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

Last Updated: March 13, 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 9 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 1,415,797 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 1 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 1 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://library.valleycollege.edu/elements_of_book_report.pdf
• ↑ 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 Book Report

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Book Report Fundamentals

Preparing to write, an overview of the book report format, how to write the main body of a book report, how to write a conclusion to a book report, reading comprehension and book reports, book report resources for teachers .

Book reports remain a key educational assessment tool from elementary school through college. Sitting down to close read and critique texts for their content and form is a lifelong skill, one that benefits all of us well beyond our school years. With the help of this guide, you’ll develop your reading comprehension and note-taking skills. You’ll also find resources to guide you through the process of writing a book report, step-by-step, from choosing a book and reading actively to revising your work. Resources for teachers are also included, from creative assignment ideas to sample rubrics.

Book reports follow general rules for composition, yet are distinct from other types of writing assignments. Central to book reports are plot summaries, analyses of characters and themes, and concluding opinions. This format differs from an argumentative essay or critical research paper, in which impartiality and objectivity is encouraged. Differences also exist between book reports and book reviews, who do not share the same intent and audience. Here, you’ll learn the basics of what a book report is and is not.

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

This article, written by a professor emeritus of rhetoric and English, describes the defining characteristics of book reports and offers observations on how they are composed.

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab outlines the steps in writing a book report, from keeping track of major characters as you read to providing adequate summary material.

"How to Write a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

This article provides another helpful guide to writing a book report, offering suggestions on taking notes and writing an outline before drafting. 

"How to Write a Successful Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

Another post from ThoughtCo., this article highlights the ten steps for book report success. It was written by an academic advisor and college enrollment counselor.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and an Essay?

"Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing" ( Classroom)

In this article from the education resource Classroom,  you'll learn the differences and similarities between book reports and essay writing.

"Differences Between a Book Report and Essay Writing" (SeattlePi.com)

In this post from a Seattle newspaper's website, memoirist Christopher Cascio highlights how book report and essay writing differ.

"The Difference Between Essays and Reports" (Solent Online Learning)

This PDF from Southampton Solent University includes a chart demonstrating the differences between essays and reports. Though it is geared toward university students, it will help students of all levels understand the differing purposes of reports and analytical essays.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and a Book Review?

"How to Write a Book Review and a Book Report" (Concordia Univ.)

The library at Concordia University offers this helpful guide to writing book report and book reviews. It defines differences between the two, then presents components that both forms share.

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s writing guide shows the step-by-step process of writing book reviews, offering a contrast to the composition of book reports.

Active reading and thoughtful preparation before you begin your book report are necessary components of crafting a successful piece of writing. Here, you’ll find tips and resources to help you learn how to select the right book, decide which format is best for your report, and outline your main points.

Selecting and Finding a Book

"30 Best Books for Elementary Readers" (Education.com)

This article from Education.com lists 30 engaging books for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It was written by Esme Raji Codell, a teacher, author, and children's literature specialist.

"How to Choose a Good Book for a Report (Middle School)" (WikiHow)

This WikiHow article offers suggestions for middle schoolers on how to choose the right book for a report, from getting started early on the search process to making sure you understand the assignment's requirements.

"Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers" (Common Sense Media)

Common Sense Media has compiled this list of 25 of the best books for middle school book reports. For younger students, the article suggests you check out the site's "50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12."

"50 Books to Read in High School" (Lexington Public Library)

The Lexington, Kentucky Public Library has prepared this list to inspire high school students to choose the right book. It includes both classics and more modern favorites.

The Online Computer Library Center's catalogue helps you locate books in libraries near you, having itemized the collections of 72,000 libraries in 170 countries.

Formats of Book Reports

"Format for Writing a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

Here, Your Dictionary supplies guidelines for the basic book report format. It describes what you'll want to include in the heading, and what information to include in the introductory paragraph. Be sure to check these guidelines against your teacher's requirements.

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

Nancy Barile’s blog post for Scholastic lists the questions students from middle through high school should address in their book reports.

How to Write an Outline

"Writer’s Web: Creating Outlines" (Univ. of Richmond)

The University of Richmond’s Writing Center shows how you can make use of micro and macro outlines to organize your argument.

"Why and How to Create a Useful Outline" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab demonstrates how outlines can help you organize your report, then teaches you how to create outlines.

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

EasyBib, a website that generates bibliographies, offers sample outlines and tips for creating your own. The article encourages you to think about transitions and grouping your notes.

"How to Write an Outline: 4 Ways to Organize Your Thoughts" (Grammarly)

This blog post from a professional writer explains the advantages of using an outline, and presents different ways to gather your thoughts before writing.

In this section, you’ll find resources that offer an overview of how to write a book report, including first steps in preparing the introduction. A good book report's introduction hooks the reader with strong opening sentences and provides a preview of where the report is going.

"Step-by-Step Outline for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This article from Classroom furnishes students with a guide to the stages of writing a book report, from writing the rough draft to revising.

"Your Roadmap to a Better Book Report" ( Time4Writing )

Time4Writing offers tips for outlining your book report, and describes all of the information that the introduction, body, and conclusion should include.

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

This ThoughtCo. post, another by academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, demonstrates how to write a pithy introduction to your book report.

"How to Write an Introduction for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief but helpful post from Classroom  details what makes a good book report introduction, down to the level of individual sentences.

The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

Plot Summary and Description

"How Do You Write a Plot Summary?" ( Reference )

This short article presents the goals of writing a plot summary, and suggests a word limit. It emphasizes that you should stick to the main points and avoid including too many specific details, such as what a particular character wears.

"How to Write a Plot for a Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

In this article from a resource website for writers, Patricia Harrelson outlines what information to include in a plot summary for a book report. 

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

Using Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone as an example, this WikiHow article demonstrates how to write a plot summary one step at a time.

Analyzing Characters and Themes

"How to Write a Character Analysis Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kristine Tucker shows how to write a book report focusing on character. You can take her suggestions as they are, or consider  incorporating them into the more traditional book report format.

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

The SixMinuteScholar Channel utilizes analysis of the film  Finding Nemo to show you how to delve deeply into character, prioritizing inference over judgment.

"How to Define Theme" ( The Editor's Blog )

Fiction editor Beth Hill contributes an extended definition of theme. She also provides examples of common themes, such as "life is fragile."

"How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story" ( ThoughtCo )

This blog post from ThoughtCo. clarifies the definition of theme in relation to symbolism, plot, and moral. It also offers examples of themes in literature, such as love, death, and good vs. evil.

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

"How to Choose and Use Quotations" (Santa Barbara City College)

This guide from a college writing center will help you choose which quotations to use in your book report, and how to blend quotations with your own words.

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

This PDF from Ashford University's Writing Center introduces the ICE method for incorporating quotations: introduce, cite, explain.

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

This video from The Write Way YouTube channel illustrates how to integrate quotations into writing, and also explains how to cite those quotations.

"Using Literary Quotations" (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison)

This guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writing Center helps you emphasize your analysis of a quotation, and explains how to incorporate quotations into your text.

Conclusions to any type of paper are notoriously tricky to write. Here, you’ll learn some creative ways to tie up loose ends in your report and express your own opinion of the book you read. This open space for sharing opinions that are not grounded in critical research is an element that often distinguishes book reports from other types of writing.

"How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief article from the education resource  Classroom illustrates the essential points you should make in a book report conclusion.

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Writing Center lays out strategies for writing effective conclusions. Though the article is geared toward analytical essay conclusions, the tips offered here will also help you write a strong book report.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Pat Bellanca’s article for Harvard University’s Writing Center presents ways to conclude essays, along with tips. Again, these are suggestions for concluding analytical essays that can also be used to tie up a book report's loose ends.

Reading closely and in an engaged manner is the strong foundation upon which all good book reports are built. The resources below will give you a picture of what active reading looks like, and offer strategies to assess and improve your reading comprehension. Further, you’ll learn how to take notes—or “annotate” your text—making it easier to find important information as you write.

How to Be an Active Reader

"Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read" (Princeton Univ.)

Princeton University’s McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning recommends ten strategies for active reading, and includes sample diagrams.

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

The Open University offers these techniques for reading actively alongside video examples. The author emphasizes that you should read for comprehension—not simply to finish the book as quickly as possible.

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

In this post, Grace Fleming outlines seven methods for active reading. Her suggestions include identifying unfamiliar words and finding the main idea. 

"5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments" (YouTube)

Thomas Frank’s seven-minute video demonstrates how you can retain the most important information from long and dense reading material.

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

Take this online, interactive test from a publishing company to find out your reading level. You'll be asked a number of questions related to grammar and vocabulary.

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

ACCUPLACER is a placement test from The College Board. This 20-question practice test will help you see what information you retain after reading short passages.

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

The English Maven site has aggregated exercises and tests at various reading levels so you can quiz your reading comprehension skills.

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

ThoughtCo. recommends five tips to increase your reading comprehension ability, including reading with tools such as highlighters, and developing new vocabulary.

"How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar provides ideas for improving your reading comprehension, from expanding your vocabulary to discussing texts with friends.

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video equips you with tools to read more effectively. It will help you determine how much material you need to read, and what strategies you can use to absorb what you read.

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

From a pre-reading survey through post-reading review, Education Corner  walks you through steps to improve reading comprehension.

Methods of In-text Annotation

"The Writing Process: Annotating a Text" (Hunter College)

This article from Hunter College’s Rockowitz Writing Center outlines how to take notes on a text and provides samples of annotation.

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

This video from the SchoolHabits YouTube channel presents eleven annotation techniques you can use for better reading comprehension.

"5 Ways To Annotate Your Books" ( Book Riot )

This article from the Book Riot  blog highlights five efficient annotation methods that will save you time and protect your books from becoming cluttered with unnecessary markings.

"How Do You Annotate Your Books?" ( Epic Reads )

This post from Epic Reads highlights how different annotation methods work for different people, and showcases classic methods from sticky notes to keeping a reading notebook.

Students at every grade level can benefit from writing book reports, which sharpen critical reading skills. Here, we've aggregated sources to help you plan book report assignments and develop rubrics for written and oral book reports. You’ll also find alternative book report assessment ideas that move beyond the traditional formats.

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

These reading templates courtesy of Unique Teaching Resources make great visual aids for elementary school students writing their first book reports.

"Elementary Level Book Report Template" ( Teach Beside Me )

This   printable book report template from a teacher-turned-homeschooler is simple, classic, and effective. It asks basic questions, such as "who are the main characters?" and "how did you feel about the main characters?"

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

ABC Teach ’s resource directory includes printables for book reports on various subjects at different grade levels, such as a middle school biography book report form and a "retelling a story" elementary book report template.

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

This page from Busy Teachers’ Cafe contains book report templates alongside reading comprehension and other language arts worksheets.

Teaching Middle School and High School Students How to Write Book Reports

"How to Write a Book Report: Middle and High School Level" ( Fact Monster)

Fact Monster ’s Homework Center discusses each section of a book report, and explains how to evaluate and analyze books based on genre for students in middle and high school.

"Middle School Outline Template for Book Report" (Trinity Catholic School)

This PDF outline template breaks the book report down into manageable sections for seventh and eighth graders by asking for specific information in each paragraph.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( Classroom )

In this article for Classroom,  Elizabeth Thomas describes what content high schoolers should focus on when writing their book reports.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kori Morgan outlines techniques for adapting the book report assignment to the high school level in this post for The Pen & The Pad .

"High School Book Lists and Report Guidelines" (Highland Hall Waldorf School)

These sample report formats, grading paradigms, and tips are collected by Highland Hall Waldorf School. Attached are book lists by high school grade level.

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

This free resource from Teachers Pay Teachers allows you to edit your book report rubric to the specifications of your assignment and the grade level you teach.

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

This PDF rubric from a city school district includes directions to take the assignment long-term, with follow-up exercises through school quarters.

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

Perfect for oral book reports, this PDF rubric from North Carolina State University's Midlink Magazine  will help you evaluate your students’ spoken presentations.

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

This article from the Scholastic website lists creative alternatives to the standard book report for pre-kindergarteners through high schoolers.

"Fresh Ideas for Creative Book Reports" ( Education World )

Education World offers nearly 50 alternative book report ideas in this article, from a book report sandwich to a character trait diagram.

"A Dozen Ways to Make Amazingly Creative Book Reports" ( We Are Teachers )

This post from We Are Teachers puts the spotlight on integrating visual arts into literary study through multimedia book report ideas.

"More Ideas Than You’ll Ever Use for Book Reports" (Teachnet.com)

This list from Teachnet.com includes over 300 ideas for book report assignments, from "interviewing" a character to preparing a travel brochure to the location in which the book is set.

"Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report" (National Council of Teachers of English)

In this PDF resource from the NCTE's  English Journal,  Diana Mitchell offers assignment ideas ranging from character astrology signs to a character alphabet.

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

Featured Middle School Resources

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How to Write a Great Book Report

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• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

One assignment has lasted the test of time, uniting generations of students in a common learning exercise: book reports. While many students dread these assignments, book reports can help students learn how to interpret texts and gain a broader understanding of the world around them.  Well-written books can open your eyes to new experiences, people, places, and life situations that you may have never thought about before. In turn, a book report is a tool that allows you, the reader, to demonstrate that you have understood all the nuances of the text you just read.

What's a Book Report?

In the broadest terms, a book report describes and summarizes a work of fiction or nonfiction . It sometimes — but not always — includes a personal evaluation of the text. In general, regardless of grade level, a book report will include an introductory paragraph that shares the title of the book and its author. Students will often develop their own opinions about the underlying meaning of the texts through developing thesis statements , typically presented in the opening of a book report, and then using examples from the text and interpretations to support those statements.  

Before You Start Writing

A good book report will address a specific question or point of view and back up this topic with specific examples, in the form of symbols and themes. These steps will help you identify and incorporate those important elements. It shouldn't be too hard to do, provided you're prepared, and you can expect to spend, on average, 3-4 days working on the assignment. Check out these tips to ensure you're successful:

• Have an objective in mind.  This is the main point you want to present or the question you plan to answer in your report.  
• Keep supplies on hand when you read.  This is  very  important. Keep sticky-note flags, pen, and paper nearby as you read. If you're reading an eBook , make sure you know how to use the annotation function of your app/program.  
• Read the book.  It seems obvious, but too many students try to take a shortcut and simply read summaries or watch movies, but you often miss important details that can make or break your book report.
• Pay attention to detail.  Keep an eye out for clues that the author has provided in the form of symbolism . These will indicate some important point that supports the overall theme. For instance, a spot of blood on the floor, a quick glance, a nervous habit, an impulsive action, a repetitive action... These are worth noting.
• Use your sticky flags to mark pages.  When you run into clues or interesting passages, mark the page by placing the sticky note at the beginning of the relevant line.  
• Look for themes.  As you read, you should begin to see an emerging theme. On a notepad, write down some notes on how you came to determine the theme.
• Develop a rough outline.  By the time you finish  reading the book , you will have recorded several possible themes or approaches to your objective. Review your notes and find points that you can back up with good examples (symbols). 

Your Book Report Introduction

The start of your book report provides an opportunity to make a solid introduction to the material and your own personal assessment of the work. You should try to write a strong introductory paragraph that grabs your reader's attention. Somewhere in your first paragraph , you should also state the book's title and the author's name.

High school-level papers should include publication information as well as brief statements about the book's angle, the genre, the theme , and a hint about the writer's feelings in the introduction.

First Paragraph Example: Middle School Level

" The Red Badge of Courage ", by Stephen Crane, is a book about a young man growing up during the Civil War. Henry Fleming is the main character of the book. As Henry watches and experiences the tragic events of the war, he grows up and changes his attitudes about life.

First Paragraph Example: High School Level

Can you identify one experience that changed your entire view of the world around you? Henry Fleming, the main character in "The Red Badge of Courage", begins his life-changing adventure as a naive young man, eager to experience the glory of war. He soon faces the truth about life, war, and his own self-identity on the battlefield, however. "The Red Badge of Courage", by Stephen Crane, is a coming of age novel published by D. Appleton and Company in 1895, about thirty years after the Civil War ended. In this book, the author reveals the ugliness of war and examines its relationship to the pain of growing up.

The Body of the Book Report

Before you get started on the body of the report, take a few minutes to jot down some helpful information by considering the following points.

• Did you enjoy the book?
• Was it well written?
• What was the genre?
• (fiction) Which characters play important roles that relate to the overall theme?
• Did you notice reoccurring symbols?
• Is this book a part of a series?
• (nonfiction) Can you identify the writer's thesis?
• What is the writing style?
• Did you notice a tone?
• Was there an obvious slant or bias?

In the body of your book report, you will use your notes to guide you through an extended summary of the book. You will weave your own thoughts and impressions into the plot summary . As you review the text, you'll want to focus on key moments in the storyline and relate them to the perceived theme of the book, and how the characters and setting all bring the details together. You'll want to be sure that you discuss the plot, any examples of conflict that you encounter, and how the story resolves itself. It can be helpful to use strong quotes from the book to enhance your writing. 

The Conclusion

As you lead to your final paragraph, consider some additional impressions and opinions:

• Was the ending satisfactory (for fiction)?
• Was the thesis supported by strong evidence (for nonfiction)?
• What interesting or notable facts do you know about the author?
• Would you recommend this book?

Conclude your report with a paragraph or two that covers these additional points. Some teachers prefer that you re-state the name and author of the book in the concluding paragraph. As always, consult your specific assignment guide or ask your teacher if you have questions about what is expected of you. 

• 10 Steps to Writing a Successful Book Report
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• How to Start a Book Report
• What Does Critical Reading Really Mean?
• Book Report: Definition, Guidelines, and Advice
• How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story
• How to Compare Two Novels in Comparative Essay
• How to Design a Book Cover
• Symbols and Motifs in Literature
• How to Outline a Textbook Chapter
• How to Write and Format an MBA Essay
• How to Write a Response Paper
• How to Write a Critical Essay
• Top Conservative Novels
• How to Study for an Open Book Test
• 50 General Book Club Questions for Study and Discussion

How To Write A Book Report (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re a student who needs to write a book report, you may be wondering where to start. 

Writing a book report may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward and rewarding experience. 

As someone who has mastered the art of writing a book report, I’m here to provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you write a precise book report. 

In this article, I will cover everything from what a book report is to the steps you need to follow to write a successful report. 

So, let’s get started!

What is a Book Report?

A book report summarizes and analyzes a book’s content, providing an overview of the plot, characters, themes, and your evaluation. 

Additionally, a book report often explores the main characters, their motivations, and their roles in the story. It delves into the book’s themes, messages, and the author’s writing style, discussing how these elements contribute to the book’s overall impact. 

A book report may also contain the writer’s evaluation and opinion, reflecting their thoughts on the book’s strengths, weaknesses, and relevance. 

It is an excellent way to showcase your understanding of the book and demonstrate your critical thinking skills. Book reports are commonly assigned in schools and serve as a valuable exercise in literary analysis.

What are the various forms of a Book Report?

There are several different forms of book reports, and the type you choose will depend on the guidelines provided by your instructor. Some common forms of book reports include:

• Plot Summary Book Report:

This type of book report focuses primarily on summarizing the book’s plot. It should provide a concise story overview, including the main events, conflicts, and resolution. You can also include your thoughts and opinions on the plot and whether it effectively conveyed the intended message.

• Character Analysis Book Report

In this form of book report, the emphasis is on analyzing the characters in the book. You should delve into the main characters’ personalities, motivations, and development and their impact on the story. 

Additionally, you can include examples from the book to support your analysis and provide insight into the character’s actions and decisions.

• Theme-Based Book Report

Theme-based book report explores the themes and messages conveyed in the book. It requires a deeper analysis of the underlying ideas and concepts explored by the author. 

To write this type of report, you should identify the major themes in the book and discuss how they are developed throughout the story. You can also include your thoughts and opinions on the themes and what they mean to you.

• Comparative Book Report

A comparative book report compares and contrasts two or more books with similar themes or subject matter. It requires a careful analysis of how the books relate to each other and what sets them apart. 

In this type of report, you should focus on the similarities and differences between the books and how they address the themes or subject matter. You can also include your thoughts and opinions on which book effectively conveyed the intended message.

How to Write a Book Report: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have an overall idea about the different forms of a book report, let’s explore how to write a book report precisely.

1. Choose the Book

The first step is to select a book on which you want to write a report. It’s important to choose a book that is appropriate for the assignment’s requirements and aligns with your interests or the subject matter.

2. Read the Book Thoroughly

Before you start writing, read the book attentively. Take notes on important plot points, characters, themes, and any significant details that stand out to you. It’s essential to thoroughly understand the book’s content before attempting to analyze and interpret it.

3. Introduction

Begin your book report with an engaging introduction. Include the book’s title, author, genre, and a brief overview of what the book is about. This is your chance to hook the reader’s interest and set the tone for your report. 

You can also provide some background information on the author or the book’s historical context if it’s relevant.

4. Summary of the Plot

Provide a concise summary of the book’s plot, covering the main events and the central conflict. Be careful not to give away major spoilers; the purpose is to give an overview without revealing too much. 

You can also highlight any important subplots or secondary characters that contribute to the story.

5. Character Analysis

Now you can discuss the main characters in the book, their personalities, motivations, and how they contribute to the story’s development. Use specific examples and quotes from the text to support your analysis. 

You can also compare and contrast different characters or explore their relationships with one another.

6. Setting and Context

Explain the setting and context of the story. Describe the time and place in which the events occur, and discuss how these elements influence the plot and characters. 

You can also analyze the significance of the setting and how it relates to the themes of the book.

7. Themes and Messages

Explore the central themes and messages conveyed by the author. Discuss the author’s intentions and how these themes are developed throughout the book. Analyze their significance in the overall narrative and how they relate to the characters and the setting.

8. Writing Style and Techniques

Evaluate the author’s writing style and the literary techniques used in the book. Consider elements such as symbolism, foreshadowing, and imagery. 

Discuss how these techniques enhance the story’s impact and contribute to the book’s overall meaning.

9. Comparisons (Optional)

You can compare the book with other works by the same author or books of a similar genre if applicable. Analyze similarities and differences, and offer insights into the author’s recurring themes or writing style. 

This can help you provide a broader context for the book and deepen your analysis.

10. Personal Opinion

Sharing a personal opinion of the book will be ideal. You can talk about what it is that you liked or disliked about the book and point out your reasons. 

Support your opinions with text evidence, such as specific scenes or character developments. Your opinion is an essential part of the book report, demonstrating your engagement with the material and your critical thinking skills.

11. Conclusion

Summarize the key points of your book report and restate your overall impression of the book. Provide a thoughtful closing statement that leaves the reader with a lasting impression. 

You can also offer some final thoughts on the book’s significance or its relevance to contemporary issues.

12. Proofreading and Editing

After writing the report, carefully proofread and edit your work to correct any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Make sure that the report flow is logical and coherent. You can always use Grammarly to check for the proof-reading purpose.

Unsure if Grammarly Premium suits your needs? Then you are at luck, Grammarly provides its users with a 7-day free trial .

13. Citation (if necessary)

If required, include a bibliography or works cited page to give credit to the sources you used while writing the report. This is important to avoid plagiarism and to demonstrate your research skills. Here I have mentioned the best plagiarism checker in the market.

14. Finalize and Submit

Once thoroughly reviewing and editing your book report, finalize it and submit it according to your instructor’s guidelines. Congratulations, you have successfully written a comprehensive and insightful book report!

Related Read:

• Books on Writing: Handpicked List For Aspiring Writers
• Mechanics of Writing: For Fine Writing

Conclusion: How To Write A Book Report

Writing an effective book report requires closely reading the book, developing a thesis, organizing your thoughts, and drafting an analysis of the key elements of the text. 

Be sure to include relevant details from the work to support your central ideas. 

Carefully proofread your report and make any necessary revisions to create a polished final product. With proper planning and an organized approach, any student can master the art of writing engaging and insightful book reports. 

I hope this step-by-step guide provided tips to help you successfully draft your next book review assignment.

The format of a book report typically includes an introduction, a summary of the plot, a character analysis, themes and messages, an evaluation/opinion, and a conclusion.

The length of a book report can vary depending on the assignment’s requirements, but typically it ranges from 500 to 2000 words.

Including quotes from the book can enhance your report, especially when providing evidence to support your analysis and opinions.

While it’s possible to write a book report without reading the entire book, it is strongly recommended to read the complete book to provide a comprehensive and accurate analysis.

Yes, using first-person pronouns is acceptable in a book report as it allows you to express your personal opinions and thoughts about the book.

About The Author

Olivia Fullmer

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How To Write a Book Report: 8 Helpful Steps

Are you curious about how to write a book report? Then, look at some of the most important steps below, and learn how to write a particular book report.

You may not have written a book report or review since your last high school English class, but it is a great way to summarize everything that happens in a book for someone else. There are numerous reasons why you may need to write book reports. Perhaps you are taking a college-level English class or running a website where book reports are published regularly. Regardless, a strong book report should have a few critical pieces of information.

First, there should be a strong summary of the main book, highlighting some main points and events. It should also have a strong thesis statement, mention the main characters, and have body paragraphs that summarize the book from start to finish.

Materials You Need

Step 1: review the requirements, step 2: read the book, step 3: outline the main events , step 4: fill in the details , step 5: cover major plot points , step 6: add quotes , step 7: highlight themes , step 8: proofread and cite your work.

Before you start to write book reports, you need to make sure you have the necessary materials. They include:

• Pencils and pens
• Plenty paper
• Your chosen book
• You may want access to a computer with an internet connection.

Then, once you have the necessary materials, you can start the writing process.

Before writing the book report, you should look at the assignment’s details. Not every book report will be a simple summary of the book. Some of the essential points you need to look for in your book report assignment include:

• How much of the summary of the book report should be devoted to summarizing the plot points versus an analysis of the major themes?
• What type of topics are you asked to write about? For example, are you supposed to present your point of view of the story? Or are you trying to be objective?
• You should also take a look at the research component of the assignment. For example, do you need to include MLA citations? Or are you expected to do the whole thing using just the book?

Don’t forget to look at the nuts and bolts of the assignment. Think about what size font you should use, how long the paper is supposed to be, and whether it should be single or double-spaced. Of course, don’t forget to note the due date as well. 

Of course, the most crucial step is for you to read the entire book from cover to cover. Before you can even think about what to include in the book report, you need to read the book. Try to find a quiet place in which you can concentrate. As you read, think about the book report itself. You need to take note of essential plot points, note the main characters, and figure out their relationships with each other. You may want to take a break from time to time.

For example, you may want to read for 15 minutes, take a break, write down a few important events, and then return to the book. It would help if you devoted your entire attention to the book. Skimming the book will not be enough. Of note, you should not trust online book summaries if you have a book report to write. There is no guarantee that the summary will be accurate, and it may not be an accurate reflection of what is included in the text.

Furthermore, most teachers can tell the difference between someone who has read the book and someone who has read an online summary. So read the book before you start writing the book report. 

Once you have finished reading the book, it is time to outline the significant events. Remember that you can add more information about the major events later. It is simply essential to get them on the page. That way, you know you won’t miss anything. As you take note of the significant events, remember to note the characters involved in them. If you have an excellent example of something that fits with the structure of your book report assignment, you may want to highlight it using a highlighter.

For example, in reading  The Five People You Meet in Heaven , you may want to note the main characters, who they are, and their roles. The outline may appear as follows:

• Joseph Corvelzchik: 
• Ruby: 
• Eddie: 
• Eddie’s Father: 
• Marguerite:

Then, next to each character, you will indicate why they are essential, their role in the story, and their relationships with each other and the narrator. 

Once all the information is on the page, it is time to fill in the details. Now, your outline should turn into a paragraph-by-paragraph listing explaining how the paper will be organized. You should expect your outline to change a bit as you proceed. Once you realize how many details you need to cover, you will figure out how much information you want to include in your plot summary. Depending on the covered information, you may need to rearrange some of your paragraphs. Writing itself often leads to some significant realizations.

Here is an example of how your book report might change. For example, if you are covering the book titled, The Killer Angels , which focuses on the Battle of Gettysburg, you may have an outline that appears as below:

• July 1, 1863: The main events that happened on July 1.
• July 2, 1863: The main events that happened on July 2.
• July 3, 1863: The main events that happened on July 3.

Then, as you get going, you made me realize it makes more sense to outline or structure your book report based on the characters’ actions. Therefore, you may change your book report to match the following:

• Robert E. Lee: The battle from his point of view.
• James Longstreet: The battle from his point of view.
• Joshua Chamberlain: The battle from his point of view.

This is precisely why you need to outline your book before you start to write it. It is much easier for you to change an outline than it is for you to change the entire book report. If you feel you need to change the structure of your book report, now is the time to do so.

Once you have filled in the details underneath each paragraph in your book report, you need to ensure you have not missed anything important. Of course, the book report is not meant to cover every single detail of the book, but it is expected to be a practical summary. So is there anything significant in the book that you may have left out?

For example, if you are writing a book report on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , you need to make sure that you cover some of the most significant events. A few examples include:

• Jim runs away because he thinks he is going to be sold.
• Huck lies to people because he is trying to hide the fact Jim is a runaway.
• The King turns in Jim as a runaway.

While there are other significant events in the book, these are a few examples of things you need to include in your book report. If your book report omits any of them, you may want to go back and look closely at how you may need to change the report itself. 

You may want to include quotes from the text to strengthen your book report. Quotes are a great way to demonstrate that you have not only read the book but also have an intimate understanding of what the book is about. For example, if you have been asked to write a book report on Outliers , there are a few quotes that you may want to include. A few examples are as follows:

• “Researchers have settled on what they believe is the magic number for true expertise: ten thousand hours.”
• “Success is not a random act. Instead, it arises from a predictable and powerful set of circumstances and opportunities.”
• “We overlook just how large a role we all play–and by ‘we’ I mean society–in determining who makes it and who doesn’t.”

These quotes are very different, so that you can work them into your book report in different places. So make sure to have a few quotes you can include in your book report. 

Now that the plot has been effectively summarized, you should highlight any of the major themes that appeared in the book if the assignment asks you to do so. Themes can come from a variety of areas. For example, you may want to talk about how the book’s setting influences the overall theme itself. Or, you may want to talk about how the attitudes or perspectives of the characters evolve as the book unfolds.

You can also discuss how the book’s historical context influences the plot points. For example, if you are reading the book Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , you might want to talk about how racial prejudice is a significant theme throughout the book. It is evident that the historical context of this book plays a role in how racism is presented, and you may want to talk about how the main characters are a microcosm for more significant swaths of society throughout the story. Then, you may want to try to pull out some of the more minor themes. This could be an excellent way to complete the book report’s analytical section. 

Finally, it is time to review your book report to ensure all the essential information is included. For example, you should probably mention the title of the book, the type of book you are summarizing, the author’s name, and the date it was published. In addition, you may want to mention if it is a fiction or a non-fiction book. Finally, do not forget that proofreading is also integral to your book report. Ensure the introductory paragraph includes a thesis statement, review if headings are necessary, and ensure you haven’t made any grammar or spelling mistakes. This is a critical part of essay writing and middle school, high school, and college.

Then, take a look at the template of the assignment. See if you are supposed to include MLA or APA citations. If you have been asked to include citations, double-check to ensure they have been appropriately listed. Your book report format can vary from grade to grade level, so ensure you follow the structure accordingly. If your book report checks all the boxes above, then you should have a great book report in front of you. Review it one more time to ensure it flows well from paragraph to paragraph, and then you should be ready to turn it in. 

Looking for more? Check out our article including the top ten authors with their book recommendations !

Meet Rachael, the editor at Become a Writer Today. With years of experience in the field, she is passionate about language and dedicated to producing high-quality content that engages and informs readers. When she's not editing or writing, you can find her exploring the great outdoors, finding inspiration for her next project.

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How to Write a Successful Book Chapter for an Academic Publication?

If you are an academic or a researcher working towards a PhD degree or engaged in various tasks in a university or academic institution the idea of writing a book chapter would have definitely crossed your mind. Receiving an invitation to write an academic book chapter is indeed a great honor, and going onto write it is a milestone that every writer aims to achieve in their career. Writing a successful academic book chapter requires careful planning and execution by the author. In this article we will look at how to write an academic book chapter along with a few key steps that must be followed during the writing process.  

Table of Contents

• What is an academic book chapter? 

Information collection

Finalizing chapter structure, attractive chapter title, a strong introduction, detailing out the chapter, summarizing the chapter, what is an academic book chapter.

An academic book chapter is a distinct section of a book having its own title or a chapter number. A book consists of several chapters, each of which focuses on a particular topic or sub-argument that is linked to the overall theme of the book. In other words, each chapter should have a sound argument that is consistent with the central theme or argument of the book. Each chapter should therefore be an inter-connected part to the rest of the chapters and to the overall book. 

It is important to understand that an academic book chapter is very different from a thesis chapter. While a book chapter has as its audience anyone who may be interested in the particular topic, the audience for a thesis chapter is primarily the thesis examiner. For the same reason, a thesis examiner will closely read the entire chapter and thesis, but this may not be the case for a book chapter. As mentioned earlier, a book chapter deals with a specific topic with an important idea or argument related to the central theme of the book and hence it is a separate division of a book. On the other hand, a thesis chapter does not stand separately but will have multiple arguments and relies on the other chapters to make it a complete whole. The length of each academic book chapter normally varies and there is no standard rule as to the length of chapters. However, on a general note, chapter length usually varies from 3500 to 5000 words.  

Key steps to follow when writing an academic book chapter

Integrating the following steps as you plan to write an academic book chapter can help you achieve excellent results.  

It is important that sufficient research is carried out and the author has a thorough understanding of the available literature in the field. Collecting relevant information and being up to date with all aspects on the topic that you are going to write about is one of first steps in writing an academic book chapter. Presenting information in a visually attractive manner and using various tools like mind maps can help in structuring the key arguments better.  

An academic book chapter also requires a good outline. For example, you must have a title, a well worded introduction, informative paras that make up the main body, a chapter summary and a neat transition to the succeeding chapter. Try to make the outline clear and concise, organize your ideas effectively and ensure there is a logical flow.  

This is a critical element and goes a long way in getting people to read your chapter or even pick up the book. Strive to make the title or heading of your chapter interesting and impactful, potential readers should be attracted to the title by itself, going on to pick up the book just by the vigor of the title itself.  

Having a well written introduction can be invaluable in ensuring that audiences will be compelled to read further. Engaging your reader with an anecdote or a dialogue or through a fictional account or plot can be useful devices to anchor the introduction on.  

Ideally as you elaborate on your chapter with the key points as you begin, it is a good idea to provide evidence for your statements and arguments. Try to highlight these in about 4 to 5 paragraphs linking it to the chapter details. 

A concise summary is a must as you come to the end of your chapter. Remember, here you are reflecting on the main content of the chapter and helping the reader to take away some key aspects of the arguments that you have presented in the chapter.  

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How to Prepare for an Oral Report

Last Updated: April 8, 2021

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Spending long hours working on an oral report can be tedious. You have to research for accuracy, plan the layout, memorize what you are going to say. Knowing that you're going about the preparation in a fruitful way can help make the exercise seem more worthwhile.

What Do You Know About Your Topic?

Putting the Presentation Together

• Make your writing interesting. Be sure to use better words than the standard and obvious "nice" or "big." Rather opt for words such as "gigantic" or "fantastic."

• Make bullet points. These are easier to memorize and read from quickly.

• Don't try to say your oral word for word; this will make you nervous and queasy if you try to remember everything word for word. It can also look a bit over-the-top unless you are engaging in your delivery; avoid simply reciting something learned off-by-heart.
• Tell the story; it doesn't have to be said exactly the way you wrote it––you just need to tell the story. That said, your oral presentation should reflect some of the things you wrote in the report.

Community Q&A

• Ask your crowd if they have any questions, and always be prepared to answer them. If you don't know something, say so and ask the audience if anyone does have the answer or an idea about it. Don't be afraid to draw in the crowd rather than avoid it. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 0
• Make your visual aid colorful and eye- catching. However, do not let the color take away from the power of your presentation, as it is made to aid your project, not dominate it. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 3
• Enthusiasm is good; false excitement is cheesy. Look for the right balance. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 3
• Keep the speech short and to the point. Long drawn out reports are considered boring and risk losing you marks or positive reactions. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 1
• When you take notes, be absolutely sure that you aren't plagiarizing, copying word for word as written. Reference everything that you have taken from another source, including someone else's line of reasoning. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 1

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