book report college

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

Last Updated: June 25, 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 8 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 1,424,329 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 0 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 0 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://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 Good Book Report in Seven Steps

Are you having trouble writing your book report? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to give you seven easy steps that’ll help you write the perfect book report.

Quick Summary on How To Write a Book Report

• As you read the book, highlight and take notes.
• Reread the instructions of the assignment.
• Organize your notes and create an outline.
• Write a compelling introduction.
• Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.
• Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread.

What Is a Book Report?

A book report is an essay in which students explain and support their thoughts and views on a story, novel, or any other literary work.

There are several different types of book reports. Regardless of which type you’re writing, teachers and professors usually assign book reports as a way to ensure that their students have thoroughly understood the book. Below, we’ll go over how to write a good book report in seven easy steps.

How To Write a Book Report

1. as you read the book, highlight and take notes..

The first step of writing a good book report is to read the book, of course. However, it’s important to highlight and takes notes while reading it. Highlight anything that stands out to you or that evokes certain emotions. Write notes on patterns, themes, and characters. If you’re writing a book report on a nonfiction book, write notes on the major points of the book and what you think about them.

2. Revisit and reread the instructions of the assignment.

Once you’re done reading and taking notes, reread the instructions of the assignment. Find what it is you’re supposed to write about. Is it a character analysis? A plot summary? An exploration of themes and patterns, or something else? It’s also essential to follow the formatting guidelines, so make sure to use the correct font and spacing. If you have any questions, reach out to your teacher or professor.

3. Organize your notes and create an outline.

Gather your notes and arrange them into categories. Once you’ve completed this, write an outline and organize the categories to become the paragraphs of your book report. Jot down bullet points on what each paragraph will include and what part of the book can support it. As you start writing the book report, remain flexible. You don’t have to follow the outline exactly. You may realize that a few edits create a better flow.

4. Write a compelling introduction.

The introduction should be informative and catchy. You may want to start with a quote, climactic scene, or an unusual observation you had while reading the book. Towards the end of the introduction, you should write a one or two-sentence summary about the book, and then the last sentence should explain what exactly you’ll be writing about in the rest of the report.

Book Report Elements

Keep in mind that all book reports should contain:

• The name and author of the book.
• A thesis statement.
• If you're writing about a fiction book, mention the setting, time period, and characters.
• If you’re writing about a nonfiction book, mention the author’s main point in writing the book.
• Evidence to support your arguments.

5. Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.

The body paragraphs are where you can include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence that bring your book report together.

For example, let’s say you’re writing a character analysis. You believe that the character that everyone sees as the protagonist is actually the antagonist. You should write why you believe that and include specific scenarios that help prove your point.

Or if you’re writing about a non-fiction book, you could use the body paragraphs to write about why you agree or disagree with the author. Similarly, you’d have to use examples and evidence to support your argument.

It’s a good idea to start off with your most compelling, evidence-backed point. Leave the weakest arguments for the middle, and end with another strong point. Lastly, whether you’re writing about fiction or non-fiction, commenting on writing style and tone is recommended (especially if it’s explicitly requested in the instructions).

6. Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.

The conclusion is just as important as the introduction, so make sure to set aside enough time to write one (students tend to rush through this part). Use the concluding paragraph to pull all your arguments together. Reiterate again what the main point was about, and then briefly summarize the main idea of your book report.

7. Edit and proofread.

Now that you’ve completed the first draft of your book report, it’s time to reread and make edits if needed. Are there any paragraphs you can move around that’ll improve the rhythm of your writing? Do you have enough evidence to back up your claims? Is your introduction captivating and descriptive?

While you’re rereading the book report, you should also be looking for typos and spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. If you want an extra set of eyes to look for all types of errors, you should use LanguageTool as your spelling and grammar checker. Not only will this advanced editor correct mistakes, but it supports more than twenty languages—meaning your book report will be perfect regardless of which language you’re writing it in.

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13 Free Book Report Templates (Easy Copy & Paste)

Book reports are an essential part of the educational process, helping students develop critical thinking and writing skills.

To make this task easier, we’ve created 13 unique and highly useful book report templates that you can download or copy and paste. Each template is designed to cater to different needs and situations, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your assignment.

Template 1: Basic Summary Book Report

Table of Contents

Introduction This template is perfect for beginners or younger students who need to summarize the key elements of a book.

Title : Author : Genre : Publication Date :

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the book’s main events. Focus on the beginning, middle, and end.

Main Characters : List the main characters and provide a short description of each.

Themes : Identify the central themes of the book.

Personal Opinion : Share your thoughts about the book. What did you like or dislike?

Conclusion : Summarize your overall impressions of the book.

Template 2: Character Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template is designed for a deeper dive into the characters of a book, ideal for middle school and high school students.

Character Overview : List the main characters.

Character Analysis :

• Description :
• Role in the Story :
• Development :
• Personal Thoughts :

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot focusing on how it relates to the character analysis.

Themes : Discuss how the themes are reflected through the characters.

Conclusion : Wrap up your analysis with your final thoughts on the characters and their roles.

Template 3: Theme Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template focuses on analyzing the themes of a book, suitable for high school and university students.

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot.

Themes Analysis :

• Examples from the Book :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters contribute to these themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how these themes impacted you.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and final thoughts.

Template 4: Comparative Book Report

Introduction Perfect for advanced students, this template compares two books, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Book 1 Title : Book 1 Author : Book 2 Title : Book 2 Author :

Plot Summary :

• Summary of main events.

Characters Comparison :

• Book 1 Description:
• Book 2 Description:

Themes Comparison :

Personal Reflection : Discuss your thoughts on the similarities and differences.

Conclusion : Summarize your comparative analysis and final thoughts.

Template 5: Plot Analysis Book Report

Introduction Focuses on analyzing the plot structure, ideal for detailed plot discussions.

Plot Overview : Brief summary of the main plot.

Plot Analysis :

• Exposition :
• Rising Action :
• Falling Action :
• Resolution :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters influence the plot.

Themes : Identify the main themes revealed through the plot.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and overall thoughts.

Template 6: Symbolism Book Report

Introduction Designed for analyzing symbols within the book, this template is perfect for high school and college students.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the book’s plot.

Symbolism Analysis :

• Significance in the Story :

Themes : Discuss how the symbols relate to the themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on the symbolism and its impact on your understanding of the book.

Template 7: Creative Book Report

Introduction Encourages creativity by allowing students to express their understanding in unique ways.

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the plot.

Creative Expression : Choose one of the following:

• Write a diary entry from a character’s perspective.
• Create a comic strip summarizing the story.
• Design a new book cover with a summary.

Character Insights : Discuss your creative choices and what they reveal about the characters.

Themes : Identify the main themes expressed through your creative work.

Conclusion : Reflect on your creative process and overall understanding of the book.

Template 8: Historical Context Book Report

Introduction Focuses on the historical context of the book, ideal for historical fiction or non-fiction.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the plot.

Historical Context :

• Time Period :
• Key Historical Events :
• Impact on the Story :

Character Analysis : Discuss how historical context influences the characters.

Themes : Identify themes related to the historical setting.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how understanding the history enhanced your reading experience.

Conclusion : Summarize your insights and overall thoughts.

Template 9: Genre Analysis Book Report

Introduction Analyzes the book within the context of its genre, perfect for exploring genre-specific elements.

Genre Characteristics :

• Typical Elements of the Genre :
• How the Book Fits or Deviates :

Character Analysis : Discuss how the characters embody genre traits.

Themes : Identify genre-specific themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on your understanding of the genre through the book.

Conclusion : Summarize your genre analysis and final thoughts.

Template 10: Book Report for a Movie Adaptation

Introduction Compares the book to its movie adaptation, great for understanding different media interpretations.

Book Title : Author : Movie Title : Director : Release Date :

Character Comparison :

• Book Description:
• Movie Description:

Themes Comparison : Discuss how themes are presented differently in the book and movie.

Personal Reflection : Share your thoughts on the adaptation. Which did you prefer and why?

Conclusion : Summarize your comparison and final thoughts.

Mad-Libs Style Book Report Templates

Mad-Libs style templates can make writing a book report fun and easy, guiding you through each step while allowing room for your personal touch.

Here are three templates to help you create a comprehensive and original book report.

Mad-Libs Style Template 1: Basic Summary Report

Title : __________ Author : __________ Genre : __________ Publication Date : __________

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is about __________ (main character) who lives in __________ (setting). The story begins when __________ (main event). As the plot progresses, __________ (main character) encounters __________ (challenge or conflict). In the end, __________ (resolution).

Main Characters :

• [Main Character] : __________ (description of character)
• [Supporting Character] : __________ (description of character)
• [Antagonist] : __________ (description of character)

Themes : The central themes of [Title] are __________ (theme 1) and __________ (theme 2). These themes are illustrated through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Opinion : I thought [Title] was __________ (adjective). My favorite part was __________ (favorite part) because __________ (reason). I would/would not recommend this book because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In summary, [Title] is a book about __________ (brief summary of themes and story). Overall, it left me feeling __________ (emotion).

Mad-Libs Style Template 2: Character Analysis Report

Plot Summary : In the book [Title] , the story revolves around __________ (main character) who __________ (brief plot overview). The plot thickens when __________ (major event), leading to __________ (consequences).

• Description : __________ (physical and personality traits)
• Role in the Story : __________ (main character’s role)
• Development : __________ (how the character changes)
• Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (main character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).
• Role in the Story : __________ (supporting character’s role)
• Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (supporting character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).

Themes : One of the main themes in [Title] is __________ (theme). This is shown through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Reflection : My favorite character was __________ (character) because __________ (reason). This book made me think about __________ (personal reflection).

Conclusion : The book [Title] offers deep insights into __________ (theme) and __________ (theme). It is a great read for anyone interested in __________ (topic).

Mad-Libs Style Template 3: Theme Analysis Report

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is set in __________ (setting) and follows __________ (main character) as they __________ (brief plot overview). The story takes a turn when __________ (major event).

• Description : One of the central themes is __________ (theme). This theme is evident when __________ (example from the book).
• Significance : This theme is important because __________ (reason).
• Description : Another significant theme is __________ (theme). It is portrayed through __________ (example from the book).
• Significance : This theme matters because __________ (reason).

Character Involvement : The characters help develop these themes, especially __________ (main character) who __________ (character’s actions related to the theme).

Personal Reflection : Reading [Title] made me realize __________ (personal insight). The theme of __________ (theme) particularly resonated with me because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In conclusion, [Title] explores themes of __________ (theme) and __________ (theme) through its characters and plot. This book is __________ (adjective) and leaves a lasting impression because __________ (reason).

50 Best Words to Use in a Book Report

• Protagonist
• Development
• Perspective
• Foreshadowing
• Juxtaposition
• Interpretation

50 Best Phrases to Use in a Book Report

• “The protagonist of the story is…”
• “The central conflict revolves around…”
• “The theme of the novel is…”
• “This character’s development is evident when…”
• “The author uses symbolism to…”
• “A significant motif in the book is…”
• “From the perspective of the narrator…”
• “The plot takes a turn when…”
• “The resolution of the story is…”
• “The climax of the novel occurs when…”
• “Foreshadowing is used to hint at…”
• “The setting plays a crucial role in…”
• “Dialogue between characters reveals…”
• “The tone of the book is established by…”
• “The mood created by the author is…”
• “This work can be seen as an allegory for…”
• “In the context of the story…”
• “Juxtaposition of these elements highlights…”
• “Through flashbacks, we learn…”
• “The character’s motivation is driven by…”
• “An archetype presented in the book is…”
• “The synopsis provides an overview of…”
• “The depiction of this scene is…”
• “Intrigue is built through…”
• “Readers empathize with the character because…”
• “The integrity of the character is shown by…”
• “The complexity of the plot is revealed in…”
• “Transitions between scenes are marked by…”
• “The conclusion of the story leaves readers…”
• “Evocative language is used to…”
• “The ambiguity of the ending suggests…”
• “This interpretation of the text shows…”
• “Realism is portrayed through…”
• “The narrative structure includes…”
• “Exposition in the story provides…”
• “My reaction to the book is…”
• “The evaluation of this work suggests…”
• “Insightful commentary is provided by…”
• “Emphasis is placed on…”
• “A critical point in the book is…”
• “The reflection on these themes shows…”
• “Character interactions demonstrate…”
• “A pivotal moment in the story is when…”
• “The author’s use of metaphor illustrates…”
• “Irony is present in the scene where…”
• “The vivid imagery captures…”
• “The tone shifts when…”
• “Mood changes are evident in…”
• “This allegory reflects…”
• “Overall, the book emphasizes…”

Now that you have your book report templates, watch this video to learn the basics of how to write your book report:

Final Thoughts: Book Report Templates

Book reports don’t have to be boring or difficult. With these templates, you’re all set to tackle any book report assignment with ease and creativity. Download, customize, and impress!

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22 Book Report Templates

In tackling coursework, you may have to dig a little bit into a book or some other kind of literature. This could be with the aim of gaining deeper insight on a matter, drawing connections between the contents of the book and the subject at hand, and so on.

What is a book report?

The above tasks require a book report. This is an essay that discusses the contents of a given book. It is largely written as part and parcel of a class assignment that is issued out to students in school, especially at the elementary level. It is shorter and less comprehensive than a book review.

How to write a book report?

To write a book report, you need to follow the steps below:

• Draft an introductory paragraph. This captures the basic information about the book such as its genre, title, author, year published, number of pages, and the publisher. Include some interesting background information about the author of the book.
• Next, incorporate a plot summary. It is basically a summary of the book itself with regards to the themes, plot, and the characters that are found in it plus the roles they play there.
• Carry out some character analysis of the main characters who dominate and play critical roles in the book from the start through to the finish line.
• Point out the themes of the book i.e. the main ideas that run throughout the story from the start through to the finish.
• Place your personal evaluation and conclusion at the tail end of the report. These two give your own opinion of the entire book and what it does have to offer to any reader.

Book Report Templates

These are frameworks against which the book reports are drafted. They serve as rough guides through which the tiny details are filled out. The templates cheapen the task of drafting a report of this kind while also seeing to it that the outcomes are largely accurate.

Guide: How to draft a book report

Different reports have different outlines and contents. Thus, there is really no unifying way of drafting the report. Nonetheless, there are some common steps that cut across the board. Below, we highlight and explain them:

• Jot down the first draft of the book report. This acts as a spark from which the subsequent reports are drafted and originated.
• Prepare the introductory paragraph of the book report. Remember, it is this introduction that sets the tone and the overall theme of the report going forward. It has to be brief but include every aspect of the report altogether.
• Now get to the core business of the report altogether. Here, you should read the book, garner the finer details and jot down its summary.
• While at it, draft the main portion of the book report, explain the main characters, highlight and explain the main themes of the book, point out any quotes, and comment on the writer’s writing style.
• Give the book a personal evaluation. This one mainly aims at commenting on the book in its entirety while also providing your own review and testimonial about the book as a whole.
• Edit and revise the report before submitting it. As you do so, see to it that you weed out any grammatical and spelling mistakes that may be present in the report.

What is the format of a book report?

The format of a book report refers to the outline that the report follows from the introduction to the conclusion of the book. Even though different reports follow different formats, there are common contents that cut across the board. These are:

• The kind of book report you are drafting
• The book’s title
• The author of the book
• The times that the story is taking place
• The location of the story of the book
• Names and descriptions of the characters in the book
• Quotations and examples from the book to provide support to your opinions

How long should a book report be?

Generally, you should keep your book report as short as it can practically be. A length of about 600-800 words would be suitable. Also, the report has to be double-spaced and drafted in legible fonts.

Final Thoughts

Drafting a book report is not a walk in the park. As a starter, you may have to devote much of your time to write it several times before mastering the art well. We ask you to carry out mock writing to deepen your understanding of the matter. Seeking the assistance of a trained expert may equally do the trick.

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Writing a Book Review

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Book reviews typically evaluate recently-written works. They offer a brief description of the text’s key points and often provide a short appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of the work.

Readers sometimes confuse book reviews with book reports, but the two are not identical. Book reports commonly describe what happens in a work; their focus is primarily on giving an account of the major plot, characters, and/or main idea of the work. Most often, book reports are a K-12 assignment and range from 250 to 500 words. If you are looking to write a book report, please see the OWL resource, Writing a Book Report.

By contrast, book reviews are most often a college assignment, but they also appear in many professional works: magazines, newspapers, and academic journals. They typically range from 500-750 words, but may be longer or shorter. A book review gives readers a sneak peek at what a book is like, whether or not the reviewer enjoyed it, and details on purchasing the book.

Before You Read

Before you begin to read, consider the elements you will need to included in your review. The following items may help:

• Author: Who is the author? What else has s/he written? Has this author won any awards? What is the author’s typical style?
• Genre: What type of book is this: fiction, nonfiction, romance, poetry, youth fiction, etc.? Who is the intended audience for this work? What is the purpose of the work?
• Title: Where does the title fit in? How is it applied in the work? Does it adequately encapsulate the message of the text? Is it interesting? Uninteresting?
• Preface/Introduction/Table of Contents: Does the author provide any revealing information about the text in the preface/introduction? Does a “guest author” provide the introduction? What judgments or preconceptions do the author and/or “guest author” provide? How is the book arranged: sections, chapters?
• Book Jacket/Cover/Printing: Book jackets are like mini-reviews. Does the book jacket provide any interesting details or spark your interest in some way? Are there pictures, maps, or graphs? Do the binding, page cut, or typescript contribute or take away from the work?

As You Read

As you read, determine how you will structure the summary portion or background structure of your review. Be ready to take notes on the book’s key points, characters, and/or themes.

• Characters: Are there characters in the work? Who are the principal characters? How do they affect the story? Do you empathize with them?
• Themes/Motifs/Style: What themes or motifs stand out? How do they contribute to the work? Are they effective or not? How would you describe this author’s particular style? Is it accessible to all readers or just some?
• Argument: How is the work’s argument set up? What support does the author give for her/findings? Does the work fulfill its purpose/support its argument?
• Key Ideas: What is the main idea of the work? What makes it good, different, or groundbreaking?
• Quotes: What quotes stand out? How can you demonstrate the author’s talent or the feel of the book through a quote?

When You Are Ready to Write

Begin with a short summary or background of the work, but do not give too much away. Many reviews limit themselves only to the first couple of chapters or lead the reader up to the rising action of the work. Reviewers of nonfiction texts will provide the basic idea of the book’s argument without too much detailed.

The final portion of your review will detail your opinion of the work. When you are ready to begin your review, consider the following:

• Establish a Background, Remember your Audience: Remember that your audience has not read the work; with this in mind, be sure to introduce characters and principles carefully and deliberately. What kind of summary can you provide of the main points or main characters that will help your readers gauge their interest? Does the author’s text adequately reach the intended audience? Will some readers be lost or find the text too easy?
• Minor principles/characters: Deal only with the most pressing issues in the book. You will not be able to cover every character or idea. What principles/characters did you agree or disagree with? What other things might the author have researched or considered?
• Organize: The purpose of the review is to critically evaluate the text, not just inform the readers about it. Leave plenty room for your evaluation by ensuring that your summary is brief. Determine what kind of balance to strike between your summary information and your evaluation. If you are writing your review for a class, ask your instructor. Often the ratio is half and half.
• 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?
• Publisher/Price: Most book reviews include the publisher and price of the book at the end of the article. Some reviews also include the year published and ISBN.

When making the final touches to your review, carefully verify the following:

• Double-check the spelling of the author name(s), character names, special terms, and publisher.
• Try to read from the vantage point of your audience. Is there too much/enough summary? Does your argument about the text make sense?
• Should you include direct quotes from the reading? Do they help support your arguments? Double-check your quotes for accuracy.

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Good book report questions

Writing a book report is a common activity students are required to go through today. Reading is one thing but the ability to summarize and analyze information is totally different. One can read a lot of books but still be unable to develop a good book report due to the lack of knowledge of what it should look like. Therefore, students often seek book report help in order to understand how to write one. In this article we are going to provide some good book report questions that will provide guidance as to which direction to go when choosing a format of a book report. Even if you have never faced the challenge of writing one, it is most likely that you will soon receive such assignment. And it is always better to face it prepared knowing what to do. So keep reading to get to know more about how to develop a good one. Even if you have written one or many reports by now, you can still find out more to polish up your writing skills. Questions for a book report provided below will serve a good foundation for every student.

❓ How to Write a Good Book Report

There is a difference between a book report and a book review which everybody should know prior to writing any of these. They are not the same although there are some similarities. A lot of students mix them up turning in reports when reviews are requested and vice versa. Book reports are all about explaining topical details and the storyline of the book. Those writing this type of assignment are to present biographical information about the author of the book (year of birth, marital status, his/her education and worldview, etc.). After the biographical information, there should go a brief summary of the book content – the main characters and the development of the plot.

Now a book review is different as it requires an in-depth analysis in addition to the things mentioned in a book report. The bio of the author along with the summary of the story also belongs in the review but the attention paid to these things should not be so significant. In other words, these things are not central in writing a book review . Instead, they are all considered a background information upon which one may analyze and evaluate the book in general. A book review is then more about analysis and evaluation where students are required to identify the author’s main message and ideas as well as to understand the meaning of symbolic elements present in the text. Now as we have managed to draw the line of separation between a book report and a book review, we can move on to how to write a book report.

Book reports can be of different types and formats. Most common forms of book reports are plot summaries, theme and character analysis. This type of assignment will help you practice expressing your own opinion about different aspects of the text and eventually expressing your thoughts on pretty much any subject in future. But no matter what type of book report you are about to write, there are some common things you have to include into your paper:

• Specify the kind of book report
• Include the title of the book
• Put the name of the author
• Indicate the time when the story takes place
• Mention the location of the events taking place in the book
• List the names of the characters briefly describing each one of them (at least those you will be discussing in the report)
• Add quotations in order to back up your opinions

📄 Plot Summaries

This type of book report assumes one has to explain own opinions about the plot and why he/she believes so. Your purpose should be to describe and characterize the plot and back up your opinions by some examples from the book.

🖋 Character Analysis

Here you can explore the traits of the main characters and how they affect the development of the plot in the book. There are many things you can pay attention to when analyzing the characters, such as clothing, moral flaws, dialogues, actions, etc.

📗 Theme Analysis

This form of book reports allows exploring the themes and big ideas that are interwoven within the entire story. You can simply choose a theme that seems to be the most important or the one you like the most and try to bring some of your thoughts to highlight the topic.

📚 Book Report Questions

What can help you write book reports efficiently is the list of questions to direct your thinking and writing. You can google phrases like “book report questions for high school” or “book report questions for middle school” depending on what your level of writing is. But in order to save some time for you, we have decided to come up with our own list of questions that should help develop a good book report. Therefore, there is no need to type something like “write my book report” in a google search tab in hopes to find someone who will do it all for you. Instead, you may consider the questions to ask for a book report and try to write it on your own. Here is the list:

• What genre does your book belong to? Fiction, non-fiction, etc.
• Do you like the book? Why so? If yes, would you recommend it to your friends?
• Can you come up with another title?
• What is the setting/background information?
• Who are the main characters?
• Are the names of the characters in any way descriptive?
• How does the story start? Why do you think the author chose to start his book this way?
• How does the story develop?
• Did you have any associations coming to your mind when you were reading the story?
• Did you find anything funny in the story?
• What’s your favorite part?
• Is there a problem in the story? What is this problem?
• Do you think that the author could have come up with a better solution (if there is one)?
• Is there the main idea that you can identify?
• Can you identify the purpose of the book?
• What are the lessons the book teaches (if any)?
• Is the topic of the book important? Why?
• Did any of the characters in the book do something you did not quite like?
• Can you identify the main purpose of writing the book?
• Did the book help you generate new ideas?

✅ Final Remarks

Now that you know what book reports are all about, we recommend you to try and write one. But when we say “write one”, we don’t necessarily mean that the very first thing you have to do in order to produce a good book report is to take a pen and start writing something. There are other things one should do before writing. We suggest you jot down the information you would want to take special note of when reading the book. Keep this piece of paper next to you when you read a book. As you read, take notes of the plot, characters and the main idea. Then you can go through the questions listed above – they should help you understand the book better. When you are done with the questions, organize your thoughts into an outline and draft the book report. From there you have to only edit and revise the draft to produce a perfect paper.

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WTO / Education / 30 Free Book Report Templates – How to Outline (Format)

30 Free Book Report Templates – How to Outline (Format)

A book report template is a document that contains a general layout or format that your book report fits into efficiently and it facilitates you in completing it by following the correct pattern that is required for it to be considered of a credible nature.

It is a written essay that summarizes a specific book’s contents and composition, such as the plot, characters, title, tone, and setting of the story.

A template for it may also contain information about the author or an evaluation of the good and bad aspects of the book.

A book report is a typical assignment for students throughout their school years, whether in elementary, middle, or high school. The report serves as a method to show that the students have read the book adequately and in its entirety.

Free Book Report Templates

Book Report vs. Book Review

A book report is an objective view of a specific book where you will be describing the general plotline without giving extensive details, analysis, or opinions of the student. It usually only states facts about the book’s contents without the need to assess this content.

On the other hand, a review is a subjective view. It will require evaluating the main ideas contained within the book and analyzing them, giving their ideas and thoughts about the plot. A review serves to give an idea of whether the book would interest prospective readers.

The book report and review are similar in certain aspects, such as

Background information

• Target audience

Subject and thesis statement

• Summary of content

Bibliographical information

Essentials of a book report.

Regardless of the type or subject of the book that the report is written about, certain elements are required in each template.

The elements of a good template are:

The template will need to contain information about the author’s work to write the book. This information includes the author’s name, the title of publication, the book’s date of publication, the place of publication of the book, the publisher of the book, the volume of the book, and page numbers.

The background information is the main bulk of the book, which gives it its unique aspects and drives the readers to be interested in the book.

The background information includes:

An exploration of the characters is required for the report; the significance of the characters and how they affect the plot should also be stated. A brief exploration of their personalities and actions might be required.

The setting refers to the time and place where the events occur. The setting is an integral part of the plot and is essential in driving the story forward, so the author needs to pick the setting carefully. Therefore, the writer of the report needs to inform the reader about the setting and give an idea of how it improves upon the story.

The theme is the idea that recurs within the book, and it is the idea that the author focuses on throughout the plot. The theme of the book needs to be broadly explained. Discuss the aim of the book and the prevalent ideas within. It is preferable if you use sections and examples to reinforce it.

A book report will require a summary of the plot. The summary will retell the story more concisely while explaining the main points of the plot. In addition, the teacher might require an analysis of the events of the plot to show an adequate understanding of the events. The use of examples taken from the book during the analysis will improve its quality.

Compare and contrast

Compare the book to other books within the same genre. Show how the settings, characters, and themes might mimic or contrast against each other. Elaborate on how this might enrich the content. Also, mention what your thoughts are regarding both and which combination works best.                                               

Intended audience

Each book has an intended audience that the author wants to appeal to, inspire, and talk to. Mention who the intended audience is and how you came to this information. The audience can be directly stated by the author or can be concluded from the manner of writing. It is essential to know who the audience is, as they will affect how the books are received, the themes and setting of the book , and the level of sophistication of the language used.

The overall subject of the book should be mentioned, indicating what it aims to deliver by the end of it. The author’s thesis statement, which is usually a brief paragraph, should be written either in the author’s own words or from your conclusion.

Summary of the content

The summary is a brief retelling of the most important events, ideas, and characters within the book. The summary usually doesn’t need to exceed 300 words.

Free Templates

Types of Book Reports

The type depends on the focus of the report and on which aspects of the book you will focus on. You can sometimes choose the type, or it is assigned to you by the teacher.

There are three main types of book reports, and these are:

Plot summary

A plot summary is an analytical method of retelling the story. Analyze the events and give your ideas on how the plot is improved or rendered worse by the different elements of the plot. Always quote parts of the book and give examples to reinforce your points about the plot.

Character analysis

This takes a character (or multiple characters) and shines the spotlight. Analyze the character, their personality traits, and how they interact with other characters. The importance of character in the story and how it drives the plot forward. Also, analyze how the character talks and acts and what their goals are. Give criticism of whether this character is relatable, which aspects improve the character, and any other personal opinions you may have.

Thematic analysis

Writing an analysis of the book’s theme can be a difficult task. It will require a deep understanding of the overarching narrative and the ability to see what the author is attempting to convey through the book. Write an exact explanation of the theme of the book, explaining it thoroughly. Then, please write your personal opinions regarding the theme, how it adds or subtracts from the book, and whether you found it fitting. Bring in examples from the book and explain them one by one to make your point even clearer.

How to Outline a Book Report Template

The outline is the frame of the report you will write down your information in according to the outline.

It is made up of three parts, and they are

The introduction

Start by introducing the title and the author. You can mention‌ a brief history of the author, such as their previous publications. You should also introduce the theme and ideas that the book aims for and give any reasons why you chose this book to write a report about. You can also add information regarding the publication of the book, how it was received by the readers, whether the book is famous or not, and so on.

The main body

This is the most critical part, where you’ll need to describe the plot of the book and set it concisely, focusing on the important events and characters while analyzing them. Give your personal opinions to make the report more specialized. You can even give examples and comparisons taken from other books.

The main body of a template will include:

• Summary:   a description of the events of the book, the characters, the setting, and the plot of the book. The reader should have a clue of what the story will provide by the end of this summary.
• Character details: talk about the characters, the relationships between them, and any conflicts.
• Plot analysis: Explain the main events of the plot without going into extensive details. Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the plot while also mentioning any literary devices.

Conclusion and personal evaluation

Write down your final thoughts and ideas regarding the book: how it made you feel, how it can be improved, and what ideas it gave you. Reading a book can leave an impression on a person; talk about the impression you received from the book and your evaluation.

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How to Write a Book Report

There are steps to be taken before writing the report to facilitate the process and improve the overall result of the work that you put into the report.

These steps are:

Pick the book carefully

If you choose to pick which book to write the report about, choose one that connects to you and interests you the most. Choosing one you’re passionate about will aid in the process of writing the report. But if you were assigned the book and are unable to change it, then keep an open mind. Maybe you will like it.

Proper reading of the book

Read the book thoroughly and with focus; writing the report will require a good understanding of various parts to explain them within the report. Therefore, it is important to give it a proper read, as you will not write a good report without knowing it well. Consider reading complicated sections more than once for a more proper understanding.

Jot down notes

While reading, note the important events, characters, and plot points you would want to discuss. This will help make writing faster and easier and encompass the book’s various parts.

Organize your notes

Choose which of your most important notes you will be talking about first. The book report is usually of a limited length, so you will probably need to cut back on some notes. Give priority to the most important notes that you think will help you stand out, such as the ones that talk about significant events or the ending as an example.

Create an outline 

The outline is similar to the frame of a painting. It will help you stay focused on the essential parts. Therefore, you must create an outline before you start working. You can write down the outline on paper or within the document itself before working. This will give you a clear idea of what you’re going to write about and facilitate the process of writing.

Begin reiterating the story

One of the most critical aspects is how you retell and summarize the story. First, decide how you will approach the story, its length, and which events are discussed. Secondly, decide on your approach to these events and how you’ll describe them, whether in detail, from the point of view of a particular character, or as an observer.

Be creative with the way you reiterate the story and add your personal touch whenever possible to help the report stand out.

Write your book report

Finally, you can start writing your report. Focus on your notes and follow the outline. Finish writing the main body, then give your analysis.

Tips for Writing a Book Report

There are a few aspects of writing a book report that are only learned with practice and experience. Unfortunately, new writers make common mistakes.

Follow these tips to avoid such common mistakes :

Avoid cramming

Writing is a time-consuming process that is better done slowly. Cramming and forcing yourself to write the report on short notice will negatively affect the report and be noticeable. Instead, plan your time and work while you are relaxed and have plenty of time.

Get a dictionary

Reading with a dictionary by your side will help you with those pesky words that you don’t know the meaning of. It is important to have a better understanding of the story and the author’s method of writing, which in turn helps improve your report.

Read existing reports on the book

Sometimes, if the book is incredibly daunting to tackle for writing about, you should check other reports regarding it; doing this type of research will give you an idea of what points you should discuss and might even give you some insight that you have missed during your reading.

Get professional writing assistance

Using a writing service that will follow your notes and write a report made just for you can help you when you cannot write it yourself.

Use a template

Using a template like the one we offer will help you make the process faster. You will avoid the need to outline yourself and save time to focus on the other parts of the report.

Format of the Book Report

A specific format should be followed to ensure that the report covers all the necessary aspects. Learn this format and make your notes to improve it and reduce the need for a secondary reading of the book.

This format includes

• The title, the author’s name, and the number of pages.
• The genre and the general theme
• The characters with a brief description of each.
• The setting of the book
• The plotline, the critical events, and a summary.
• Theme and message.
• Your evaluation and opinions.

Frequently Asked Questions

To write one for high school, you need to give a brief introduction of the author, explain the plot and the major characters and events, and give a brief evaluation of the book.

When writing one for the college level, a deeper understanding of the literature is often required. So, first, write down the introduction, including the bibliographic information. Then explain the narrative of the plot, events, twists, and conclusion. Finally, give a summary while also mentioning the strong points or the parts that didn’t work so well.

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Book Templates

22 Printable Book Report Templates (Worksheets) – Word | PDF

Writing a book report is something that many of us have been tasked with before, particularly as students. A book review works as a succinct summary of the story of a book, and its characters, its plot, its core themes, message, and much more, and is a convenient yet effective way in which readers may convey what they took away from a particular piece of literature. Additionally, it allows readers to be critical of the works they read, giving it an added degree of depth and importance.

Writing a book report is an important part of academia, and also has a ton of application within the professional world. For these reasons, we’re going to take you through a comprehensive guide with which you can easily write a book report on just about any literary work.

What is a Book Report?

As the name suggests, a book report is pretty much that – a report on the experience a reader had with a particular piece of literature. Most often, a book report contains basic details on the book and author – information on the author’s upbringing, inspiration, education, and professional background are all very relevant to a book report. Generally, a solid and comprehensive book report contains the following elements:

• A succinct and brief summary of the plot or the core philosophies that are outlined in the book.
• A personal, individual analysis of the various themes and topics covered in the book.
• A personal and deep analysis of the numerous characters and/or personalities explored in the book.
• Background information that went into the publication of the book, such as information about the author, historical context, political movements, and the like.
• A final statement on why the writer of the report found the book interesting or uninteresting, complete with critical viewpoints backed up by excerpts from the book.

These elements are necessary for writing a comprehensive book report. In the next section, we’ll guide you through the process of writing the book report.

How Do I Write a Book Report?

Before you get started on the book report itself, it is a good idea to compile all your thoughts on the book into a brief set of notes that you can easily refer to. Additionally, you can list any ideas and/or critical viewpoints you may have, allowing you to easily reference different sections of the book in the report.

Once you have your summary and your notes on hand, you can get started with writing the book report. Follow these tips and format in the specified order to write an effective book report;

• Introduction – The introductory paragraph should declare the name of the author, date and year of publication, publisher, country of publication, and any other relevant historical information. Typically, this includes a small background on the author, the historical context of the time it was written, and the situation of the country in which the book was written. Once that’s done, you’re ready to move onto the next section.
• Next, you should present an overarching summary of the book. For fictional works, this means that you should write down an in-depth synopsis of the story, whereas non-fiction works generally merit a break down of the theories, philosophies, accounts, and general themes explored in the book.
• The next section accounts for the report writer’s personal opinions and experience with the book – In this section, you should outline what you thought about the book and why. Then why is particularly important in writing an effective book report – Your opinions, claims, criticism, and praises should all be backed by references taken from the book, such as excerpts or quotations. Tie this into the historical background of the author and the work itself to write an even more effective book report.
• Bibliography – While this may not particularly hold true for all fiction works, it is very common when dealing with non-fiction works. Often, multiple sources are cited in non-fiction works, which may encourage the reader to do some literary exploration and delve into other authors. When this happens, some of these discoveries are bound to tie into the book review. When these sources are used, make sure to cite them categorically and add a bibliography page.

These are the steps you need to follow to write an effective book review. Once you’ve finished writing it, make sure to do a thorough proofread, while also checking for logical follow from start to finish.

Book Report Templates & Examples

Following are free downloadable book report templates and examples that can be downloaded for free:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of a book report.

Typically, a book report is formatted academically. This includes an introduction, a summary of the work itself, the author of the report’s opinions, findings, criticisms, and praises, and finally, a review and summary of the author’s arguments. It is typically formatted with a 1 or 2-pt margin, with double-spaced fonts like Times New Roman or Arial.

How do you write a book report?

A book report is a comprehensive summary of both the book itself, as well as the reader’s thoughts, opinions, and experience reading the book. As a result, it should contain information on the book itself, including the background of the author, a summary of the key aspects of the book, and well-reasoned, logically sound arguments made by the writer of the report. Check out our guide to find a step-by-step guide to writing a book report.

How many pages should a book report be?

Most commonly, a book report falls between 800-1,000 words. If the font is Times New Roman, 1-pt margins, and double-spaced, which is the academic standard, this comes up to a page count of 3-4 pages.

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Book Report Writing for Students

Report generator.

Writing a report is normal for students in elementary, high school and even for college. Although there are many different kinds of reports that will be asked by the teachers to be submitted by the students, there will always be that one kind of report that is common all throughout your entire school life, and that is a book report.

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In elementary, you are typically given a specific format to follow so that it will be easier for the teacher to track as to whether the student is following the instructions or not. This format is also useful in helping the students with how they should organize the structure of their book report, from beginning till end. There are many ways of preparing your report. But, it is best if you follow these steps listed below as it may make your life a lot easier. You may also see the  report writing examples to give you a better idea.

How to Write a Book Report

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Researching and Outlining Your Report

1. follow the requirements of your assignment..

Even though you will be exercising your own creativity in this book report, keep in mind that there are still instructions that should still have to be followed. If there are any clarifications or questions that you would like to raise to your teacher before beginning the assignment, it would be the perfect time to do so. You may also see free report examples .

• One of the things that you would need to clarify with your instructor is whether citations and page numbers are necessary items to be added in the book report.
• Try to ask your instructor on how much of the book report should be dedicated to the summary of the story. After all, most book reports are direct summaries with only a few opinions mixed in. You may also see incident reports .

2. Read the Entire Book.

What’s the point of writing a book report if you know nothing about the book itself? If you are more visual than imaginative, I would suggest you watch an adapted screenplay of the said book in order to cut down the “boringness” you might feel when you read it. But, keep in mind that movies (no matter how well-told) will always leave out some details or scenes that are found in the novelization. But then again, it is entirely up to your discretion. You may also see monthly reports .

• If you have the ability to read without getting bored, then I would suggest you read the whole thing in one go to keep the momentum going. If you need a break or need to eat, then do so while reading if it is something impossible to put down even for a second.
• Do not even think about skimming the book. Capture the moment of the scenes being offered to you. Read about every detail and allow your imagination to take flight. You may also see activity reports .
• Last but never the least, allow yourself to never read book summaries online. They can never be trusted. You will never know what they might have left out. It is better if you commit time to reading the whole thing than being a killjoy.

3. Take Careful Notes when Reading.

If there is a specific plot twist that gets to you, write it down. If there is a scene that created a huge impact, write it down. If there is a character that you can relate to, write it down. Write down what you like. Write down what you hate. Take notes while you read them. If you do not want your momentum to be ruined, you can always go back to it when you are done. You may also see formal reports .

• When you are finished with your outline, go back through it to see if it makes sense. Reorganize and restructure the whole outline if you have to. Do not forget that this is just a guide for you, and it can be changed.
• Outlining does take a bit of time, but it will save you time in the proofreading stage. You may also see book reports .

4. Create an Outline.

An outline does not have to be too complicated. It can even only be a couple of one-liners from the story so as to give you the gist of what you need to include in that certain area. Indicate what each paragraph will discuss and the details from the work that you’ll include. Outlines can change from time to time. You may also see short reports .

Intermix Examples and Quotations from the Text.

As you construct your outline, try to pair any general points of the summary with specific details from the book. This will show your teacher that not only have you read the book, you understand it. Vary your examples and keep your quotations brief. You may also see expense reports .

Don’t Try to Cover Everything.

This is probably both impossible and improbable for two reasons. First, if you attempt to cover everything in the story, people might as well just read your book report instead of buying the book itself since the plot and everything else is already explained. And second, there is a tendency that you might leave out some important details in the process, even if you have covered everything. This is just a summary. You may also see service reports .

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.

My Book Report Sample 1

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 Writing the Body of Your Report

1. open with an informative intro paragraph.

Start strong and end strong. First impression matters, so make it count. If you are still in elementary, then it is best not to try too hard at making an attention-grabbing sentence. But, if you are in college or high school, you might be able to think of something. But it is important to include the author’s name and the book title in the first paragraph. You may also see management reports .

• Try not to take up too much space with your introduction. It should be more than two and generally less than ten sentences long.

2. Describe the Book’s Setting

This is a great way to start the body of your paper because it will set the stage for everything else that you’ll discuss in your report. Describe the locations mentioned in the book so that your teacher will know exactly what you are referring to. You may also see status reports .

• Add color and life to the summary. If the place was smelled like the stench of death and decay, by all means, add it there.

3. Include a General Plot Summary

This is where you need to describe the exact outcome of the book in less than two paragraphs. The plot summary should mention all major events that took place and how each event impacted the characters. You may also see performance reports .

4. Introduce Any Main Characters

The book revolves around its characters (both protagonists and antagonists). Make sure when you are describing your characters, give every detail on how they look like, their actions and the skills they possess. You may also see investigation reports .

5. Examine Any Main Themes or Arguments in Your Body Paragraphs

Look for the ‘big ideas’ as you are reading. In a fiction work, pay attention to the character’s actions and how they follow certain patterns if they do. In a nonfiction work, look for the author’s primary thesis statement or argument. What are they trying to prove or suggest?

• For example, 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.”You may also see recruitment reports .
• For a fiction work, watch to see if the author is using the story to pass along a certain moral or lesson. For example, a book about a fictional underdog athlete could be used to encourage readers to take chances to pursue their dreams. You may also see medical reports .

6. Comment on the Writing Style and Tone.

Different writers and authors have different personalities and have different writing styles. If you think that the author was sort of informal or too casual when he wrote the book, note that down. Language is considered a vital aspect of writing a book, depending on who your audience is as well. You may also see consulting reports .

Book Report Sample Format 3

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Finishing Up Your Report

1. write a concise conclusion.

Start strong and end strong. When everything else is forgotten, at least the readers have something they can remember from your summary. Include a few quick sentences summarizing the entire book. You can also make a final statement about whether you’d suggest the book to other readers and why. You may also see visit reports .

• Don’t introduce any new thoughts in this final paragraph. Save the space for your recap.

2. Proofread Your Paper.

Double check the content of your paper to make sure everything is intact. Typos, grammatical errors, punctuation marks. You can also try to read your paper out loud so that you may be able to identify some points that you are missing. You may also see sales reports .

3. Polish Your Final Report.

Once you’ve made the necessary corrections, print out a clean version of your report. Read through it slowly and carefully. Look for any typos or minor errors. Compare your report to the guide sheet to make sure that you’ve followed all of your teacher’s directions. You may also see project reports .

Writing a book report does not have to be too complicated. It can even be as simple as the ones found above. Keep in mind that the simpler and more colorful your book report is, the better it is. You may also see employee reports .

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Generate a report on the impact of technology in the classroom on student learning outcomes

Prepare a report analyzing the trends in student participation in sports and arts programs over the last five years at your school.

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College Book Report Example

Harriet Jacobs was a pioneer not only in freeing herself from the degrading slavery at a time when such practice had been at its peak of popularity, but also managed to carve all of her experiences into an astonishing autobiographical story under the title of Incidents in a Life of a Slave Girl. Consequently, this book concerns the perspectives of females in the world of American slavery during the nineteenth century and reveals a whole new side of this issue in comparison to similar works. Notably, the eloquent English that Jacobs used in her work may be only envied by the majority of the contemporary English-speaking population. Using the language as an instrument of allegory and symbolism, Jacobs managed to magnificently interpret the poignant fate and the abominable daily lives of the African-American slaves, especially the female ones, that the latter had had to endure only due to being born into the world with an African ancestry.

To begin with, the book largely centers around the topic of sexual harassment and other types of stalking that the white male masters have pursued in relation to the dark-skinned female slaves. Brent, the protagonist of the story, is an alter-ego that Jacobs has adopted in her book, which reflects the authors recounts of her life in a proximal manner, although substitutes genuine names with superficial ones. Being born into a family of slaves, Brent had not understood the difference between herself and other children until she reached the age of six when the masters began to exploit her labor. Further, Brent had been subjected to routine chores and field labor similarly to other African-Americans at her master’s plantation, however, the attitude toward her altered as she matured. Brent’s exceptional attractiveness resulted in her master’s attempts to molest her, although there was a restraining factor in the form of Brent’s grandmother who, despite being a former slave, was a rather respectable person in town.

Notably, the book highlights multiple disgusting ways that Dr. Flint has resorted to in order to seduce Brent or make her into his sex tool and the various psychological problems that the former has developed in the light of his vast slave master authority. Specifically, as Brent matured into a teenage girl, Dr. Flint not only raged at her, but he developed a habit of stalking her at different times of day and of whispering horribly perverted words to her while nobody has been around. Subsequently, the protagonist of the story stressed that she had felt as in a psychiatric ward or prison where she was nowhere safe from Dr. Flint’s presence. It required a great deal of courage, calmness, and rationality for Brent to hold on through these ordeals and to wait for a moment to escape.

With this in mind, Brent’s destiny got even more complicated. She had decided to give into another man and got pregnant. From this point, the story got complicated and revealed numerous ways that Brent had had to resort to in order to escape her master – hideaway under the floor in a friend’s house, involve her family in the schemes of smuggling away her children and ship them to a certain destination point and others. Particularly, the protagonist of the story displayed the astonishing power of will and patience to endure all these hardships being constantly pursued by Dr. Flint all over the country in his lust for subduing her and avenging her disobedience.

That being said, the book also reveals other topics, which include the family ties in the slave society and the martyrdom of the family members who have always been ready to sacrifice themselves in order for, at least, one of them to be able to gain freedom. In addition, Jacobs emphasized that it had been the Southern Americans mostly that pertained such horrific practices, and that the people of the Northern America pursued more democratic and humanistic values. Among others, the book is an inquiry to the kind people of the North to stop these atrocities.

All things considered, this work by Jacobs significantly invests in the pool of the US slavery narrative in the nineteenth century. The author presents multiple real examples that allow the reader to perceive the whole grief of the African-American population, especially of its female part. Finally, the inner spirit of female characters in the book may be praised for firmness and self-control in the most abominable episodes with which they involuntarily coped.

Reference Campbell, G., Miers, S., & Miller, J. C. (2007). Women and slavery: The Modern Atlantic. Athens: Ohio University Press. Jacobs, H. A., McKay, N. Y., & Foster, F. S. (2000). Incidents in the life of a slave girl: Contexts, criticisms. New York: W.W. Norton. Jacobs, H. A., Yellin, J. F., & Jacobs, J. S. (2009). Incidents in the life of a slave girl: Written by herself. Cambridge, MA: Belknap. Yellin, J. F. (2004). Harriet Jacobs: A life. New York: Basic Civitas Books. Yetman, N. R. (2002). When I was a slave: Memoirs from the Slave Narrative Collection. Mineola, NY: Dover Publications.

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As a student, one of your assignments, once you entered college, is writing a book report . Students from English or literature majors are often asked to write a book report but it can also be assigned to you even if you are studying computer science or biology. A book report is a written document or an oral presentation of a literature’s description, summary, and evaluation, regardless of whether it is a work of fiction or nonfiction.

College Book Report

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A college book report is a document or presentation of the summary of a book’s key ideas or arguments. It is often assigned to students from grade school to college and aims to enhance and verify their abilities to efficiently summarize and relay the main points of any large written or literary works. Obtaining high scores is not the only important goal for this task but mastering the skills associated with college book reports like reading and comprehending the content, creating detailed and informative report outlines, and detecting plagiarism. 

Book reports contain an objective summary of the most valuable ideas or arguments that a book has. Its aim is to make sure that the readers become familiar with the content of the report and make them understand the details it contains. These documents are assigned tasks to students at different educational levels. At a college level, students can utilize more complex and professionally-related materials or literature for their college book report.

Reading a book several times allows you to understand the general idea of its plot, central issues, character outlines , and more. Like other student papers , you can start your report by providing the details of the book such as its title, the name of the author, and a few sentences to grab the interest of your readers.

Write the book summary in a few paragraphs without paraphrasing similar content from the web. Your professor expects you to write your summary based on your understanding of the book. 

After you finished your summary, analyze the book’s story by providing your interpretation of the writer’s ideas and thoughts that they intend their readers to comprehend. However, you also have to make sure that you are following the requirements and review points your professor has given you. 

As a student, essay writing , feature writing , and other types of written content must be concluded in a clear way. When summarizing the key points of the book, consider thinking about its overall essence. Think of the factors that provided you with feelings, made you remember something, or made you change your personal goals .

Like other student papers, it is important that your review and proofread the written content you are trying to write and submit. Make sure to eliminate grammatical and spelling errors while also ensuring that your content is easy to understand.

A college book report is more complex than school essays , carries a certain tone of formality, provides objective data, makes a student more responsible, and students have to read more literature volume and quality.

Writing a book report does not have to be strict and you can be creative. You can use methods such as a character trait diagram, a letter to the writer, interesting facts about the book or story, a digital presentation, a brief video, movie posters, and more.

A book report’s elements include critical information about the book such as its title, author, publisher, character analysis , and more. It also includes the time and period when the story took place, the setting and plot, names of the main characters and their short descriptions, and quotes to support your report.

A college book report is a written document or presentation that aims to provide a summary of a work of literature to give the readers brief information about the setting, plot, main characters, and other elements of the book. It is often assigned by college professors to their students to enhance their comprehension and writing skills.

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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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25+ Free Printable Book Report Templates [Word | PDF]

Home / Education Templates / 25+ Free Printable Book Report Templates [Word | PDF]

Teachers and students use book report template to cut down some of the workloads. Teachers assign a lot of book reports to the students to make sure that students read a lot of books. These well-designed book report templates help the students to enjoy the act of reading and can become lifelong learners.

Table of Contents

• 1 What is a book report?
• 2.1 Simple or short book report:
• 2.2 Multi-page book report:
• 3 Parts of a simple and multi-page book report:
• 4 Tips for the teacher to assign the book reports to the students:
• 5 Tips for students to fill out book reports:
• 6 How to write book reports in different ways?
• 7.1 Read and mark the report
• 7.2 Make changes to the report
• 7.3 Review the report
• 8 Why should provide a book report form?
• 9 Conclusion:
• 10 Faqs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a book report?

In elementary and middle school, book reports are given to the students as an assignment. It contains basic questions about the book that is assigned to the students to read. When students answer these questions, it acts as evidence to the teacher that they read the book. Moreover, a comprehensive book report contains the following elements;

• The detail what the book was about
• The names of the main characters
• What the theme of the book is
• Where the events are set

Some book reports also ask critical viewpoints about events and characters to make sure that the students read the book completely. Also, by asking such questions students can understand the book better.

Types of book reports:

Generally, there are two types of book reports;

Simple or short book report:

A simple or short book report is given by the teachers to the students and can be completed in one night like a homework assignment. They just have a few questions that students answer in a few short sentences.

Multi-page book report:

This type of book report takes more than one night to complete. For middle school students, this report consists of two pages . While for high school students, students have to submit five-page reports.

Parts of a simple and multi-page book report:

A simple book report contains a few sections. This report asks students to answer questions in paragraph format. However, all types of book reports ask for the title, author name, and the illustrator’s name (if it is a picture book). The other components are;

• Setting: the place where book events happen.
• Characters: names of the main characters
• Plot: an overview of the main events of the book.
• Comment section: whether the reader likes the book or not.

A simple report book also just asks three questions from the students the beginning, the middle, and end events. Sometimes the climax of the book where the main character’s problems are solved or made complicated also expected to determine by the students.

Teachers also demand from the students to write a multi-page book report. This report can be written by using software like MS Word. Additionally, this report is written out in paragraph form. The best way to write this multi-page report is to divide it into three basic sections;

• Introduction: it contains the title, author, genre, and the reason why you choose the book.
• Main Body: The main body or middle part of the report contains the summary, theme, setting, and characters.
• Conclusion: in the end, provide a short summary of the book and your opinion about the book.

Tips for the teacher to assign the book reports to the students:

During assigning the book reports to the students, teachers have to keep the following tips in mind;

• At first, the teacher should assign one book to read to the whole class. It can cut down the efforts of teachers to understand the submitted reports of the whole class.
• Always use a short book report template and there is no need to create one from scratch.
• You must print out more copies of the book report template than needed because sometimes students lose theirs.
• Before a book report due date, reminds the students at least twice.
• When reading activity includes a lot of book reports then it should be turned in a drawing, diorama, or another project.

Tips for students to fill out book reports:

• Before a book report due date, make up a reading schedule to complete the book. You can also use a calendar to remind yourself.
• Next, make a schedule and assign yourself to complete different steps every day .
• You can also ask for some help from your teacher to get started. Moreover, you can also use completed reports as a reference.

How to write book reports in different ways?

Both students and teachers can use creative ideas to write book reports instead of straightforward reports.

• You can write a book report in the form of a newspaper or blog review. Write the summary of the book without using the plot or the ending headings. State the reasons why you like it or not. Also, provide an up or down rating at the end.
• A book report can be written in the form of a diary. Use journal templates to create a diary. It should be written by one of the main characters. According to the character’s point of view, discuss the different events of the book.
• Choose one of the characters in the book and create an imaginary interview. Then, ask questions; Where they come from Why the character did something important to the plot What the character thinks about the consequences of the events in the book.
• The book report can also be written in the form of a newspaper article detailing one of the major events in the book. Answer 5Ws such as who, what, where, when, and why of these events in the article.

What to do after writing the report?

Consider the following steps to finish up the reports;

Read and mark the report

Read the report from start to end to make sure it contains all details. If you find any spelling or punctuation errors then mark them with a brightly colored pen. Young students may ask their parents or students to read through their reports. The teacher should ask their students to submit rough drafts of their reports before the final report is due. This way, they can review their drafts and give them suggestions to change the report before final submission.

Make changes to the report

Any grammatical or spelling that you highlight, fix them. Consider your teacher’s suggestions or the ideas that you wrote down to edit in the report. After making changes to the report, save your file as a separate document.

Review the report

When you are done making changes to the report, it’s time to print out a fresh copy of the report. Once again go through it for spelling errors and grammar mistakes. If you find any sentence that doesn’t make sense fix them in the document file and review them one more time. When you assure that there are no mistakes left, print out it.

Why should provide a book report form?

For elementary school classes, a book report is a popular choice of assignment. With the help of this form, students simply complete the report by filling out the worksheet. It depends on the teachers whether they include standard questions in the sheet or they make a unique sheet containing questions specific to each different book that is assigned.

Furthermore, you can introduce students to an idea of a book report format by using these forms. You also show them what kind of information they have to include in the multi-page reports in higher grades. For teachers who have a large classroom and more assignments to check, a form is also easier to grade.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a book report template is helpful for the teachers and students because it cuts down some of the workloads. These templates are formatted academically. Moreover, the book report should be comprehensive and includes the author’s background, a summary of the book, and well-reasoned arguments made by the writer of the report.

Faqs (Frequently Asked Questions)

A book report consists of a page count of 3-4 pages if it falls between 800-1,000 words and has Times New Roman font.

There are 5 parts of a book report; 1- Book’s author 2- Title 3- Characters 4- Setting 5- Plot

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Americans’ Views on Book Restrictions in U.S. Public Schools 2024

Full reports.

A study from the Knight Free Expression Research Series produced by Knight Foundation in partnership with Langer Research Associates.

Executive Summary

Book challenges and restrictions in U.S. public schools have increased dramatically since 2021. [1] Yet research on public awareness, attitudes and engagement in these activities is limited. In an effort to fill this critical knowledge gap in the national dialogue, Knight Foundation partnered with Langer Research Associates to survey a random national sample of more than 4,500 adults, deeply exploring public attitudes on restricting students’ access to books in public schools. This research extends the foundation’s two-decade history of public opinion polling on attitudes toward the First Amendment and free expression.

Read the full report here .

Download the supplemental materials and methodology here . Download the full raw data set in here : . csv format , . sav format .

Key Findings

Majorities of americans feel informed about book restriction efforts and say the issue is personally important to them. still, few actively participate..

• About six in 10 feel informed about debates to restrict access to books in public schools. As many call the issue highly important.
• About one in four (23 percent) are aware of efforts to restrict public school students’ access to books in their community. Thirteen percent say book access in fact has been restricted due to these efforts.
• Far fewer, 3 percent, personally have engaged on this issue: 2 percent to maintain book access, 1 percent to restrict it.

Two-thirds of Americans oppose efforts to restrict books in public schools and most are confident in public schools’ selection of books.

• Strong sentiment is lopsided, with strong opponents of book restrictions outnumbering strong supporters by nearly 3-1.
• In general terms, 78 percent of adults are confident that their community’s public schools select appropriate books for students to read.
• Additionally, more people say it is a bigger concern to restrict students’ access to books that have educational value than it is to provide them with access to books that have inappropriate content. This view is especially prevalent when it comes to middle and high school students.

Most Americans see age appropriateness as a legitimate issue, especially for younger students – even as concern about exposure to inappropriate books is limited. Marking the issue’s complexity, trust in specific groups to determine age appropriateness is lower than trust in schools’ book selections more generally.

• Six in 10 see age appropriateness as a legitimate reason to restrict students’ book access. Far fewer say it is legitimate to block access to books that contradict parents’ political views, religious beliefs or moral values.
• Potentially controversial topics are more likely to be seen as appropriate for high school students, followed by middle school students; objections rise when it comes to content for elementary school students. These views are sharply divided, especially along ideological lines.
• Just 7 percent of parents with reading-age children say their child has read an age-inappropriate book from school. [2] Among pre-K-12 parents, a quarter are concerned about this happening in the future, leaving 74 percent not concerned about it.
• No one group has broad trust to determine what books are age appropriate. Roughly half of Americans have a great deal or good amount of trust in librarians and teachers to do this; fewer say so about principals, parents, district leaders, the state government or non-parents.

Who supports book restriction efforts?

• Ideology is a major factor in attitudes on the issue. Support for restricting students’ access to books is highest among people who identify themselves as conservatives. Indeed, while conservatives account for 29 percent of all adults, they make up 57 percent of book restriction supporters.
• Support for book restrictions in the public schools also reaches majorities among more-conservative groups such as white evangelical Protestants, Republicans and parents with children in private, religious or homeschool settings.
• Underlying attitudes are involved. Conservatives are less likely than other people to think that books in public schools adequately represent conservative political views. They also are less confident in schools’ handling of topics including moral values, gender and sexuality, religious beliefs and political views. And they are particularly opposed to the availability of books that discuss topics such as non-traditional gender identities and sexual orientation.

Who opposes book restriction efforts?

• Opposition to book restrictions peaks among liberals, Democrats and LGBTQ adults. It is modestly higher among four-year college graduates, moderates and Black people compared with all adults.
• Opposing book restrictions is strongly related to views on free expression and individual thinking. Large majorities of Americans say children should develop their own political opinions, moral values and religious beliefs, rather than adopting their parents’ points of view. More than half also think that book restriction efforts threaten students’ freedom of expression. Those holding these views are highly opposed to book restriction efforts.
• Views among public school parents show the issue’s complexity. These parents are broadly confident in their public schools to select appropriate books, and most (59 percent) oppose book restriction efforts. Still, that is 8 points lower than the level of opposition to book restriction efforts among non-parents, 67 percent.

Nearly all adults think public school parents should be able to challenge books, but there is concern about potential chilling effects in book selection.

• Nine in 10 think any public school parent should be able to submit a book complaint to their local district. However, three-quarters also think an investigation should occur only after multiple complaints are received.
• About six in 10 also are concerned that fear of complaints might deter public school districts from purchasing books with educational value.
• About two-thirds think public school teachers and librarians should have substantial say in deciding what books are available; 57 percent say the same about pre-K-12 parents. In contrast, just about two in 10 say so about their state government or community members who are not pre-K-12 parents.

About this study

Results presented in this report are from a national survey of 4,567 adults, including 1,138 pre-K-12 parents, conducted Feb. 29-March 10, 2024, via the probability-based Ipsos KnowledgePanel®, with design, management and analysis by Langer Research Associates. Results have a margin of error of plus or minus 1.6 percentage points for the full sample. As in all surveys, error margins are larger for subgroups.

In addition to the full report, a supplemental report provides topline data, a detailed methodology statement and a desk review of prior research.

[1] See Meehan, K., Baêta, S., Markham, M., & Magnusson, T. (2024). Banned in the USA: Narrating the Crisis. PEN America. https://pen.org/report/narrating-the-crisis/

[2] We define “reading-age children” as K-12 students, excluding those in pre-K.

Explore the Knight Free Expression Research Series

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Knight Free Expression Research Series: College

Knight Free Expression Research Series: High School

Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-warnings-from-democrats-about-project-2025-and-donald-trump

Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

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• Anniston/Gadsden

Talty & Keteyian’s ‘The Price’ offers timely inside look at state of college football in 2024

• Updated: Aug. 30, 2024, 1:53 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 30, 2024, 1:26 p.m.

• Creg Stephenson | [email protected]

John Talty and Armen Keteyian’s “The Price: What It Takes to Win in College Football’s Era of Chaos” hit bookshelves earlier this week, and it’s hard to imagine a more-timely look at the sport as the 2024 season kicks off.

Packed with dozens of first-hand accounts and interviews — both on-the-record and from anonymous sources — “The Price” checks in at a little less than 350 pages. It’s dense enough that even the most college football-educated readers will learn something in nearly every chapter, but not so unwieldy that one couldn’t race through it over the course of a few days.

It’s the second book for Talty, the former AL.com sports editor and SEC insider who now works as a national college football writer for CBS and 247 Sports. He also authored a well-received study of Nick Saban’s coaching methods and secrets , released in 2022.

His co-author is Keteyian, the veteran television investigative reporter and author of more than a dozen sports non-fiction books. His 2013 book “The System: Inside the Glory and Scandal of Big-Time College Football,” is something of a direct forebear to “The Price.”

“The genesis of the book originally was the Nick Saban-Jimbo Fisher war of words and trying to kind of understand what is happening within college football that would prompt these two big-name coaches to want to go at each other publicly in that fashion,” Talty told AL.com this week. “That’s kind of where it originally started.

“I was working on this book initially with somebody else actually, and just wasn’t able to get it to a point where it worked and trying to kind of figure out what the idea would end up being. Somebody connected me with Armen and got us on the phone ... We had a conversation, it went well. I drew up a proposal and we both added some pieces to the puzzle. We were able to expand it out from there and tell a much broader story.”

RELATED: Explosive Nick Saban/Lane Kiffin dynamic detailed in new book

Saban, of course, is a major character in “The Price,” which details his days at LSU and Alabama, up to and including the 2023 season. There are juicy stories about Saban’s relationship with super-agent Jimmy Sexton and former assistant coaches such as Fisher, Mike Locksley and Lane Kiffin of course, but also the kind of minute, program-insider details that fans will salivate over.

Among them:

• Five-star quarterback recruit Julian Sayin turned down enormous offers of NIL money from other schools to sign with Alabama as part of the 2024 class because he had longed to play for Saban since he was a child. But once Saban left, Sayin felt he had no reason to stay in Tuscaloosa. He has since transferred to Ohio State.

• Saban believed at one point early in the 2023 season that true freshman Dylan Lonergan — and not 2022 back-up Jalen Milroe, redshirt freshman Ty Simpson or transfer Tyler Buchner — might be the Crimson Tide’s eventual answer at quarterback. The book also quotes Saban’s wife, Terry, lamenting on the eve of the Texas game as to what the transfer portal had done to Alabama’s roster and college football in general.

• Florida State’s Mike Norvell was a top candidate to replace Saban along with Washington’s Kalen DeBoer, who was hired less than three days after the Alabama coach stepped down. Those in the FSU athletic department were so concerned Norvell might leave for Tuscaloosa that they had already reached out to Kiffin as a backup plan. Speaking of Kiffin, according to Talty and Keteyian, he was never seriously considered as a replacement for Saban. Texas’ Steve Sarkisian was contacted, but quickly shot down the idea of leaving the Longhorns for the Crimson Tide.

“Saban’s retirement becomes part of the story, but just the fact that it’s the 12-team playoff starting this year and the conference realignment and all that, it all is kind of timely in that way as well,” Talty said. “We had to be willing to pivot and adapt pretty much at all times. “I can’t even count the amount of phone calls that Armen and I had ‘can you believe this just happened? What are we going to do with the book?’ At all these little moments along the way, we had to evolve and adjust.”

Saban isn’t the only focus of “The Price” of course. There are also multiple chapters on Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh as he navigated a 2023 national championship season marred by multiple suspensions and a sign-stealing scandal before ultimately leaving for the NFL.

Auburn gets its treatment as well, most notably the story of Tommy Tuberville’s rise from coach to U.S. Senator and an entertaining look at super-booster Jimmy Rane. The wealthiest man in Alabama and once the star of his own lumber commercials as the “Yella Fella” cowboy, Rane refers to his Auburn fandom as a “virus” he was first infected with as a pre-teen in the 1950s, but rejects the perception that he can have Tigers coaches hired and fired with the snap of his fingers.

Also included are a look at Jedd Fisch’s resurrection of the Arizona program and the current state of recruiting, NCAA enforcement, conference realignment, NIL collectives and the transfer portal. The stories of Sayin, Jaden Rashada, Fisher, Kirby Smart and attorney Tom Mars, among others, receive both thousand-foot views and deep inside character studies.

“I think in some ways, this book is incredibly timely, but also my hope is that, five years from now, a decade from now, we’re gonna look back at this period and kind of be like, ‘Wait, what was happening back then?’” Talty said. “I think especially once we get into the salary cap era, looking back, ‘Wait a second. We used to make just regular boosters pay all the workforce and not the school?

“I think that would seem wild to us and I’m hopeful that it will be a fun kind of snapshot of time of these key people, key players, key administrators and how they were trying to survive this world that seemed to be changing, at times, every day.”

“The Price” is available at Amazon.com or wherever books are sold. Readers can obtain a signed copy from Little Professor Book Shop in Homewood .

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• The Education Gradebook

New College moves to fire top librarian over book disposals

• Divya Kumar Times staff

Days after a public outcry over images of thousands of discarded books in a dumpster, New College has moved to fire the dean of the college’s library.

In a letter dated Aug. 16, the university’s general counsel sent Shannon Hausinger a letter saying a preliminary decision to fire her was made after they deemed her responsible for the improper disposal of 13,000 books.

The letter claimed Hausinger “deleted or failed to maintain notes relating to the reasons or justification that each book was selected for disposal.” The letter said that Hausinger sent a link to the library’s weeding policy to General Counsel for review on Aug. 14, but that the dumpster had arrived on campus on Aug. 13.

Hausinger was given 10 days to reply to the letter before a final decision would be made. New College did not immediately confirm if a decision had been made as of Tuesday.

In a statement Monday, university spokesperson Nathan March said the books in the library that were disposed of were separate from the hundreds of books in the Gender and Diversity Center — the removal of which received praise from the likes of trustee Chris Rufo and spokespeople for Gov. Ron DeSantis.

“There is no connection between the New College Library and the books that were removed from the Gender and Diversity Center,” he said. “As previously stated, the Gender and Diversity Center was in a separate building, and the books were never a part of the library’s collection. Those books could have been claimed at various times, and finally were claimed and donated; (they) were not discarded.”

Faculty and students have contested that characterization , saying they had no warning to claim the books and that it is unclear how many of those have been saved.

Divya Kumar is the higher education reporter. Reach her at [email protected].

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Forbes’ Top 25 Public Colleges

These state universities stand out as schools that offer students high earning potential with low debt burdens and a great return on their investment., by emma whitford , forbes staff.

W hile prestigious private colleges—particularly the eight Ivies—get the lion’s share of media attention, it’s public colleges that educate a majority of America’s undergraduates. Three out of every five bachelor’s degree-seeking students in the U.S. attend a state school. And as the cost of higher education continues to rise, it’s worth giving your own state’s offerings a serious look.

During the 2023-24 academic year, the average net price for tuition and fees—that is, the out-of-pocket cost after student aid is factored in—paid by private college students and their families was $15,910, compared with a net tuition and fees cost of only $2,730 for in-state public college students, according to the College Board . California high schoolers are especially lucky—seven in-state universities land on this top 25 list. But Texas, Florida and New York, the next three most populous U.S. states, can also claim universities on this list. And all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico are home to at least one public college on Forbes’ top 500 .

To determine this year’s top 25 public colleges, Forbes applied the same methodology to all four-year public colleges with at least 300 undergraduates that we used to determine the 500 schools on the America’s Top Colleges list. Our methodology prioritizes, among other things, high alumni salaries, low student debt levels and high returns on investment .

The following schools, which educate a combined 709,000 students, stood out as high performers on all 14 of our metrics. They’re listed in order of how highly they scored against their peers. Interested in learning more about one of these colleges? Click on its name to view the full college profile.

University of California-Berkeley

Routinely the top-ranked public college on Forbes’ annual list of 500, the University of California-Berkeley is well-known for its rigorous academics and science programs. It’s a competitive ticket—in 2024, the school’s admissions rate was around 11%. Graduates of the Bay Area public university earn a median $74,919 six years after matriculating (or, for most undergraduate students, two years after graduating), and a median $92,446 six years out. Nearly 500 UC Berkeley graduates go on to earn a PhD each year.

University of California-Los Angeles

Of the public colleges on the Forbes’ top 50, The University of California-Los Angeles is the toughest to get into, with an admissions rate of about 9%. The public university boasts nationwide name recognition and a significant chunk of its undergraduate student body—23%—come from outside the state or the country. Some of the most popular undergraduate programs at the university include psychology, economics and sociology.

University of Florida

The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, offers students a great return on their investment—Third Way estimates that it takes graduates about nine months to make up the net cost of their education in post-graduate earnings. Six years after stepping foot on campus, graduates earn a median $56,398, and a median $123,700 ten years after they graduate. The public university is well-known for its Division I Florida Gators sports teams, and students and alumni have earned 143 Olympic medals. The school was recently named a “New Ivy” by Forbes for admitting top talent and earning praise from employers for producing high-achieving, hard working graduates.

University of California-San Diego

The University of California-San Diego is the third of six University of California schools on this list (which is no surprise , given how well the state university system routinely scores on Forbes’ annual rankings). Its picturesque campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, California is a draw of its own, and a boon to its surf team, which is one of the best in the country and has won six national championships. The public research university is also popular for its biology, computer science and cognitive science programs, and students earn a median $​​79,200 two years after graduating.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the United States, having opened its doors to students in 1795. The university’s rigorous academics prepares students well for graduate school—on average, 244 alumni earn a PhD each year, federal data shows. But it’s not all work and no play. UNC Chapel Hill is also famous for its Tar Heels sports teams, especially its men’s basketball team, which has won six national championships. About 18% of students take out loans to attend the university, and nearly 90% of them are able to make payments toward their loan principal (as opposed to paying only interest) within five years of entering repayment. UNC was also named a New Ivy by Forbes .

University of California-Santa Barbara

Almost any student could find their niche at the University of California-Santa Barbara, which offers more than 200 undergraduate majors, the most popular of which include sociology, econometrics and communications. Graduates then go on to earn a median $72,700 and $148,600 six and ten years out from graduation, respectively. The university enrolls a significant share of low-income students—30% of undergraduates receive Pell grants.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Only 16% of students take out loans to attend The University of Washington, making it one of only a handful of schools on this list where fewer than one in five students borrow for their degree. The school draws in a lot of out-of-staters—24% of undergraduates come from outside Washington, compared with 60% from in-state and 15% from outside the U.S. Some of the most popular majors include social science, biomedical science and computer science.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Among the top 25 public colleges, the University of Michigan ranks behind only UC Berkeley when it comes to the number of alumni on the Forbes American Leaders list; Wolverines on this year’s list include Ohio congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, Guggenheim fellow Julia Wolfe and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Olivia Weinstock. Graduates of the University of Michigan earn a median $80,300 six years after graduation, and a median $137,500 ten years after receiving their diploma. The University of Michigan is another one of Forbes ’ New Ivies.

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Located in Charlottesville, the University of Virginia-Main Campus is popular among students who major in social science, business and the liberal arts. Among the top 25 public schools, UVA has the highest graduation rate—95% of all students graduate with a bachelor’s degree within six years. It also boasts the highest graduation rate for low-income students—92% of Pell grant recipients graduate within six years. UVA is also one of Forbes ’ New Ivies.

University of California-Irvine

The University of California-Irvine enrolls a diverse student body, 81% of which hails from within California. Thirty-eight percent of undergraduates are Asian, 27% are Hispanic or Latino and 13% are white. Nearly four in ten students at the public university receive Pell grants, with the average Pell grant award worth $5,644 and 65% of all students at UC Irvine get some kind of grant aid to attend. Social science, business, management and marketing are all popular majors at the university.

University of Maryland-College Park

The University of Maryland-College Park draws students from in and out of state—72% of undergraduates hail from Maryland while 26% live elsewhere in the U.S. Its proximity to Washington, D.C. makes the school ideal for students interested in politics and policy, though computer science, social science and engineering are the most popular programs among undergraduates. The university has a 95% three-year average retention rate, showing that year after year, a large majority of freshmen return as sophomores. Maryland, too, was named a New Ivy.

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Graduates from the Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus earn some of the highest mid-career salaries of any public university on this list. Six years after stepping foot on campus, students earn a median $102,772, and 10 years after graduation, that median salary hits an impressive $163,500. Georgia Tech, a favorite of employers, also made the Forbes New Ivies list.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign gets high marks on Forbes ’ academic metrics. The university enrolls or has graduated 20 people who have, within the past year, become Rhodes, Truman, Fulbright or Goldwater scholars. Each year, more than 300 University of Illinois alumni go on to earn a PhD. Popular programs at the midwestern university include engineering, business and marketing. The school also qualified as a New Ivy.

University of California-Davis

The University of California-Davis has strong international appeal—the university enrolls 18% of its students from outside the U.S. Of the university’s nearly 32,000 undergraduates, 31% are Asian, 24% are Hispanic or Latino and 21% are white. Those students who take out federal student loans to attend UC Davis borrow a median of $11,000 and about nine in 10 graduates pay some of their principal loan amount within five years of entering repayment.

The University of Texas at Austin

Students love the University of Texas at Austin—95% of first-time undergraduates return for a second year. Employers also love UT Austin. Its great reputation among hiring managers landed it a spot on Forbes ’ New Ivies list . The urban university enrolls nearly 40,000 undergraduates, who favor programs in biology, engineering, communications and journalism, and go on to earn a median salary of $60,896 two years after graduating.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Named a public New Ivy by Forbes in May, the University of Wisconsin-Madison is well-known by employers for producing smart, hard-working graduates. It’s the biggest feeder school into healthcare records giant Epic, located just miles away from the University of Wisconsin’s Isthmus campus. Computer science, economics and psychology are all popular among undergraduates at the university.

William & Mary

William & Mary is unique in that despite being classified as a doctoral, public research university, its student population is largely made up of undergraduates and its 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio give it a liberal arts campus feel. The Virginia public college’s acceptance rate hovers around 33%, making it fairly attainable compared to other schools of its size and prestige. William & Mary has a long, rich history—U.S. presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and John Tyler attended the college, and other founding fathers, including George Washington, had connections to the school, earning it the nickname “Alma Mater of the Nation.”

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo boasts high starting and mid-career median salaries for its graduates, who often go on to work in technology, engineering and business. Two years after graduating from a four-year program, Cal Poly alumni earn a median $72,358. Later on in their careers, 10 years after graduation, their median salaries hover around $148,600. About one fifth of students take on debt to attend the university, with the median debt load sitting around $15,000.

Purdue University-Main Campus

Located in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University enrolls more than 36,000 full-time undergraduates who can choose from more than 100 majors, including chemical engineering, forestry and UX design. About a quarter of students take out loans to attend Purdue, with the median loan value at $15,000. Of those students, 90% are able to pay some of their loan principal within five years of graduation.

Florida State University

Florida State University offers its students a great return on their investment. According to Third Way, graduates of the public university in Tallahassee take less than a year to make up their net cost in earnings. Eighty-six percent of students receive some kind of grant aid to attend, with the average aid award sitting at $8,731. The most popular majors for undergraduates include psychology, criminal justice and finance.

University of Georgia

Of the 29,680 full-time undergraduates at the University of Georgia, three quarters come from within the state while the remaining quarter come from other parts of the U.S. Some of the most popular programs among students at the public university are psychology, public health and biology. The Georgia Bulldogs are popular collegiate teams, and they have won national championships in football, baseball, men’s and women’s tennis and golf, to name a few.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

One of the most cost-effective colleges on our list, CUNY Bernard M Baruch College costs New Yorkers $31,482 to attend, and out-of-staters $39,432—both prices before student aid. Return on investment for students at the New York City public college is high—Third Way estimates that it takes graduates about four months to make up the net cost in earnings, and low-income graduates do so in less than three months. Of all 25 schools on this list, Baruch College enrolls the highest percentage of low-income students—52% of undergraduates receive Pell grants. Only 11% of Baruch College undergraduates take out loans to attend the school, and the median debt burden is $10,000.

Texas A & M University-College Station

By far the largest school on this list with more than 50,000 undergraduates, Texas A&M University-College Station is known for its engineering, agriculture and veterinary science programs. Graduates of the university go on to earn a median $72,600 six years after graduation and a median $139,700 10 years out. Texas A&M does not require applicants to submit test scores, and admits around 64% of applicants—the large majority of which are in-state students.

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Graduates from North Carolina State University at Raleigh earn a median salary of $70,800 six years after graduation and $128,600 ten years after graduation. It takes about two years for graduates from North Carolina State to make up their net cost in earnings, according to Third Way, but low-income students typically do so in less than a year after graduation. Engineering is by far the most popular program at the university, followed by business and biology.

San Diego State University

The seventh California public college on this list, and one of the 23 schools in the California State University system, is San Diego State University. The university enrolls 28,524 undergraduates, who can choose from majors like criminal justice, psychology and mechanical engineering. About one in five students take on loans to attend San Diego State, and the median loan amount is just under $13,000.

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