How to write a book review/report: a lesson for elementary students

(A note to the teacher: The goal of this exercise is similar to every other writing assignment; only we are basically asking them to take the creative writing process in reverse to break down a book in order to a good enough understanding to write a review. This assignment also reinforces reading comprehension, a necessary skill for all elementary subjects.)

Have you ever read a really good book and wanted to tell someone all about it? Or what if the book wasn’t very good and you want to explain why you thought so? Today we are going to learn how to write a book review to tell someone about a story we read and discuss our opinion about it!

Let’s review from last week. What is an OPINION? An opinion is how you express your feelings or unique point of view regarding a subject. On the other hand, a FACT is a statement of information. Opinions can be arguable, facts, in general, are not arguable.

Now let’s talk about a book you have read. You will need to have the book with you as you complete this review. In past projects, we have planned out how we were going to write a story by mapping it out as part of the brain storming process. This time, we will map out a story that has already been written. On a clean sheet of paper, draw five large circles with arrows pointing from one circle to another. It should look a little something like this:

Label each bubble: Title/Author, Characters, Setting, Plot, Resolution

Now go through your book and fill in the information in the bubbles for each heading by answering the following questions: What is the title? Who is the author? Who are the characters? Where does the story take place? What problems do the characters face (the plot)? How do they overcome their problem (resolution)?

Once you have completed your story map, you have a basic outline of the book you are reviewing and can refer back to it as needed. These are your FACTS.

Now it is time to write your review using both facts and opinions. One main reason for writing a review is to let your friends know whether you think they should or shouldn’t read the book for themselves, so be sure to include that in your review!

Here is an example review:

When Charlie McButton Lost Power, by Suzanne Collins, is about a boy who loves video games. But when a storm makes his power go out, he gets upset because he can’t play his video games. So, he decides to play with his little sister instead. I like this story because when all his video games are gone, Charlie remembers how much fun a little sister can be. It made me sad when Charlie yelled at his little sister for playing with her noisy toys. I think all my friends would like reading this story because of the fun adventures Charlie and his sister have while the electricity was out.

You have just completed a book review! Don’t forget to share your review with your friends!