There are so many ways and articles on how to write a book report. But, first one has to know what a book report is to know how to write one.
Well, a book report is an essay that analyzes a book’s content and is written by mostly students as part of a class assignment. Some people do confuse between a book report and a book review yet a book report and a book review are two different things. A review sticks to the subject of the book, but a report offers a more extensive outline. Although occasionally students may choose a work totally of their own choosing, teachers typically provide them with a list of books from which they may select one for the report. One author’s works may be included in the list, numerous works may be read aloud to the class, and each student may choose one of the works for their report, or the books may be chosen by the class as a whole.
A book report may not only be for class. The contents of a book report for a work of fiction typically include basic bibliographical information about the work, a summary of the narrative and setting, key elements of the stories of important characters, the author’s motivations for writing the book, the student’s assessment of the book, and a theme statement summarizing the main idea gleaned from reading the book.
How to write a book report
It is crucial that one understands the key components of a book report if you want to create one of the highest quality.
Writing a book report includes the following crucial components;
- A concise overview of the novel or text.
- Analyses of the theme and characters or topic.
- The time period and setting of the story, the deadline of the work or so on.
- The author and publication date of the book plus references.
- And other important information.
- Cite the specific passages that support the point being made in the story – show the indexes and references properly.
Students may be instructed to write sequences of action summaries, story “pyramids,” or story journals in order to make the process of creating the narrative and stories of the key characters easier.
In addition to book reports, students may also create artwork, “shoe box” dioramas, or report covers.
Pop-up cards, newsletters, character diaries, game boards, word searches, and story maps are just a few examples of how individual elements of the book report can be turned into unique artistic creations.
The report should be produced in stages, including prewriting, first draft writing, revision, first evaluation, editing and rewriting, publishing, and post-project evaluation; it is usually advised to students.
Steps of writing a good report
a) If at all feasible, have a goal in mind.
Your goal is the major argument you want to make or the query you want to address. This stage is made simple because occasionally your teacher will provide a question for you to respond to as part of your homework. If you have to create your own main point for your essay, you might have to postpone developing the goal until after you’ve read and thought about the book.
b) Have resources on hand while reading.
This has major significance. As you read, keep paper, a pen, and sticky note flags close hand. Try as you might, “mental notes” are useless.
c) Examine the text.
Look for the symbolism that the author has used to convey hints as you read. These will highlight a crucial idea that advances the issue at large. For instance, it would be wise to take note of any blood on the floor, fleeting glances, tense habits, or impulsive actions.
d) Mark pages with your sticky flags.
Place a sticky note at the start of the relevant line to mark the page whenever you come across any hints. Even if you don’t comprehend their relevance, make a note of everything that grabs your attention.
e) Take note of any emerging themes or trends.
You will start to recognize a point or a pattern as you read and note emotional flags or signals. List potential themes or problems on a piece of paper. You will note how symbols respond to a question if your task is to provide an answer.
f) Label the sticky notes.
For later easy reference, you should make note on the sticky flags if a symbol appears more than once. For instance, mark the appropriate flags for blood with a “b” if blood appears in many scenarios. You’ll want to find it easy to jump between the relevant pages because this can end up being the main theme of your book.
g) Create a basic outline.
After reading the book through to the end, you will have jotted down a number of potential themes or angles for your goal. Examine your notes to see which argument or assertion you can support with solid evidence. Before choosing the optimal strategy, you might need to experiment with a few sample outlines.
h) Create paragraph topics.
There should be a main sentence and a sentence that leads into the following paragraph in every paragraph. Try writing them first, then adding your examples to the paragraphs. In the opening paragraph or two of your book report, don’t forget to cover the essentials.
i) Examine, rearrange and repeat.
Your paragraphs will initially appear to be ugly ducklings. In the beginning, they will be ugly, clumsy, and unsightly. Rearrange and change any sentences that don’t quite fit as you go through them. Review and rewrite until the paragraphs are seamless.
j) Go back to your opening sentence.
Your paper’s introduction will provide readers a crucial first impression. It must be fantastic. Make sure the essay is well-written, engaging, and offers a compelling thesis statement.