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How to write a book review
There are two approaches to book reviewing: the descriptive and the critical. A descriptive review is one in which the writer, without over-enthusiasm or exaggeration, gives the essential information about a book. This is done by description and exposition, by stating the perceived aims and purposes of the author, and by quoting striking passages from the text. How to write a book review for a critical review is one in which the writer describes and evaluates the book, in terms of accepted literary and historical standards, and supports this evaluation with evidence from the text. The following pointers are meant to be suggestions for writing a critical review.
Ways on how to write a book review
· Include title, author, place, publisher, publication date, edition, pages, special features (maps, etc.), price, ISBN.
· Hook the reader with your opening sentence. Set the tone of the review. Be familiar with the guidelines -- some editors want plot summaries; others don\'t. Some want you to say outright if you recommend a book, but not others.
· Review the book you read -- not the book you wish the author had written.
· If this is the best book you have ever read, say so -- and why. If it\'s merely another nice book, say so.
· Include information about the author-- reputation, qualifications, etc. -- anything relevant to the book and the author\'s authority.
· Think about the person reading your review. Is this a librarian buying books for a collection? A parent who wants a good read-aloud? Is the review for readers looking for information about a particular topic, or for readers searching for a good read?
· Your conclusion should summarize, perhaps include a final assessment. Do not introduce new material at this point important factor for How to write a book review.
· To gain perspective, allow time before revising.
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