writing a book report 2nd grade

Elementary Assessments

11+ Free Book Report Templates For Students

If you’re looking for student book report templates, you have come to the right place.

I have compiled some of the best free printable book report templates that encourage students to showcase their reading comprehension skills and knowledge of any book – fiction or nonfiction. 

These book report templates include pages that reinforce a variety of reading skills, prompt critical thinking and help students structure information in a meaningful way.

What’s more, they are suitable for all ability levels of students – from struggling to gifted and talented learners.  

So if you are a teacher looking to assess students’ literacy abilities in a way other than assigning over-the-top book report projects, then these ready-to-use templates are a perfect fit.

Using them, students will be able to produce something great.

Book Report Templates

Book reports usually include…

• Title and author,
• Summary of the book,
• Story elements (characters, setting, problem, solution), and
• Recommendations.

However, the possibilities are many as to what information students report from their books. 

In order for students to write a book report in a meaningful way, try one of the following book report templates which include written and visual formats that appeal to a range of learning styles. 

These graphic organizers are suitable for young readers as well as older readers.

1. Book Report Timeline

This book report template is a timeline that reinforces the literacy skill of sequencing. It includes spaces for students to record six main events. 

The steps flow in a vertical manner from the top of the page to the bottom of the page with transitional words (first, next, finally, etc.) used throughout in order to guide students along.

This very simple but effective book report template is best suited for younger students. 

It will help them to synthesize information, reflect upon the story, and think about which ideas from the book are most important. 

2. 5Ws Book Report

The 5Ws book report template, which works well with fiction and nonfiction texts, is great for younger students because it guides them in answering basic questions derived from who , what , when , where , why , and how . 

After reading a book, students will generate questions using the question stems and answer them on the book report template. 

Because students can create their own leveled questions , this template is great for differentiating instruction because it serves well both advanced and lower-performing students. 

3. Book Report Story Elements

If you seek simple book report templates, this one is a good fit. 

Because students learn the story elements relatively early in their school life, this book report project template makes a great review activity. 

Using the template, students will identify the story’s author, illustrator, characters, setting, problem, and solution.

4. Book Report Vocabulary Squares

In each of the six squares, younger students will write and sketch important words from their books.

Examples of words students may choose…

• New words learned
• Confusing words
• Review words
• Words they figured out using context clues
• Figurative language

They will write the words in the boxes and then sketch each of them.  

As an extension, have students complete a book report vocabulary squares template for each chapter or section of their books. 

5. Book Report Sequencing

To have young readers practice sequencing and main idea, provide them with this helpful book report sequencing template. 

It’s straightforward and provides transition words to guide them along. 

Use for both fiction and nonfiction books. 

6. Book Comparison

Students will analyze two books by the same author and complete a Venn diagram that shows how the two books are alike and different.

Afterward, they will summarize the information in paragraph form. 

Comparison activities serve well as critical thinking exercises because they prompt students to reflect upon similarities and differences among themes, authors, characters, books, etc.

As an extension, encourage students to compare several pairs of books by the same author (e.g. Gail Gibbons books ) in order to observe recurring themes, the author’s writing style, similarities among characters, etc.   

7. Sketch and Summarize

Using the sketch and summarize template, students will sketch the characters, setting, problem, and solution in the squares with the matching number. 

This graphic organizer reinforces the story elements plus summarizing and can be used for all ability levels and grade levels. 

Remind students that a summary includes only the most important events from a book. 

8. ABC Book Report

ABC books aren’t just for younger students. They work well with elementary, middle, and even high school students!

This type of reading project promotes critical thinking, reinforces a variety of literacy skills, strengthens vocabulary, and engages students to the max. 

What’s more, this activity is able to be differentiated for a range of ability levels since students are the ones who choose the words for their books. 

To use this template, students will brainstorm a significant word from their books for each letter of the alphabet. 

They will record each word in the rectangle to the right of each letter. Then on the lines below, they have to explain the reasoning behind that word selection.

Remind students that all the words they choose must be connected to the book in some way. 

Encourage them to provide “deep connections” instead of surface-level surface connections.

9. T-Shirt Book Report

If you desire creative book report templates, try this one. 

Provide guidelines so that students know what information to write on each part of the T-shirt. 

For example:

• Sleeve one: title of the book
• Sleeve two: author and illustrator
• The main part of the T-shirt – a summary of the book, figurative language, important vocabulary, facts, opinions, book recommendations, confusing parts, favorite parts, etc. 

There are many ways to structure information for the T-shirt book report template.

As an extension or to make the assignment more challenging, ask students to complete a T-shirt for each chapter or section of their books.

10. Sketch and Caption

This book report template is perfect for lower elementary students. 

They will sketch a picture in the space at the top of the page that shows the main idea of their books. Then they will write a caption or description to accompany the drawing.

Consider having students present their book projects to a partner or the class. 

11. Research Book Report

After reading a nonfiction book, students will choose a topic related to the book that they would like to explore further. 

As an example, if a student is reading about Martin Luther King, Jr., they may want to research segregation, racism, peace, etc. 

As they conduct research, they will record six facts on the template and then create a drawing that represents the topic.

12. Book Review

Book review templates work well for all grade levels. 

After reading a book, prompt students to reflect on what they liked and didn’t like about the book. 

This book report template provides space for students to record the title, author, illustrator, plus summary of the book.

Additionally, they will rate the book using a 5-star rating system, describing what they liked/disliked about the story thus providing a balanced perspective.

As an added bonus, place these recommendations on a bulletin board so that classmates get ideas for future reads. 

Final Thoughts

Boost literacy skills, tap into different learning styles, and save time planning book project ideas by using these printable and free book report templates that come in a variety of formats. 

They meaningfully engage all ages and ability levels.

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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Free Book Report Templates: Printables for Grades 3-5 for Fiction or Nonfiction Books

Take a new spin on your book report assignment. 📚😍

The Nocturnals are fun-filled animal adventure books with companion nonfiction for elementary school classrooms. Check out The Nocturnals World , a resource hub with free turnkey printable activities and educator guides, and browse The Nocturnals bookstore!

Building lifelong readers is one of the most important things we can do in our classrooms. The benefits of reading are wide-ranging, from improving vocabulary skills to boosting cognitive development, concentration skills, and curiosity for learning. So, how do we get young learners excited about reading and sharing what they’ve learned? Check out our free book report template printables .

Four different activities are ready to print to help you take a new spin on your next book report assignment for fiction or nonfiction books. Students will love filling in their mini book report one-pagers or making their selections from the choice board to share details about what they read.

Worksheets Included:

My mini book report—fiction and nonfiction.

These book report one-pagers are a great way for students to reflect on their readings as they complete different sections of the worksheet. There’s a version for both fiction and nonfiction.

Book Report Choice Board

Give students choices on how they want to complete their book report assignment. This choice board offers eight fun options, from designing a comic to creating a playlist or writing interview questions, so students can let their creativity guide them.

Designing Water Bottle Stickers

Students are obsessed with stickers. In this unique activity, students will design water bottle stickers that the main character of the book would love to have, along with a short description of their choices.

Give students fun-filled books to choose from

Animal adventure books from The Nocturnals are the perfect way to get your upper elementary students excited about reading. Paired with nonfiction companion texts that explore nocturnal animal facts, this series is great for hi-lo readers. Visit The Nocturnals World for more free printable activities and educator guides.

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