How to Read A Book To Write A Review

To write a good book review you must read with the thought process that you will write a review. This means that you must follow some simple steps to set you on the right path. Have you ever tried to tell a friend that you read a good book but could not express yourself completely on why you thought that the book was good or in some cases not a good one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Examine a book. Notice the publication date and any blurbs or comments about the author or book. If there is a preface or forward, read it. Take note of any maps, tables, appendices, notes, or bibliographies.
2. Read a note. Take notes and write down your thoughts as you read a book, but remember that due to space limitations in a review most of your notes will not be used.
3. Establish the thesis. Try to establish the thesis of the book and its major arguments and supportive statements.
4. Make an outline. When you finish reading the book, prepare and outline for your review, applying the information contained in your notes. Although a book review is a very brief essay, writing an outline will insure that your cover all the main points in an orderly fashion.
5. Read background material. To find out more about the author, consult various biographical sources in the Reference Department, including the Biography and Genealogy Master Index.
   
   You may also want to read what other reviewers have written about the book. If you are not familiar with subject matter of the book, you can read general encyclopedia articles or books on the subject. For assistance or more information, consult a Reference librarian.