With a regular ‘Book Corner’ spot in our school magazine, our two self-confessed bibliophiles, Rose and Yaminah share their top tips on how to write an ‘almost-perfectly perfect book review’:
- Always start with the plot: include the title, author and key events. If this book is part of a series, mention this too! Our review reader needs to know what they are in for. If you need help, use the 5 Ws. Make sure to add enough detail to your summary of the story to intrigue the readers. Don’t write too little to make your review bland however, it shouldn’t be too long that it gives away the whole story. It should be short, snappy and concise.
- Mention your likes and dislikes. Was there anything in particular that you loved and can still remember every time you pick up this book? Mention a favourite quote from the book or your favourite character. If there were any specific parts to the story which you did not personally like (let’s hope not though), mention that too. Is there anything you would want to change? Be sure to explain your opinions for both.
- Wrap up your book review on which type of reader would prefer this book the best: is it a YA fiction lover, mystery or gothic reader? What are the most suitable ages to read this book? Also try to compare it to other books or recommend a few to be read next. Are there any books/series which would have a similar plot or characters?
- Based on your likes and dislikes, rate your book (preferably on a scale of 0-5 with 5 being highest). If you need help, read through your likes and dislikes.
- What is the genre of the book? Is it historical fiction, romance, fantasy or magical realism? Do not worry if there is more than one genre- still write them down; this will allow the reader of our review what type of book they will be reading.
- What should I do next? After finishing these five steps, make sure to share your almost-perfectly perfect book review with your friends and teachers and do some book gossip with them too! Meanwhile, take a look at others’ opinions on books that they have read and see if they liked it or not. Also, make sure to share it to our book reviews page on the George Green’s website – we would love to hear your thoughts and opinions for your chosen book. Do this by sending an email to our school library LRC@georgegreens.com. If you need help on which book to read next, then take a look at our top 20 reads, a few of our students’ and staff book reviews and our Book of the Term.