Before Writing a Book Report
Prior to writing, it may be a good idea to plan your writing and finish reading. It is important to have a whole picture in your mind when you approach your writing. While reading, make sure to take notes, highlight quotes and important ideas. You may find it useful to briefly write the quotes on sticky notes and placing them on pages. Look for the themes and the general tone of the book. After you have finished reading, you may create a rough outline for your report.
Structure of a Good Book Report
Every book report has a structure similar to a regular essay, meaning it has to have an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion.
The first paragraph shall have general information about the book and its author as well as thesis statement. Depending on the requirements and expected length of the paper, you may well include information on publication, genre, and theme.
Body paragraphs shall cover the following information:
- Setting. Provide your readers with the description of the locations or any other important information that defines how events unfold or can contribute to the general understanding of the situation. Use descriptive language to help you create a vivid picture.
- Characters. Introduce main characters and give a short description of relations between them.
- Plot. Briefly describe what happens and how it affects main characters.
- Themes and allusions. Examine how different events in the book develop certain topics and what the author may be trying to tell the readers.
- Describe general tone and language used in the book. Is the style appealing?
If you are writing a book report on the non-fiction book, focus on the ideas the author presents and the fact they use to support their theory. Use chapter heading to help you organize the ideas.
The conclusion provides your personal attitude towards the book, including your recommendation on reading.
