Book Reviews
A-State Online Writing Center
What is a book review?
A book review is a critical evaluation of a text. Most importantly, a book review makes an
argument. It is important to note that your review must provide more information than merely a
summary of the book. You should focus on providing commentary regarding the text. Like the
literature review, you are entering into a discussion with the book’s author and other interested
audiences. You should state your opinion of the text and offer agreements or disagreements
regarding the text’s knowledge or judgments. Your book review will resemble other academic
writing types that you are used to, but your review may be briefer. It will often include an
introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Important book review features:
1. Summary
• Include a brief description of the text in addition to its argument or purpose for being
written. It is important not to merely summarize your entire book review.
2. Critical assessment
• Evaluate the theory, situation, or arguments that the writer is providing in the text.
What seems most important to you? Was the writer’s argument compelling, or did it
lack effectiveness? Did the text help you better understand the topic?
3. Recommendation
• Include a section on whether or not you would recommend this book to the intended
audience.
Developing your critical assessment:
Many students feel overwhelmed and underqualified when asked to write a book review over a
topic. Questions such as “How many times should I read it before reviewing it?” or “How can I
review this book if I am not an expert in this topic?” often come up regarding reviews. You can
rest assured knowing that no one is asking you to be an expert on this topic! As a reader, you can
voice your agreements and disagreements with the book after carefully evaluating the evidence.
Questions to consider when evaluating your book:
• What was your overall impression from the text (did you find engaging, persuasive,
moving?)
• What is the thesis of the book?
