Review Points of Consideration, Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
The following are points to consider as you read the book that you are going to review:
- What’s the general field or genre? Does the book fit that genre?
- From what point of view is the book written?
- Do you agree or disagree with the author’s point of view?
- Can you follow the author’s plot or common thread?
- What is the author’s style? Formal? Informal? Suitable for the intended audience?
- Are the concepts well-defined? Is the language clear and convincing? Are the ideas well-developed? What areas are covered and what areas are not covered? How accurate is the information?
- Is the author’s concluding chapter (or summary) convincing?
- If relevant, make notes about the book’s format such as layout, design, binding, etc. If there are maps or illustrations, are they helpful?
- How does this book compare to other books by this author?
- Review your review, check your grammar and spelling as you want the review readers to take you seriously.
One very key piece of advice, for the novice or experienced book reviewer, is to always make notes as you read the book. You will likely want to include passages from the book in your review. And as every good writer knows, hook the reader with your opening sentence—it will set the tone of the review.
Some of my reviews of the many children’s books that I have had the pleasure to read and share with my granddaughter.