review essay form 4

Book Reviews

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you write a book review, a report or essay that offers a critical perspective on a text. It offers a process and suggests some strategies for writing book reviews.

What is a review?

A review is a critical evaluation of a text, event, object, or phenomenon. Reviews can consider books, articles, entire genres or fields of literature, architecture, art, fashion, restaurants, policies, exhibitions, performances, and many other forms. This handout will focus on book reviews. For a similar assignment, see our handout on literature reviews .

Above all, a review makes an argument. The most important element of a review is that it is a commentary, not merely a summary. It allows you to enter into dialogue and discussion with the work’s creator and with other audiences. You can offer agreement or disagreement and identify where you find the work exemplary or deficient in its knowledge, judgments, or organization. You should clearly state your opinion of the work in question, and that statement will probably resemble other types of academic writing, with a thesis statement, supporting body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Typically, reviews are brief. In newspapers and academic journals, they rarely exceed 1000 words, although you may encounter lengthier assignments and extended commentaries. In either case, reviews need to be succinct. While they vary in tone, subject, and style, they share some common features:

• First, a review gives the reader a concise summary of the content. This includes a relevant description of the topic as well as its overall perspective, argument, or purpose.
• Second, and more importantly, a review offers a critical assessment of the content. This involves your reactions to the work under review: what strikes you as noteworthy, whether or not it was effective or persuasive, and how it enhanced your understanding of the issues at hand.
• Finally, in addition to analyzing the work, a review often suggests whether or not the audience would appreciate it.

Becoming an expert reviewer: three short examples

Reviewing can be a daunting task. Someone has asked for your opinion about something that you may feel unqualified to evaluate. Who are you to criticize Toni Morrison’s new book if you’ve never written a novel yourself, much less won a Nobel Prize? The point is that someone—a professor, a journal editor, peers in a study group—wants to know what you think about a particular work. You may not be (or feel like) an expert, but you need to pretend to be one for your particular audience. Nobody expects you to be the intellectual equal of the work’s creator, but your careful observations can provide you with the raw material to make reasoned judgments. Tactfully voicing agreement and disagreement, praise and criticism, is a valuable, challenging skill, and like many forms of writing, reviews require you to provide concrete evidence for your assertions.

Consider the following brief book review written for a history course on medieval Europe by a student who is fascinated with beer:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600, investigates how women used to brew and sell the majority of ale drunk in England. Historically, ale and beer (not milk, wine, or water) were important elements of the English diet. Ale brewing was low-skill and low status labor that was complimentary to women’s domestic responsibilities. In the early fifteenth century, brewers began to make ale with hops, and they called this new drink “beer.” This technique allowed brewers to produce their beverages at a lower cost and to sell it more easily, although women generally stopped brewing once the business became more profitable.

The student describes the subject of the book and provides an accurate summary of its contents. But the reader does not learn some key information expected from a review: the author’s argument, the student’s appraisal of the book and its argument, and whether or not the student would recommend the book. As a critical assessment, a book review should focus on opinions, not facts and details. Summary should be kept to a minimum, and specific details should serve to illustrate arguments.

Now consider a review of the same book written by a slightly more opinionated student:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 was a colossal disappointment. I wanted to know about the rituals surrounding drinking in medieval England: the songs, the games, the parties. Bennett provided none of that information. I liked how the book showed ale and beer brewing as an economic activity, but the reader gets lost in the details of prices and wages. I was more interested in the private lives of the women brewsters. The book was divided into eight long chapters, and I can’t imagine why anyone would ever want to read it.

There’s no shortage of judgments in this review! But the student does not display a working knowledge of the book’s argument. The reader has a sense of what the student expected of the book, but no sense of what the author herself set out to prove. Although the student gives several reasons for the negative review, those examples do not clearly relate to each other as part of an overall evaluation—in other words, in support of a specific thesis. This review is indeed an assessment, but not a critical one.

Here is one final review of the same book:

One of feminism’s paradoxes—one that challenges many of its optimistic histories—is how patriarchy remains persistent over time. While Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 recognizes medieval women as historical actors through their ale brewing, it also shows that female agency had its limits with the advent of beer. I had assumed that those limits were religious and political, but Bennett shows how a “patriarchal equilibrium” shut women out of economic life as well. Her analysis of women’s wages in ale and beer production proves that a change in women’s work does not equate to a change in working women’s status. Contemporary feminists and historians alike should read Bennett’s book and think twice when they crack open their next brewsky.

This student’s review avoids the problems of the previous two examples. It combines balanced opinion and concrete example, a critical assessment based on an explicitly stated rationale, and a recommendation to a potential audience. The reader gets a sense of what the book’s author intended to demonstrate. Moreover, the student refers to an argument about feminist history in general that places the book in a specific genre and that reaches out to a general audience. The example of analyzing wages illustrates an argument, the analysis engages significant intellectual debates, and the reasons for the overall positive review are plainly visible. The review offers criteria, opinions, and support with which the reader can agree or disagree.

Developing an assessment: before you write

There is no definitive method to writing a review, although some critical thinking about the work at hand is necessary before you actually begin writing. Thus, writing a review is a two-step process: developing an argument about the work under consideration, and making that argument as you write an organized and well-supported draft. See our handout on argument .

What follows is a series of questions to focus your thinking as you dig into the work at hand. While the questions specifically consider book reviews, you can easily transpose them to an analysis of performances, exhibitions, and other review subjects. Don’t feel obligated to address each of the questions; some will be more relevant than others to the book in question.

• What is the thesis—or main argument—of the book? If the author wanted you to get one idea from the book, what would it be? How does it compare or contrast to the world you know? What has the book accomplished?
• What exactly is the subject or topic of the book? Does the author cover the subject adequately? Does the author cover all aspects of the subject in a balanced fashion? What is the approach to the subject (topical, analytical, chronological, descriptive)?
• How does the author support their argument? What evidence do they use to prove their point? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Does any of the author’s information (or conclusions) conflict with other books you’ve read, courses you’ve taken or just previous assumptions you had of the subject?
• How does the author structure their argument? What are the parts that make up the whole? Does the argument make sense? Does it persuade you? Why or why not?
• How has this book helped you understand the subject? Would you recommend the book to your reader?

Beyond the internal workings of the book, you may also consider some information about the author and the circumstances of the text’s production:

• Who is the author? Nationality, political persuasion, training, intellectual interests, personal history, and historical context may provide crucial details about how a work takes shape. Does it matter, for example, that the biographer was the subject’s best friend? What difference would it make if the author participated in the events they write about?
• What is the book’s genre? Out of what field does it emerge? Does it conform to or depart from the conventions of its genre? These questions can provide a historical or literary standard on which to base your evaluations. If you are reviewing the first book ever written on the subject, it will be important for your readers to know. Keep in mind, though, that naming “firsts”—alongside naming “bests” and “onlys”—can be a risky business unless you’re absolutely certain.

Writing the review

Once you have made your observations and assessments of the work under review, carefully survey your notes and attempt to unify your impressions into a statement that will describe the purpose or thesis of your review. Check out our handout on thesis statements . Then, outline the arguments that support your thesis.

Your arguments should develop the thesis in a logical manner. That logic, unlike more standard academic writing, may initially emphasize the author’s argument while you develop your own in the course of the review. The relative emphasis depends on the nature of the review: if readers may be more interested in the work itself, you may want to make the work and the author more prominent; if you want the review to be about your perspective and opinions, then you may structure the review to privilege your observations over (but never separate from) those of the work under review. What follows is just one of many ways to organize a review.

Introduction

Since most reviews are brief, many writers begin with a catchy quip or anecdote that succinctly delivers their argument. But you can introduce your review differently depending on the argument and audience. The Writing Center’s handout on introductions can help you find an approach that works. In general, you should include:

• The name of the author and the book title and the main theme.
• Relevant details about who the author is and where they stand in the genre or field of inquiry. You could also link the title to the subject to show how the title explains the subject matter.
• The context of the book and/or your review. Placing your review in a framework that makes sense to your audience alerts readers to your “take” on the book. Perhaps you want to situate a book about the Cuban revolution in the context of Cold War rivalries between the United States and the Soviet Union. Another reviewer might want to consider the book in the framework of Latin American social movements. Your choice of context informs your argument.
• The thesis of the book. If you are reviewing fiction, this may be difficult since novels, plays, and short stories rarely have explicit arguments. But identifying the book’s particular novelty, angle, or originality allows you to show what specific contribution the piece is trying to make.
• Your thesis about the book.

Summary of content

This should be brief, as analysis takes priority. In the course of making your assessment, you’ll hopefully be backing up your assertions with concrete evidence from the book, so some summary will be dispersed throughout other parts of the review.

The necessary amount of summary also depends on your audience. Graduate students, beware! If you are writing book reviews for colleagues—to prepare for comprehensive exams, for example—you may want to devote more attention to summarizing the book’s contents. If, on the other hand, your audience has already read the book—such as a class assignment on the same work—you may have more liberty to explore more subtle points and to emphasize your own argument. See our handout on summary for more tips.

Analysis and evaluation of the book

Your analysis and evaluation should be organized into paragraphs that deal with single aspects of your argument. This arrangement can be challenging when your purpose is to consider the book as a whole, but it can help you differentiate elements of your criticism and pair assertions with evidence more clearly. You do not necessarily need to work chronologically through the book as you discuss it. Given the argument you want to make, you can organize your paragraphs more usefully by themes, methods, or other elements of the book. If you find it useful to include comparisons to other books, keep them brief so that the book under review remains in the spotlight. Avoid excessive quotation and give a specific page reference in parentheses when you do quote. Remember that you can state many of the author’s points in your own words.

Sum up or restate your thesis or make the final judgment regarding the book. You should not introduce new evidence for your argument in the conclusion. You can, however, introduce new ideas that go beyond the book if they extend the logic of your own thesis. This paragraph needs to balance the book’s strengths and weaknesses in order to unify your evaluation. Did the body of your review have three negative paragraphs and one favorable one? What do they all add up to? The Writing Center’s handout on conclusions can help you make a final assessment.

Finally, a few general considerations:

• Review the book in front of you, not the book you wish the author had written. You can and should point out shortcomings or failures, but don’t criticize the book for not being something it was never intended to be.
• With any luck, the author of the book worked hard to find the right words to express her ideas. You should attempt to do the same. Precise language allows you to control the tone of your review.
• Never hesitate to challenge an assumption, approach, or argument. Be sure, however, to cite specific examples to back up your assertions carefully.
• Try to present a balanced argument about the value of the book for its audience. You’re entitled—and sometimes obligated—to voice strong agreement or disagreement. But keep in mind that a bad book takes as long to write as a good one, and every author deserves fair treatment. Harsh judgments are difficult to prove and can give readers the sense that you were unfair in your assessment.
• A great place to learn about book reviews is to look at examples. The New York Times Sunday Book Review and The New York Review of Books can show you how professional writers review books.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Drewry, John. 1974. Writing Book Reviews. Boston: Greenwood Press.

Hoge, James. 1987. Literary Reviewing. Charlottesville: University Virginia of Press.

Sova, Dawn, and Harry Teitelbaum. 2002. How to Write Book Reports , 4th ed. Lawrenceville, NY: Thomson/Arco.

Walford, A.J. 1986. Reviews and Reviewing: A Guide. Phoenix: Oryx Press.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Contoh Karangan Bahasa Inggeris SPM/ English Essays (Form 4, 5) Form 4, 5

Contoh Karangan Bahasa Inggeris SPM (English Essays/ Writing) MUET/ SPM. Tingkatan 4, 5, 6. Form 4, 5, 6. Sekolah Menengah. Secondary School. (52) (2/2)

Soalan Bahasa Inggeris SPM Kertas 2 + Jawapan . SPM English Paper 2 (Questions + Answers).

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The rising food prices in the country (Guided Writing)

My School Library (Article)  

An interesting song (Review)  

My hands were as cold as ice as I… (Story)

Let’s go for a mountain hike (Email)

Leadership course (Email)

Ways to improve English (Email)

The best theme park for a family day (Guided Writing)

Online learning (Guided Writing)

Birthday present (Email)  

The importance of the internet to students (Guilded Writing)  

My Ideal Classroom (Article)  

Review about a fascinating place which you had visited

Review of a Film

The planning of a health campaign (Guilded Writing)

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How your school can do to help keep the environment clean (Report)

What you would spend youe money on (Guilded Writing)

The challenging activities that you would like to do (Guilded Writing)

My snatch theft experience (Email)  

Healthy lifestyle (Guided Writing)

Rules Breaker (Report)  

My School (Review)  

I would never have imagined that… (Story)

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The reasons for students’ lack of interest in sports (Guilded Writing)

A Safe Neighbourhood (Guilded Writing)

Be Responsible (Story)

Ten Years after the Covid-19 Pandemic (Story)

Getting Through a Difficult Time (Story)

Birthday Present (Email)

A Picnic With Our Friends (Email)

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Class Excursion (Story)

Suitable course for you (Email)  

The best educational place for a class trip (Guilded Writing)

Review of a Smartphone (1)

Island trip (Email)

Pointers to keep clean, hygienic and safe (Email)

The content of the talk given by our school counsellor (Email)

Where to shop (Email)

Extension on Deadline for Assignment (Email)

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Causes contributing to animal extinction (Guided Writing)

The benefits of online shopping (Guided Writing)

The best place to go during the holiday (Guided Writing)

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Review on an interesting book (4)

A Memorable Day (Story)

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My Ideal School Library (Article)

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A Book Review (3)

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An Unforgettable Trip (Story)

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My First Experience (Story)

Weekend’s Plan (Email)

Holiday trip (Email)

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The Terrible Truth (Story)

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English Camp (Report)

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A Quarrel in the School Library (Report)

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International Students Visit (Report)

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SPM English Speaking Test (Ujian Bertutur Bahasa Inggeris) :

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Modul Soalan Bahasa Inggeris SPM + Jawapan (Kertas 2/ Paper 2) (SK2) (Srw) [1] 

Paper 2 : Writing

A Book Review

Modul Bahasa Inggeris Paper 2 Writing  (Kertas 2/ Paper 2)  (KC) (Srw) [3]

English spm paper 2 : writing.

(Fmk) (Prk) [1]

Part 1 : Short Communicative Message

Answers : Short Communicative Message

Part 2 : Guided Writing

Answers : Guided Writing

Part 3 : Extended Writing

Article Writing

Review Writing

Report Writing

Answers : Extended Writing, Article Writing, Review Writing, Report Writing

Narrative Writing

Answers : Narrative Writing

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English SPM Paper 2 : Writing

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Part 1 : Short Message

Part 2 : Guided Essay

Part 3 : Review

Part 3 : Article

Part 3 : Story

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Suggested Answers – Modul Soalan

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(PTRS) (Sel) [1]

Writing Paper (1)

Writing Paper (2)

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Bahasa Inggeris SPM (Kertas 2) : Guided Writing (TTV2) (Prk) [2]

Bahasa Inggeris SPM (Kertas 2) : Extended Writing + Answers (TTV2) (Prk) [2]

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Koleksi Contoh Karangan Bahasa Inggeris Tingkatan 5 KSSM.  Form 5 Sample Essays

(SMKSP) (Srw) [1]

Guided Writing / Mind Map :

Review on a good book

Review on a movie that you have watched recently

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SPM English Writing Module :

Extended Writing (Article Writing, Review Writing, Story Writing) :

SPM English Writing Module (Short Communicative Message) + Answers

Koleksi Contoh Karangan Bahasa Inggeris (English Essays) SPM, Tingkatan 4, 5

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Haze: A Danger To Health

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Honesty Is The Best Policy (Story)

How I Spent My Holidays

How To Be A Responsible Student (Speech)

How To Be A Wise Consumer

How To Beautify The School (Formal Letter)

How To Develop Reading Skill In Children

How To Find A Right Job

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Informal Letter (Directed Writing)

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Internet (Essay)

Interview A Policeman

It Was The Last Day Of School

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Letter Of Application (Directed Formal Letter)

Letter Of Complain (Formal Letter)

Letter Of Complaint (Stray Dogs)

Letter To Newspapers: Expressing Concern On Child Abuse

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Mother’s Day Celebration

My Best Friend

My Favorite Subject In School

My Favourite Place

My Favourite TV Programme

My First Day At School

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My Most Embarrassing Situation

My Most Unforgettable Character

My Mother (Descriptive Essay)

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Online Shopping

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Report (Problems In School Library)

Report To Principal – Complaint About School Canteen

Requesting For Permission To Voluntary Service (Formal Letter)

River Pollution (Formal Letter)

Road Safety (1)

Road Safety (2)

Road Safety (Speech)

Safety Tips When Going To School

Should Do’s And Should Not Do’s To Keep The School Clean, Hygienic and Safe

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Teacher’s Day (Speech)

Teachers’ Day (2)

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The Conservation Of Our Natural Forests (Speech)

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The Importance Of Studying The English Language (Speech)

The Important Of Obeying School Regulations (Speech)

The Important Of Reading (Speech)

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The National Day Celebration

The Need For Rules

The Need For Self Discipline

The Night Market

The Person I Admire

The Person Who Has Influenced Me

The Unusual Experience

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Useful Ways To Spend Leisure Time

Visiting A Book Fair

Ways To Maintain A Good Health

Ways To Prevent Dengue

What Would You Do If You Had A Lot Of Money

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Which Do You Prefer, Living in The Countryside or Living in The City? (Countryside)

Why School Children Should Have Hobbies (Speech)

Women Can Be The Breadwinner In A Home. Discuss

Write About An Incident In Which You Acted Irresponsibly

Writing A Review Essay (TI)

Writing Tips And Essay Format English SPM (KSSM) (Zeti)

A Birthday Party

A Camping Experience

A Day I Wished Had Never Happened

A Difficult Life (Story)

A Festival Celebrated In Malaysia

A Hit-And-Run Accident

A Holiday At The Countryside

A Holiday I Would Never Forget

A Holiday In Cameron Highland

A Horror / Tragic Story

A Narrative Essay KSSM (Story)

A Picnic By The Sea

A Popular Tourist Spot That I Have Visited

A Road Accident (2)

A Trip To Mount Kinabalu

A Visit To SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

A Working Woman Makes A Useless Mother. State Your View

Advantages Of Unity

Advise Your Cousin On How To Lose Weight (Informal Letter)

An Unforgettable Experience

Anti Smoking Campaign Speech

Anti Smoking Campaign Speech Writing

Anti-Smoking Campaign (Speech)

Ban On Underage Smokers

Book Review Essay

Caning Is An Old-Fashioned Way Of Disciplining Students (Speech)

Caring For Our Old Folks

Cell phones – One of Our Greatest Technologies Misused

Challenges Of Home Learning During Covid 19  Pandemic

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Debate: “Advertisements Do More Good Than Harm”

Deepavali Celebration (Informal Letter)

Describe An Afternoon At The Bus Station

Describe An Important Family Celebration And How You Felt About It

Describe What Makes You Happy And Explain Why

Describe What You Understand About Success And Explain Why

Describe Your School Sports Day

Description on a Person – A Prominent Malaysian Leader

Descriptive Essays Describe What You Understand About Success and Explain Why

Directed Writing (Speech) : Obesity

‘Do Not Judge a Book By Its Cover’. Describe An Experience When This Was True For You.

Do You Think Homework Should Be Abolished ?

Does Academic Excellence Guarantees Success ? Discuss

Does School Prepare Us For Life

Drowning (Story)

English Essay : Challenges Of Home Learning During Covid 19 Pandemic

Essay on Healthy Lifestyle

Essay on Mother’s Day In English For School Kids and Children Mother’s

Essay on My Best Friend – 7 Selected Essays on My Best Friend

Experience of Being In A Busy City

Families That Play Together Stay Together

Favourite Holiday Destination

Fire (Report)

Flash Flood

Formal Letter: Complaint About Unsatisfactory Food And Restaurant Service

Formal Letter: Invite A Newspaper Reporter For Career Talk

Forms Of Discipline

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• Contoh-Contoh Karangan (Essays) untuk Soalan Percubaan Bahasa Inggeris (English) SPM (1)
• Karangan Bahasa Inggeris (English Essays) SPM : Continuous Writing   
• Karangan Bahasa Inggeris (English Essays) SPM : Directed Writing
• Karangan Bahasa Inggeris (English Essays) SPM : Argumentative Essays

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Koleksi Nota Ringkas dan Padat, Soalan, Latihan, Modul Tingkatan 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 dan Tahun 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 :

• Koleksi Nota Ringkas dan Padat, Soalan, Latihan, Modul Tingkatan 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 dan Tahun 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Improve Your Spelling: Frequently Misspelled Words (1)
• Improve Your Spelling: Frequently Misspelled Words (2)
• Improve Your English : Frequently Confused Words (1)
• Improve Your English : Frequently Confused Words (2)
• Improve Your English : Frequently Confused Words (3)
• Improve Your English : Frequently Confused Words (4)
• Improve Your English : Frequently Confused Words (5)

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• KOLEKSI Soalan Peperiksaan Percubaan SPM + Skema Jawapan (Semua Subjek) (Terkini)
• Koleksi Karangan Bahasa Melayu, Bahasa Inggeris (English Essays), Bahasa Arab, PA : SPM, STPM, MUET, Tingkatan 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Tahun 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Important English Grammar Notes for Essay Writing  
• Narrative Essay Writing Tips for English SPM

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• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Bahasa Inggeris (English) Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Bahasa Inggeris (English) Tingkatan 4 + Jawapan
• Koleksi Buku Teks Digital KSSM Tingkatan 4 (Empat)
• Koleksi Buku Teks Digital KSSM dan KBSM Tingkatan 5 (Lima)

Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Tingkatan 4 + Jawapan

Koleksi soalan dan latihan tingkatan 5 + jawapan.

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• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Matematik Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Bahasa Melayu Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Bahasa Inggeris Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Sejarah Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Kimia Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Fizik Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Biologi Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Sains Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
• Koleksi Soalan dan Latihan Pendidikan Islam Tingkatan 5 (SPM) + Jawapan
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FOR STUDENTS : ALL THE INGREDIENTS OF A GOOD ESSAY

Guide: How to write a review essay

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A review essay examines a piece of writing, a film, or some other form of art. However, it differs from a literary essay in a couple of key ways. A review essay is evaluative, meaning that its purpose is to tell the reader whether the work is good or not and whether it is recommended. Unlike a literary essay, a review essay is not written for someone who is already familiar with the work in question. Instead, the audience for a review essay is someone who is wondering whether to spend their time and money on the work reviewed. A review essay may contain more plot summary than a literary essay, but it shouldn’t give away any major revelations or the ending.

Read Sample Reviews

Reading sample reviews is an essential step in understanding how to craft a compelling review essay. Reviews are common in journalism, and examples of reviews of everything from movies to video games to computer software and more can be found online. Reading a few reviews of films and books from major publications such as nationally known magazines or large city newspapers can be a good way to get a sense of what is expected in a review essay. Observing how professional reviewers structure their critiques and the types of language they use can provide valuable insights.

Characteristics of a Good Review Essay

A good review essay will place the work in some sort of context. For example, a good review of a movie about traveling circus people would briefly mention other movies about traveling circus people and how this film compares with those others or how it fits into the overall picture of traveling circus people that film has presented over the years. In a literary essay, this might be the whole point of the paper, but in a review essay, it would only be a paragraph or two. The introduction or the paragraph just after the introduction is a good place for this context. Providing context helps readers understand the significance of the work and its place within a broader genre or category.

Subjectivity and Standards

A review essay is somewhat subjective, but it still needs to have standards and examples to demonstrate its points. It needs to give some reasons that the work is good or bad and it needs to support those reasons. This will help the audience decide whether to follow the reviewer’s advice. For example, if the reviewer claims that the plot is implausible, they should provide specific examples of plot points that stretch credibility. This blend of subjective opinion and objective evidence is crucial for a persuasive review.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement for a review essay should make an evaluation of the film and explain why the writer has made that evaluation. Here’s an example:

“Sideshow on the Road” is a terrible movie about traveling circus people with poor acting, an implausible plot, and a boring, talky script.

The body of the review would then expand on these reasons to convince the reader to avoid the film. A strong thesis statement sets the tone for the review and provides a clear direction for the argument.

The review itself should use specific examples from the work to illustrate the reviewer’s point. For example, if the reviewer has complained about the poor acting in the movie, they might describe a scene in which a character learns a loved one has died and seems to have no reaction at all. The boring, talky script might be illustrated by explaining that the characters spend a full ten minutes arguing about whether they took a wrong turn. Using detailed examples not only supports the reviewer’s arguments but also gives readers a vivid picture of the work’s flaws or strengths.

Review essays may be formal or informal and may be more or less personal. Depending on the style of the review, “I” may or may not be used. More informal reviews may use humor, sarcasm, and personal stories to highlight points about the work in question. Formal reviews should avoid these devices. With tone, it’s important to stay consistent. If a formal tone is chosen, it should be maintained throughout the piece, and the same is true for an informal tone. The tone of the review should match the audience and the purpose of the review.

Expanding on Characteristics of a Good Review Essay

To further elaborate, a good review essay does more than just summarize the plot or describe the characters; it delves into the artistic elements that make the work unique. This can include the director’s style in a film, the narrative techniques used in a book, or the visual aesthetics in a piece of art. Discussing these elements helps readers appreciate the craftsmanship involved and understand why certain aspects of the work may or may not succeed.

Comparative Analysis

Including a comparative analysis can enrich a review essay. For instance, comparing the film “Sideshow on the Road” to other movies about traveling circuses can highlight its unique or derivative aspects. This comparison can be brief, but it helps situate the work within its genre and provides a benchmark for evaluation. Mentioning how this film stacks up against classics like “Freaks” or more recent films like “Water for Elephants” can give readers a clearer sense of its quality and originality.

Audience Consideration

Understanding the intended audience for the review is crucial. A review aimed at casual moviegoers might focus more on entertainment value and accessibility, while a review for film enthusiasts might delve deeper into cinematography, acting, and thematic depth. Tailoring the review to the audience ensures that the evaluation is relevant and engaging.

Detailed Examples

Providing detailed examples is essential for a convincing review. If the reviewer mentions that the film has poor acting, they should describe specific scenes where the acting falls flat. For instance, they might describe a pivotal emotional scene where the lead actor fails to convey the necessary intensity, leaving the audience unmoved. Similarly, if the plot is deemed implausible, the reviewer should point out specific plot twists or developments that defy logic or seem forced.

Maintaining Objectivity

While a review essay is inherently subjective, maintaining a degree of objectivity is important. This means acknowledging any potential biases and striving to provide a balanced evaluation. For example, if the reviewer dislikes a particular genre, they should still recognize elements that fans of the genre might appreciate. This balanced approach enhances the credibility of the review.

In conclusion, writing a review essay involves evaluating a piece of writing, film, or art to help readers decide whether it is worth their time and money. By reading sample reviews, understanding the characteristics of a good review essay, developing a clear thesis statement, and providing detailed examples, reviewers can craft compelling and informative essays. The tone of the review should be consistent, and the reviewer should strive to balance subjective opinion with objective analysis. Including context, comparative analysis, and maintaining audience consideration further enriches the review, making it a valuable guide for potential audiences.

By following these guidelines, writers can produce review essays that are both engaging and informative, offering readers a thorough understanding of the work being reviewed and aiding them in making informed decisions.

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Home ➔ How to Write an Essay ➔ Review Essay

Review Essay Guide

Review essays are fundamental to academic and professional fields, offering more than just summaries of existing literature. They provide critical analysis, synthesize various viewpoints, and evaluate the contributions of scholarly works to a particular field. In this introductory section, we’ll outline what review essays are, their purpose, and their importance:

• Definition : Review essays are analytical writings that go beyond summarizing existing research. They involve a comprehensive assessment of scholarly works, discussing their strengths, weaknesses, and contributions to a particular field of study.
• Purpose : In academic settings, review essays are crucial for fostering deep engagement with subject matter, developing critical thinking, and enhancing scholarly discourse. Professionally, they can influence policy decisions, guide research directions, and impact industry practices.

We aim to provide a thorough guide on crafting effective review essays. This includes understanding their key elements, exploring various approaches, and offering practical advice for writing, structuring, and refining your work.

This guide will serve as a comprehensive resource, whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional, offering insights into the art of writing impactful review essays.

Key Elements of a Review Essay

When crafting a review essay, understanding its key components is crucial. A well-structured review essay not only showcases the writer’s comprehension of the subject but also provides valuable insights into the field of study. Below are the essential elements that should be included in a review essay:

• The essay should demonstrate a deep understanding of the topic under review. This includes grasping the core issues, problems, or debates that the subject encompasses.
• A critical part of the review essay is briefly summarizing the main arguments and conclusions of the sources under review. This summary should capture the essence of the authors’ viewpoints and findings.
• An effective review essay goes beyond summarizing by critically analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the reviewed material. This analysis evaluates the arguments’ validity, the evidence’s sufficiency, and the conclusions’ soundness.
• The essay should also discuss how the reviewed works contribute to the broader field of study. This involves analyzing the significance of the research, its impact on existing knowledge, and potential implications for future research.

To further clarify these elements, the following table provides a breakdown of each component and its significance:

By incorporating these elements, a review essay provides a comprehensive, analytical, and insightful look into the subject matter, offering both a summary and a critical evaluation of the existing literature.

Approaches to Writing a Review Essay

Selecting the right approach is pivotal when writing a review essay. The approach you choose should align with your essay’s objective and the nature of the subject matter. Here are some of the common approaches to writing a review essay and guidelines on how to choose the most suitable one:

• State of the Art Review : This approach focuses on the most current research in a given area. It’s ideal when your objective is to offer new perspectives or highlight areas needing further research in rapidly evolving fields.
• Historical Review : A historical review explores the development of a particular field of study over time. This approach suits essays aiming to provide context, trace the evolution of thought, or understand the historical progression of a subject.
• Comparison of Perspectives Review : This method contrasts different viewpoints on a topic. It’s particularly effective when there’s a debate or various perspectives on the subject matter. It helps in illustrating contrasting research and introducing new viewpoints by comparison.
• Synthesis of Two Fields Review : Useful when different fields intersect on a common problem or topic, this approach brings together literature from multiple disciplines, providing a comprehensive view and uncovering insights that might not be apparent within a single field.
• Theoretical Model Building Review : Involves examining literature to develop new theoretical assumptions or models. This is apt for essays that propose new theories or conceptual frameworks based on existing research.

Choosing the Right Approach

The choice of approach largely depends on your essay’s objective and the subject matter’s nature. Consider the following when deciding:

• Purpose of the Essay : Are you aiming to provide a comprehensive overview, challenge existing theories, introduce new perspectives, or trace historical developments? Your purpose will guide the choice of approach.
• Nature of the Subject Matter : Some subjects might be better suited to particular approaches. For instance, rapidly advancing scientific fields might benefit more from a state of the art review.
• Available Literature : The amount and type of literature available on your topic can also influence your approach. A rich historical body of work lends itself to a historical review, while a topic with diverse viewpoints might be better suited for comparing perspectives.
• Your Expertise and Interest : Your academic background and interests can also guide your choice. An area you are more familiar with might lend itself to a more complex approach, like theoretical model building.

By thoughtfully selecting the appropriate approach, your review essay can effectively achieve its objectives and make a meaningful contribution to understanding the topic.

Preparation for Writing

Adequate preparation is crucial for writing a well-organized review essay. This involves thorough reading of the primary sources and engaging critically with the material. Here are key steps and strategies for preparing to write a review essay:

• Reading and Understanding Primary Sources : Begin with a comprehensive reading of your primary sources. This includes not just the main content but also supplementary sections like prefaces, introductions, and conclusions, which often provide valuable insights into the author’s intentions and the scope of the work.
• Engaging in Critical Thinking : As you read, engage in critical thinking. Ask yourself questions about the author’s arguments, the evidence presented, and the overall coherence of the work. This critical engagement will help in forming a deeper understanding of the material.
• Formulating Questions During Reading : Develop questions as you read through the material. These questions can range from inquiries about the author’s perspective to the implications of their arguments. This practice helps identify gaps, contradictions, or areas that need further exploration.
• Read Prefaces and Introductions : These sections often set the tone of the work and provide a roadmap of the content.
• Review Each Chapter : After reading each chapter, take a moment to summarize the major points in your own words.
• Engage with the Author’s Ideas : Imagine having a conversation with the author. This can help in critically analyzing the text and formulating your own viewpoints.

The following table provides a summary of these strategies:

By following these steps, you will be well-prepared to write a review essay that is insightful, well-informed, and critically engaging.

Structuring the Review Essay

The structure of a review essay is fundamental to its effectiveness and clarity. A well-structured essay not only guides the reader through your arguments but also enhances the impact of your analysis. To achieve this, a review essay should be clear, concise, focused, and analytical.

• Clear and Concise Communication : The hallmark of a good review essay is its clarity. Complex ideas should be conveyed in an understandable manner, making the essay accessible to a broad audience. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences. Conciseness is equally important. Your essay should be direct and to the point, providing enough detail to support your arguments without becoming verbose.
• Defining Terms and Providing Evidence : A crucial step in structuring your essay is defining key terms central to your argument. This clarifies your position and ensures your reader is not lost in specialized terminology. Equally important is backing up your claims with appropriate examples and evidence . This could range from quotations and data to specific instances or case studies that illustrate your points.
• Maintaining an Informative and Focused Approach : Your essay should have a clear and narrow focus. This focus allows you to delve deeply into your topic and provide detailed insights. Every part of the essay should serve the purpose of reinforcing your main argument or thesis. This focused approach ensures that your essay remains informative and relevant to your topic.
• Beyond Summarization – Analysis, Synthesis, and Interpretation : A review essay should not merely summarize the existing literature. Instead, it should add to the conversation through analysis, synthesis , and interpretation. Analyze the material to identify patterns, contradictions, or gaps. Synthesize different viewpoints to create a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Interpret the findings in a way that provides new insights or perspectives, thereby contributing to the academic discussion on the subject.

Structuring your review essay with clarity, conciseness, focus, and analytical depth is essential. This approach makes your essay more engaging and informative and demonstrates your ability to critically engage with and contribute to the academic discourse.

Academic Rigor and Documentation

A key aspect of writing a review essay is maintaining academic rigor and ensuring proper documentation. This not only reinforces the credibility of your essay but also upholds the ethical standards of academic writing.

• Utilizing Academic Sources : The backbone of a review essay is the sources it draws upon. Prioritize using academic sources, including peer-reviewed journals, scholarly books, and authoritative research articles. These sources provide reliable, vetted information that forms a strong foundation for your arguments and analyses. Using academic sources enhances your essay’s validity and shows your engagement with the scholarly community.
• The Imperative of Proper Documentation : Accurate and consistent documentation is crucial in a review essay. It serves a dual purpose – preventing plagiarism and directing readers to the original sources. Whether you are paraphrasing or quoting directly , each instance of sourced information must be properly cited according to the appropriate academic style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). This practice is not just about avoiding plagiarism; it is about contributing to an ongoing scholarly conversation by acknowledging the work of others.
• Quoting with Precision and Purpose : When it comes to quoting sources, less is often more. Over-reliance on direct quotations can overshadow your own voice and analytical insights. Use quotes sparingly and ensure they are directly relevant to your argument. When you do quote, integrate the quotation seamlessly into your essay, maintaining the flow and coherence of your writing. Paraphrasing is another effective way to reference ideas from your sources while maintaining your unique voice and perspective. Remember that proper citation is non-negotiable regardless of whether you quote directly or paraphrase.

Incorporating these practices in your review essay not only upholds academic integrity but also strengthens your arguments, ensuring that your essay is both credible and ethically sound.

Writing the Review

Writing a review essay involves a series of actionable steps to ensure clarity, depth, and coherence in your work. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate through the process:

Step 1: Define Your Thesis or Research Question

Begin by clearly stating the thesis or main research question of your essay. This statement should be concise and articulate the central theme or argument you intend to explore. It will guide your writing process, ensuring that all your analysis and critical discussion are relevant and focused.

Step 2: Organize Your Research

Gather and organize your research materials. Create an outline based on the themes, methodologies, or chronological order of the sources. This outline will help structure your essay and ensure you cover all the necessary points in a logical sequence.

Step 3: Critical Reading and Note-Taking

As you read through your sources, engage in critical thinking. Take notes on key arguments, methodologies, findings, and how these relate to your thesis. Look for patterns, contradictions, and gaps in the literature. This step is crucial for understanding the broader context of your topic and for forming your own perspective.

Step 4: Develop Your Argument

Using your outline and notes, start developing your argument. Ensure each paragraph or section clearly addresses a part of your thesis. Use evidence from your sources to support your points, and explain how this evidence relates to your overall argument.

Step 5: Address Controversies and Debates

Identify and discuss any controversies or major debates present in the literature. Present these objectively, showing how they relate to your thesis. Use these discussions to demonstrate research gaps or pose new questions that could be explored in further studies.

Step 6: Synthesize and Analyze

Go beyond summarizing your sources. Synthesize the information to draw new insights and critically analyze the texts to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Your analysis should add to the existing literature by providing a unique perspective or interpretation.

Step 7: Write the Introduction and Conclusion

Craft your introduction to set the context for your essay and present your thesis. Your conclusion should summarize the key points of your analysis and reiterate how they support your thesis. It should also suggest implications, future research directions, or final thoughts on the subject.

Step 8: Review and Refine

Review your essay for clarity and coherence. Check if each section transitions smoothly and contributes to your overall argument. Look for areas that need more development or clarification. Proofread to correct grammatical errors and ensure consistency in style and formatting.

Step 9: Proper Documentation

Throughout your essay, ensure that all sources are properly cited. This includes both in-text citations and a comprehensive bibliography. Proper documentation is crucial to establish credibility and to allow readers to follow up on your sources.

Step 10: Seek Feedback

Before finalizing your essay, consider getting feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors. They can provide valuable insights, point out areas that need improvement, and help refine your argument.

By following these steps, you can systematically approach writing your review essay, ensuring that it is well-researched, coherent, and critically engaging. Each step is designed to build upon the last, culminating in a comprehensive and insightful piece of academic writing.

In this guide, we have explored the essential steps and strategies for writing a successful review essay. To recap, here are the key points to remember:

• Define Your Thesis : Clearly state the central argument or research question of your essay.
• Organize and Analyze Your Research : Gather your sources, create an organized outline, and engage in critical reading and analysis.
• Develop a Coherent Argument : Build your essay around your thesis, using evidence from your research to support your points.
• Address Controversies and Debates : Objectively discuss any debates or controversies in the literature, using them to enrich your analysis.
• Synthesize Information : Go beyond summarizing sources to draw new insights and perspectives.
• Write Clearly and Concisely : Ensure that your essay is well-structured, with clear transitions and a logical flow of ideas.
• Review and Refine : Revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.
• Proper Documentation : Cite your sources correctly to avoid plagiarism and provide references for further reading.
• Seek Feedback : Get input from peers or mentors to refine your argument and writing.

The table below provides a quick reference to these key steps:

We encourage you to apply these guidelines in your own review essay writing. These steps, when followed diligently, can help you craft an insightful and impactful essay.

Further Resources

To deepen your understanding of writing review essays, consider exploring the following resources:

• Books on Academic Writing : Look for books that specifically focus on academic writing skills, including essay structure, argument development, and effective communication.
• Online Writing Workshops : Many universities offer online workshops or webinars on academic writing, which can provide practical tips and interactive guidance.
• Writing Centers : Utilize the resources available at your institution’s writing center. They often offer one-on-one consultations, workshops, and writing guides.
• Scholarly Journals : Read review essays published in academic journals to get a sense of different writing styles and approaches.
• Style Guides : Familiarize yourself with style guides like APA, MLA, or Chicago, which provide detailed instructions on citation and formatting.
• Research Methodology Books : These can help you understand how to analyze and synthesize research effectively.
• Peer-Review Platforms : Engage with platforms where you can submit your work for peer review or review others’ essays to gain different perspectives.

These resources can provide additional guidance and support as you refine your skills in writing review essays. Remember, writing is a skill that improves with practice, so continue to seek out opportunities to learn and grow as a writer.

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• Critical Reviews

How to Write an Article Review (With Examples)

Last Updated: July 27, 2024 Fact Checked

Preparing to Write Your Review

Writing the article review, sample article reviews, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,127,704 times.

An article review is both a summary and an evaluation of another writer's article. Teachers often assign article reviews to introduce students to the work of experts in the field. Experts also are often asked to review the work of other professionals. Understanding the main points and arguments of the article is essential for an accurate summation. Logical evaluation of the article's main theme, supporting arguments, and implications for further research is an important element of a review . Here are a few guidelines for writing an article review.

Education specialist Alexander Peterman recommends: "In the case of a review, your objective should be to reflect on the effectiveness of what has already been written, rather than writing to inform your audience about a subject."

Article Review 101

• Read the article very closely, and then take time to reflect on your evaluation. Consider whether the article effectively achieves what it set out to.
• Write out a full article review by completing your intro, summary, evaluation, and conclusion. Don't forget to add a title, too!
• Proofread your review for mistakes (like grammar and usage), while also cutting down on needless information.

• Article reviews present more than just an opinion. You will engage with the text to create a response to the scholarly writer's ideas. You will respond to and use ideas, theories, and research from your studies. Your critique of the article will be based on proof and your own thoughtful reasoning.
• An article review only responds to the author's research. It typically does not provide any new research. However, if you are correcting misleading or otherwise incorrect points, some new data may be presented.
• An article review both summarizes and evaluates the article.

• Summarize the article. Focus on the important points, claims, and information.
• Discuss the positive aspects of the article. Think about what the author does well, good points she makes, and insightful observations.
• Identify contradictions, gaps, and inconsistencies in the text. Determine if there is enough data or research included to support the author's claims. Find any unanswered questions left in the article.

• Make note of words or issues you don't understand and questions you have.
• Look up terms or concepts you are unfamiliar with, so you can fully understand the article. Read about concepts in-depth to make sure you understand their full context.

• Pay careful attention to the meaning of the article. Make sure you fully understand the article. The only way to write a good article review is to understand the article.

• With either method, make an outline of the main points made in the article and the supporting research or arguments. It is strictly a restatement of the main points of the article and does not include your opinions.
• After putting the article in your own words, decide which parts of the article you want to discuss in your review. You can focus on the theoretical approach, the content, the presentation or interpretation of evidence, or the style. You will always discuss the main issues of the article, but you can sometimes also focus on certain aspects. This comes in handy if you want to focus the review towards the content of a course.
• Review the summary outline to eliminate unnecessary items. Erase or cross out the less important arguments or supplemental information. Your revised summary can serve as the basis for the summary you provide at the beginning of your review.

• What does the article set out to do?
• What is the theoretical framework or assumptions?
• Are the central concepts clearly defined?
• How adequate is the evidence?
• How does the article fit into the literature and field?
• Does it advance the knowledge of the subject?
• How clear is the author's writing? Don't: include superficial opinions or your personal reaction. Do: pay attention to your biases, so you can overcome them.

• For example, in MLA , a citation may look like: Duvall, John N. "The (Super)Marketplace of Images: Television as Unmediated Mediation in DeLillo's White Noise ." Arizona Quarterly 50.3 (1994): 127-53. Print. [9] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

• For example: The article, "Condom use will increase the spread of AIDS," was written by Anthony Zimmerman, a Catholic priest.

• Your introduction should only be 10-25% of your review.
• End the introduction with your thesis. Your thesis should address the above issues. For example: Although the author has some good points, his article is biased and contains some misinterpretation of data from others’ analysis of the effectiveness of the condom.

• Use direct quotes from the author sparingly.
• Review the summary you have written. Read over your summary many times to ensure that your words are an accurate description of the author's article.

• Support your critique with evidence from the article or other texts.
• The summary portion is very important for your critique. You must make the author's argument clear in the summary section for your evaluation to make sense.
• Remember, this is not where you say if you liked the article or not. You are assessing the significance and relevance of the article.
• Use a topic sentence and supportive arguments for each opinion. For example, you might address a particular strength in the first sentence of the opinion section, followed by several sentences elaborating on the significance of the point.

• This should only be about 10% of your overall essay.
• For example: This critical review has evaluated the article "Condom use will increase the spread of AIDS" by Anthony Zimmerman. The arguments in the article show the presence of bias, prejudice, argumentative writing without supporting details, and misinformation. These points weaken the author’s arguments and reduce his credibility.

• Make sure you have identified and discussed the 3-4 key issues in the article.

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• ↑ https://libguides.cmich.edu/writinghelp/articlereview
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4548566/
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
• ↑ https://guides.library.queensu.ca/introduction-research/writing/critical
• ↑ https://www.iup.edu/writingcenter/writing-resources/organization-and-structure/creating-an-outline.html
• ↑ https://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/titles.pdf
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_works_cited_periodicals.html
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4548565/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.uconn.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/593/2014/06/How_to_Summarize_a_Research_Article1.pdf
• ↑ https://www.uis.edu/learning-hub/writing-resources/handouts/learning-hub/how-to-review-a-journal-article
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/

About This Article

If you have to write an article review, read through the original article closely, taking notes and highlighting important sections as you read. Next, rewrite the article in your own words, either in a long paragraph or as an outline. Open your article review by citing the article, then write an introduction which states the article’s thesis. Next, summarize the article, followed by your opinion about whether the article was clear, thorough, and useful. Finish with a paragraph that summarizes the main points of the article and your opinions. To learn more about what to include in your personal critique of the article, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Book Review Tips

Book reviews are like guiding lights in the world of literature, helping readers navigate through countless stories. But writing a good review isn't just about summarizing a book – it's about making your thoughts resonate with the audience. 

Whether you're a writer, a critic, or someone who loves books, knowing how to prepare a book review can enrich your reading experience and contribute to the literary community. 

In this article, experts of our book review writing service break down the key elements and tips for compelling book reviews that spark conversation and excitement.

What Is a Book Review

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, where the reviewer discusses its content, themes, and overall impact. It typically includes a summary of the book's main points, the reviewer's analysis and opinions, and a recommendation for potential readers. The goal is to inform others about the book's strengths and weaknesses, helping them decide if it’s worth reading.

Later in the article, you’ll find a quality book review example for your inspiration and motivation. If you’re in a hurry, try our cheap essay writing service that covers all types of academic papers.

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How to Write a Book Review: Step-By-Step

Writing a book review might seem complex, but in reality, the process can be divided into only three steps:

Summarize the Book's Content

Book reviews summarize the source's content by providing a brief and clear overview of the main plot, key characters, and central themes without giving away any spoilers. This helps readers understand the essence of the book and sets the stage for your analysis and evaluation.

Actionable Tips:

• Read the Book Thoroughly: Ensure you grasp the full story, including subplots and character development.
• Highlight Key Points: Note down significant events, character arcs, and main themes as you read.
• Be Concise: Keep your summary short and to the point, focusing on the most important aspects.
• Avoid Spoilers: Do not reveal major plot twists or the book’s ending.
• Use Your Own Words: Write the summary in your own language to maintain originality and avoid plagiarism.
• Provide Context: Include the book’s genre, setting, and relevant background information to help readers understand the summary.
• Focus on Clarity: Ensure your summary is easy to read and understand, avoiding complex language or unnecessary details.

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Analyze and Evaluate

You’re always halfway through writing a book review! Next, you have to critically examine its elements, such as the writing style, character development, plot structure, and thematic depth. This step is where you share your personal insights and opinions, providing evidence from the text to support your views.

Conclude with a Recommendation

We’re almost reached the finishing line of the how to write a book review race. Conclude your review of a book with either a summary, recommendation, or addressing readers directly. This step provides a clear and concise verdict based on your analysis, helping potential readers decide if the book is right for them.

Dive into literary analysis with EssayPro . Our experts can help you craft insightful book reviews that delve deep into the themes, characters, and narratives of your chosen books. Enhance your understanding and appreciation of literature with us.

Book Review Structure

A book review outline usually follows a structured format with an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Introduction

This section introduces the book, mentioning its title, author, genre, and publication details. It gives a brief overview of the book's premise and main themes to provide context for the reader.

The main body offers a detailed analysis and critique of the book. It's divided into paragraphs focusing on specific aspects such as plot, characters, and writing style. Each paragraph provides evidence from the book to support the reviewer's analysis.

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The conclusion summarizes the reviewer's overall thoughts and impressions of the book, restating key points and the main argument. It often includes a recommendation for potential readers and may provide final reflections or insights about the book's significance.

Book Review Template

Here's a basic structure you can follow every time you’re tasked with such an assignment:

Extra Tips for Writing Better Book Reviews

Here are 11 extra tips for writing better book reviews:

• Look for essay topics that are interesting personally for you.
• Consider your audience and what they might want to know about the book.
• Be mindful not to give away major plot twists or endings that could ruin the reading experience for others.
• Use quotes or examples from the book to support your analysis and critique.
• Express your opinions openly, but respect the author and their work.
• Think about the book's historical, cultural, or social context when evaluating its themes and messages.
• Paint a vivid picture of the book's qualities using descriptive language to engage your readers.
• Acknowledge the book's strengths and weaknesses to provide a balanced review.
• Aim to be concise and to the point, focusing on the most important aspects of the book.
• Let your enthusiasm for the book shine through in your review to captivate your readers.
• Gain insights from reading other reviews to see different perspectives and approaches to reviewing books.

Book Review Example

As promised at the beginning of the article, we’d like to share a good example of a book review as it should be done by students either in school or college:

Final Thoughts

Book reviews empower students to become active participants in the literary conversation. They learn to contribute their unique perspectives and interpretations to the broader discourse. With a custom term paper writing service , learners can become true educational powerhouses who never miss deadlines.

Through critical engagement with literary sources, students develop a deeper understanding of complex themes and issues, honing their ability to think analytically and empathetically. At the end of the day, aren’t these two skills that every educated individual should possess? 

Need To Write a Book Review But DON’T HAVE THE TIME

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How To Write A Book Review?

What to include in a book review, what is a book review.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Added new infographics.
• Updated writing tips.
• Added new example.
• How to write a book review | BookTrust. (n.d.-b). https://www.booktrust.org.uk/books-and-reading/tips-and-advice/writing-tips/writing-tips-for-teens/how-to-write-a-book-review/
• Book Reviews – The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (2024, May 14). The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/book-reviews/
• Research Guides: Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments: Writing a Book Review. (n.d.). https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/assignments/bookreview  

Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Movies — Movie Review

Essays on Movie Review

Once in a while, you’ll be asked to do a movie review essay. This task is a great training tool for enhancing critical thinking skills. Essays on movie review aim at presenting a film from the most important scenes, special effects, to exciting moments and may be accompanied by criticism. From an advertising perspective, such a paper is aimed at convincing readers to watch the movie in question. Your writing should let a reader draw a conclusion, i.e, whether the film is worth their time or if they should try something else. Most importantly, your opinion must be independent and accurate. But how can you create a perfect introduction if you don’t have the experience in this type of writing? Relax. A good online writer can do it for you. If you have an idea but need some guidance, simply ask for a professional outline or use evaluation essay examples for students for more insights.

Hook Examples for Movie Review Essays

"a cinematic masterpiece" hook.

"Prepare to be captivated by the sheer brilliance of this cinematic masterpiece. Explore how every frame, performance, and detail contributes to a visual and emotional spectacle."

"Beyond the Screen: Themes and Messages" Hook

"This film transcends entertainment, offering profound themes and powerful messages. Dive into the underlying ideas and social commentary that make it a thought-provoking experience."

"The Journey of Character Development" Hook

"Follow the compelling journey of characters who evolve throughout the film. Analyze their growth, conflicts, and relationships, making this movie a character-driven narrative."

"Visual Delights: Cinematography and Special Effects" Hook

"Be prepared to be visually stunned by the breathtaking cinematography and cutting-edge special effects. Explore how these elements enhance the storytelling and immerse the audience."

"Unforgettable Performances" Hook

"The cast delivers unforgettable performances that breathe life into the characters. Discuss standout acting moments, character dynamics, and the emotional impact of their roles."

"The Soundtrack: Music That Moves" Hook

"The film's soundtrack is more than just music; it's an integral part of the storytelling. Explore how the score enhances emotions, sets the tone, and complements the visuals."

"Cinematic Analysis: Directing and Editing" Hook

"Delve into the meticulous craftsmanship of the director and editor. Analyze their choices in pacing, sequencing, and storytelling techniques that make this film a cinematic triumph."

Existentialism in "Hush": a Philosophical Examination of Silence and Being

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Journey of Redemption in The Movie "28 Days"

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Shrek 2: an Animated Movie Review

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The Description of The Movie "Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone"

"avengers: endgame": movie review, disney's beauty and the beast movie analysis, maleficent movie review: a fresh take on the sleeping beauty, analysis of the film "bad boys ii" by michael bay, greatest series of all time: "stranger things", the "inception" movie: review, a critical review of the movie finding nemo, a review of the film 'coraline', a report on the film avengers: infinity war, "tom and jerry" - one of the most famous cartoons, the personality of spongebob squarepants, film review: traffic by steven soderbergh, movie review: forrest gump, the blind side movie review and analysis, shutter island analysis: the role of symbolism, a study of the impact of caillou and spongebob on children, review of the series, gossip girl, film review: 12 monkeys, breakfast at tiffany’s: a revolutionary romantic comedy, relevant topics.

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PENERBIT ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD. Contents PENERBIT ILMUPart 1 Short Communicative Message 1 BAKTI SDN. BHD. • Email 4 Part 2 Guided Writing 24 • Essay 26 Part 3 Extended Writing 50 • Articles 52 • Reviews 67 • Reports 83 • Narrative Writing (Stories) 98 Part 4 Other Types of Writing 113 • Informal Letters 114 • Formal Letters 127 • Speeches/Talks 148 SPM Model Test 1 161 SPM Model Test 2 165 Answers 169 ii PENERBIT ILMU Part BAKTI SDN. BHD. 1 Short Communicative Message Introduction Short Communicative Message is tested in Part 1 of Paper 2 (1119/2). This section tests students’ knowledge in responding to questions in emails or messages. A stimulus (an email or a message) is given and students are required to respond to the stimulus in about 80 words. A total of 20 marks is awarded for this part. Students are assessed based on four criteria – content, communicative achievement, organisation and language. Each criterion is worth 5 marks. Only one question is asked in this part and it is compulsory for students to answer. Test Focus • Make and respond to simple requests and suggestions • Explain simple processes • Narrate factual or imagined events and experiences • Express and respond to opinions and common feelings such as happiness, sadness, surprise, and interest • Punctuate written work with moderate accuracy • Spell written work with moderate accuracy • Begin to use formal and informal registers appropriate to the target audience in familiar situations Guidelines and Strategy 1 The content must be relevant to the task given. Keep your response clear and brief. Answer only what is asked. There is no need for elaboration as there is a word limit of 80 words. 2 The response should be straightforward and communicative in nature. So, you should be concise and straight to the point. 3 The recipient of the email is usually family members or friends so use a friendly tone throughout the message or email. 4 Use cohesive devices to link your ideas so that the reader can easily understand your message. 5 Use vocabulary that is relevant to your topic. 6 Use grammatically correct sentences. 7 Review your work for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. 8 Use interesting expressions in your answer. 2 USEFUL EXPRESSIONS You may use the following expressions in your message: Greetings/ Hi/Hello Nice to hear from you! salutations How are you doing? Hope you are doing well. PENERBIT ILMU How are your family? It’s been a while since I last wrote. BAKTI SDN. BHD. Agreeing/ I agree with you. That’s a great idea! Part 1 accepting You are absolutely right! That sounds fun! invitation I would love to come! Count me in! Disagreeing/ I don’t think that’s a great idea. I see things differently. declining I’m afraid I don’t agree. I don’t think I can make it. invitation I think I have to decline. Maybe next time as I… Giving I suggest… Why don’t we… suggestions/ I would recommend that… Let’s go/do… recommendations I think it’s a good idea to… How about if we… Giving advice Why don’t you try… It might be a good idea to… You have to… I think you need to… I would advise you to… Maybe you should… Justifying It’s a good idea because… Due to… I think this might… The reason is… Seeing that… I think this… 3 Sample Question You received an email from your brother, Samuel. Hi, We are planning to have a special dinner for Dad on Father’s Day. Should we have continental, oriental or local cuisine? Which restaurant do you suggest and what gift shall we get for him? I’ll be waiting for your reply. Bye! Now, write an email to your brother in about 80 words. Sample Answer When planning your reply, keep the task and questions mind: Task: To suggest Questions to be answered PENERBIT ILMU Part 1 BAKTI SDN. BHD. Should we have Which restaurant What gift shall continental, oriental do you suggest? we get him? or local cuisine? Make sure all these questions are addressed in your response. 5 To: [email protected] a Subject: Father’s Day celebration b c Hi, d e Dad would love local cuisine. He loves only Malaysian food like roti canai and teh tarik. We should go to Malaysian Flavours restaurant, which sells all types f of Malaysian food under one roof including Malay, Chinese and Indian food. As you know, Dad is crazy about car accessories. He has always wanted sports g rims for his car. Obviously, we should get him these sports rims on his special h day. I recommend gold and black rims. What do you think? Bye! Steven PENERBIT Part 1 ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD. Your response to the email should have the following: a Email address of the receiver of the email b The subject of the email that you are sending. It should be related to the content of the email. c Salutation of your email. d Answers the question: Should we have continental, oriental or local cuisine? e Answers the question: Which restaurant do you suggest? f Answers the question: What gift shall we get for him? g Signing off h Your name 6 PENERBIT ILMU Part BAKTI SDN. BHD. 2 Guided Writing Introduction Guided Writing is tested in Part 2 of Paper 2 (1119/2). Students are required to write an essay based on a text stimulus in 125 – 150 words. A total of 20 marks is awarded for this part. Students are assessed based on four criteria – content, communicative achievement, organisation and language. Each criterion is worth 5 marks. Only one question is asked and you are required to answer this question. Test Focus • Explain advantages and/or disadvantages of: (i) ideas (ii) plans (iii) arrangements • Explain the main points for and against an idea or argument • Express and respond to real or imagined opinions and feelings • Organise, sequence and develop ideas within a text of several paragraphs on familiar topics and some unfamiliar topics • Punctuate written work on a range of text types with reasonable accuracy • Use formal and informal registers appropriate to the target audience Guidelines and Strategy 1 Read the question carefully. 2 In the stimulus, you will be given two or three points to guide you in your writing. Remember to include all the points in your essay. 3 State your opinion in the first paragraph. Your answer must be relevant to the task given. 4 Provide reasons or supporting details in your second and third paragraphs. 5 You may reiterate your opinion to conclude the essay. 6 There is a word limit of 120 – 150 words so do not provide lengthy elaborations. 7 Use vocabulary that is suitable to your topic and language that is appropriate for your target audience. You may also use idiomatic expressions to fortify your response. 8 Use sentence connectors to link your ideas so that your essay flows well and the reader can easily understand your viewpoint. 9 Remember to use grammatically correct sentences. 10 Review your work for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. 25 PENERBIT Part 2USEFUL EXPRESSIONS • To add contrasting points ILMU• To state your opinion on the other hand, however, despite/in BAKTI SDN. BHD. spite of (the fact), while, nevertheless, I strongly believe that… even though, although, it can be argued In my opinion… that, one can argue that, but, though it is To a certain extent I agree… argued that, people argue that, opponents I agree/disagree with… of this view say, there are people who I think… oppose this view • To present arguments for • To show sequence of ideas One important advantage is… Firstly, Secondly, Finally, After that, Then, A further advantage… First of all, To start with, To begin with, Many people are convinced… Last but not least, In the first place, First The first benefit is… of all One point of view in favour of… It is often believed that… • To introduce examples For example, for instance, such as, namely • To present arguments against One major disadvantage of… • To conclude Some people are against… In conclusion, To conclude, To sum An additional disadvantage is… up, All in all, All things considered, An important drawback is… On the whole, Taking everything into One point against… account/consideration, Above all, As was Another major drawback… previously stated • To add similar points furthermore, also, in addition to, besides, apart from this/that, not to mention the fact that, besides that, also GENERAL FORMAT OF AN ESSAY Introduction  Start with a general statement  and mention the keywords in  the situation given  Body  Answer the first, second and  third prompts and elaborate  briefly with examples   Conclusion  End with a brief conclusion  26 Sample Question Your class has been discussing about the influence of television on students and your teacher has asked you to write an essay on whether television is beneficial or harmful. PENERBIT ILMUIn your essay, you should write about: a Part 2 BAKTI SDN. BHD.• your opinion on this issue • reasons to support your opinion b • examples of television programmes c d Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view. e Sample Answer f Television is beneficial for students. It provides entertainment, education and g keeps us abreast with the latest news globally. Television is the easiest form of entertainment. You can take a break by h watching sitcoms or cartoons. The characters’ hilarious antics can keep stress at bay as laughter is the best medicine. Television can also be a source of education. During the recent Movement Control Order (MCO) due to Covid-19, students can learn through programmes such as Astro Tutor TV which provides lessons using approaches that appeal to students, or the National Geographic channels where students are able to learn about history, nature and the environment in the most interesting way. Finally, television updates us with the latest development around the world. News channels such as CNN, BBC News and Bloomberg Television give us the most up-to-date-news of current events. Therefore, television is definitely beneficial for students to spend their leisure time at home. 27 Your answer should contain the following: a State your opinion. b The first reason to support your opinion. c Elaboration and examples of television programmes that are relevant to the first reason. d The second reason to support your opinion. e Elaboration and examples of television programmes that are relevant to the second reason. f The third reason to support your opinion. g Elaboration and examples of television programmes that are relevant to the third reason. h Restate your opinion. PENERBIT Part 2 ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD. Model 1Question Your class has been discussing about the benefits and dangers of playing computer games. Your teacher has asked you to write an essay on your opinion on this issue. In your essay, you should write about: • types of computer games • whether computer games are beneficial or dangerous • reasons to support your opinion Write your essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view. Model Answer Vocabulary Builder Firstly, there are many types of games in the market such as action games, strategy games, role-playing games and so on. I feel 1 psychomotor that students can develop many skills if they choose the right type – the relationship of games. between mental For example, action games develop the psychomotor skills activity and of the players because while playing, the players engage their physical movement eyes, fingers and mind. This helps in hand-to-eye coordination. Strategy games, on the other hand, require players to think on their 2 think on their feet feet. This skill develops a player’s problem-solving and decision- – react quickly and making skills. Finally, role-paying games enhance memory. This decisively is because for certain games there is a storyline, characters with different abilities, as well as various tasks that players need to fulfil. 3 enhance Players will need to memorise these throughout the game which – improve will eventually strengthen their memory. Therefore, I believe computers games can be beneficial to students as long as they do not play excessively. 28 PENERBIT Part 3 Articles ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD.An article is a piece of writing about a particular subject. Its purpose can be to give information, news, suggestions or opinion to the reader. An article can appear in newspapers, magazines, newsletters or on the internet. Guidelines and Strategy 1 Read the question carefully. 2 Start your article with a title – you may use the one given in the stimulus if you wish, or come up with a new one. Remember to write your name in the next line. 3 Read the stimulus carefully and understand what is required in your article. Use the points given to guide you. 4 Come up with a strong opening line. The first line must be able to capture the attention of the reader and set the tone of the article. Here are some ways you may start your article: • use a quote • share a personal story • ask a question • tell the reader to imagine a scenario • share an interesting fact But remember to keep your introduction short as you do not want to bore the reader or give away too much information in the beginning. 5 State the aim of the article in the introductory paragraph. 6 Break your main points into paragraphs – preferably a paragraph for each point. 7 Avoid lengthy elaboration as you need to keep to the word limit of 200 – 250 words. 8 Use sentence connectors to link your ideas so that the reader can easily understand your viewpoint. 9 Review your essay for grammar, spelling or punctuation errors. 52 Sample Question You see this notice on the school notice board. Articles wanted! Let’s Go Camping! • What was your recent camping experience? • What are the benefits of camping? • What facilities should be improved at camping sites? Write us an article answering these questions. The best article will be uploaded on the school website. Write your article. PENERBIT ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD.Sample Answer Let’s Go Camping a Part 3 by Sheila Ramasamy b  c Have you ever felt that life in the city is too hectic and you just want to get  d away from it all? Well, why not go camping? It is a fun activity that allows you  to enjoy the great outdoors amidst all that Mother Nature has to offer.  e Recently, my family and I had a great time camping at Kenny’s Campsite.  Located near a waterfall which gave us a marvellous view, the campsite was f also very clean and well-equipped with different types of accommodation, from  tents to dorms and chalets.  We love camping because there are many benefits to be gained.  Firstly, it is a great way to bond with your family, minus the distractions  of technology. Apart from that, it allows us to work together when doing  activities such as setting up the tents, gathering firewood, fishing and cooking.  Secondly, camping is a great way to bond with nature. We realised  how important nature is to mankind and how we must try to preserve it.  Finally, camping tests our physical fitness, especially in activities such as  jungle trekking, kayaking and swimming. It is definitely a change from our  usual sedentary lives that is a gateway to many health issues.  Although camping is great fun, there are some facilities that camping  sites must improve on. Safety is priority so having a well-lit campsite especially at night is important. Furthermore, it is good to provide  facilities for people with special needs so that they are able to enjoy the  experience too.      53 Your answer should contain the following: a Write the title of your article. You may use the title given in the stimulus. b Write your name as the writer. c Write a strong and interesting opening line in your introductory paragraph. d This paragraph answers the first prompt – What was your recent camping experience? In your elaboration, name the camping place, the location and what you liked about it e This paragraph answers the second prompt – What are the benefits of camping? In your elaboration, list two or three benefits of camping. Support your points with details and examples. f This paragraph answers the third prompt – What facilities should be improved at camping sites? In your elaboration, list two recommendations. Support your recommendation with reasons. PENERBIT Part 3 ILMUModel BAKTI SDN. BHD. 1Question You see this notice in the newspaper. Articles wanted! Educational TV Channel • What does an educational TV channel mean to you? • What types of programmes would you want to watch? • What special features do you expect from an educational TV channel? Write us an article answering these questions. The best article will be published in our newspaper. Write your article. Model Answer Vocabulary Builder Educational TV Channel by Darshan Mann Television programmes are primarily meant to be entertaining. However, there are channels that provide educational guidance in a fun and meaningful manner. I would expect an educational TV channel to contain instructional programmes that cover topics learned in school to help students prepare for examinations, especially standardised examinations 54 Reviews PENERBIT ILMUA review is a piece of writing in which the writer gives his or her opinion on a book, BAKTI SDN. BHD.movie, place, product, service, performance and so on. Here are some points you may want to consider when writing a review: Book Review Checklist Movie Review Checklist  Title  Title  Author  Director  Genre  Actors/Actresses  Year of publication  Genre  Brief synopsis  Year of release – Where does the story take place?  Brief synopsis – Who are the main characters? – Where does the story take place? Part 3 – What is the story about? – Who are the main characters?  What do you like about the book? Why? – What is the story about? – Story  What do you like about the movie? – Language Why? – Themes/moral values – Story  Would you recommend it? Why? – Cinematography – Acting – CGI – Music/soundtrack  Would you recommend it? Why? Place Review Checklist Product Review Checklist  Name of place  Name of product  Date/time of visit  Date/time of purchase  Location/address  Where it was purchased  Accessibility – how to get there  Brief description of product/key features  Brief description of place  How is the product different from others – View/décor/ambience in the market? – Any special features  The price range  The food served  Where the product can be purchased  The quality of service  What do you like about the product?  The price range Why?  What do you like about the place?  Would you recommend it? Why? Why?  Would you recommend it? Why? 67 PENERBIT Part 3 Guidelines and Strategy ILMU 1 Read the question carefully and understand what is required in your review. Use BAKTI SDN. BHD. the questions given to guide you. 2 Write the title of the review. e.g. Nevermore: A Book Review The Book Owl Café: A Review Review of the Kobo e-Book Reader 3 You may start with an introduction of what you are reviewing. e.g. I recently read/watched… One of my favourite restaurants is… The product I would like to review is… 4 Provide some background information or details of what you are reviewing in the opening paragraph. For example: e.g. The book is written by…/The movie is directed by… The genre of the book/movie is… The book was published in…/The movie was released… The restaurant is located in…/You can get to the restaurant by… The product claims to… 5 Answer the first question in the stimulus – say what you like about the book/movie/ product. Give reasons and elaborate what you like/dislike about the subject you are reviewing. Remember, the point must be relevant to the prompt given. For example: e.g. It is a fun/entertaining/chilling/inspiring story that… It features a great cast of characters including… One of the things I love about the café is… This is a great product as… 6 End your review with your recommendation. Would you recommend it or not recommend it? Give a short explanation for your answer. For example: e.g. I thoroughly recommend this book/movie because… It is one of the best books I have ever read/movies I have ever seen. Although I enjoyed the food, I would not recommend it as… This product is recommended for… 7 Keep to the word limit of 200 – 250 words. 8 Use sentence connectors to link your ideas so that the reader can easily understand your viewpoint. 9 Review your essay for grammar, spelling or punctuation errors. 68 Sample Question You recently saw a notice in the library. Reviews required! Have you read an interesting book lately? Send us your book review. What did you like about the book? Will you encourage your friends to read this book? Why? The best review will be awarded cash price. PENERBIT ILMU BAKTI SDN. BHD.Write your review. Sample Answer Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: A Book Review a Part 3 b The book that I have enjoyed reading the most lately is an evergreen classic  c entitled Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. It is part science  fiction, part fantasy novel first published in 1886. This is an abridged version  d published by Fontana Books and available at Famous Bookstore.  e This story follows a lawyer, Gabriel Utterson, who investigates the strange  case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Dr Jekyll is a renowned and noble doctor from the upper crust society. Unknown to anyone, he has a dark side as he derives  pleasure from inflicting pain onto others. To camouflage his sadistic nature,  he creates Mr Hyde by drinking a potion. Through Mr Hyde, Dr Jekyll carries  out his heinous activities to satisfy his appetite for cruelty.  I find this book fascinating because the concept of split personality is explored  even during the 1800s. This is an interesting phenomenon that plagues people  even in the urban society today. I also enjoyed reading the struggle between  good and evil and how even the most educated person has dark desires.  I would definitely encourage my friends to read this book, especially those who love science fiction. Since this book is an abridged version, the language  has been simplified and so it is an easy read and is suitable for all levels. The  story is fast-paced and it has a shocking ending that I think about even until  today.        69 PENERBIT ILMU Reports Part 3 BAKTI SDN. BHD. A report is a formal account of an event, project or situation. Types of reports you may be required to write include: • club/society report • report on a school event • report addressing a complaint/grievance • report based on a survey A report has a particular purpose which is to give information or analysis, or make recommendations, suggestions or proposals. Guidelines and Strategy 1 Read the question carefully and understand the kind of report you are required to write. Use the prompts to guide you. 2 Pay attention to your role and the audience – who are you and who is the report for? 3 State the aim of the report in the introduction. You may give a brief background of the situation. 4 Answer the prompts and elaborate. Arrange them in paragraphs. 5 If the question asks for it, give your recommendation, suggestion or proposal in the concluding paragraph. 6 Use sentence connectors to link your ideas so that the reader can easily understand your viewpoint. 7 Keep to the word limit of 200 – 250 words. 8 Write your name and position at the end of your report. 9 Review your essay for grammar, spelling or punctuation errors. 83 Sample Question As the Class Monitor, you have been asked to write a report for your class teacher on the types of television channels that your classmates watch. Your report should include: • the purpose of the report • the two most popular channels your classmates watch • the reason for watching them Write your report. PENERBIT Part 3 ILMUSample Answer BAKTI SDN. BHD. Report on the Two Most Popular Television Channels in Form 5 Wawasan a b The aim of this report is to state the two television channels that the  class of 5 Wawasan watch the most. A survey was conducted recently and  c it was found that the two most-watched channels are National Geographic  and AXN.  d The National Geographic channel takes the top spot because we feel  e it is most helpful to us in our studies as well as possible future careers. f As Science stream students, we learn Chemistry, Biology and Physics.  These subjects are dealt with in detail in the programmes featured on  this channel. For example, Physics students will benefit from watching  aeronautics programme as it deals with the principles of combustion, which is part of the Physics syllabus. They will be able to understand the topic better  as the narration and visual graphics explain this principle in great length.  Also, we understand the nature of animals in the wild via this channel.  For those who are keen on a career as a veterinarian, there are programmes  like Dr Pol where we are able to understand this job scope.  The second most popular channel in this class is AXN. This channel has  many entertaining and informative programmes that are also beneficial for  Science students. For example, Biology students enjoy watching programmes such as CSI which help us understand the principles of forensic science.  Students who desire a career in forensic science will benefit from this programme  as it portrays the work specifications of a forensic investigator.  In conclusion, these two channels are popular because they are beneficial to our studies as well the professions that we wish to pursue. Reported by  Jihan Yusoff Jihan Yusoff Class Monitor Form 5 Wawasan 84 Narrative Writing (Stories) PENERBIT Part 3Narrative writing is story writing. The aim is to tell the reader a story where the ILMUcharacters face a problem or go through an interesting or entertaining experience. BAKTI SDN. BHD.Narrative writing has these elements: • setting – where and when the story takes place • characters – the people in the story • plot – sequence of events in the story. The plot usually follows this pattern: Climax Conflict Falling action Rising action Introduction Resolution ➥ introduction – the characters and setting are mentioned ➥ rising action – events that begin to lead to the conflict ➥ conflict – a problem that the character(s) must overcome ➥ climax – the highest point in the story where matters come to a head ➥ falling action – events after the climax leading to the resolution ➥ resolution – the end of the story where matters are resolved and the moral lessons may be mentioned A story can have the purpose to motivate, educate or simply entertain the readers. A good story has the ability to keep the reader engaged. Here are some details you may want to consider when writing a story: 98 Narrative Writing Checklist Characters Setting • Give names to the characters • State where and when the story takes • Describe what your character(s) look place like • Use descriptive words to describe the • Describe your characters’ personality setting PENERBIT ILMU• State the relationship between your BAKTI SDN. BHD.characters • Describe the characters’ feelings Plot Language • Describe the conflict/problem that • Decide on the point of view – first or arises third person • How did the character(s) tackle the • Make sure the tense used is consistent problem? (present or past) • Did the character(s) solve the problem • Include dialogues to make the story come in a realistic way? alive • Did the character(s) learn any lessons • Use words that appeal to the five sense from it? – sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste • Include some figurative language to make the story interesting, such as metaphor, Part 3 simile, proverb, onomatopeia, etc. You may not able to include all the details due to the word limit. However, try to include some to make your story interesting. Guidelines and Strategy 1 Read the question carefully and understand the kind of story you are required to write. Use the title and prompts to guide you. 2 Write the title given. 3 Decide on the point of view that you are going to use: • first person – the narrator is a character in the story (using the pronoun I) • third person – the narrator is all-knowing (using the pronouns he, she, they) 4 Look at the tense used in the prompt to decide on the tense to use in the story. Does the story happen in the past or in the present? Be consistent with the tense used. 5 Set the scenario in the first paragraph. Introduce the characters, the setting and the time frame. Give names to the characters. 6 Answer the first prompt in the second paragraph and elaborate – e.g. describe the problem the character encountered 7 Develop the events up to the climax. 8 Answer the second prompt in the third paragraph and elaborate – e.g. how was the problem resolved? 9 End your story with a logical conclusion. Include moral values that are relevant to the story. 10 Keep to the word limit of 200 – 250 words. 11 Review your essay for grammar, spelling or punctuation errors. 99 Sample Question Your teacher has asked you to write a story for the school magazine. The story must have the title: A Painful Lesson Your story should include: • a description of the painful situation • what the person learned from the situation PENERBIT Part 3 ILMUWrite your story. BAKTI SDN. BHD.Sample Answer A Painful Lesson  a Salimah’s parents run a food stall near their village. The food is good and  b there are normally many customers at the stall. Her brother, Salman, always  helps out but Salimah is reluctant to help as she prefers hanging out with her  c friends or playing video games.  One day, she received a phone call from her frantic brother. He told her  d that their mother had fainted in the kitchen of the stall and fell hard on her  e head. He was taking her to the hospital and asked her to meet them there as  f soon as possible.  g Salimah froze as she heard those painful words. She was shocked and  blamed herself for not helping her mother. Her mother did tell her that she was  not well and she wanted Salimah to help her at the stall but Salimah refused.  Tears flowed down her cheeks as she quickly cycled to the hospital.  When she entered the ward, she was shocked to see her a bandage around  her mother’s head. Her mother was lying on the bed with her eyes closed.  Salimah held her mother’s hands and sought forgiveness. She sobbed loudly. Her mother quickly hugged her and consoled her. Her mother reassured  her that she was well but Salimah had to help her father and brother at the  stall. The speechless Sarimah quickly nodded her head.  From that time onwards, Salimah went dutifully to the stall. She had changed  over a new leaf. Her mother’s accident was indeed a painful lesson she would  never forget.           Your answer should contain the following: a Write the title of your story. You may use the titles given in the stimulus. b Begin the introduction paragraph by introducing the characters and setting. c Rising action – develop events leading to the conflict d Conflict – describe the painful situation that the character has to face e Climax – the highest or most exciting point in the story f Falling action – events following the climax and leading to the resolution g Resolution – what the character learned from the experience/how the experience has changed the character 100