my book report story

How to Write a Book Report

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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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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

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Watch CBS News

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem stands by decision to kill dog, share it in new book

Updated on: April 30, 2024 / 9:28 AM EDT / CBS/AP

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem – who has been considered to be a potential running mate for presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump – addressed on Sunday the recent attention on her new book where she writes about killing an unruly dog and a goat.

The Guardian obtained a copy of Noem's soon-to-be-released book, "No Going Back: The Truth on What's Wrong with Politics and How We Move American Forward." Noem is scheduled to be interviewed on "Face the Nation" next week about her upcoming book, set to be released on May 7. 

In it, she tells the story of the ill-fated Cricket, a 14-month-old wirehaired pointer she was training for pheasant hunting.

She writes, according to the Guardian, that the tale was included to show her willingness to do anything "difficult, messing and ugly" if it has to be done. The backlash was swift against the Republican governor and on Sunday, she addressed the issue on social media. 

"I can understand why some people are upset about a 20 year old story of Cricket, one of the working dogs at our ranch, in my upcoming book — No Going Back," she wrote in a post on X , the platform formally known as Twitter. "The book is filled with many honest stories of my life, good and bad days, challenges, painful decisions, and lessons learned."

In her book, Noem writes that she took Cricket on a hunting trip with older dogs in hopes of calming down the wild puppy. Instead, Cricket chased the pheasants while "having the time of her life."

On the way home from the hunting trip, Noem writes that she stopped to talk to a family. Cricket got out of Noem's truck and attacked and killed some of the family's chickens, then bit the governor.

On Sunday, she defended her decision to kill the dog, saying that "South Dakota law states that dogs who attack and kill livestock can be put down."

"Given that Cricket had shown aggressive behavior toward people by biting them, I decided what I did," Noem wrote. "Whether running the ranch or in politics, I have never passed on my responsibilities to anyone else to handle. Even if it's hard and painful. I followed the law and was being a responsible parent, dog owner, and neighbor."

In the book, Noem also writes that her family also owned a "nasty and mean" male goat that smelled bad and liked to chase her kids. She decided to go ahead and kill the goat, too. She writes that the goat survived the first shot, so she went back to the truck, got another shell, then shot him again, killing him.

The excerpts drew immediate criticism on social media platforms, where many posted photos of their own pets. President Joe Biden's reelection campaign surfaced the story on social media alongside a photo of Noem with Trump.

It's not the first time Noem has grabbed national attention.

A month ago when she posted an  infomercial-like video about cosmetic dental surgery  she received out-of-state.

In a nearly five-minute video on X, she praised a team of cosmetic dentists in Texas for giving her a smile she said she can be proud of. "I love my new family at Smile Texas!" she wrote.

In 2019, she stood behind the state's anti-meth campaign even as it became the  subject of some mockery  for the tagline "Meth. We're on it." Noem said the campaign got people talking about the methamphetamine epidemic and helped lead some to treatment.

• Kristi Noem
• South Dakota
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Writing Guides  /  How to Write the Perfect Book Report (4 easy steps)

How to Write the Perfect Book Report (4 easy steps)

Introduction

Writing the perfect book report shouldn’t be as daunting as it sounds.  With the right help, you can do it in no time at all.  In just four easy steps we’ll show you how.  First, let’s lay the groundwork and cover some basics—like, what is a book report?  What’s the difference between a book report and a book review?  And what kind of template or outline would you use?  We’ll give you all that and more.  Let’s get going!

What is a Book Report

In one sense, the best way to understand a book report is to understand what it is not.  A book report is not a critical analysis.  It is not an exhaustive examination.  It is not an evaluation or a synthesis of scholarly research regarding the book’s merits or intentions.  A book report is quite literally a report of what the book is—i.e., an objective report.  Like any report, you are sticking to the facts.

So, what facts?  Facts like:  the title, the author, the year of publication, the genre, the plot, the characters, and the themes.  The book report is basically a summary of everything about the book.  It describes the book from an objective point of view, as impartially as possible.

Difference between a Book Report and a Book Review

It’s easy to confuse a book report for a book review.  After all, they sound similar.  But they are really quite different.

A book report is informational.  A book review is critical.

A book report focuses on summarizing the book’s plot.  It may describe the characters, the setting, the author’s style of writing, where the book fits within a particular genre, what the author does in the book that resonates with or departs from what he has done in the past.  In other words, the book report tells the facts.  One can imagine the reader being a jury, and the book report is the lawyer telling the jury everything the book has done.  Subjective arguments or criticisms are not admissible.  Just the facts, and nothing but the facts.

A book review is much more than a book report.  The review analyzes, criticizes, reflects on and evaluates the merits of the book.  It can apply any theoretical perspective it wants to draw out an argument or present the book in a different light.  The review is more subjective in that sense; it is not about reporting the facts but rather about interpreting them.  The review is just that—an interpretation of the book.  It can discuss the strengths and/or weaknesses of the book.  The report, however, is a presentation of the facts of the book.  It does not weigh them or judge them; it merely presents them without commentary.

Now, with that said, it is important to remember that a book report does allow one the space to offer one’s own personal response to the book.  This is usually added at the end of the report and should only be a small section in relation to the rest of the review.  The personal reflection is not the main point of the book report.  It is rather a kind of add-on where the report opens itself up a bit to allow some review to get in.  Not much—just a little.  Otherwise, the report risks turning into a review—and that is not what should happen!

Book Report Template

A book report template is simply a standard approach to composing your report.  Here is an example of what that might look like, using To Kill a Mockingbird .

Title: To Kill a Mockingbird Author: Harper Lee Published: 1960 Genre: Southern Gothic, Bildungsroman (Coming-of-Age), Courtroom Drama

To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression. The story is narrated by Scout Finch, a young girl, and follows her and her brother Jem as they confront issues of morality, honor, justice/injustice, racism, fear, and prejudice in their own community. Their father, Atticus Finch, is for all intents and purposes a noble man who represents the moral backbone of the story:  he is an honest lawyer who is appointed to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, Mayella Ewell. The trial exposes some of the flaws of the people of the town.  Finch does a stand-up job of defending the innocent Tom, but in spite of the clear evidence showing Tom’s innocence, he is still convicted.  Some justice is done, however, in the end, as the true nature of Tom’s accuser is revealed—unfortunately it is a bloody ending.  Meanwhile, Scout and Jem also wrestle with their fascination and fear of their reclusive neighbor, Boo Radley, who ultimately becomes an unexpected protector and savior of the children.

• Scout Finch: The young, spirited narrator of the story.
• Jem Finch: Scout’s older brother, who shares in her adventures.
• Atticus Finch: Their father, a lawyer with a strong sense of justice and what is right.
• Tom Robinson: The black man unjustly accused of rape.
• Boo Radley: The mysterious and reclusive neighbor.
• Mayella Ewell: The white woman who falsely accuses Tom Robinson.
• Bob Ewell: Mayella’s racist and abusive father.

The novel focuses on themes of growing up, morality, racism, justice, and the mystery of human nature.  It could be called the original anti-cancel culture novel, as it deals ultimately with questions of empathy and understanding.

Writing Style

Harper Lee uses a first-person narrative style:  the story is seen and told through the eyes of the young girl Scout. This perspective gives the story a layer of innocence, authenticity, novelty, and sincerity.  It also opens the door for mature reflections on serious social issues thanks to insights given by Scout’s wise father Atticus. The Southern Gothic genre is evident in the setting and the exploration of social issues, the suspense, the violence, and the threatening issues underlying the plot.

Personal Reflection

I found this book to be a very good and a very powerful exploration of morality and justice, full of suspense and examples of good character.  Atticus Finch stands out as a just man doing good work and teaching good lessons.  The other characters are also well-developed, and the narrative style is effective in bringing together all the different genres.  The novel basically asks readers to reflect on their own lives and try to live to a high standard.

In conclusion, To Kill a Mockingbird is a modern classic and a novel that is as surprising and relevant today as it was some sixty years ago when it was first published.  As the saying goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same.  The fact that this novel still feels powerful even though generations have passed indicates that the issues it touches on are still very much in play today.  Plus, Harper Lee’s masterful prose, plotting, insight, and characters make this a must-read novel for all adolescent and adult readers.

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Book Report Outline

A basic book report outline can also help you with your composition.  Let’s look at an example using the book 1984 by George Orwell.

I.  Introduction

a.  Identify the author, the book, the year of publication, and the plot.

b.  Identify the genre: political/social satire; dystopian fiction

c.  Identify the main themes: totalitarianism and loss of free will.

d.  Identify the concepts: War is Peace; newspeak; doublethink.

e.  State the thesis—i.e., the main point of the review.

II.  Summary

a.  Setting

i.  Oceania

ii.  Inside and Outside the Party

b.  Main Characters

i.  Winston Smith—hero who questions the Party line and dares to oppose it, only to be crushed into subservience in the end

ii.  O’Brien—the seemingly well-meaning high-ranking Party member who lures the rebel lovers Winston and Julia back into the Party line

iii.  Julia—Winston’s love interest

iv.  Big Brother—the totalitarian government that spies on all, twists the meaning of words, and rewrites history to its purposes

v.  Emmanuel Goldstein—the mythical enemy of Oceania whose existence is used to justify the Party’s authoritarianism and totalitarianism

i.  Winston begins to doubt the Party line

ii.  He breaks with Party orthodoxy

iii.  He finds a kindred spirit in Julia and they begin a romance

iv.  The discovery a world outside the controls of Big Brother—a world where nature, authenticity, beauty, and harmony still exist

v.  Winston and Julia are betrayed by O’Brien and tortured into submission

vii.  Winston

III.  Themes

a.  Totalitarianism—Big Brother represents the totalitarianism of the novel

b.  Loss of free will—Winston breaks free from Big Brother, but comes up empty in the end because he has nothing stronger than the Party with which to combat O’Brien

IV.  Concepts

a.  War is Peace—a motto of the Party and an example of how Big Brother subverts common sense by promoting falsehood as truth

b.  Newspeak—the Party’s language, which denies reality by lying about what words mean

c.  Doublethink—when the Party’s indoctrination is so successful that one can hold two simultaneously contradictory thoughts in one’s head without trouble

V.  Personal Reflection

a.  Great book—a bit difficult to read at times—but very solid in terms of concepts that reflect the modern world

b.  Too close to reality in some ways

VI.  Conclusion

a.  Reiterate the main points

b.  What is the legacy of the book?

c.  Do you recommend it?

How to Write a Book Report (4 steps)

Before you start writing the book report, you need to read the book carefully and attentively.  As you read, take notes on important details such as the main characters, setting, key events, and any significant themes or symbols.  Pay attention to your own reactions to the book and any questions that you may have as you read. This preparatory step is essential as it provides the foundation for your book report.       You will use the notes you take during this step to write the report.

Once you have finished reading the book and have taken thorough notes, it is time to start organizing your thoughts. Create an outline to structure your report like the one in the example above.  Make sure you over all the necessary components. A typical book report includes information about the book:  summary of the plot, main characters, themes, writing style, genre, author, and so on.  The facts!  The best way to organize them is to create an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.  In the introduction, state your purpose.  In the body, stick to the main points—summary, characters, themes, etc.  In the conclusion, restate the purpose in new words and give your own personal recommendation.

Time to write the report!  With your notes and outline in hand, start writing. Follow the structure of your outline, so that every section flows logically to the next.  Use clear and concise language; use transitional sentences; avoid slang and casual language; and remember to be as objective as possible—no personal opinions or interpretations.  Save that for the personal reflection at the end.  It is also good practice to give specific examples from the book to support your report.

Edit and revise.  This is one of the most important steps, and unfortunately it is one that a lot of people avoid.  Just because you have written a first draft does not mean you are done.  Now you have to make sure it is devoid of mistakes.  Read over it twice, checking grammar, punctuation, style, and accuracy.  Make sure everything you have written is on topic and valid.  Correct any mistakes.  If you’re unsure, get a second opinion from someone who can help.

Book Report Example

Title: Fahrenheit 451 Author: Ray Bradbury Published: 1953 Genre: Dystopian Fiction; Science-Fiction

Fahrenheit 451 is a mid-20 th century science-fiction dystopian novel written by Ray Bradbury.  The setting is a future society where books are banned and “firemen” don’t put out fires—they start them.  Their job is to burn unlawful hoarding of books. The reason?  The old ways, wisdom, and knowledge of the Old World is deemed dangerous by the powers that be.  In other words, the world is upside down; common sense is uncommon, and truth is oppressed.  The hero of the book is Guy Montag.  Like Winston Smith in Orwell’s 1984, Montag begins to question the orthodoxy of the regime in power.  Then he steps out of line.  The result is a total change in life direction.  This book report will summarize the plot, identify the characters and themes of the novel, and provide a recommendation.

The novel opens with Guy Montag happily burning books as part of his job as a fireman. However, his contentment is disrupted when he meets his new neighbor, Clarisse McClellan, a young woman who opens his eyes to the beauty of nature. She opens a door for Montag that he did not know existed.

Guy becomes disillusioned with his work and begins to collect books and hide them in his home. His wife, Mildred, is obsessed with interactive television and is indifferent to Montag’s concerns. Montag contacts a former English professor named Faber for help in understanding the books he has collected.

Montag’s life unravels when his wife reports him, and he is forced to burn his own house down. In a fit of rage, he also kills his boss, Captain Beatty, with a flamethrower. Montag becomes a fugitive, on the run from the regime’s Mechanical Hound and the authorities.

In the end, Montag escapes the oppressive city and finds a group of friends who are like him:  they are led by a man named Granger. They welcome him, and he learns about their plan to preserve books by memorizing their contents. The novel closes with Montag looking forward to a better future where the Old World wisdom and art is honored and restored.

Themes, Genre, and Style

One of the themes of the book is censorship; but if one looks more closely one sees that dehumanization is actually the bigger theme.  The book is about what it means to be disconnected from society, to live vicariously through TV, and to be so denatured that the natural world seems abhorrent.  The novel criticizes the isolating effects of technology, as shown by Mildred’s obsession with her TV screens.

Bradbury uses an easy-to-read literary style within the science-fiction dystopian genre to paint a concerning view of the here and now. The book reads as a warning about where society is heading if it continues to censor anyone who clings to the old ways in the face of the “progress” pushed by the regime.

Fahrenheit 451 is a modern classic—a great book that I whole-heartedly recommend.  It is a terrific reminder of what we have and what we can lose if we fail to take care of our literary heritage.  It is not just the knowledge, beauty, wisdom and art of these books that might be lost; it is also our own humanity.

There!  At last, you should have a really good idea of how to write the perfect book report.  If you follow these recommendations, that work you may have been putting off might now just be able to basically write itself.  Trust us, we’ve been doing this for years!  Stick to our steps, and you won’t have any further difficulties when it comes to your next book report.  Happy writing…

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How to Write a Book Report

5-minute read

• 5th September 2021

A book report is an essay that summarizes the main ideas presented by the author. But how do you write a good book report? Our top tips include:

• Check the assignment instructions so you know what you need to do.
• Read the book , making notes as you go.
• Plan your book report and create an essay outline .
• Write up your report , using examples and quotes to support your points.
• Revise and proofread your work to eliminate errors.

In the rest of this post, we look at how to write a book report in more detail.

1. Check the Assignment Instructions

Book reports come in many different types, so the first thing you should do if you’re asked to write one is check the assignment instructions carefully. Key aspects of the essay instructions to pay attention to include:

• The required length of the book report (and any maximum word count ).
• Whether you will be assigned a book to write about or whether you will be asked to pick one yourself (either from a list supplied by the tutor or based on a set of requirements, such as a book about a set topic).
• What aspects of the book to write about (e.g., will it just be a summary of the book’s content, or will you also need to offer some critical analysis?).
• Any requirements for structuring and formatting your report (e.g., whether to break the essay up into sections with headings and subheadings).

If anything about the instructions is unclear, check it with your tutor.

2. Read the Book and Make Notes

Next, you’ll need to read the book you’re writing about in full, not just skim through or read a synopsis! This means you’ll need to leave enough time before the deadline to read the text thoroughly (and write up your report).

When you are reading, moreover, make sure to take notes on:

• Basic bibliographic details, including the title, author name(s), year of publication, publisher, and number of pages.
• How the book is structured (e.g., whether it uses chapters).
• The overall plot or argument, plus key ideas and/or plot points from each part.
• For works of fiction, important characters and themes.
• Significant quotations or examples you might want to use in your report.

Where possible, make sure to note down page numbers as well. This will make it easier to find the relevant parts again when you’re reviewing your notes.

3. Outline Your Book Report

How you structure your report will ultimately depend on the length (e.g., a short, 500-word report is unlikely to use separate sections and headings, while a longer one will need these to help break up the text and guide the reader) and the assignment instructions, so make sure to review these carefully.

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However, common elements of a book report include:

• An introductory paragraph or section with basic book details (e.g., the title, author(s), genre, publisher, publication date, and intended audience).
• Information about the author’s background and, where relevant, credentials.
• An overview of the book’s plot (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or its main idea (other non-fiction), sometimes with a section-by-section breakdown.
• Information on characters, setting, and themes (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or key ideas and concepts set out by the author (other non-fiction).
• Where required, critical analysis or evaluation of the book.

When planning your book report, then, use your notes and the assignment instructions to outline your essay, breaking it down into clearly defined sections and noting what you will include in each one.

4. Write Up Your Book Report

When it comes to writing up your report, helpful tips include:

• Imagine the reader will be unfamiliar with the book and try to ensure your report covers all the information they’d need to know what it is about.
• Use clear, concise language to make your report easy to follow. Look out for wordiness and repetition, and don’t be tempted to pad out your report with irrelevant details just to increase the word count!
• Use examples and quotations to support your points (but don’t rely too heavily on quotations; keep in mind that the report should be in your own words).
• Follow the formatting instructions set out in your style guide or the assignment instructions (e.g., for fonts, margins, and presenting quotations).

If you use quotations in your report, moreover, make sure to include page numbers! This will help the reader find the passages you’ve quoted.

5. Revise and Proofread Your Work

When you have the first draft of your book report, if you have time, take a short break (e.g., overnight) before re-reading it. This will help you view it objectively. Then, when you do re-read it, look out for ways you could improve it, such as:

• Typos and other errors that need correcting.
• Issues with clarity or places where the writing could be more concise (reading your work aloud can make it easier to spot clunky sentences).
• Passages that would benefit from being supported with a quote or example.

It’s also a good idea to re-read the assignment instructions one last time before submitting your work, which will help you spot any issues you missed.

Finally, if you’d like some extra help checking your writing, you can have it proofread by a professional . Submit a free sample document today to find out more.

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How to write a book report: 9 simple steps.

• January 8, 2024

Table of Contents:

Step 1: choose the book, step 2: read the book carefully, step 3: take notes, step 4: understand the assignment guidelines, step 5: outline., step 6: write a draft, step 7: analyze and evaluate, step 8: conclude thoughtfully, step 9: submit or share, conclusion:, book report.

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When writing a book report, you want to do more than just list the characters’ names, describe the plot, and summarize the action. You want to give a thoughtful analysis of each of these aspects and provide a context for your ideas by explaining how your experience reading the book affected your reaction to it.

But what if you’ve never written a book report before? What if you’ve only read one or two and gotten an F on them? How can you write a great book report?

That’s why we put together this guide: by following our 9 simple steps, you’ll be able to learn how to write a book report that will wow both your teacher and yourself!

To learn how to write a report, you must first pick up a book.

When choosing a book, many options are available, especially from American book writers . Look for authors who have made significant contributions to literature and have a writing style that resonates with you.

Consider the genre and subject matter that you find intriguing. Whether it’s a classic novel, a thought-provoking non-fiction work, or a contemporary bestseller, ensure it fits your assignment or personal reading goals.

An important aspect to consider is your comprehension level. It’s essential to choose a book that you can understand and engage with fully. If the language or complexity of the book is too challenging, it might hinder your enjoyment and comprehension. To avoid this, you can read reviews or sample chapters to understand the writing style and difficulty level.

Additionally, think about how the chosen book aligns with your interests. Reading something that genuinely captivates you will make the journey more enjoyable. It will also encourage you to delve deeper, analyze different aspects, and gain a more profound understanding of the book’s themes and messages.

When reading the book, it’s crucial to approach it with careful attention and focus. As you delve into the pages, make note of the essential elements, such as the plot, characters, and themes. Doing this step will help you learn how to write a book report.

Take time to understand the details of the story and how they interconnect. Pay attention to any notable quotes or passages that resonate with you.

It’s also important to consider the author’s writing style and the book’s overall tone. Some authors have a poetic or descriptive style, while others may have a more straightforward and concise approach. Understanding the writing style can enhance your appreciation for the book and help you analyze how effectively the author communicates their ideas.

Experienced book publishers play a vital role in the selection and publication of books. They have a keen eye for quality writing and can identify books that have the potential to engage readers. Taking note of the experiences and recommendations of trusted publishers can be a helpful guide in selecting well-crafted and engaging books.

As you read, take notes in the margins and use a highlighter to mark important passages. This will help you to remember what you found interesting or relevant.

It’s also helpful to write down any questions while reading. These can be used as prompts for an introductory paragraph or section of your report.

When writing a report, it’s important to be concise. You don’t want to just list the facts and figures–you want your reader to understand what they mean and how they relate to one another.

This is where your notes will come in handy. You can use them to ensure that the information you include is relevant, clear, and concise. You might start by briefly outlining what you want to include in each section of your report.

Understanding the guidelines and expectations of a book report assignment is crucial in learning how to write a book report and create insightful analysis.

For an academic task or personal project, familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements set by your instructor or the parameters of your project is essential. Pay attention to details such as the desired report length, formatting guidelines, and the depth of analysis expected.

In addition to adhering to assignment guidelines, employing a structured approach enhances the quality of your book report. Creating an outline delineating sections like introduction, summary, analysis, and conclusion helps organize your thoughts and ensures a coherent presentation of your ideas.

As you’re reading, it’s easy to get lost in the details of a book and forget its overall structure. Before writing it out, you must think about how your paper will be organized.

Your outline should include:

• A summary of what happened in each chapter (or section). This is especially helpful if there are many characters or locations in your story; having this information written down will help keep them straight as you write about them later.
• A list of important facts from each section/chapter that support your thesis statement (the main idea behind your essay). For example, if my thesis is “This book was very confusing,” then I would want examples from throughout the book where things were confusing to use as evidence when defending this point later in my essay.

In this step, you will write a draft of your book report. You may want to use some sticky notes or index cards to help organize your thoughts. But try not to get too caught up in formatting at this point. The most important thing is that you’ve got all the information on paper, making it easy for others to read and understand.

If possible, get feedback from someone else who has also read the book. Perhaps another student who took this class with you or even one of their parents! Ask them if they agree with how much detail went into each section of your report. Also, ask them if there were any areas where more explanation would benefit readers.

Once you have finished reading the book, it’s time to dive into a deeper analysis and evaluation. Start by identifying the book’s strengths and weaknesses. Consider aspects such as character development, writing style, themes, and the overall message conveyed by the author.

This evaluation will help you understand the book better and allow you to form your own opinions and interpretations.

For instance, if you read one of the best psychological horror books , analyze how effectively the author builds suspense and delivers psychological chills. Explore how the characters are developed and whether their psychological struggles are portrayed convincingly. Evaluate the writing style and how it adds to the atmosphere of fear and unease.

Be sure to offer personal insights and opinions. Discuss what resonated with you, what surprised you, or what you found particularly effective. Share any connections you drew between the book and your own experiences or beliefs.

Concluding a book report requires a thoughtful reflection on the main points discussed throughout the report. There is a simple way to learn how to wrap a book ; Consider it a way to encapsulate your thoughts and impressions after engaging with the book.

Start by summarizing the main points you raised throughout the report. Highlight key elements such as the plot, characters, themes, and writing style that stood out to you. This summary allows the reader to recollect the important aspects of the book you discussed.

Next, reflect on the book’s impact and relevance. Did the book leave a lasting impression on you? Did it challenge your perspectives or offer new insights? Consider how the book fits into the larger literary landscape.

Lastly, share your recommendation. Would you recommend this book to others? Explain your reasoning behind your recommendation. Discuss who might enjoy the book and why it could benefit different readers.

By concluding thoughtfully, you provide a satisfying end to your book report while leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your thoughts and recommendations. Remember to combine your main points and insights to create a cohesive and impactful ending.

Sharing your insights on a book report can be as rewarding as the reading process itself. After completing the analysis and crafting a comprehensive report, the final step is crucial—submitting or sharing your work. This step aligns with the purpose of your assignment, whether it’s for academic evaluation or sharing valuable perspectives.

When submitting your book report, ensure adherence to any specific guidelines your instructor or institution provides. Format the document according to the required structure, including title pages, citations (if applicable), and additional components.

On the other hand, if you’re sharing your thoughts and recommendations informally, consider the audience. Whether it’s peers, friends, or fellow book enthusiasts, engagingly conveys your key takeaways. Highlight the aspects that resonated with you, discuss the character’s themes, and provide insightful critiques.

Remember, the essence of sharing your book report lies in enthusiasm and confidence. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your analytical skills and understanding of the book, inspiring others to explore the same literary journey. Ultimately, enjoy the process and be proud of the effort you’ve dedicated to the report!

Writing a book report is a great way to get your name and show off your writing skills. It’s also a great way to improve your reading comprehension skills, as you must read the book closely and analyze it to write a good report.

If you’re ready to get started with your book report, use these 9 steps as a guide!

By following these nine steps and considering the additional tips, you’ll be able to craft a comprehensive and insightful book report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

6. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. This teacher blogger describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

7. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

8. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. See the sandwich and pizza options above and check out this blog for more delicious ideas.

9. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

10. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc. A fun adaptation of this project is the book report cheeseburger.

11. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

12. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over the report.

13. T-Shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint. Get step-by-step directions .

14. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

15. Watercolor Rainbow Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

16. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

17. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

18. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

19. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

20. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

21. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

22. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

23. Book Report Triorama

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but Elisha Ann provides a lesson to show students how to glue four triangles together to make a 4D model.

24. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8 x 11 sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

25. Clothes Hanger Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

26. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then give them a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

27. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels , and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

28. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

29. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

30. Letter to the Author

Write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

31. Book Report Charm Bracelet

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

33. Cereal Box TV Book Report

This book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut-out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

34. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

35. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

36. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach , this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

37. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment. For more, here are step-by-step directions .

38. Comic strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strips. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

39. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

40. Cereal Box

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report Wheaties-style. Decorate all sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a “wanted” poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

What creative book report ideas did we miss? Come share in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most popular kids’ books in every grade..

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How to Write a Book Report in 4 Easy Steps

by Yen Cabag | 2 comments

Book reports are a common requirement for students, all the way from elementary school to university. Knowing how to write them will help you finish your assignment a lot faster, and also give you a better chance of wowing your instructors.

Book reports don’t have to be intimidating. Look at them as a way of expressing your thoughts and opinions about the books you read. Also, research shows that writing about what you read is an effective way of cementing the information in your mind, as opposed to simply reading it. 

What Is a Book Report? 

A book report is a written output that describes the contents of a book. Teachers often require a book report as a way of encouraging students to actually read the assigned materials. Reports also help the students to formulate their own opinions and reactions to what they read.

How Many Paragraphs is a Book Report?

The length of a book report does not guarantee the quality of the writing. Typically, though, you will have a clear introductory paragraph and a conclusion; the body paragraphs can range in number depending on how many themes you wish to explore. It will also depend greatly on the type of book report you choose to write.

3 Types of Book Reports

To write a great book report, you must first understand the different types of book reports. Sometimes your instructor may specify which type they want you to write, but if they don’t, you can choose the one that you feel most comfortable writing: 

1. Plot Summary

The plot summary involves writing a summary of the book, but it doesn’t stop there: after you summarize the plot , you will also add your own thoughts and opinions. Some questions to ask yourself include: 

• What did you think of the plot? Was it compelling? Unrealistic? Thought-provoking? 
• Which factors helped you form that opinion? You may cite specific examples or scenes from the book. 
• How did the story end? What did you think of story’s resolution?
• How would you have written things differently? 

An example of an opening line for a plot summary is: 

The plot of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred Taylor was compelling because it gave a very clear picture of how racial injustice looked in practical terms during the Great Depression in Mississippi. 

2. Theme Analysis

Sometimes, a book you read may contain certain themes that stand out to you. When that happens, a theme analysis is a great way to structure your book report.

Remember that the theme analysis will need to include an exploration of the theme presented in the book before you start sharing your own opinions. You can do this by showing examples of how the author expressed that theme. 

Some questions to think about include: 

• What theme does the story focus on? How does the author emphasize this? 
• Which specific scenes cement that theme in the story? 
• Is there any dialogue that helps emphasize this theme? 
• How does the author portray the theme? 
• What did you think about the theme and the way the author portrayed it? Do you agree with their opinions? Why or why not? 

An example of an opening line for a book report with the theme analysis structure would be: 

The novel Watership Down by Richard Adams powerfully portrayed the theme of leadership: Hazel’s humble but effective leadership was greatly contrasted with the tyrannical and controlling style of Captain Woundwort of the Efrafa warren. 

3. Character Analysis 

A character analysis is another interesting way of approaching a book report. You focus on a character (or characters) in the story, and how their decisions and behaviors affect the events in the plot. 

Some questions to help you analyze characters include: 

• How does the character act? What impressions did you have of them? 
• What positive traits do they have? Negative traits?
• What are their main motivations and desires? What about fears or wrong beliefs? 
• Does he talk in a specific way that sets him apart from other characters? If so, consider giving an example, and detailing how that impacts the character development. 
• How does this character affect the main storyline? 

For example, you might open a book report using character analysis with a line like this: 

In the novel Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, the main character is Scarlett O’Hara, but it was the character Melanie Wilkes who really stood out: her steadfastness and belief in the good of everyone is what finally won over even the hardhearted Scarlett. 

Note: Never copy summaries or book reports directly from the internet! Your teacher will likely check your work through a submissions platform that compares your writing to what’s already out there online. For more tips, check out our post on how to avoid plagiarism .

How to Write a Great Book Report 

Whichever type of book report you choose to write, here are some tips to help you write in a clearer and more engaging way.

1. Choose a book you are interested in. 

Some book reports may be based on an assigned book, but more often, instructors might ask you to choose your own book. They may or may not assign a genre, such as biography, classic literature, or nonfiction. 

If you can choose which book to write your report on, now’s your chance to find one that you will be interested in. Some questions that can help you find a book include: 

• What topics are you already interested in? Are you interested in a specific time in history, such as World War II or the Great Depression? Are you interested in a specific theme, such as racial discrimination, slavery, or poverty? 
• Which genres are you already familiar with? Historical fiction? Family sagas? Nonfiction? 
• Do you have authors that you are already familiar with and would love to read more from? For example, if you have read a children’s book by Mark Twain, such as Tom Sawyer, a high school level book report might be on his book Recollections of Joan of Arc . 
• How much time do you have between now and when the book is due? You need to be realistic about how much time you have to read the book, and then write a thoughtful analysis.

2. Make sure you READ the book you’re writing about! 

You may be tempted to search online for a book summary and try to write a whole book report based on those findings. (This is less likely to happen if you choose a book you’re actually interested in!)

While you might be able to scrape by with a summary, we highly discourage that tactic for at least two reasons: First, actually reading the book will benefit you by expanding your worldview. Second, you can only write a thorough, quality book report if you have truly read the book yourself. 

In order to make sure you read the whole book, it’s important to plan ahead. The following tips might help:

• Start as soon as possible once you’re given the assignment. As soon as you pick your book,, factor in at least two weeks for writing and wrapping up your report. Divide the number of pages by the remaining days: that will be the number of pages you will have to read per day. 
• Practice narration. Charlotte Mason, a British educator-reformer in the 1800s, recommended narration as the best tool for assimilating information. Read a few pages and then write a short narration of what you read. This will help you understand the story and also give you material for writing your book report. 
• Take notes. If you don’t want to write too much in way of a narration, writing down bullet points or annotating the book will be faster, and it will also give you information to use in your report. 
• Start writing little bits of the report along the way. You don’t have to finish the whole book before you start writing your report! You can schedule some time once a week to write portions of your book report. You might write it as though you were writing a journal, expressing your opinions about different scenes. This is especially helpful if you are writing a character or theme analysis. 

3. Outline your book report. 

Even before you are more than halfway through the book, you can start to make your outline. This might change after you finish the book, but if you already have a general idea of your report’s structure, it might even help you pay more attention as you read. 

Try this format for your outline:

• Introduction
• Summary of Book
• Book Details: Characters
• Book Details: Plot 
• Evaluation and Conclusion 

4. Write the contents of your book report. 

Once you’ve prepared your outline, you can start to write your report. You can use headings to organize your thoughts better. (This is where your written narrations or bullet point notes will come in handy!)

If you already wrote portions of the report as you were reading it, this is the time to organize them into a coherent piece. These tips should help you:

• Organize your ideas. You can write a good book report by identifying and analyzing major themes. Organize your ideas around these themes and write about each idea. If any new themes emerge (which often happens when you’re doing this kind of analysis), add them with a new header instead of mixing them with an existing thought.
• Focus on content. Don’t worry about the word count, but instead focus on getting your thoughts down on paper. The book report will be more valuable as you express the analysis that you underwent as you read the book.
• Be clear and concise. Being clear doesn’t require lots of words; just stick to the theme in each paragraph and avoid taking rabbit trails or using unnecessary words. Keep this in mind when you edit your work later on, as well.
• Add headings where necessary. When you find yourself writing several paragraphs under the same header, consider adding a new heading to make your ideas more clear.

Ace Your Book Report

With these steps, writing a book report can be a breeze. Remember, a book report is not just about grades, but what you learn along the journey, so don’t miss out on that experience by taking short-cuts.

And even if school is a distant memory for you, taking the time to reflect on what you’ve read can help you process information and key themes, as well as make you more prepared for your next book club meeting!

Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

• Theme in Literature: Definition and Examples
• How to Write a Research Paper: The Complete Guide for Students
• How to Write a Biography: 8 Steps for a Captivating Story
• How to Annotate a Book: What to Look For and How to Take Notes

Yen Cabag is the Blog Writer of TCK Publishing. She is also a homeschooling mom, family coach, and speaker for the Charlotte Mason method, an educational philosophy that places great emphasis on classic literature and the masterpieces in art and music. She has also written several books, both fiction and nonfiction. Her passion is to see the next generation of children become lovers of reading and learning in the midst of short attention spans.

hi i need some tips on book report 3 tips

Hi Elana, do you have any questions about the tips in the post?

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May the Fourth and more activities planned at Manitowoc Public Library this week

From story times to art exhibits, here's what's planned at the library in the coming days..

MANITOWOC — May the Fourth — and a comic book — be with you.

May 4 is National Comic Book Day and Star Wars Day, and Manitowoc Public Library has an event planned to celebrate both.

It's one of many things coming up at the library.

Here's a look at all of the library's planned activities this week. Learn more by calling the library at 920-686-3010 or going to manitowoclibrary.org . The library is at 707 Quay St.

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Storytimes are planned for babies and preschoolers.

The library will hold Baby Storytime at 9:30 a.m. May 2, 8 and 9. Baby Storytime is 20 minutes of stories, songs, rhymes, bounces, parachute activities and bubbles followed by 20 minutes of playtime. It is recommended for developmental ages 0-2 and their siblings.

Preschool Storytime is at 10:30 a.m. May 2, 8 and 9. It includes singing, talking, reading, creating and playing. It focuses on concepts such as life skills, counting, colors, emotions, patterns and the alphabet. Preschool Storytime is recommended for developmental ages 2-5 and their siblings.

Get your entry in for the Bookmark Art Contest for Comic Book Day.

The deadline to submit your art for the Comic Book Day Bookmark Art Contest at the library is 5 p.m. May 3. Stop by the Youth Services desk to pick up a blank bookmark to decorate. Take inspiration from Star Wars, comic books or create something of your own. Return it to be included in the contest. Your design will be featured in a public display May 4 and the public will vote on their favorite. The contest is open to all ages and prizes will be awarded for Most Voted (ages 9 and younger), Most Voted (ages 10-17), Most Voted (ages 18 and older) and bonus prizes for Most Voted Star Wars Design and Most Voted Comic Book-themed Design.

See 'Art as Poetry/Poetry as Art.'

View the "Art as Poetry/Poetry as Art" exhibit at the library now through June 6. The exhibit is sponsored by the Lakeshore Artists Guild and is a call-and-response collaborative exhibit between 20 artists and 20 poets resulting in 40 poems and 40 corresponding artworks. Each artist submitted an original artwork and each poet submitted an original poem. Participants selected the poem or artwork that spoke to them, and then created new works inspired by their choices. The exhibit is on display on the library's first floor.

Attend Comic Book Day Strikes Back!

The National Comic Book Day/Star Wars Day celebration will be from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. May 4 and will feature a comic book giveaway (while supplies last), scavenger hunt, costume contest, superhero mask creation in the Youth Department, the Bookmark Art Contest display (where you can vote for your favorites) and an appearance by the 501st Legion. People can attend dressed as their favorite comic book or Star Wars character and all ages are welcome.

Get employment and career assistance.

Department of Workforce Development staff provide onsite services in MPL’s Franklin Street Room for both Employment Assistance and Career Counseling between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Tuesdays.

• Drop-In Employment Assistance:  DWD staff will provide onsite services, including resume writing, assistance with online applications, assistance registering in Job Center of Wisconsin, and more. No appointment needed.
• Career Counseling:  Dealing with a job loss or considering a career change? Career and employment counseling may help. A licensed career counselor can assist with providing support and encouragement, assisting with the exploration of career and self-assessments, assisting with reviewing labor market information, removing and overcoming obstacles, and creating an individualized employment plan to help you turn your career vision into a reality. A career counselor can also provide you with the tools, feedback and resources you need to be successful in your job search. For in-person career counseling on Tuesdays, contact Ellen Hope at 920-930-6553 or  [email protected]  to make an appointment.

To see all the hours and date specifics, head to  www.manitowoclibrary.org/events/month/2024/03?keywords=DWD .

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Take in the American movie classic 'My Fair Lady.'

The library's next Movie Night will feature the American classic "My Fair Lady" starting at 4 p.m. May 9. The movie will be shown in the Balkansky Community Room and is open to all. The Academy Award-winning show from 1964 stars Rex Harrison and Audrey Hepburn and includes a number of memorable, hummable show tunes. The movie runs 2 hours, 50 minutes and is rated G. Admission is free.

How to Write a Great Book Report

Hero Images / Getty Images

• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

One assignment has lasted the test of time, uniting generations of students in a common learning exercise: book reports. While many students dread these assignments, book reports can help students learn how to interpret texts and gain a broader understanding of the world around them.  Well-written books can open your eyes to new experiences, people, places, and life situations that you may have never thought about before. In turn, a book report is a tool that allows you, the reader, to demonstrate that you have understood all the nuances of the text you just read.

What's a Book Report?

In the broadest terms, a book report describes and summarizes a work of fiction or nonfiction . It sometimes — but not always — includes a personal evaluation of the text. In general, regardless of grade level, a book report will include an introductory paragraph that shares the title of the book and its author. Students will often develop their own opinions about the underlying meaning of the texts through developing thesis statements , typically presented in the opening of a book report, and then using examples from the text and interpretations to support those statements.  

Before You Start Writing

A good book report will address a specific question or point of view and back up this topic with specific examples, in the form of symbols and themes. These steps will help you identify and incorporate those important elements. It shouldn't be too hard to do, provided you're prepared, and you can expect to spend, on average, 3-4 days working on the assignment. Check out these tips to ensure you're successful:

• Have an objective in mind.  This is the main point you want to present or the question you plan to answer in your report.  
• Keep supplies on hand when you read.  This is  very  important. Keep sticky-note flags, pen, and paper nearby as you read. If you're reading an eBook , make sure you know how to use the annotation function of your app/program.  
• Read the book.  It seems obvious, but too many students try to take a shortcut and simply read summaries or watch movies, but you often miss important details that can make or break your book report.
• Pay attention to detail.  Keep an eye out for clues that the author has provided in the form of symbolism . These will indicate some important point that supports the overall theme. For instance, a spot of blood on the floor, a quick glance, a nervous habit, an impulsive action, a repetitive action... These are worth noting.
• Use your sticky flags to mark pages.  When you run into clues or interesting passages, mark the page by placing the sticky note at the beginning of the relevant line.  
• Look for themes.  As you read, you should begin to see an emerging theme. On a notepad, write down some notes on how you came to determine the theme.
• Develop a rough outline.  By the time you finish  reading the book , you will have recorded several possible themes or approaches to your objective. Review your notes and find points that you can back up with good examples (symbols). 

Your Book Report Introduction

The start of your book report provides an opportunity to make a solid introduction to the material and your own personal assessment of the work. You should try to write a strong introductory paragraph that grabs your reader's attention. Somewhere in your first paragraph , you should also state the book's title and the author's name.

High school-level papers should include publication information as well as brief statements about the book's angle, the genre, the theme , and a hint about the writer's feelings in the introduction.

First Paragraph Example: Middle School Level

" The Red Badge of Courage ", by Stephen Crane, is a book about a young man growing up during the Civil War. Henry Fleming is the main character of the book. As Henry watches and experiences the tragic events of the war, he grows up and changes his attitudes about life.

First Paragraph Example: High School Level

Can you identify one experience that changed your entire view of the world around you? Henry Fleming, the main character in "The Red Badge of Courage", begins his life-changing adventure as a naive young man, eager to experience the glory of war. He soon faces the truth about life, war, and his own self-identity on the battlefield, however. "The Red Badge of Courage", by Stephen Crane, is a coming of age novel published by D. Appleton and Company in 1895, about thirty years after the Civil War ended. In this book, the author reveals the ugliness of war and examines its relationship to the pain of growing up.

The Body of the Book Report

Before you get started on the body of the report, take a few minutes to jot down some helpful information by considering the following points.

• Did you enjoy the book?
• Was it well written?
• What was the genre?
• (fiction) Which characters play important roles that relate to the overall theme?
• Did you notice reoccurring symbols?
• Is this book a part of a series?
• (nonfiction) Can you identify the writer's thesis?
• What is the writing style?
• Did you notice a tone?
• Was there an obvious slant or bias?

In the body of your book report, you will use your notes to guide you through an extended summary of the book. You will weave your own thoughts and impressions into the plot summary . As you review the text, you'll want to focus on key moments in the storyline and relate them to the perceived theme of the book, and how the characters and setting all bring the details together. You'll want to be sure that you discuss the plot, any examples of conflict that you encounter, and how the story resolves itself. It can be helpful to use strong quotes from the book to enhance your writing. 

The Conclusion

As you lead to your final paragraph, consider some additional impressions and opinions:

• Was the ending satisfactory (for fiction)?
• Was the thesis supported by strong evidence (for nonfiction)?
• What interesting or notable facts do you know about the author?
• Would you recommend this book?

Conclude your report with a paragraph or two that covers these additional points. Some teachers prefer that you re-state the name and author of the book in the concluding paragraph. As always, consult your specific assignment guide or ask your teacher if you have questions about what is expected of you. 

• 10 Steps to Writing a Successful Book Report
• The Red Badge of Courage Book Summary
• How to Start a Book Report
• What Does Critical Reading Really Mean?
• Book Report: Definition, Guidelines, and Advice
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• How to Compare Two Novels in Comparative Essay
• How to Design a Book Cover
• Symbols and Motifs in Literature
• How to Outline a Textbook Chapter
• How to Write and Format an MBA Essay
• How to Write a Response Paper
• How to Write a Critical Essay
• How to Study for an Open Book Test
• Top Conservative Novels
• 50 General Book Club Questions for Study and Discussion

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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7 Effective Tips on How to Write a Book Report

Did you know that the skills you use in crafting an awesome TikTok video – or even strategizing your next chess move – sharp observations, creative thinking, and clear communication, can be honed further by writing an effective book report?

Across generations, students have grappled with the task of writing book reports, an assignment that can seem as intimidating as it is ubiquitous. Perhaps you are one of those students confronted with the assignment of preparing a book report and feeling somewhat adrift, unsure of where to start. It’s perfectly normal to experience a sense of frustration when navigating uncharted waters. Yet, take heart – your quest for accessible, straightforward advice on how to craft an exemplary book report concludes here. Together, let’s transform this daunting task into a rewarding learning journey.

📚 Learn What a Book Report Is

A book report is a piece of writing based on a book you have read. Its aim is to check how well you have understood the book and whether you get the ideas that the author talks about. There are different formats of book reports, such as character analysis, themes analysis, or a simple plot summary. You might also need to comment on how the author of the book uses language and various literary techniques.

Importantly, writing a book report is not only about summarizing the content of the book, but it also requires contextual understanding. This means that you should be aware of the social, historical, or cultural context in which the book was written and how it impacts the narrative. For example, a book written during the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. might contain themes of racial equality and social justice, which could be understood better if we know the context.

Regardless of the book and type of report that you need to compose, the paper should contain the following things:

• a title of the book and its author
• the time when all events happen
• the location of the events described in the story
• information about the characters, including their names and short descriptions of their personalities
• examples and quotes from the book as evidence to support your ideas.

🤔 Understand The Instructions

Before writing your report, make sure you fully understand the requirements of the assignment. They determine what you will have to focus on while reading. Pay special attention to the following aspects:

• Book. Your professor may assign a specific book for you to analyze, or you might need to select it yourself from the list or based on the given criteria by the tutor.
• Word count . Check how long the paper must be. Chances are there are both minimum and maximum length limits.
• Structure. Often, instructions indicate how the paper should look like, what parts it should include, what subheadings to add, etc. Take notes of all these details.
• Type of the report. You might need to analyze characters, topics, and dialogues or simply summarize the reading.

If any parts of the instructions seem confusing, be sure to clarify them with your professor as soon as possible.

✍️ Create An Outline To Plan Writing

Creating an outline for your book report is like designing a new level in your favorite video game. Just as you’d plan out all the elements of your level, you need to know what you’ll cover in your book report and where. It’s not just about writing down your ideas in order; it’s about planning your work effectively. Here’s a simple template for a book report outline that you might find helpful:

• Introduction: Include the book’s title, author, genre, and thesis statement.
• Summary of the Book: Briefly describe the plot, but don’t give away any spoilers or the ending.
• Character Analysis: Choose one or two main characters and discuss their traits, actions, and growth throughout the book.
• Theme Analysis: Identify the main themes of the book and provide your analysis of how these themes are conveyed.
• Personal Response: Share your thoughts and opinions on the book. Did you like it? Why or why not? Provide specific examples from the book to support your views.
• Conclusion: Restate your thesis statement and summarize your analysis.

Following this template will ensure you touch on all the crucial parts of a book report, helping you stay organized as you write.

🌟 Make Your Introduction Engaging

The way you write an introduction matters because it is the first thing that your audience will read. That is why we recommend making it engaging from sentence one. When you catch readers’ attention and interest with the very first sentence, you use a technique called a hook, and it gets its name for a very good reason. If the hook is well-written, it can catch your readers’ attention and make them want to read your book report fully, thus making your introduction very powerful.

After the hook, introduce the book, its author, and other general information about it. Let the readers know what your paper will be about: the plot, characters, setting, literary techniques, etc. Finally, add a thesis statement. It is one sentence at the end of the introduction that provides insight into your further ideas and makes the paper focused. Starting with the hook and finishing with the thesis statement is a winning formula for any introduction. For instance, a strong thesis statement for a book report on ‘The Catcher in the Rye’ might be: ‘J.D. Salinger explores the theme of adolescent isolation and the journey toward self-identity through the character of Holden Caulfield.’

🎯 Stay Organized And Focused

You are done with the introduction, so it is time to get down to the nitty-gritty of writing a book report. A major part of the paper is the summary of the plot and critical analysis of the reading. Here is what each of these sections should be about.

Summary. It’s necessary to understand and remember the most important events and characters. This section simply recounts the events of the book and does not contain comments on symbolism, metaphors, characters’ nature, etc.

Critical analysis: Here, you should avoid retelling at all costs; instead, you need to focus on the meanings. Your writing must reveal what is behind the events, the character’s behavior, and the place and time of the event in the story. It is necessary to discuss symbolism, metaphors, the motivation of characters, and the way they change throughout the story or how they interact with each other. Also, it is important to use quotes and examples from the book to support any conclusions you make about the book. This part of the report is the most important and deserves 2/3 of the paper’s length.

✨ Keep The Plot Summary Neat

When writing the plot summary, do not go into too much detail. It is better if it does not exceed 1/3 of the paper. It means that if you need to write a 3-page book report, your summary can take up to 1 page only. Your task is to let the audience catch a glimpse of what the book is about. So, just like when discussing new movies with your buddies, stick to the rule of no spoilers. You may write that the main character faces a huge challenge by the end of the story instead of revealing that there is a huge and epic fight with a dragon. You may check how they write movie or book summaries on review websites since they provide good examples of how to avoid writing too much.

By now, you might be done with writing the introduction, body, and conclusion, but you are surely not done with the paper yet. Just like you’d review and tweak your latest Instagram post before hitting share, revising your book report is an essential final step. This stage allows you to refine your language, correct errors, and ensure that your report is logically organized and coherent.

When revising, use this checklist to help guide you:

• Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
• Ensure consistency in tense and point of view.
• Look for repetitive or redundant sentences and rephrase them for clarity.
• Make sure each paragraph follows a logical structure and contributes to your overall argument.
• Verify that all sources are cited correctly, and your formatting aligns with the assigned style guide (MLA, APA, etc.).

For an effective revision process, consider taking a short break after writing before you start revising. This allows you to return with fresh eyes and spot errors or awkward phrasing more easily. Reading your text aloud can also help you identify run-on sentences or areas that lack clarity.

Finally, don’t hesitate to use tools like Grammarly to check for common grammar and spelling mistakes and citation generators to ensure your sources are correctly cited. Remember, the devil is in the details, and meticulous revision can elevate your book report from good to great!

As we wrap up, remember that crafting a book report goes beyond a mere assignment. It’s an enriching journey that broadens your perspective, deepens your literary understanding, and sharpens your communication skills – invaluable assets that transcend the classroom. Each book is a treasure trove of experiences, with lessons to learn and wisdom to glean. Your mission is to delve into this trove and articulate its essence compellingly.

The guidelines we’ve outlined in this piece – deciphering your task, charting an outline, creating a gripping introduction, keeping your discourse focused, summarizing without spoiling, and meticulous revising – are your trusted allies in penning a comprehensive and intriguing book report. Don’t view it as an intimidating chore but rather as an exciting adventure teeming with novel ideas, diverse perspectives, and compelling narratives. You’ll be surprised at the insights that await – about the text and, perhaps, about yourself.

So, what are you waiting for? Select a book, dive into its narrative, and embark on the rewarding voyage of report writing. We’re eager to discover the fascinating worlds you’ll expose, the complex characters you’ll dissect, and the powerful themes you’ll discuss. Remember, every riveting book report stems from the simple decision to begin. The time to start is now. Grab that book and ignite your journey of literary discovery today. And don’t be shy; share your journey with us. What insights did you glean? Which part of the process resonated with you the most? We’re all ears. Best of luck, and enjoy your reading!

❓ Questions You Might Have

• What makes a character analysis crucial in a book report? When you dissect the characters, their motivations, and how they evolve, you’re getting into the very soul of the book. You get a chance to discuss how their decisions and actions shape the narrative and weave the themes together. It’s like getting to know real people and understanding their influence on the events around them.
• Why bother with a theme analysis in my book report? Themes are the hidden threads that hold the story together. When you unpick these threads, you unlock the author’s message. You start to see how the book ties into larger, real-world conversations, which sharpens your ability to think critically about literature and life.
• Why do I need a thesis statement in my book report? Think of your thesis statement as a guiding star. It’s your big idea, your argument. It brings focus to your report, gives it direction, and keeps your analysis on point. An effective thesis statement can turn your book report from a simple summary into an engaging exploration.

💡 Extra Resources to Assist You

If you’re looking for additional help or desire to deepen your understanding of writing a book report, here are some tools and resources that you may find beneficial:

• Online Literature Guides: Websites like SparkNotes , CliffsNotes , or LitCharts offer detailed book summaries, character analyses, theme breakdowns, and more. They can be excellent supplemental material to your reading.
• Grammar and Writing Tools: Applications such as Grammarly or Hemingway Editor can help you catch grammar errors, improve your writing style, and ensure clarity and conciseness in your report.
• Citation Generators: If you’re struggling with referencing, tools like EasyBib or Citation Machine can aid you in generating accurate citations in MLA, APA, or other required formats.
• Writing Communities: Platforms such as Scribophile , Wattpad , or the Writing subreddit (r/writing) on Reddit can be valuable places to share your work, get feedback, or engage in fruitful discussions about writing book reports.

Do remember that these tools are here to support your writing process, not replace your own analysis and thought. The best book report is one that combines clear, correct writing with your own unique insights into the book.

With these tools and the tips provided, you’re well-equipped to craft an exceptional book report. Good luck, and happy writing!

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Book Report Writing

Book Report Writing Guide - Outline, Format, & Topics

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Guide to Crafting an Outstanding Book Report Outline

Creative and Excellent Book Report Ideas for Students

Writing a book report can be a challenging task for students at all levels of education. Many struggle to strike the right balance between providing a concise summary and offering insightful analysis.

The pressure to submit a well-structured report often leaves students feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin. Unlike a book review that is longer and more detailed, the purpose of writing a book report is to summarize what happened in the story. 

In this blog, we will learn the book report writing, providing you with step-by-step instructions and creative ideas. Whether you're a reader or just starting your literary journey, this guide will help you write book reports that shine. 

So, let's dive in!

• 1. What is a Book Report?
• 2. How to Write a Book Report Outline?
• 3. How to Write a Book Report?
• 4. Book Report Formatting
• 5. Book Report vs. Book Review - How Do they Differ from Each Other? 
• 6. Book Report Templates for Different Grades
• 7. How to Write a Book Report for High School?
• 8. How to Write a Book Report for College Level?
• 9. Book Report Examples
• 10. Book Report Ideas

What is a Book Report?

A book report is a written summary and analysis of a book's content, designed to provide readers with insights into the book's key elements. It's a valuable exercise for students, offering a chance to look deeper into a book's characters, and overall impact. Why are book reports important? They serve as a way to not only showcase your reading comprehension but also your critical thinking skills. They help you reflect on the book's strengths and weaknesses, and they can be a great tool to start a discussion.

How to Write a Book Report Outline?

Before you start writing a book report, it's crucial to create a well-organized outline. A book report outline serves as the roadmap for your report, ensuring that you cover all essential aspects. Here's how to create an effective book report outline:

How to Write a Book Report?

Writing an effective book report is not just about summarizing a story; it's a chance to showcase your analytical skills.

Let’s go through the process of creating a compelling book report that will impress your instructor.

How to Start a Book Report

To start a book report follow the steps below:

• Pick the Perfect Book  Selecting the right book for your report is the first crucial step. If you have the freedom to choose, opt for a book that aligns with your interests. Engaging with a book you're passionate about makes the entire process more enjoyable.
• Dive into the Pages Reading the book thoroughly is non-negotiable. While summaries and online resources can be helpful, they can't replace the depth of understanding gained from reading the actual text. Take notes as you read to capture key moments and insights.
• Document Key Insights Keeping a physical notebook for jotting down important points and insights is a tried-and-true method. This tangible record allows for quick reference when you're ready to write your report.
• Collect Powerful Quotes Quotes from the book can be the secret sauce that adds weight to your report. Choose quotes that align with your report's themes and ideas. These quotes will serve as evidence to support your analysis and perspective.
• Craft Your Report Outline An book report outline serves as your roadmap for creating a structured and coherent report. Ensure it includes all the vital elements, from basic book information to your in-depth analysis. An organized outline keeps your writing on track.

Writing Your Book Report

Now that you've completed the preliminary steps, it's time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Follow these guidelines for an exceptional book report:

• Introduction: Open with a captivating introduction that introduces the book, its author, and your main thesis. This initial "hook" draws readers in and sparks their interest.
• Plot Summary: Concisely summarize the book's plot, including key events, main characters, and the overall narrative. Offer enough information for understanding without revealing major spoilers.
• Analysis: The core of your report, where you dissect the book's themes, characters, writing style, and any symbolism. Back your insights with book quotes and examples, revealing the author's intentions and how they achieved them.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate your thesis, and share your overall evaluation of the book. End with a thought-provoking statement or recommendation to leave readers engaged and curious.

Book Report Formatting

When it comes to formatting a book report, simplicity and clarity are key. Here's a straightforward guide on the essential formatting elements:

Book Report vs. Book Review - How Do they Differ from Each Other? 

The table below highlights how is a book report different from a book review :

What are the SImilarities between Book Report and Book Review?

Here are the things that are added in both a book report and a book review.

• Bibliographic details
• Background of the author
• The recommended audience for the book
• The main subject of the book or work
• Summary of the work and the only difference is that in the review, a critical analysis is also added

Due to the similarities, many students think that both of these are the same. It is wrong and could cost you your grade.

How to Write a Nonfiction Book Report? 

Writing a nonfiction book report may seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, you can craft an informative report. Here's a streamlined guide:

• Read Actively: Carefully read the chosen nonfiction book, highlighting key information. For instance, if you're reporting on a biography, mark significant life events and their impact.
• Introduction: Begin with the author's name, the book's publication year, and why the author wrote the book. Create an engaging opening sentence, such as "In 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,' Rebecca Skloot delves into the fascinating world of medical ethics."
• Focused Body: Structure the body into three paragraphs, each addressing crucial aspects. For instance, in a report on a science book, one paragraph could cover the book's key scientific discoveries.
• Concluding Thoughts: Share your personal opinion, if applicable. Would you recommend the book? Mention reasons, like "I highly recommend 'Sapiens' by Yuval Noah Harari for its thought-provoking insights into human history."

Writing a nonfiction book report requires adhering to facts but can still be enjoyable with a strategic approach.

How to Write a Book Report without Reading the Book?

Short on time to read the entire book? Here are quick steps to create a book report:

• Consult Summary Websites: Visit websites providing book summaries and analyses. For instance, SparkNotes or CliffsNotes offer concise overviews.
• Focus on Key Details: Select 2-3 crucial aspects of the book, like major themes or character development. Discuss these in-depth.
• Consider a Writing Service: Utilize professional writing services when time is tight. They can craft a well-structured report based on provided information.
• Offer a Unique Perspective: Differentiate your report by approaching it from a unique angle. For example, explore a theme or character relationship that hasn't been extensively covered by peers.

While challenging, writing a book report without reading the book is possible with these strategies.

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Book Report Templates for Different Grades

Students studying at different levels have different skills and ability levels. Here is how they can write book reports for their respective academic levels.

How to Write a Book Report for an Elementary School?

The following are some book report templates that you can use for your primary or elementary school.

How to Write a Book Report for Middle School

Here are the book report worksheets that you can use to write your middle school book report.

How to Write a Book Report for High School?

Writing a high school book report includes the following steps:

• Read the book thoroughly and with purpose.
• Make an outline before writing the report as a pre-writing step.
• Follow the guidelines and the given format to create the title page for your report.
• Add basic details in the introduction of your book report.
• Analyze the major and minor characters of the story and the role they play in the progress of the story.
• Analyze the major and significant plot, events, and themes. Describe the story and arguments and focus on important details.
• Conclude by adding a summary of the main elements, characters, symbols, and themes.

How to Write a Book Report for College Level?

Follow this college book report template to format and write your report effectively:

• Understand the Assignment: Familiarize yourself with the assignment and book details to ensure proper adherence.
• Read Thoroughly: Read the book attentively, noting essential details about the plot, characters, and themes.
• Introduction: Craft an informative introduction with bibliographic details. 
• Summary: Summarize key aspects like setting, events, atmosphere, narrative style, and the overall plot. 
• Plot: Cover the entire story, highlighting essential details, plot twists, and conflicts. 
• Conclusion: Summarize the story and assess its strengths and weaknesses. Unlike a review, a book report provides a straightforward summary.

Book Report Examples

Book Report of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Book Report of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

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Book Report Ideas

Basic ideas include presenting your narrative and analysis in simple written form, while more creative ideas include a fun element. Some notable books to choose from for your book report writing assignment are mentioned below:

• "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• "1984" by George Orwell
• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
• "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling
• "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins
• "The Diary of Anne Frank" by Anne Frank
• "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien

Need more ideas? Check out our book report ideas blog to get inspiration!

To Sum it Up! Crafting a good book report involves striking the right balance between introducing the book, summarizing its key themes, and avoiding spoilers. It's a delicate art, but with the right guidance you can grasp this skill effortlessly. 

Need expert assistance with writing your book report? MyPerfectWords.com is here to help you out!

If you're asking yourself, "Can someone write my essays online ?"Our professional writers have the answer. We can write a custom book report according to your personalized requirements and instructions. Get a high-quality book report to help you earn the best grades on your assignment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parts of a book report.

A book report often contains different sections that describe the setting, main characters, and key themes of the story. A common type is an expository one which details what happened in detail or discusses how people feel about it.

Is a report a summary?

No, a summary is more detailed than a book report. A book report is usually based on a short summary of the book, while a standalone summary is more detailed and could have headings, subheadings, and supporting quotes.

How many paragraphs should be included in a book report?

The book report is a typical assignment in middle and high school, usually with one introduction, three body, and one conclusion paragraph.

The number of paragraphs could vary depending on the academic level, with an expert or professional book report having more than three body paragraphs.

How long is a book report?

It should not exceed two double-spaced pages, be between 600 and 800 words in length. Your book report is a written reflection on the content of a novel or work of nonfiction.

How do you end a book report?

Sum up your thesis statement and remind the readers of the important points, one final time. Do not add any new ideas or themes here and try to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Keep reading

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem defends her account of killing own dog in new book

South Dakota governor and Republican vice presidential contender Kristi Noem on Friday responded to a news report about a section of her forthcoming book where she describes killing her 14-month-old dog.

“We love animals, but tough decisions like this happen all the time on a farm,” she said in a post to X above a headline from The Guardian , which obtained a copy of Noem's upcoming book, “No Going Back.”

The Guardian's article describes a section of Noem's book, set for release next month, in which she recounted shooting her dog after deciding it was “less than worthless” and “untrainable.”

In her account, Noem grabbed her gun and led the dog, named Cricket, to a gravel pit.

“It was not a pleasant job, but it had to be done. And after it was over, I realized another unpleasant job needed to be done,” Noem wrote.

She then went on to kill a family goat, which she called “nasty and mean.” Noem also led the goat to a gravel pit, where she said her first shot wounded but did not kill the animal. She got another shell for her gun and killed the goat, according to the book.

Noem wrote that her daughter seemed confused when she came home from school, asking, “Hey, where's Cricket?”

NBC News has not obtained Noem's book or independently verified the section reported by The Guardian.

Noem was lambasted Friday on social media; some said they were “ horrified ,” while others posted pictures of their dogs .

The Biden campaign p osted p hotos of the president walking with the family dog Commander, who has had numerous biting incidents , and Vice President Kamala Harris cuddling a dog.

Noem is widely viewed as a top contender to be Trump's running mate. She is in her second term as South Dakota governor, and she previously served as the state's lone representative in the U.S. House.

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

Who is Kristi Noem? What we know about the Trump VP contender and why she killed a dog

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has been a topic of online chatter after excerpts from her upcoming memoir were published by The Guardian on Friday.

In her book " No Going Back: The Truth on What's Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward ," Noem details how she put a dog down for being "untrainable."

The story caught the attention of politicians on both sides of the aisle.

"Dogs are a gift from God," tweeted Alyssa Farah Griffin, co-host of "The View" and former Donald Trump White House staffer. "They’re a reflection of his unconditional love. Anyone who would needlessly hurt an animal because they are inconvenient needs help."

 The Democratic National Committee called the excerpts from the book "horrifying" and "disturbing."

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Trump trial live updates: Michael Cohen's banker to testify on payment to Stormy Daniels

Amid the backlash, Noem responded that she understands "why some people are upset about a 20-year-old story" but defended the decision to kill the dog.

"We love animals, but tough decisions like this happen all the time on a farm," Noem said in a post on X. "Sadly, we just had to put down 3 horses a few weeks ago that had been in our family for 25 years."

Noem is a contender to become Trump's running mate. Here's what we know about the governor.

Who is Gov. Kristi Noem?

According to the governor's website , Noem is also a rancher, farmer and small-business owner.

She was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010 and in 2018 was elected South Dakota's first female governor.

Today, she is also a New York Times bestselling author. In January 2022, she published her first book, "Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland," and the website says she was reelected governor with the "largest vote total in the history of South Dakota."

Could Kristi Noem run with Donald Trump?

The governor is a contender to become Trump's  running mate, but recent polling from New River Strategies, which was published by Politico , says only 14% of Americans consider her a good choice for the Republican ticket.

The report also says that 86% of 2020 Trump voters report liking or loving dogs and that 39% of them do not believe she would be a good choice for vice president. Only 22% said she would be.

Why did Kristi Noem kill her dog Cricket?

According to The Guardian, Noem said she killed her dog because of its “aggressive personality” and called the dog "untrainable."

In her book, she writes that the dog's name was Cricket and that she was a 14-month-old wirehair pointer. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , puppies become adolescent dogs at ages 6 to 12 months or 18 to 24 months.

The American Kennel Club rates the dog breed as "love-dovey" when it comes to how affectionate the dogs are with families.

In her post on X, Noem said South Dakota law says dogs that attack and kill livestock can be put down.

"Given that Cricket had shown aggressive behavior toward people by biting them, I decided what I did," she wrote.

She added: "Whether running the ranch or in politics, I have never passed on my responsibilities to anyone else to handle. Even if it’s hard and painful. I followed the law and was being a responsible parent, dog owner, and neighbor."

What is Kristi Noem's new book?

According to its description, Noem's book "No Going Back" shares "eye-opening realities of DC dysfunction, lessons from leading her state through unprecedented challenge, and how we seize this moment to move America forward."

On X, she said the book "is filled with many honest stories of my life, good and bad days, challenges, painful decisions, and lessons learned."

It's set to release on May 7.

Some people outraged by the controversy are already dropping negative reviews of the book on GoodReads .

Contributing: Tim Reid, Reuters

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture.   You can follow her on  X, formerly known as Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok : @juliamariegz

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Providing printables, encouragement, tips and resources to help busy mums balance homeschooling, homemaking and frugal living.

Book Report Templates

Reading is fun activity for children. It is also a fabulous way for them to learn. These Book Report Templates are a great way to encourage children to read and study the books they have read. 

This no-prep printable pack contains a variety of book report templates that can be used by children of multiple ages. All pages in the pack are also in black and white which makes for easier and cheaper printing.

There are multiple book report printables in this pack. Not all pages include all the same information. Information that could be included on the pages are:  

• Book Author
• Book Illustrator
• This book was – awesome, pretty good, okay or not my favourite
• Characters – Favourite  and Description
• Setting – What was the setting? and Describe the setting.
• Favourite Part of the Story
• Picture of My Favourite Part of the Story

• Design a New Cover for the Book
• Draw Your Favourite Part
• Main Characters – List and describe the 3 main characters
• Summary of the Story
• Moral of the Story
• The Ending of the Story
• Write a Different Ending
• If you could be a Character in the book, who would you be and why?
• Write a new title for the Book
• Create a new cover for the Book
• What is the problem that the characters face?
• Other books in the same genre are
• One new word that I learned
• The solution to the problem was
• Another solution could be
• Have you made any connections with any of the characters? If so, what are they?

Reading Themed Printables

Reading for kids.

• Reading Log Printables
• Teach Kids to Utilise the Library
• Yearly Bible Reading Plan
• 60 Books Your Kids Should Read
• Roald Dahl Resources & Activities
• Little House in the Big Woods Resources
• Farmer Boy Resources
• On the Banks of Plum Creek Study
• Alice in Wonderland Study
• Charlie & The Chocolate Factory Study
• Charlotte’s Web Study
• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs Study
• James and the Giant Peach Study
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• The Witches Study
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• Mr. Popper’s Penguins Study

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• Community Workers Reader
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Gov. Kristi Noem Reveals She Shot And Killed "Untrainable" Family Dog And A "Nasty" Goat In Her New Memoir

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem admitted to killing her dog in a new memoir. By confessing, she may also have killed her chance at national office.

Backlash has been fierce to the revelations in her new book, No Going Back: The Truth on What's Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward . Noem is among those rumored to be in contention for Donald Trump's Vice President pick in the 2024 election.

After obtaining a copy of the book ahead of its publication next month, the UK’s Guardian reported that Noem wrote about the time she shot dead Cricket, a 14-month-old dog she intended to train for hunting pheasant.

Noem said she took the action after the dog ruined a hunt, killed another family's chickens, and moved to bite her.

Noem said Cricket had an "aggressive personality" and was "untrainable," per the Guardian's report. Noem wrote that she took Cricket on a pheasant hunt with older dogs as a learning tool for the dog. But Cricket went "out of her mind with excitement, chasing all those birds and having the time of her life."

She said she called Cricket, then used an electronic collar to try to control the dog. On the way home, Cricket escaped Noem's truck and killed the chickens of a local family, who Noem compensated. The dog then "whipped around to bite me," the politician wrote.

Noem said, "I realized I had to put her down." She led Cricket to a gravel pit and shot and killed the dog.

The book details more animal victims. Noem also killed a male goat that she said was "nasty and mean," smelled "disgusting, musky, rancid," and "loved to chase" her children, knocking them down and ruining their clothes. She also killed the goat in the gravel pit, although it reportedly took two shots.

Noem wrote that she confessed to the killings to show that in politics and life, she was willing to do what was "difficult, messy, and ugly" if it was necessary.

Noem responded to the outraged backlash on Friday in a post on X: "We love animals, but tough decisions like this happen all the time on a farm. Sadly, we just had to put down 3 horses a few weeks ago that had been in our family for 25 years."

"If you want more real, honest, and politically INcorrect stories that'll have the media gasping, preorder No Going Back," she concluded, with a link to her book.

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My Book Report Worksheets

These book report worksheets are great for kindergarten or grade 1 students. There are large lines for them to easily write in with places to draw and show their creative side as well.

And now we have tons more fun printable kindergarten worksheets to share.

This worksheet pack also includes a reading log so your child can keep track of the books that they’ve read. At this stage, I’d have them use a favorite book of theirs to work on the book report so that it is easier to recall any details. I’d discuss each question first before setting your child off to write. I have boys who are reluctant writers so this helps them think through things first before they get to the daunting task of writing.

Plus, these book report worksheets bring so much fun to the world of reading. Once they find a book that they love to read, have them explore more and record what they read with these simple book reports.

Most book reports allow the students to write down what they saw, but these let them draw them out as well. Who doesn’t like to draw out their thoughts and ideas from a book?

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

My simple tip? Print off several and keep them handy. That way, anytime that your child finishes a book, they can grab one of these worksheets as well. Easy, right?

Another tip is that you can laminate them so that they can be used over and over again. There are always ways to make learning more fun for your child! All you have to do is try different things out!

And just in case you needed a few more helpful hints for your book report writing journey, here are some great books that you can get as well that can help your child understand the importance of book reports and how to do them.

This book report can be used for any books. I love having the child create their own book cover, they always pull out something interesting from the book that you didn’t think was significant but they really hung on to it.

Do you keep track of the books they read? My son reads a ton so he forgets which books he read that he wanted to continue in the series so it’s a good way to keep track of what they read.

More Book Report Templates

These printable book report templates from Etsy are great. Just print and kids can do their book reports right away. You can either get the Dinosaur Book Report Printable or the Stars Printable Book Report . They both have themes so kids will enjoy writing their book report entries.

Even when the kids are older I like having a space for them to draw something. They can get stuck on the writing part but if you can get them to start drawing then they can write about what they drew.

Introduce the different story elements like setting, characters, problem, and solution so kids can start to recognize these elements in each story in your book.

We don’t do a book report for each book, I don’t want them to dread finishing a book. So depending on how many books your child is reading, it may be one in every 4 or 5 books.

Or I might have a child do the drawing and writing sheets only and not do the more writing-intensive worksheets for some books. And the go over the story elements and other things orally.

The focus is to get them to read a lot of books so I don’t want to kill that joy.

More Homeschool Worksheets

All About Me Worksheets

Calendar Book

Field Trip Journal

Country Activity Pages

Homeschool Student Planner by Inspire the Mom

I share educational printables and activities to help homeschoolers make learning science fun and engaging!

What a great worksheets! Thanks for sharing on the Thoughtful Spot Blog Hop!

I like this a lot and since Charlie has been wanting to help Blog I can have him review children’s books and use the sheets to write his thoughts out on. Once he is done I can show him how to write them in a Blog post.

This is a great idea-so helpful for students! Thanks for sharing at #OMHGWW

Oh wow, what a great printable. Thanks for sharing on Toddler Fun Friday! Love it!

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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 313,129 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

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• ↑ 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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