How To Write A Book Review

So, let's think about the types of books we might be reviewing. If it's a thriller, your job is a bit limited. You can't reveal too much about the plot, or you'd ruin it for the readers.

So essentially, you're going to give the setting, something about the characters, and you're going to say something about whether it's up to the standard of the writer's previous work or how it compares with other thrillers on the same topic. It it's more general fiction, you've got a broader canvas and you want to talk more about the themes and the characters and the issues that the writer is exploring, and you'll probably spend a bit more time on the quality of the writing. And how about non-fiction? Well, this is probably the bit where you're catering mostly for readers who won't read the book.

So you want to read the secrets; you want the juicy bits. And the job of the reviewer is to get out those juicy bits in front of the reader (the truth is, they probably won't read the book). Make notes as you read; anything that strikes you as particularly apt, clever, good, outstanding, representative of the book, of the writer's style; make a note of that.

And actually quote a passage from the writer, so that the reader has a chance to absorb a bit of the writer's style, and not just yours. And, be critical. That's part of your job, so don't shy away from it.

If the author has written something that he or she then contradicts, point that out. But you want to strike a balance as well. People don't just want to read you; they want an insight into this writer.

Bearing those things in mind, go and write it. It's very much like an essay. A book review is actually like your school essays.

It's an expression of opinion, but it's supported by evidence. A lot of people also expect a review to be very well written; they'll be reading your words critically. So, read through everything you've written, and make sure it really fills the bill. .