college level book report example

How to Write a Book Report College Level – Guide & Template 

• Fred Waititu
• June 9, 2022
• How To's

Here's What We'll Cover

Back in high school, book reports probably consisted of writing a book summary and then giving your opinion. As a college student, you’re expected to do more than that. Professors want to see that you’ve engaged with the material, analyzed it critically, and thought about it deeply. So, how do you write a book report that meets those expectations? This post will give you a complete guide on how to write a book report college level. But if you still feel inadequate writing a college-level book report after reading this guide, we would be delighted to offer our expert writing services at affordable prices.

Let’s get started! 

What is a Book Report?

A book report is a summary of a book that you have read. It includes your thoughts and analysis of the story and presents your reaction to the reader. 

When you are assigned a book report in college, your professor will usually give you specific guidelines on what they are looking for and expecting. It is essential to make sure that you understand the assignment before beginning. 

Types of Book Reports 

Three book reports are commonly assigned in college: plot summary, character analysis , and theme analysis. Below is a clear definition of each.

Plot Summary

A plot is a summary of the story. In summary, you’ll need to explain your opinion of the story. What is so compelling about the story? Analyzing the story makes a good plot summary, and a good plot summary makes an excellent book report. It should include the story’s leading events, the conflict, and the resolution. 

Character Analysis

A character analysis is an in-depth look at a particular character. Take your time to explore and analyze the character’s physical appearance, personality traits, and the roles of each character in the story. Describe their motivations, actions, and thoughts. Compile all your observations together and explain the correlation of each character with the story. 

Theme Analysis

Books/stories provide different themes. A book report features the examination of underlying themes in a book. Give observation as a reader into your report to show the power of a theme. Throughout the character’s journey, they will experience different motifs. It could be anything from love to loss to betrayal. 

What is the Difference Between a Book Report and Book Review? 

 Below are clear descriptions and differences between the two;

Simple Book Report Format 

Before you begin your journey of how to write a book report college level, you must identify and understand the format you need to follow.

A simple book report format that you can use is; 

Introduction 

Lay out all the necessary information about the book.

Introduce the following;

• Title of the book .
• Author of the book.
• Type/Genre of the book.

Character Evaluation.

Giving a vivid description of the book’s character to create an imagery illusion is critical.

Highlight the following;

• Physical appearance- When writing about a character’s physical appearance in your book report, it’s essential to pay attention to their overall look and the specific details of their clothing, hair, etc. How does the character dress? Do they have any distinguishing features? How do they carry themselves? All of these details can give you clues about them.
• Personality traits- One of the most important aspects of a character’s personality trait is their motivation, actions, behaviours, and attitude. Furthermore, another aspect of the book report is their relationship with other characters. By taking the time to consider these aspects of a character’s personality, you can write a well-rounded and engaging book report.
• Significance of each character in the story- describe the character’s role and how they correlate throughout the story.

Plot Summary (Briefly Describe the Story)

Here is where you focus on the main sequence of events within the book. You mention any use of literary devices the authors may have used. You can discuss these key events; 

• Goals of the character- In a story, the characters carry a specific goal they desire to achieve. In your book report, take your reader through the character’s journey.
• Type of conflict and their results- A critical aspect of writing a summary book report is understanding the different types of conflict present in a text. There are four main types of conflict: man vs self, man vs man, man vs society, and man vs nature. Each type of conflict can offer different insights into the message of a book. 

For example, if the book you are reading is about a character struggling with addiction, the conflict would likely be classified as man vs self. This conflict can provide insight into the character’s internal struggle and motivations.

Alternatively, if the book is about two characters competing against each other, the conflict would likely be classified as man vs man. This type of conflict can offer insight into the characters’ relationships with each other and their individual goals. Understanding the different types of conflict present in a book can help you write a more engaging and insightful book report.

Theme Analysis (Examine One or More Themes)

The story’s theme is one of the biggest highlights that many students ignore. It provides the reader with significant contexts of place, time, and mood of the story. The theme plays a huge role in the story, allowing a connection between the reader and the book’s characters.

Personal Evaluation 

Personal evaluation is where you chyme in your take on the book and give your honest opinions of the book. What did you learn from the book? Balance out your thoughts and support your statement.

Likes and Dislikes Of the Story.

You are allowed to emphasize your likes and dislikes of the book.

Personal Interpretation 

Take time and give your understanding of the book to support your thesis.

How to Start a Book Report 

If you desire to get your professor’s attention, give them something to look forward to when reading your report.

The following will you a great way to create excitement and write an excellent book report:

Understand the Assignment Requirements

When you are assigned a book report, you must make sure that you understand the assignment requirements. Look into and research; What type of book report are you supposed to write? How long should it be? What format should you use? These are all important questions that you need to ask yourself before you begin how to write a book report college level. 

If you are unsure about anything, ask your professor for clarification. 

Read the Book

Once you understand the assignment’s requirements, you can start reading the book. Take note of any significant events or characters that stand out to you as you read. These will be important to include in your book report. 

Write an Outline + an Outline Sample.

Once you have finished reading the book, it is time to start writing your report. Begin by creating an outline of what you are going to write. It will help you organize your thoughts and ensure you include all the vital information. 

Here is a simple outline that you can follow: 

• Introduction.
• Plot Summary (Briefly describe the story).
• Character Analysis (Analyze one or more of the characters).
• Theme Analysis (Examine one or more of the themes).
• Conclusion (Briefly summarize your thoughts on the book).

Book Report Template

Write a Strong Introduction

There are a couple of things to consider. First, you must ensure that you introduce the book in a way that will grab the reader’s attention. i.e. giving a summary of the plot. 

It would help if you also tried to incorporate fascinating facts about the book or the author. Secondly, you need to make sure that your introduction is well-organized. You should clearly state the purpose of your paper and what points you will be discussing. Lastly, you want to ensure that your introduction is concise, as you should not include any unnecessary information. 

Write Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are where you will include your analysis of the story. These include a plot summary, character analysis, and theme analysis.

When writing a body paragraph, start by introducing the paragraph’s main idea in a topic sentence. Several sentences of evidence or examples then follow it to support the main idea. Be sure to choose evidence that is relevant and persuasive. Finally, conclude the paragraph with a sentence that ties back to the overall thesis of the book report.

Remember, each body paragraph should focus on a different aspect of the book, such as the characters, plot, or theme.

Write a Conclusion

The conclusion is where you will sum up your thoughts on the book. It can include; What did you think of it? Would you recommend it to others? It is also an excellent place to mention any unanswered questions or issues. 

The next section of your book report should be the plot summary. Here, you will briefly summarise the story, including the main events, conflict, and resolution.

Edit and Proofread

How you edit and proofread your book report can make the difference between a good and bad grade. Here are some helpful tips: 

• Use active voice when possible; it is more concise and easier to read. 
• Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Use a spell-checker if necessary or when feeling doubtful. 
• Make sure all information in the report is accurate. 
• Check for clarity and conciseness. Make sure the book report flows well and is easy to read. 
• Ask someone else to read the book report before you turn it in to check for errors and get opinions from a third person’s point of view.

How to Write a Book Report Without Reading the Book

When presented with an assignment on how to write a book report college level and you have no time to read the entire book, here are some dependable ways to write one without reading it; 

Read the Book Summary.

One of the best ways to write a book report without reading the book itself is to read its summary instead. It provides you with all the critical information you need about the story. 

You can find summaries online or in the back of many books. But take note to be sure that you are getting your information from a reliable source. 

Focus on Significant Details Only.

You don’t need to include every detail from the story. Instead, focus on the essential information that will help to support your claims. 

For example, if you are doing character analysis, you might want to focus on their actions and thoughts rather than every little detail about them. 

Get Help From a Professional.

If you have trouble understanding the book, try looking up a summary online or ask a friend for help. You can also hire a professional book report writer to help you with your assignment. 

Try to Discuss Different Angle

Another way to write a book report without reading it is to discuss it from a different angle. For example, focus on their motivations or actions when discussing the characters. If you examine the plot, focus on the conflict or resolution as this will help you better understand the story without reading it yourself. 

We hope this blog post has helped you know what is expected of you on how to write a book report college level. Reading a novel and writing a comprehensive report on it can be daunting, but if you follow our outline and example, we believe you will produce an A+ paper. If you need help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help students achieve their academic goals!

What are the parts of a book report?

A book report includes the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. In the introduction, you should provide basic information about the book, including the title, author, and type of book. The body paragraphs are where you will include your analysis of the story.

While at the conclusion, you will summarize your thoughts on the book. 

Is a report a summary?

No, a report is not a summary. It is a brief story overview, including the main events, characters, and themes. A report is a more in-depth book analysis that includes your thoughts and opinions. 

How many paragraphs should be included in a book report?

You should include no set number of paragraphs in a book report. However, it is recommended to have at least three body paragraphs. It gives you enough space to discuss the different aspects of the story in detail. 

How long is a book report?

A book report can be as long or as short as you want it to be. However, most college-level book reports are at least five pages in length. It gives you enough space to provide a thorough analysis of the story. 

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Writing a Book Report

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This resource discusses book reports and how to write them.

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

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

Before You Read

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

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

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

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

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

As You Read

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

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

When You Are Ready to Write

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

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

Revising/Final Copy

Do a quick double check of your paper:

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

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Write Great College Book Reports with Our Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Table of contents

Did you know that the average college student spends approximately 17 hours per week reading and preparing for classes? Among these essential academic tasks, writing book reports stands out as a critical skill that every student needs to master.

But why is it so important, and how can you excel at it?

At the college level, book reports are more than just summaries; they are opportunities to demonstrate deep understanding, critical thinking, and the ability to connect complex ideas. Whether you're a freshman getting your first taste of college academics or a senior looking to refine your skills, mastering the art of writing book reports is crucial for your academic success.

In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of writing an impactful college-level book report. We'll cover everything from understanding your assignment and choosing the right book to structuring your report and crafting a compelling analysis. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to turn any book into an insightful report that captures your professor's attention and earns you the grades you deserve.

Step #1: Understanding the Assignment

A top-notch book report starts with fully understanding your assignment, a step that shapes your entire approach. First, determine the required length and format, like APA or MLA, as this sets the stage for the depth of your analysis and presentation.

Pay close attention to any specific questions or themes your professor has outlined; these are crucial in guiding your focus during both reading and writing your college-level book report.

Always review the assignment prompt thoroughly to identify all specific requirements. Don't hesitate to ask your professor for clarification on any unclear parts of the assignment, ensuring you get the details right from the beginning.

Also, actively participate in any class discussions about the assignment to gain additional insights and clarifications. By comprehending every aspect of your assignment, you position your book report to be on target, comprehensive, and effective in addressing all necessary elements.

Step #2: Choosing the Right Book

When it comes to writing a college-level book report, the selection of the book itself can make all the difference, especially if you have the liberty to choose. A well-chosen book not only keeps you engaged but also enriches your report.

If the book isn't assigned, start by considering how it ties into your course. A book that aligns with the themes or subjects you're studying can provide valuable insights and make your report more pertinent. However, don't overlook your personal interests. Choosing a book that piques your curiosity or resonates with you personally can make the process of reading and analyzing more enjoyable and engaging.

Also, remember the importance of starting early. Diving into your chosen book with ample time on hand allows for a deeper understanding. This isn’t just about leisurely reading; it’s about having the opportunity to truly engage with the text, make notes, reflect on its themes, and understand its characters. A thoughtful and unhurried approach can significantly enhance the quality of your analysis, leading to a more nuanced and compelling book report.

In essence, the right choice of book, coupled with a timely start, lays the foundation for a successful college book report.

Step #3: Preparing to Write Your Book Report

Once you've selected the right book and started reading early, the next critical step is to prepare for writing your report. This stage is about active reading, a methodical approach that involves engaging with the text to form a deeper understanding.

Active reading is essential for a college-level book report. It's not just about flipping through the pages; it's about interacting with the content. As you read, take notes on key points, characters, themes, and plot developments. These notes are invaluable; they not only help you keep track of important details but also make the process of writing your report much smoother.

Highlighting or annotating as you go can also be incredibly helpful. This might include underlining significant passages, jotting down questions or insights in the margins, or marking sections that evoke a strong response. These actions keep you engaged with the text and aid in forming a comprehensive view of the book.

How to write a college book report outline

An outline is crucial for structuring your book report. Here's a streamlined approach:

• Key Themes and Ideas : Start with identifying the central themes, character developments, and crucial plot points from your notes. These elements form the core of your report.
• Structure and Headings : Arrange these ideas into a logical sequence. Use headings like Introduction, Summary, Analysis, and Conclusion to structure your content. Under each heading, briefly note the main points and specific examples from the book you'll discuss.
• Flexibility : Keep your outline adaptable. As you write, you might find new insights that require you to adjust your initial plan.

This concise yet comprehensive outline ensures that your report is well-organized and covers all critical aspects, making the writing process smoother and more focused.

Step #4: How to Start a Collge Book Report

The beginning of your college book report is crucial as it sets the tone and engages your reader. A strong opening not only captures attention but also frames your analysis and perspective.

Start your book report with an interesting hook . This could be a thought-provoking question, an intriguing fact about the book, or a bold statement reflecting its central theme. For instance, an opening like "In 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' Harper Lee masterfully intertwines a gripping narrative with a profound exploration of morality," instantly draws the reader in.

Next, provide context by introducing the book's title, the author's name, and its genre. This essential information sets the stage for your reader. Follow this with a brief, compelling summary of the book. Focus on the major themes and the overarching plot without diving into the finer details. This part of your introduction should give enough information to frame your analysis and pique the reader’s interest in your perspective on the book.

Remember, the start of your college book report should not only inform but also intrigue, setting the stage for an insightful and engaging analysis.

Step #5: How to Structure Your College Book Report

A well-structured book report includes several key components: an Introduction, Summary, Analysis, and Conclusion. Each section plays a distinct role in the report, contributing to a comprehensive and insightful analysis.

Introduction:

• Begin with a captivating opening sentence to grab the reader’s attention.
• Introduce the book by mentioning its title, author, and genre.
• Provide a brief overview of the book’s main themes or ideas, setting the stage for your analysis.
• This section offers a concise overview of the book’s plot, characters, and setting.
• Keep it brief and to the point; the focus of your report should be on analysis, not retelling the story.
• Avoid giving away any spoilers or key plot resolutions, especially if they are crucial to your analysis later on.
• This is the heart of your report. Here, delve into the themes, character development, narrative style, and any symbolic elements of the book.
• Discuss how the author conveys these themes and ideas, and offer your interpretation of their significance.
• Support your analysis with examples from the book. Quote or reference specific scenes or dialogues that illustrate your points.
• Stay focused on analysis rather than summary. Always link your observations back to the broader themes and your interpretation.

Conclusion:

• Summarize your main points of analysis and reiterate why they are significant.
• Offer your final thoughts or evaluation of the book. This could include your personal response to the story, its themes, or the author’s style.
• Conclude with a statement that ties together your analysis and leaves the reader with a final thought to ponder.

Remember, each section of your report should flow logically into the next, creating a cohesive narrative that not only informs but also engages the reader. Staying focused on analysis rather than retelling the story is key to crafting a compelling and insightful book report.

Step #6: Writing Your Analysis

In the analysis section, deeply explore the book's themes, character development, and the author's writing style. This is your chance to showcase critical thinking and a unique perspective:

• Exploring Themes : Identify and discuss key themes, using specific scenes or dialogues to illustrate how the author develops these throughout the book.
• Examining Character Development : Analyze the characters' evolution, focusing on changes over the story and their contribution to the book's overall message, supported by text examples.
• Assessing the Author’s Style : Evaluate the author's style, including narrative voice, tone, and pacing, and how it impacts the story's effectiveness.
• Comparing to Other Works/Real-World Situations : Enhance your analysis by comparing the book's elements with other literature or relevant real-world scenarios.
• Maintaining an Academic Tone : Write formally, structuring arguments logically and supporting them with examples from the text.

Balancing personal perspective with an academic approach, and backing up points with book examples, will create a thorough and insightful analysis.

Step #7: Concluding Your Book Report

Conclude your book report by summarizing your key analysis points and offering a final, personal reflection on the book's impact or effectiveness. This section should tie back to your opening thoughts, creating a cohesive end to your report.

Step #8: Editing and Finalizing

Revising and proofreading are critical for refining your book report. This stage ensures clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Here's a brief checklist to guide you:

• Review for Clarity and Flow : Read through your report to ensure it's logically structured and ideas flow smoothly.
• Check for Grammar and Spelling : Look out for any grammatical errors, typos, or spelling mistakes.
• Read Aloud : Reading your report aloud can help catch awkward phrasing and inconsistencies.
• Peer Review : Consider having a classmate or friend review your report. They might offer valuable feedback and catch errors you've missed.
• Final Touches : Make sure your report adheres to the required format and citation style.

These steps will help you present a polished and well-crafted book report.

In this comprehensive guide, we've navigated through the essential steps of writing a compelling college-level book report. From understanding your assignment and choosing the right book to crafting a structured outline, engaging in active reading, and conducting a thorough analysis, each stage is crucial in developing a report that is insightful and well-received. We've also emphasized the importance of a strong opening, detailed structuring, and the necessity of careful editing and finalizing your work.

As you embark on your book report journey, remember to approach each step with confidence and attention to detail. The guidelines provided here are designed to help you create a report that not only meets academic standards but also showcases your unique perspective and analytical skills.

If you still find yourself needing assistance or feel overwhelmed, remember that help is available. Services like Writers Per Hour offer specialized support with " write my book report " requests, providing expert guidance tailored to your specific needs. Utilizing such resources can offer additional support and ensure your book report is of the highest quality.

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How to Write Outstanding College Level Book Reports

There's nothing quite like enjoying a really solid piece of literature. Hours can pass while you're diving into a new world that the author has created. Your enjoyment of your novel may dissipate slightly when you are trying to figure out how to write a college level book report about it—but it doesn't have to be that way. Analyzing (and maybe even critiquing) novels is a useful skill that will help you both in and outside of the classroom. In this post we will outline the best strategies of painlessly writing a book report. It's important to note that there is no one generic book report assignment. This isn't necessarily a step-by-step guide, but it can help get you started thinking about the specific requirements that your instructor has for you.

Know the assignment

When you start out your book report assignment, it's important that you know exactly what your instructor is requiring. Does your instructor want you to explore the book's theme and write a five-paragraph essay on it, or are you supposed to be writing an essay about a particular character? Read through the assignment sheet very carefully and make sure that you understand all of the instructions. If you have questions or are uncertain about something, be sure to ask your instructor.

Actually read the book

Even though it may be tempting to take a shortcut and watch a movie adaptation of your book or even to read the Sparknotes , definitely resist that urge. Not only will your report be more thorough if you read the book the whole way through, but reading and understanding themes and outlining a novel plot is an invaluable experience. You'll be able to understand books on a completely new and more appreciative level. When you are reading the novel for your book report, write down page numbers or passages that pertain to the assignment or that you think might be interesting to mention.

Try to really sink into what the author is trying to say by asking yourself the following questions:

• What is the main theme of the book? The theme is the meaning or the entire reason behind writing the book. An author doesn't typically write just to write something down. What motivated them to pen this novel?
• What is happening to the characters? Typically novels are told from the perspective (either in the first or third person) of the main character, though some novels have multiple perspectives. Is this character a good character or are they flawed? What kinds of obstacles is the character going through? What did they learn during the course of the story?
• What is the plot of the book? There are several different kinds of plots, and it's helpful to know what kind your chosen novel has in order to help you analyze it better. Some stories are quests: that is, the main character is on a journey to accomplish a goal (think Lord of the Rings). Some stories are overcoming obstacles—whether that's internal or external. What kind of plot does your novel have and why do you think the author chose that particular type?

Write a good introduction

After you've read your book thoroughly and you've thought about the characters, themes, plot, and some good quotes, you'll be ready to start writing the book report. Like any other paper, a good book report needs an explanatory introduction that is easy to understand. When writing the introduction, be sure to include the title of the work, the author, and a sentence or two on what you will be overviewing in the report. Even though it may not be required to have a thesis statement in your book report, writing one in your paper might keep it more focused and help you narrow down what you will be writing in the body paragraphs.

For example, if we were writing an introduction about a book report over Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird , we might write something like this:

In Harper Lee's iconic coming of age novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Lee confronts the audience with the idea that systemic racism was rampant in the U.S. court system in the early 20th century in the South. She illustrates this idea with the unfair trial of convicted rapist Tom Robinson, whose lawyer Atticus Finch handily proves is innocent, yet is still sentenced with a crime he did not commit. Through the eyes of the young main character, Scout Finch, the audience is able to learn about these injustices with the innocent eyes of a child.

As you can see, we mentioned the name of the book, the author, and we also outlined what we would be discussing throughout the body paragraphs in the book report. Not only will this let the reader know what this report is about, but it'll also help you stay organized when you are writing the paper. Note that nowhere in this paragraph does it say that we really liked the book. Whether or not we liked the book is irrelevant in the report. What the book report is trying to do is to objectively understand a book's relevance and importance wit themes, characters, motifs, etc. (Though of course it's perfectly okay and encouraged to like the book that you are reviewing.)

Implement the ideas in the body paragraphs

The meat of your book report will be in the body paragraphs. These paragraphs will expand on the ideas that you brought up in your introduction paragraph and allow you to introduce the novel in depth to your reader.

Though no two book report assignments are the same, it's likely that your instructor is going to want to see some summarization in your book report. Your summary of the novel shouldn't be too lengthy (this is a report after all, so it's typically quite short). If your instructor has assigned a five-page book report, don't summarize the book in four and a half pages. As a general rule, commit about 1/3 of the paper to a summary just so you can make sure the reader understands your analysis of it without having read it.

Once you are done writing the summary of the novel, then you can get into your actual analysis of it. You may remember that we brought up systemic racism in the U.S. court system in the South in our essay on To Kill a Mockingbird. In our summary, we would then explore those ideas that we brought forth to the reader. How does Lee illustrate this idea throughout the novel? A good way to show how the author is making this point is through direct quotations from the book that you believe are a good showcase.

In your analysis, you should also be discussing theme (or what was the author's purpose behind writing this book) and character. No two analyses are the same, which is what makes book reports and literary criticism so interesting. Everyone will read the novel through their own personal lenses and experiences and come up with a completely different interpretation of what the author intended for us to come away with.

Again, it's crucial to keep looking at your instructions for your book report so that you know exactly what you need to be discussing. Even if you write a brilliant report over the theme of systemic racism in the court system in To Kill a Mockingbird, it won't do you any good when you were actually supposed to write about the relationship between Scout and Atticus Finch and why it mattered. Paying attention to instructions is one of the biggest keys to success in writing a book report.

As with all other conclusions, focus on wrapping things up neatly. Though you may be tempted to just say in the conclusion that you either loved or hated the book, this doesn't make for a very interesting paragraph. When you are writing your conclusion on your book report, think about why this novel matters. If you didn't like it, think about why you didn't like it. Think about how well the author gets his or her point across. Should this book be read widely to gain a critical understanding of a subject? Why or why not? Would you recommend this book to others? The genre of book reports generally seeks out the opinion of the writer, so make sure that you let your voice be heard.

Like any other paper that you write, it's crucial to go back through and revise if you are turning in the final copy. It's extremely rare that you'll write something that doesn't have any mistakes or reworking to do. Once you have written the first draft, take a short break to get your eyes off the paper for just a bit. Come back to the paper after the break with a set of fresh eyes and try to read through it for grammar and spelling mistakes (spell check doesn't get everything!) and then once again for content. Make sure that everything makes sense and is very explanatory. After all—you have to assume that your audience hasn't read your book yet so you want to make sure that you are explaining it well enough to someone who has never read a sentence of it and still be able to understand.

If you are uncertain about sentences or even entire passages of your book report, ask a friend or your instructor to take a look at your work. Sometimes it helps to get an outside opinion since you've been closely working with the text.

Book reports teach us more than just how to write a report

Though we do a lot of research and studying about subjects that may not be applicable after college, book reports may be one of the only exceptions to that. Novels, no matter how abstract the concept, teach us about human behavior and life through plots and characters. Understanding how to break down an author's intent on their stories will absolutely be relevant to your life. Having the curiosity and the skills to understand a novel with a more complex understanding will undoubtedly enrich your reading experience.

Remember than an effective book report will have an introduction that mentions the book title, author, and include the points you will be making throughout the body paragraphs. Your body paragraphs will expand on those ideas that you brought up in the introduction, using quotes from the book, analysis, and summary to aide you.

Finally, be sure that once the book report has been written that you are carefully looking at spelling, grammar, and the content of your paragraphs. Get a friend, your instructor, or even a professional editor to look at your book report to make sure you are on the right track.

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Book Report

What is a Book Report & How to Write a Perfect One

Published on: Jan 26, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Writing a book report is a terrifying experience for many students. The terror begins with reading and understanding what you're reading but then continues as your thoughts become paper in front of you.

Have you ever been assigned a book report and thought, ‘Ugh! This is going to be terrible?’ Well, we're here to help. 

Below you can find a helpful guide to understand how to write a perfect report. Here we have also provided some sample book reports and a free book report template for your help. 

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What is a Book Report?

A book report is an informative piece of writing that summarizes the novel and presents some brief analysis on its main elements like plot, setting, characters.

This could either be a work of fiction or nonfiction with a tone covering everything from serious to humorous.

A book review is not the same as a book report.

Although they may look similar, one requires in-depth analysis and an objective point of view while the other is more descriptive and subjective.

Some course instructors may ask students to add relevant themes of the book and plot elements into their book reports. But, on a very basic level, a book report is an extremely simple form of review for any given text - no matter what its genre or author.

How does a book report writing benefit you?

Writing a good report will help students to improve their analytical and communication skills. They also get the opportunity to practice expressing themselves through creative or critical thought about the different aspects of books they read.

Assessing the Book Before Writing the Review 

Before delving into the content of a book, it's essential to gather some key information. Begin by noting the following details:

• Author: Who authored the book? Are you familiar with any other works by this author?
• Genre: What category does the book fall into—fiction, nonfiction, biography, etc.? 
• Which audience would find this type of book appealing? Is this your typical genre preference? Do you enjoy reading books within this genre?
• Title: How does the title impact you? Does it pique your interest? Does it align well with the book's content?
• Pictures/Book Jacket/Cover/Printing: Analyze the book jacket or cover. What does it convey? Is it an accurate representation of the book? Did it generate excitement for you to read it? Are there any illustrations or images within the book? If so, what type are they, and do they captivate your interest?

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Book Report Outline

Writing a book report becomes more manageable when you follow a structured outline. Here's an outline you can use as a guideline for your book report:

How to Write a Book Report? - H2

Writing a book report involves several key steps that can help you effectively communicate your understanding and analysis of a book. Here's a guide on how to write a book report:

Introduction

• Begin with an engaging introductory paragraph that includes the book's title, author, and publication information.
• Provide a brief overview of the book's genre and main theme.
• Include any initial reactions or expectations you had before reading the book.
• Summarize the main plot or central idea of the book without giving away major spoilers.
• Highlight key events, conflicts, and characters that drive the narrative.
• Focus on the most significant aspects of the story and avoid excessive details.

Analysis and Evaluation

• Analyze the author's writing style, storytelling techniques, and use of literary devices.
• Discuss the book's strengths and weaknesses, supporting your statements with examples from the text.
• Evaluate how effectively the author conveys their message and engages the reader.
• Consider the book's impact on you personally and its relevance to broader themes or issues.

Themes and Messages

• Identify the main themes or messages explored in the book.
• Discuss how these themes are developed throughout the narrative.
• Provide specific examples or quotes to support your analysis.

Character Analysis

• Analyze the main characters in the book, their development, and their relationships.
• Discuss their motivations, personalities, and how they contribute to the story.
• Use examples and quotes to illustrate your points.
• Summarize your main points and overall assessment of the book.
• Offer your personal opinion on the book, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
• Reflect on the impact the book had on you and who you would recommend it to.

Formatting and Proofreading

• Structure your book report into paragraphs with clear topic sentences.
• Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
• Ensure your report is well-organized and follows a logical flow.
• Citations may be required if you quote or reference specific passages from the book.

Remember, a book report is not just a summary; it also involves critical analysis and interpretation. 

By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive and insightful book report that effectively conveys your understanding.

Book Report Examples

Before you head into the writing process of your book report, it's a great idea to take some time and look at examples of other people's book reports.

In this way, you'll see how others have written their own work in an engaging manner that will inspire creativity on your part as well.

Book Report Sample

Book Report on Harry Potter

Book Report on Matilda

Book Report on Pride and Prejudice

Book Report for Kids

Book Report MLA Format

Book Report Worksheet

High School Book Report Template

Non-Fiction Book Report Template

Book Report Template 4th Grade

3rd Grade Book Report Template

Book Report Ideas

Picking a book for your report can be an intimidating task. You don't have any idea which books to read or what the professor will prefer, but there are some ideas of different subjects you could write about:

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• The Fault in Our Stars book report
• Animal Farm by George Orwell
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
• Hunger Games book report
• A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
• Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
• Charlotte's webbook report

If you are still not sure about how to write a book report that will help you earn an A, then our essay writer AI is the perfect solution for you. Consider taking professional essay writing assistance from one of our experienced writers who specialize in this area.

No matter if you need help with your college essay, book review, book report, or full-length research paper, we provide essay writing service for students . Contact our expert essay writing service today to get the best assistance with all your academic tasks! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main parts of a book report.

The main parts of a book report are the bibliography, characters, setting, themes, and plot. These four elements form a descriptive book report. However, most reports that you will read in high school or college are expository-based, meaning they explore an idea rather than discuss it. 

Are book reports essays?

A book report is, quite simply, an essay about a book. A book report is a type of essay that students are asked to write by their teachers. Different formats for this writing assignment may be used, but the most common one is expository style (i.e., telling about something). 

How long should a book report be?

Your book report should not exceed two double-spaced pages, and it should be somewhere between 600 and 800 words in length. 

What is a thesis in a book report?

After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic. This sentence is the thesis statement and serves as an overview of what will be discussed in this paper. 

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How to Write a Book Report

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

Book Report Fundamentals

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

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

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

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

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

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

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

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

Selecting and Finding a Book

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Formats of Book Reports

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

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

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

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

How to Write an Outline

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

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

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

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

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

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

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

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

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

Plot Summary and Description

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

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

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

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

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

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

Analyzing Characters and Themes

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

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

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

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

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

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

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

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

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

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

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

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

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

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

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

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

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

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

How to Be an Active Reader

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

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

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

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

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

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

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

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

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

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

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

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

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

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

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

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

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

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

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

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

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

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

Methods of In-text Annotation

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

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

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

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

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

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

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

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

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

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

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

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

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

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

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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A Beginner's Guide to Writing a Book Report (with Examples)

Last Updated: March 13, 2024 Fact Checked

• Researching
• Drafting the Report
• Reviewing & Revising

Sample Book Reports & Summaries

Expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . 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. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,412,189 times.

A book report is a short essay that summarizes and analyzes a work of fiction or nonfiction. Writing a book report may not seem fun at first, but it gives you a great chance to fully understand a work and its author. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to write a book report, from choosing a book and outlining to drafting and editing your final paper.

Things You Should Know

• Read the entire book and take notes on important themes, characters, and events. Use your notes to create an outline with evidence that supports your analysis.
• Include the title and author in your intro, then summarize the plot, main characters, and setting of the book.
• Analyze the author’s writing style, as well as the main themes and arguments of the book. Include quotes and examples to support your statements.

Researching Your Book Report

• For example, find out if your teacher wants you to include citations, such as page numbers from the book, in your report.
• Ask your teacher how much of your paper to devote to summary versus analysis. Most book reports are direct summaries with objective analysis rather than your personal opinions. In contrast, a book review or commentary is more opinion-driven.

• Some popular books for book reports include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Animal Farm by George Orwell, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Choose a book at your grade level.

• Author: Who wrote the book? Do you know any other works by this author?
• Genre: Is the book fiction or nonfiction? If it’s fiction, is it historical, fantasy, horror, etc.? If it’s nonfiction, is it a biography, memoir, science, etc.?
• Audience: Who would find this book appealing? Is it intended for a specific age range or gender? Do you typically enjoy books like this?
• Title: Does the title catch your interest? Does it fit well with the book’s content?
• Book Cover/Illustrations: What does the book cover convey and does it accurately represent the book? How do you feel when you look at it? If the book has illustrations, what are they and do they hold your interest?

• Take breaks while reading to keep your attention sharp. Try to find a pace that is comfortable for you. If you get distracted after 15 minutes, read in 15-minute intervals. If you can go an hour, read for an hour at a time.
• Give yourself enough time to read the entire book. It’s very difficult to write a book report if you’ve just skimmed over everything. Don’t procrastinate!
• Don’t trust online book summaries. You can’t guarantee that they are accurate or true to the text.

• For example, look for a sentence that clearly describes a main setting in the book, such as “The castle was gloomy and made out of large black stones.”

Outlining Your Book Report

• Introduction: Introduce the title, author, and publication information. Include a brief overview of the book’s genre and main theme, and state your purpose for writing the report.
• Summary: Concisely summarize the plot or central idea, highlighting main events, characters, and conflicts. Focus on important aspects while avoiding spoilers.
• Analysis and Evaluation: Evaluate the author’s writing style and use of literary devices, like foreshadowing, metaphors, imagery, etc. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the book and use quotes and examples from the text.
• Themes and Messages: Identify the book’s main themes or messages and how they develop through the course of the book. Provide specific quotes and examples.
• Character Analysis: Analyze the main characters in the book, their development, and their relationships. Explain their motivations, personalities, and significance to the story. Provide examples and quotes to support your analysis.
• Personal Reflection: Depending on your teacher’s instructions, you might share your personal opinions and discuss what you liked and disliked about the book. Reflect on how the book relates to broader themes or issues.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points and conclude with your final thoughts or reflections on the book.
• Bibliography: If required, include a works cited page or bibliography listing all the sources you used to write your book report.
• Outlining takes time, but it saves you more time once you reach the editing stage.
• Some people prefer to outline with pen and paper, while others just type up a list on the computer. Choose the method that works best for you.

• Be careful not to overuse quotes. If it seems like every other line is a quote, try to dial back. Aim to include a maximum of one quotation per paragraph. Quotes and examples should still take a backseat to your summary.

• For example, you’ll likely need to focus primarily on discussing the most important characters or the characters that appear most frequently in the text.
• When you are finished with your outline, go back through it to see if it makes sense. If the paragraphs don’t flow into one another, move them around or add/delete new ones until they do.
• Also, check to see if your outline covers all of the major elements of the book, such as the plot, characters, and setting.

Writing Your Book Report

• For example, a sentence summary might state, “This book is about the main character’s journey to Africa and what she learns on her travels.”
• Don’t take up too much space with your introduction. In general, an introduction should be 3-6 sentences long, though in rare cases, they may be longer or shorter.

• Use vivid language when you can and include plenty of details. For example, you might write, “The farm was surrounded by rolling hills.”

• For instance, if the main character moves to Africa, you might describe what happens before the move, how the move goes, and how they settle in once they arrive.

• For example, you might write that the main character is “a middle-aged woman who enjoys the finer things in life, such as designer clothes.” Then, connect this description to the plot summary by describing how her views change after her travels, if they do.
• Expect to introduce the characters in the same sentences and paragraphs as the plot introduction.

• You might write, “The author argues that travel gives you a new perspective. That is why her main characters all seem happier and more grounded after visiting new places.”
• For fiction, determine if the author is using the story to pass along a certain moral or lesson. For example, a book about an underdog athlete could encourage readers to take chances to pursue their dreams.

• For example, an author who uses lots of slang terms is probably going for a hip, approachable style.

• Some teachers require, or strongly suggest, that you include the author’s name and the book title in your concluding paragraph.
• When writing a conclusion , don’t introduce any new thoughts. Any important points should be made in your body paragraphs. Save the space for your recap.

Reviewing and Revising Your Book Report

• Before you submit your paper, make sure that you’ve spelled the author’s name and any character names correctly.
• Don’t trust your computer’s spell check to catch all the errors for you. Spell check can be helpful, but it isn’t perfect and can make mistakes.

• If you’re nervous about asking, try saying something like “It would be great if you could go over my book report and make sure that it reads smoothly.”
• Remember, no one’s first draft is perfect, so don’t get upset if someone suggests you do something differently. They want to help make your report the best it can be, so don’t take constructive criticism personally.

• For example, double-check that you are using the correct font, font size, and margins.
• Once you've finished proofreading, revising, and checking that you've addressed all the requirements, you're ready to submit your book report!

• Even though your book report is your own work, avoid using “I” too much. It can make your writing feel choppy. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• It might be tempting to watch the movie or read the online notes instead of reading the book. Resist this urge! Your teacher will be able to tell the difference. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Calm down and walk around if you get too frustrated while writing. If you write a book report while angry, you're more likely to misspell things!
• Choose a unique book. Harry Potter or Percy Jackson is an absolute no. Everyone chooses those. Try something different!
• Write when anything comes to mind! You don't want to lose your ideas!

• Give yourself plenty of time to write your report. Don’t wait until the last minute or you may feel rushed. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Stealing or using another person’s work is considered plagiarism and academic dishonesty. Make sure that the work you submit is all your own. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.aresearchguide.com/write-book-report.html
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
• ↑ https://grammark.org/how-to-write-a-book-report/
• ↑ https://library.valleycollege.edu/elements_of_book_report.pdf
• ↑ https://takelessons.com/blog/steps-to-writing-a-book-report
• ↑ https://www.infoplease.com/homework-help/homework-center-writing-book-report
• ↑ https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-setting
• ↑ https://www.tcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/archive/writing-center-handouts/essay-types-plot-summary.pdf
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

To write a book report, start by introducing the author and the name of the book and then briefly summarizing the story. Next, discuss the main themes and point out what you think the author is trying to suggest to the reader. Finally, write about the author’s style of writing, paying particular attention to word choice and the overall tone of the book. For tips on editing and polishing your paper before turning it in, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to write a college book report.

So you’ve been assigned your first college book report…are you at a loss as to how to complete it? Don’t worry; you aren’t alone. Many students enter college not really knowing where to start when it comes to book reports. College professors expect a much higher level of work than high school teachers expect. Step by step, here’s how to write a book report that’s on that higher level :

Read the book. Yes, every word. You can’t just skim over the book when you’re going to be writing about it. As you read, use a highlighter or sticky notes to mark the most important passages. You can also take notes if it will help you remember the book’s plot.

Read what others have written about the book. If you have a popular selection, narrow down your research to read about the research that interests you most. Don’t worry about the topic of your own paper just yet; read the research that interest you. Draw research from scholarly sources, not popular magazines, and if you do research online, find credible sources.

Narrow your topic. Start by reading the guidelines for the report given to you by your professor so that you stay within the parameters of the project. Think about the topics and debates you enjoyed the most when reading through research on the book.

Write a thesis statement. In one or two sentences, you should be able to describe the argument of your paper. In college, a book report isn’t expected to just describe the book and your personal opinion of it. You need to have an arguable point, which could be as simple as “this book is one of the most important pieces of literature for young adults” to something much more specific about the author’s theme, characters, setting, writing style, or plot. Avoid a thesis statement that is extremely similar to any research you’ve read.

Outline your report. You should start with an introductory paragraph (or few paragraphs if your report is extremely long) that includes your thesis statement and can include a very brief summary of the book. Your final paragraph should restate your thesis statement. Between, focus on at least three points that support your thesis statement’s argument.

Narrow down the resources you’ll use from your research. Your professor likely has a requirement for the number of resources you’ll have to use; stick to it carefully. Highlight specific quotes you want to use from your resources.

Write! If you’ve done your research and created a good outline, this part should be easier than you think. Remember, this is your first draft, so it doesn’t have to be too refined.

Edit and proofread. This is a crucial step, and one that many students avoid. Some professors give you time to review work in class or will give you feedback on your first draft, but if yours doesn’t, make sure you edit and proofread on your own.

Cite your sources. This should be your final step and is one of the most important. Ethical writing is your key to success in college, at least when it comes to papers. Plagiarism and inappropriate paraphrasing will not just destroy you academically – it is also illegal. Follow your professor’s preferred citation method carefully.

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How to write outstanding college level book reports

Many generations of students from completely different areas have been facing the same common assignment: writing a book report. Book reports are very popular because professors like them, and they are not going to disappear anytime soon. However, students are rarely excited when they get a book report assigned. Book reports require you to not only read a book and understand its key concepts but also to provide a detailed analysis.

First, your book report must address the most important aspects, such as the title, information about the author, key information about the characters, and plot summary. These are the details that you would also provide in a book review, as well. However, a book report is different because you should also provide your personal opinion. The author’s point is usually presented in the form of a thesis statement and then supported with examples from the book. We decided to help you write an outstanding book report. Here are some useful tips.

Understand your assignment

First of all, you should know exactly what you’ve been asked to do. Make sure to clarify all the requirements, deadlines, and the necessary format. For example, if you’re being asked to write an essay, it can be an essay about the main theme of the book or about a particular character. Read your prompt carefully and don’t hesitate to talk to your instructor if you have any questions.

Read the book

Obviously, you need to read the book before writing anything about it. Many students prefer to skim through a book, looking for certain keywords and trying to select the most important passages. This is a very bad practice because, this way, you may miss something important. Make sure to dedicate enough time to reading.

Nathan Stewart, writer at LegitWritingServices advises: “Don’t copy information from book reports. On the one hand, it may seem that using reports written by professionals is a good idea, however you work will suffer from plagiarism issues.”

When reading a fiction book, make sure to write notes and focus on the following details:

• the setting;
• characters and connections between them;
• themes addressed in the book;
• literary symbols and metaphors;
• the author’s viewpoint.

When reading a nonfiction book, focus on the chapter titles to have a better understanding of the structure. Here are important things to consider:

• the general topic of the book;
• the most important events;
• the key characters and the way they impact the topic;
• new information that you’ve learned from the book.

Write an outline

We recommend that you write an outline before you start to write the book report itself. This way, it will be easier for you to create a proper report with a clear structure. Plan your report and think of what information you’re going to write first, and how you’re going to connect different sections so that your report will be logical and easy to read. Plan the introduction, body, and conclusion. Review your notes and select the best pieces of evidence to support your thesis statement.

Write a strong introduction

The introduction is one of the most important sections of a book report because it’s the first thing that your readers will see. Grammarly recommends writing a hook that will immediately grab the reader’s attention. A hook is basically one or two sentences that are aimed at capturing your reader’s attention. Write an explanatory introduction, mentioning the title of the book and the author. You should also explain what your report will be about. Even if you haven’t been asked to include a thesis statement in your report, having one will give you a certain advantage because your report will be more focused and specific.

Write body paragraphs

Use your outline and notes to write the main body of the report. Provide a brief plot summary and add your own thoughts, considering the themes of the book in the context of your topic and thesis statement. If it’s a nonfiction book, you should also explain the author’s thesis. Explain why the author uses a particular tone and style. Pay your attention to any symbols. Address the most important moments in the storyline, and use evidence from the book to support your own claims.

Write the conclusion

In the last paragraph of your book report, sum up your key points and the most important evidence. Some instructors may also ask you to restate the author’s name and the title of the book. The conclusion also gives you an opportunity to leave your readers with something to think about. For example, you can ask them a question related to the topic of your report, or consider the book in a broader context, drawing analogies between the events described in the book and important issues from real life.

Edit and proofread

Last but not least, you must edit and proofread your report, writing the final draft. Even the most talented writers need to write several drafts before their paper becomes perfect. We recommend that you never skip this important step. Take a break and then come back to your paper. Make sure that the structure is logically correct and all the sections are formatted according to the required style. Edit sentences that sound awkward or are hard to read. After this, proofread your report and fix any grammar or spelling mistakes. Also, don’t forget about the formatting of your paper. Use the standard MLA format in case your teacher hasn’t provided a specific format to follow.

Although writing a book report may seem to be a difficult task, you can make it much easier if you follow our step-by-step guide. Book reports allow you to demonstrate your understanding of various books and complex topics, as well as your analytical skills. We hope that our tips will help you write a book report that will impress everyone.

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TIP Sheet WRITING BOOK REPORTS

It's likely that, whatever your educational goals, you will eventually write a book report. Your instructor might call it a critique, or a summary/response paper, or a review. The two components these assignments have in common are summary and evaluation.

Other TIP Sheets on related topics that might prove helpful in developing a book report, depending on the type of book and the specifics of your assignment, include the following:

• How to Write a Summary
• Writing About Non-Fiction Books
• Writing About Literature

Summary AND evaluation Typically, a book report begins with a paragraph to a page of simple information-author, title, genre (for example, science fiction, historical fiction, biography), summary of the central problem and solution, and description of the main character(s) and what they learned or how they changed.

The following example summarizes in two sentences the plot of Jurassic Park :

Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park describes how millionaire tycoon John Hammond indulges his desire to create an island amusement park full of living dinosaurs. In spite of elaborate precautions to make the park safe, his animals run wild, killing and maiming his employees, endangering the lives of his two visiting grandchildren, and finally escaping to mainland Costa Rica.

On the other hand, a thesis statement for a book report reflects your evaluation of the work; "I really, really liked it" is inadequate. Students sometimes hesitate to make judgments about literature, because they are uncertain what standards apply. It's not so difficult to evaluate a book in terms of story elements: character, setting, problem/solution, even organization. (See TIP Sheet Writing About Literature for ideas on how to handle these standard story elements.) Nevertheless, a good thesis statement should include your reflection on the ideas, purpose, and attitudes of the author as well.

To develop an informed judgment about the work, start by asking yourself lots of questions (for more ideas, see "Evaluation" on the TIP Sheet Writing About Literature). Then choose your most promising area, the one about which you have something clear to say and can easily find evidence from the book to illustrate. Develop this into a thesis statement.

For example, here is what one thesis statement might look like for Jurassic Park (notice how this thesis statement differs from the simple summary above):

In Jurassic Park , Crichton seems to warn us chillingly that, in bioengineering as in chaos theory, the moment we most appear to be in control of events is the exact moment control is already irredeemably lost to us.

To develop an informed judgment and a corresponding thesis statement about a book, brainstorm by answering questions such as the following:

• For what purpose did the author write this, and did he fulfill that purpose?
• What did the main character learn? Does this lesson reflect reality as you know it?
• Were the characters complex and believable? What do they reveal of the author? of human nature?
• How well did the setting contribute to the mood? How did setting affect character and plot development?

The invisible author One common mistake students make is failing to step back far enough from the story to evaluate it as a piece of work produced by someone . Evaluation–you may be surprised to learn it!–is as much about the author as about the story itself. It is about making informed guesses about the author's purpose, ideas, and attitudes based on his use of language, organization, plot, and character development.

Usually the author does not figure prominently in the story unless the book is autobiographical. More often he is the invisible persona–invisible, yet not absent. The author leaves traces of himself throughout. Paradoxically, your understanding of the author depends on your deliberate detachment from the story itself to discover those traces.

Imagine standing very, very close to a large painting–inches away. Your focus is on blobs of color, but you are unable to identify the object represented. When you move back a few steps and alter your focus, the blobs take on a recognizable form. In the same way, you have to draw back from the story to discern the purpose, ideas , and attitudes of the author.

Author's purpose No one goes to the trouble to write something without purpose. Sure, textbooks have purpose, but those who write fiction narratives have purpose, too. Even fantasy writers have purpose. A book report should include your evaluation of whether the author succeeded in his purpose.

The following writer has made a statement about the author's purpose:

Crichton seems not so much to be warning us of the evils of scientific inquiry as begging us, in a very convincing way, to exercise collective moral restraint on scientific research.

This writer would then go on to use quotations, examples, and evidence from the book to show why she believes this is Crichton's purpose.

To identify and respond to the purpose of an author, try asking questions like these:

• Was the author's purpose to inform or simply entertain me? Did I learn something? Was I entertained? Did I lose interest? If I lost interest, was this author, perhaps, writing to a different audience?
• Is the author trying to persuade me to think or act in a particular way? About what issue? What point of view would he or she have me adopt? Was I convinced?

Author's ideas The author's ideas may be stated by the author himself in a foreword, or they may show up in the words of a narrator or a principal character. The character Ian Malcolm, for example, is a primary spokesman for Crichton's criticism of post-modern science. Malcolm's words, below, express one of the ideas Crichton wishes us to consider:

"I'll tell you the problem with engineers and scientists.... They are focused on whether they can do something. They never stop to ask if they should do something."

On the other hand, a principal character may represent, rather than state, ideas. Hammond's visiting grandchildren, for example, might represent the oblivious, yet threatened, human populations of the mainland and the planet itself. When ideas are implied rather than stated, they are called themes.

To discover and evaluate ideas in a book, try asking questions like the following:

• What was the central problem in the book? Was it a personal, social, or moral problem? Does it relate to life as you know it?
• What ideas(s) about life and society does the author seem to hold?
• What did the principal character(s) learn? How did they change? What does this seem to say about people? About society? About morality?

Author's attitudes Once you have identified what ideas an author is trying to examine, you must still determine what the author's attitude is toward those ideas. An author's attitudes are revealed in part by the tone, or overall mood, of the work. In writing, as in conversation, tone is not so much stated as implied. In reading we depend solely on the emotional overtones of the words to infer the attitudes of the author.

For example, suppose you have determined that Crichton wishes to explore the idea of how private industry exploits scientific research. You must then determine, as well, what Crichton's attitude is toward this situation. Does he think this is a positive development, or a negative one, or a little of both? Does he think it is inevitable, or preventable? One way to figure out Crichton's attitude about this is to identify the tone he uses to tell the story. We describe the tone of a book with adjectives, and more than one if necessary: straightforward, complex, ironic, creepy, pathetic, bitter, comic, tragic.

For example, here is a statement using three different adjectives to describe Crichton's attitude toward one of the central problems in Jurassic Park :

Crichton strikes an ominous tone in Jurassic Park. Even though this is a cautionary tale, the author nevertheless is optimistic that the mainstream scientific community, represented in this story by Alan Grant, can learn restraint and respect for nature.

(When identifying the tone of a book, make the effort to distinguish an individual character's attitude from the author's overall attitude-they may differ.)

To begin talking about tone, ask yourself questions such as these:

Is there a particular setting or scene that stands out in my mind? What was the mood of that scene? Is this mood indicative of the entire book? Is the author an optimist, a pessimist, or a realist? How does he show it? Does a principal character experience one persistent state of mind or emotion? What would I call it? Is it indicative of the work overall? Did the mood of the work help or hinder my understanding of the author's ideas?

"In conclusion..." Clearly it is important to be able to make intelligent inferences about the author, because a book evaluation evaluates how well the author has done her job, not just how much you liked the story. After you have asked and answered that question, then you may add, "I really, really liked it."

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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 essay for me ?"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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How to write a book report

A book report is one of the first types of essays you probably learned to write in elementary school. But no matter how many book reports you turn in over the course of your student life, they can still inspire some anxiety and some confusion about the best way to write a book report, especially as you reach the high school and college level.

The good news is that the basics you learned in the early grades will serve you in good stead, since the book report format remains mostly the same. The very same structure and tools you used to dissect Charlotte’s Web and Superfudge will work just as well for Animal Farm and The Handmaid’s Tale . What changes is the depth and breadth of your analysis as a high school and college student.

So, If you are wondering how to start a book report for a college class assignment, here are some of the key pieces of information you need to know.

What is a book report?

Let’s start off with some definitions. In the most general terms, a book report is a summary of a written text, often a fiction novel, but can also include other genres such as memoir and creative non-fiction. It includes an analysis of the different elements and authorial choices that comprise the work, such as tone, theme, perspective, diction, dialogue, etc.

While the analysis should be reasoned and objective, it should also include your opinion and assessment of the impact and overall success of the author’s choices on the final work.

Book reports usually fall into one of the following types:

Plot summary

This type of book report isn’t just a re-telling of the story, it’s a comment on your overall impression of the plot — whether you thought it was engaging or maudlin or vapid, for example — backed up by direct quotes from the text to support your opinion.

Example of a plot summary thesis statement: The plot of Herman Melville’s short story, “Bartleby the Scrivener,” offers a poignant portrait of how depression robs a person of all motivation and momentum in life.

Character analysis

A character analysis zeroes in on a particular character (their characterization and actions) and their impact on the unfolding of the plot and its eventual outcome.

Example of a character analysis thesis statement: In J.D. Salinger’s novel, The Catcher in the Rye , the character of Phoebe, Holden’s bright and precocious younger sister, is a catalyst for rekindling his hope in humanity and reconsidering the choices he’s made in his life.

Theme analysis

A theme analysis looks at the overarching concepts, or themes, that run through a book and that give the text meaning and direction. Themes tend to be broad in nature, such as love, the importance of family, the impact of childhood, etc.

Example of a theme analysis thesis statement: Banana Yoshimoto’s novella, Kitchen , explores the theme of death and how everyone sooner or later has to come to terms with the mortality of the people they love as well as their own.

How to start a book report

The very first step in writing a stellar book report that earns a top grade is actually reading the book. This may seem obvious, but many students make the assignment much harder on themselves by not putting in the time up front to do a thorough and complete reading of the book they’re going to be writing their report on. So resist the urge to skim the text or to rely on the Cliff’s notes version. A nuanced analysis requires a deep grasp of the text, and there is no substitute for focused, firsthand reading.

It’s a lot easier to stick with a book that you enjoy reading! If you have the chance to choose the book you’ll be writing a report on, take some time to select a book that appeals to you, considering the genre, time period, writing style, and plot.

It can be helpful to start thinking about your book report while you are still making your way through your initial reading of the text. Mark down passages that provide key turning points in the action, descriptive passages that establish time and place, and any other passages that stand out to you in terms of their word choice and use of language. This makes it much easier to go back later and start collecting the evidence you’ll need to support your argument and analysis.

Once you finish reading the book from cover to cover, you’ll likely find that your mind is swirling with thoughts, impressions, and burgeoning analyses. At this stage, trying to distill all of these half-formed thoughts into one cohesive report may seem like a daunting task. One way to make this task more approachable is to start by collecting and listing the objective facts about the book. The following list covers the basic elements that should be included in every book report you write, no matter what topic or specific type of book report you’re writing:

• The book’s title and author
• The historical context of the book (when it was written)
• The time(s) during which the story is set
• The location(s) where the story takes place
• A summary of the main characters and action of the story
• Quotes from the book that will function as evidence to support your analysis

With all of the basics in hand, you can start to write your book report in earnest. Just like most other essay types, a well-written book report follows a basic structure that makes it easy for your reader to follow your thoughts and make sense of your argument.

A typical book report will open with an introduction that briefly summarizes the book and culminates with a thesis statement that advances an opinion or viewpoint about it. This is followed by body paragraphs that provide detailed points to flesh out and support that opinion in greater detail, including direct quotes from the text as supporting evidence. The report finishes with a conclusion that summarizes the main points and leaves the reader with an understanding of the book, its aims, and whether or not you feel the book (and its author) was successful in doing what it set out to do. Ideally, the conclusion will also make a statement about how the book fits into the larger literary world.

A book report template you can use for any book report

If you find yourself stuck on how to start a book report, here’s a handy book report template you can use to get things off the ground. Simply use this structure and start filling it in with the specifics of the book you are writing your report on. Feel free to expand upon this book report template, adding more sections as appropriate.

Introduction

Write three to five sentences introducing the book and author as well as important contextual information about the book, such as the publication year and the overall critical reception at the time. Finish the paragraph with your thesis statement.

Body paragraphs

Include at least three body paragraphs that offer detailed information and analysis to support your thesis statement. Each paragraph should contain one idea, backed up with direct quotes from the text alongside your critical analysis.

Write three to five sentences that restate your thesis and summarize the evidence you’ve presented in support of it. Relate your findings to a larger context about the book’s place within both the literary world and the world at large.

Frequently Asked Questions about book reports

A book report follows the format of most papers you write - it will have an introduction, a body and a conclusion. Depending on the type of book report, you will fill these parts with the required information.

These are the basic parts that should be included in every book report you write, no matter what topic or specific type of book report you’re writing:

• The historical context of the book and time(s) during which the story is set

The book report is, among other things, also a summary of the plot, main characters, and ideas and arguments of the author. Your book report should help readers decide whether they want to read the book or not.

How many pages a book report should have depends on your assignment. It can be a half page, but it can also have many pages. Make sure to carefully read through your assignment and ask your professor if you are unsure .

A book report is a summary of a written text. A good book report includes an analysis of the different elements and authorial choices that comprise the work, such as tone, theme, perspective, diction, dialogue, etc. A good book report helps the reader decide whether they want to read the book or not.

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How to Write a College Level Book Report?

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• How to Write a College…

Table of Contents

College Level Book Reports

Book reports written at college level can be more appropriately referred to as college papers. College papers demand a somewhat exclusive and systematic analysis of the given book unlike elementary level book report writing.

Conduct a Contextual Analysis of the Book

A college level essay or term paper for a book review requires you to do a detailed review of the book in terms of its cultural, historical and political aspects.

Follow a Scholarly Style for Your Literary Criticism

Follow these simple guidelines for developing a scholarly writing style to enhance your ability to literary criticize and carry on systematic analysis.

Your manner of approaching the context of the book is what makes an impression on your teacher or professor and should show maturity in thought process.

Writer’s Angle and Approach and Your Perception

In addition to a perfect grasp of the writer’s angle you should also be able to appreciate or criticize it from your own point of view. The best tip to develop your analytical abilities is to read a few critical essays on the book under review .

You can ask your college librarian or search for book reviews on the net. This would give you an expanded view of the book and will also help you in shaping your own perspective. Consulting reports on the works of Milton, Byron, Shelley and Shakespeare would also help you in expanding your view-point.

Helpful Resources to Consult for College Level Book Reports

Additional sources other than your college library for acquiring material for college level book reports are Yahoo Groups, MSN Groups, Google Groups, online forums, blogs and wikis.

Last Minute Quick Tips for Writing an A + Book Report

• Use quotes and examples from within and outside the book while discussing your point of view.
• Focus on bringing up the story development as the result of various relationships, happenings and consequences during the progression of the story.
• Always highlight areas which you feel are left uncompleted or required more detail.
• Match and contrive your own perspective with that of the experts who have previously analyzed your book.
• Emphasize on how the book effected you or might affect other people who would read it.

Step-by-Step Guide for Writing a College Level Book Report

Pre-writing steps.

• Select a book for analysis
• Evaluate the genre of book: Start reading and make notes of characters, book story-line and main events if it is a story or a fiction book. If it is a non-fiction book then classify the main identities presented in the book.
• Organize notes in such a manner that the flow of book remains unchanged, and categorize events and characters in separate headings.

Writing Steps

Writing steps for college level book report include introduction, body and conclusion.

1. Introduction

Introduce the author, the book, publication and date of publication.

It should exhibit the extended summary of book, write about author’s writing style and tone. Description of characters can also be added.

3. Conclusion

Discuss the impact of book. Add some recommendation about the book and recapitulate your idea.

Post-writing Steps

• Revision of the final version of your nook review and improve accordingly
• Look where you can add quotes from the original content of book to support your arguments.

Book Report Outline

1. cover page.

It includes the title of book, author, publisher, publishing year

2. Book Summary

Brief summary of plot, main characters, settings and basic theme play of book

3. Analysis

This portion should answer the ideas of what is best part or worst part of book, how much do you agree with the story line-up or idea of the book, what conclusion does the author want to draw, which character is your favorite or worst. It is important to remember that each paragraph should display one idea.

4. Recommendation

It should state your take on the book and what recommendations can you propose.

5. Conclusion

Sample Book Report

Factfulness written by a key TED personality, Hans Rosling collaborating with son and daughter in law, Ola and Rosling, contours the ignorance of masses regarding the state of the world. Factfulness destroys the misconceptions and delusions about the world believed by experts and pundits.

“We have got our facts wrong, that’s why we recognize the world in this manner,” says Hans Rosling. He is the author of the book Factfulness . It’s a book about discussing the reasons why we’re wrong and why the things are improved.

Rosling, who is a physician by profession and a well-known public speaker for his revolutionary TED Talks, speculates the everyday visualization, beyond the untrue contradictions extended and circulated and believed mindlessly. The actual victims in this entire scenario are two: First is the dejected, low-spirited human being, this human being feels completely despondent as they inspect the grief of ‘lesser individuals.’ These people stay in their comfort zone and digest the news as it is. ‘Fact is the second victim’. Meek, pure, assessable, and gladly presented, ‘fact’ is transferred to the peripheries. Its abode is occupied by gossip, obsolete notions and unfair reporting by print and digital media on theatrical events. That misery has happened to the culture of news.

Trump governing America, Modi at the helm of power in India, the upsurge of islamophobia in Europe, a war-torn Middle East, a diminishing economy at home, the whole world on the threshold of a climate catastrophe, extensive corruption, every journalist forecasting destiny, all the prophets promising ‘improved days’ ahead, and the mainstream sitting torturing ourselves with sadness that is neither warranted nor real, not even bother to put a counter check on news before its digestion.

To analyze, the intensity depicted by the author wants us not to make sense of the world through news alone, not to fall prey to fall narrations, don’t be an optimist all the time neither be a pessimist on every take. However, it is encouraging to respect people and their ideas, look for information extracted out of news and do strive to find the facts of the world.

Author:  Amna Masood

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Non Fiction Book Report: How to Write the Perfect Paper

The thought of a non fiction book report may bring to mind early school days. In fact, a parent could easily use this article to help their kids complete one of these report assignments. However, even college students may be asked to review or report on a nonfiction book. Thankfully, the standards for what makes a perfect analysis paper doesn’t change across grade levels. The content itself becomes more complicated but the principles stay the same.

There are two main principles to writing a perfect book report: describe and evaluate. Knowing how to perform each and how to balance them can help you, your students, or your kids write the best paper they can.

Describe: The Facts of the Non Fiction Book Report

Description in a book report includes names and major points in the book. This is not the time to state your analysis of the work but simply to list the relevant information so the reader knows where your analysis will go.

The information in the description portion of a nonfiction book report includes background on the author and relevant information on the creation of the book. State how the book has been assembled or organized, especially if it takes a unique genre form. This includes the author’s intention with the book as a thesis or a statement of purpose. Let the reader know that you have a big picture of the nonfiction book being discussed.

Finally, offer a summary of the nonfiction book to get your readers on the same “page” for your evaluation. By selectively summarizing information, the reader (or grader) knows what they should take from your analysis.

Evaluate: Make Your Points

When you begin evaluating, use the information you reviewed and summarized in the description section. Evaluation involves your opinion, but a supported opinion that includes relevant scholarship. This means that other writers’ reviews and journal articles that discuss the nonfiction book you’re studying can come in handy to back up your points.

You can observe the strengths and faults of the book based on your observations and experience. However, the more you can support your statements with the words of others and of the book itself, the better your report will be.

How to Start Writing a Book Report

As you read, you have to read the right way ! This means observing the author’s purpose quickly, learning the background information that will go into your report beforehand, and taking notes. As you read, note the author’s expertise and how they incorporate their thesis. When you see quotes that support the author’s ideas (or yours), take note of where they occur. This can only make writing the report easier in the long run.

The Takeaway

A non fiction book report sounds like a hefty obligation. However, whether it’s a college paper or a child’s school project, a book report doesn’t have to be a burden. Get the two qualities of description and evaluation clearly distinct in your head so that when you read, you can already sort and note the informtation that will make your paper work.

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