What do you like to read?

Parts of a book review

If you want to share the books you read with others, you can create a book review.

A book review gives us a “sneak peek” at a book. It can help us to decide whether or not the book will interest us.

Just like a story, a book review has different parts. Here’s what a book review should include:

Introduce the book

What is the title of the book? Who is the author? Who is the illustrator?

What is the book about?

Explain what the book is about. You can give a summary of the beginning and middle, but keep the ending a surprise for the reader.

For this part, stick to the main points of the story.

Characters

Who are the main characters? What are they like? (You do not have to list all of the characters in the story.)

Setting

Where does the story take place?

Do you recommend this book?

What do you really think of the book? Would you read it again? Who do you think would enjoy this book? What is the purpose of this book?

• I would recommend this book to anyone who likes…
• I would recommend this book to anyone is interested in learning about…

What was your favourite part and why?

Describe or draw your favourite part of the story. How did this part of the story make you feel?

Give it a star rating

Last but not least, give the book from one to five stars. One star is the lowest rating, and says “Skip this book!” Five stars is the highest rating, and says “Read this book!”

Draft your book review

Select a book or an audiobook and start to write a draft your book review.

Complete the Book Review Template in your notebook or use the following fillable and printable document. If you prefer, use another method to record your ideas.

Final draft

Create a final draft of your book review that you could share with a partner.

Bringing it all together

Use the following questions to reflect on the draft of your book review:

• What should a good book review include?
• How does creating a book review help you as a reader?

Use whatever method you would like to record your responses.

Student Success

Think-Pair-Share

If possible, share the draft of your book review with a partner. Tell your partner about the book that you selected to read and review. Then, share your recommendation and your favourite part of the story. Ask your partner if they have any suggestions for improving your draft.

Note to teachers: See your teacher guide for collaboration tools, ideas and suggestions.

Reflection

How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity? Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

I feel...

I have an excellent understanding of the concepts   I have a very good understanding of the concepts   I have some understanding but need to review some more  my understanding of the concepts needs a lot more work

Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.