Book Review Organization

We brainstormed a number of elements that are included in most published book reviews. I took our final list and narrowed it down to four essentials. Although these elements should be included, that doesn’t mean that each needs its own paragraph. Each review you publish should look a little different.

Hook: Grab the reader’s attention from the first sentence and draw them in. By the end of the first paragraph, the reader should be dying to get their hands on the book or eager to read your scathing review.

Summary: You said that most reviews introduce the main characters, conflict and some favorite moments in the plot, yet steered clear of any discussion of the resolution. I loved what Carolina said, “It should be 25% summary and 75% review.”

Craft, Style, Technique: What is unique about the author’s craft, style, technique? What’s the tone of the work?

Review: What was your opinion of the book? What did you like or dislike? What types of readers would you recommend this book to?

Book Review Rubric

	Exceeds (10 points)	Meets Standard (9 points)	Approaching (7-8 points)	Novice (5-6 points)
Summary	Summary creates anticipation and intrigue. The reader knows just enough to want to read the book. Nuanced understanding of the plot.	Introduces characters, conflict and some highlights, without giving away the resolution. Strong understanding of the plot.	Summary may introduce characters and conflict, yet is mostly retell. Some understanding of the plot.	Little summary is provided. Narrow understanding of the plot.
Review	Comments on several aspects of the author’s craft, style and/or technique. Review is detailed, touching on what makes this book unique. The writer is clever in how he/ she reveals opinions.	Comments on a few aspects of the author’s craft, style and/or technique. Opinion of the book is well developed and supported with evidence.	Comments on one aspect of the author’s craft, style and/or technique. Opinion of the book is common, with little original ideas.	Does not comment on aspects of the author’s craft, style or technique. Little opinion is expressed in the review.
Craft	Hook is clever and immediately grabs the reader’s attention. The writer has taken stylistic risks throughout the piece. The writer’s voice is unmistakable and thoroughly engaging.	The hook is effective, drawing the reader in. Writing shows intentional choices about organization, word choice, narrative techniques, etc. The writer’s voice is evident throughout the piece.	Includes a hook that peaks the reader’s interest. Writing shows some intentionality, yet at times the piece seems like a 1^st draft. Moments of the writer’s voice.	May attempt a hook, yet it fails to engage the reader. Piece shows little intentional choice, making it seem that it was thrown together. Little of the writer’s voice is evident.