to prove a claim. Pathos is an appeal to the emotions of the reader. For example, if you're writing an essay to persuade the government to outlaw smoking, you might tell the story of how a loved one died from smoking-related lung cancer. Ethos is an ethical appeal in which you attempt to use the reader's sense of ethics as support for your own argument. Book reports don't utilize appeals because they argue a claim; they simply describe a text.

Educational Setting

Book reports are usually assigned in the K-12 setting, but most often at the elementary and middle school levels. Essay writing is assigned from the middle school level up through the highest levels of graduate education and professional level as well. This is because the book report is a rudimentary writing mode, a precursor to essay writing. Students first learn how to communicate basic information clearly in book reports before taking on the challenge of asserting a logical and thorough argument.

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Christopher Cascio is a memoirist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing and literature from Southampton Arts at Stony Brook Southampton, and a Bachelor of Arts in English with an emphasis in the rhetoric of fiction from Pennsylvania State University. His literary work has appeared in "The Southampton Review," "Feathertale," "Kalliope" and "The Rose and Thorn Journal."

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Donald Trump found guilty in historic New York hush money case

A New York jury on Thursday found Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records — the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime.

The jury reached its verdict in the historic case after 9½ hours of deliberations, which began Wednesday. 

He'll be sentenced on July 11, four days before the Republican National Convention. He faces penalties from a fine to four years in prison on each count, although it's expected he would be sentenced for the offenses concurrently, not consecutively.

Follow live updates here.

"This was a disgrace. This was a rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt,” Trump fumed to reporters afterward.

The verdict was read in the Manhattan courtroom where Trump has been on trial since April 15. He had pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment his former lawyer Michael Cohen made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the final weeks of the 2016 presidential election.

Trump looked down with his eyes narrowed as the jury foreperson read the word "guilty" to each count.

The judge thanked the jurors for their service in the weekslong trial. “You gave this matter the attention it deserved, and I want to thank you for that,” Judge Juan Merchan told them. Trump appeared to be scowling at the jurors as they walked by him on their way out of the courtroom.

Trump's attorney Todd Blanche made a motion for acquittal after the jury left the room, which the judge denied.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg would not comment on what type of sentence he might seek, saying his office would do its talking in court papers.

"While this defendant may be unlike any other in American history, we arrived at this trial and ultimately today at this verdict in the same manner as every other case that comes to the courtroom doors — by following the facts and the law in doing so, without fear or favor," Bragg said. Asked for his reaction to the verdict, Bragg, who was inundated with threats from Trump supporters during the probe, said, "I did my job. We did our job."

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president, immediately set out fundraising off the news, posting on his website that he's "a political prisoner" and urging his followers to give money.

Legal experts have told NBC News that even if Trump is sentenced to time behind bars, he'd most likely be allowed to remain out of jail while he appeals the verdict, a process that could take months or more. That means the sentence would most likely not interfere with his ability to accept the Republican nomination for president at the July convention.

And it likely wouldn't impact his ability to be elected. "There are no other qualifications other than those in the Constitution,” Chuck Rosenberg, a former U.S. attorney and NBC News & MSNBC Legal Analyst said following Thursday’s verdict.

President Joe Biden's campaign praised the verdict in a statement but stressed that Trump needs to be defeated in November.

“In New York today, we saw that no one is above the law," said the campaign's communications director, Michael Tyler, but the "verdict does not change the fact that the American people face a simple reality. There is still only one way to keep Donald Trump out of the Oval Office: at the ballot box."

In his closing argument this week, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass told the jury that “the law is the law, and it applies to everyone equally. There is no special standard for this defendant.”

“You, the jury, have the ability to hold the defendant accountable,” Steinglass said.

Trump had maintained that the DA’s office had no case and that there had been no crime. “President Trump is innocent. He did not commit any crimes,” Blanche said in his closing statement, arguing the payments to Cohen were legitimate.

Prosecutors said the disguised payment to Cohen was part of a “planned, coordinated long-running conspiracy to influence the 2016 election, to help Donald Trump get elected through illegal expenditures, to silence people who had something bad to say about his behavior, using doctored corporate records and bank forms to conceal those payments along the way.”

“It was election fraud. Pure and simple,” prosecutor Matthew Colangelo said in his opening statement.

While Trump wasn’t charged with conspiracy, prosecutors argued he caused the records to be falsified because he was trying to cover up a violation of state election law — and falsifying business records with the intent to cover another crime raises the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. 

Trump was convicted after a sensational weekslong trial that included combative testimony from Cohen, Trump’s self-described former fixer, and Daniels, who testified that she had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006 after she met him at a celebrity golf tournament. Trump has denied her claim, and his attorney had suggested that Cohen acted on his own because he thought it would make “the boss” happy.

Other witnesses included former White House staffers, among them adviser Hope Hicks, former Trump Organization executives and former National Enquirer publisher David Pecker.  

Trump didn’t take the witness stand to offer his own account of what happened, even though he proclaimed before the trial began that he would “absolutely” testify. The defense’s main witness was Robert Costello, a lawyer whom Cohen considered retaining in 2018. Costello, who testified that Cohen had told him Trump had nothing to do with the Daniels’ payment, enraged Merchan by making disrespectful comments and faces on the stand. At one point, the judge cleared the courtroom during Costello’s testimony and threatened to hold him in contempt. 

Cohen testified that he lied to Costello because he didn’t trust him and that he’d lied to others about Trump’s involvement at the time because he wanted to protect his former boss.

Cohen was the lone witness to testify to Trump’s direct involvement in the $130,000 payment and the subsequent reimbursement plan. Blanche spent days challenging his credibility, getting Cohen to acknowledge he has a history of lying, including under oath.

Cohen said he was paid the Daniels cash in a series of payments from Trump throughout 2017 that the Trump Organization characterized as payments pursuant to a retainer agreement “for legal services rendered.”

Prosecutors said there was no such agreement, and Cohen’s version of events was supported by documentary evidence and witness testimony. 

Blanche contended that the series of checks then-President Trump paid Cohen in 2017 “was not a payback to Mr. Cohen for the money that he gave to Ms. Daniels” and that he was being paid for his legal work as Trump’s personal lawyer.

Testimony from Jeff McConney, a former senior vice president at Trump’s company, challenged that position. McConney said the company’s chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, told him that Cohen was being reimbursed for a $130,000 payment, and prosecutors entered Weisselberg’s handwritten notes about the payment formula as evidence. Cohen said Trump agreed to the arrangement in a meeting with him and Weisselberg just days before he was inaugurated as the 45th president.

Weisselberg didn't testify. He’s in jail on a perjury charge related to his testimony in New York Attorney General Letitia James’ civil fraud case against Trump and his company. Cohen, McConney and other witnesses said Weisselberg, who spent decades working for Trump, always sought his approval for large expenditures. 

In all, the prosecution called 20 witnesses, while the defense called two.

Trump had frequently claimed, falsely, that the charges against him were a political concoction orchestrated by Biden to keep him off the campaign trail. But Trump eventually managed to bring the campaign to the courtroom, hosting top Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana and Sens. JD Vance of Ohio and Rick Scott of Florida, as his guests in court. Trump also used court breaks to tout political messages to his supporters, while his surrogates sidestepped Merchan’s gag order by attacking witnesses, individual prosecutors and Merchan’s daughter.

Merchan fined Trump $10,000 during the trial for violating his order, including attacks on Cohen and Daniels, and warned he could have him locked up if he continued violating the order.

Cohen celebrated the verdict in a post on X. "Today is an important day for accountability and the rule of law. While it has been a difficult journey for me and my family, the truth always matters," Cohen wrote.

Trump was indicted in March of last year after a yearslong investigation by Bragg and his predecessor, Cyrus Vance. The charges were the first ever brought against a former president, although Trump has since been charged and pleaded not guilty in three other cases. None of the three — a federal election interference case in Washington, D.C., a state election interference case in Georgia and a federal case alleging he mishandled classified documents and national security information — appear likely to go to trial before the Nov. 5 presidential election.

Adam Reiss is a reporter and producer for NBC and MSNBC.

Gary Grumbach produces and reports for NBC News, based in Washington, D.C.

Dareh Gregorian is a politics reporter for NBC News.

Tom Winter is a New York-based correspondent covering crime, courts, terrorism and financial fraud on the East Coast for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Jillian Frankel is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.