Q&A for How to Write a Book Report

I would start with finding out if your teacher wants you to focus on any specific topic or theme. That way, you can highlight parts of the book that match up with this as you read.

I would start with speaking with your teacher once you've picked out your book and read it. Specifically, ask them what they would like you to accomplish with the book report so you have an idea of what they are looking for when they grade you. Try to come into the discussion with at least one major theme of the book picked out.

First, talk about the author. Then start talking about the book. After explaining its contents, give a final opinion about the book, including what you liked and what you didn't.

The format should be included in your assignment sheet. In general, however, most essays and reports should have an opening paragraph, about three body paragraphs, and a closing paragraph. The margins are typically 1 inch, and the spacing is almost always double. Some teachers will want 12pt font, while others will accept 10pt font.

You want to restate your thesis and summarize the bodies in different wording. End it with some kick.

This section is where you write the names of people you want to thank for their help with the report. For example, if you asked Mr. Smith, an expert on James Joyce, for specific ideas on a certain point you are making in your report, then you should mention Mr. Smith's name in the acknowledgement section. Another example is if someone else spell checked your work. This is not a replacement for the bibliography and should not be an official list of sources.

Use a thesaurus to increase your vocabulary. Just make sure if you don't know a word that you look it up in the dictionary before using it.

Start with an introductory sentence that leads the reader into your next paragraph. This introductory sentence should link the previous paragraph with the next one in some way to ensure a smooth transition between topics.

It all really depends on what your teacher wants. They may ask for a full citation of the book at the top of the page and then just parenthetical (page number) citations throughout. Or, they may require something a bit more complicated like Chicago Style.

Try rewording sentences to use fewer words, and form shorter paragraphs. Stick to the facts, and avoid any personal opinion that's not required by the assignment.

A one-paragraph book report would include the book's title, the author, and a brief description of the plot. You'd also want to say whether or not you liked the book, and why.

Touch on the main points of the book and the events that primarily drove the story. Don't worry about including small details like side characters, last names, etc. A summary is only meant to highlight the most important aspects of a story to give someone an idea of what happens in the story without actually having to read it. Think of a summary as the story stripped down to its most basic elements without any fluff/filler writing.

Write down any questions that you have about the book as you go along. Make a note of any terms that you don't understand and want to look up later. Mark off any examples or quotations that you'd like to use as support in your final paper. Try to identify the main arguments and put a star or mark by these as well.

You should finish your report with a concluding paragraph. This will include a restatement of the author's thesis along with any other major points that you've made. Many people like to add in a final line that states whether or not you liked the work or if you'd recommend it to someone else.

Review the rubric and see what you have to do. Try envisioning what you want it to look like before you start so you have an outline. First, start one chunk at a time. Divide chunks up into deadlines so you can stay on track. Aim to finish 3-4 days before the book report is due so you don't have to do it the night before!

The setting is the time, date, and location in which a story takes place.

It shouldn't take you longer than a day to write a book report anyway, especially if you've already read the book. Follow the steps in the article. Make sure to start with an outline, as this will make the actual writing a lot easier. Give yourself a 5 minute break every 45 minutes or so while you're working, but it shouldn't take longer than a few hours to write the whole thing.

Only if you sincerely believe the book deserves your recommendation.

Either way is acceptable, but your teacher may have a preference.

A book report is not like telling your friend about a TV show. It’s more about giving a detailed summary of the plot, and analysing sentences to find morals. Most teachers ask you to sum up the book by explaining the introduction, main climax and conclusion of the story - which, yes, will spoil the ending. If you are still unsure, I would suggest asking your teacher.