Writing a Short Book Review

A review shares your honest opinion of a book and the reasons behind it.

Unlike a summary, a book review is supposed to include your opinion. Its job is to help other readers decide whether a book is right for them. A good review has three parts. First, give a brief, spoiler-free description of what the book is about. Second, state your opinion with a rating, such as stars or a score. Third, and most important, give specific reasons.

'It was good' doesn't help anyone; 'The chapters end on cliffhangers, so I couldn't stop reading' does. Be fair and honest: you can mention what didn't work for you, too. Example review: 'In The Moon Garden, a boy discovers plants that only bloom at midnight. I give it 4 out of 5 stars. The descriptions of glowing flowers are beautiful, and the friendship feels real.

The middle was a little slow, but the ending made up for it. '

• 1Describe the book briefly, without spoilers.
• 2State your opinion with a rating.
• 3Give specific reasons, both good and not-so-good.