How to Write a Book Review Part 1: Introduction

Now while developing my craft as a book reviewer I decided to take what I’ve learned and share with anyone else who have/will want to review books. Book reviews evaluate written works, offering brief description of the key points and will focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the work.  Before writing the review, begin taking notes about the points you want to get across.

For a more in depth and focused review, it is cool to re-read the book a second time just in case certain things were missed (but not a requirement).  Learning how to write strong reviews takes time and not a little effort.   Honestly, brutal honesty is the only way I give my reviews, and I highly recommend that others do the same.  It definitely makes reviews a lot more personal while keeping it interesting. Note: this is a guide and does state sections of books that probably should be considered when reviewing it.

When writing a book review, it's essential to begin by providing key information about the book. Start by stating the title and author, giving readers a clear reference. For example, if you're reviewing The Dark Tower by Stephen King, mention any series affiliation (in this case, it's part of King’s iconic The Dark Tower series). This sets the context for whether the reader needs prior knowledge or if it stands alone.

Next, identify the genre or sub-genre, whether it’s a thriller, dark fantasy, or historical fiction. This helps readers understand the book's thematic tone and style. Clarifying the type of book—whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, a novel or a poetry collection—further assists in setting expectations.

Follow this with a brief summary of the plot, highlighting the narrative perspective (first-person or third person). If the story is driven by first-person narration, you'll be privy to the inner thoughts and emotions of the protagonist. Conversely, in third-person narration, the narrator is detached, offering a broader view of the characters and events.

Finally, provide insight into the author's writing style and other notable works to establish a comparison or point of interest for fans or newcomers alike.

Thanks for checking out this post.  For any ideas or comments on how to write book reviews, leave them in the comment section below.