How to review a Book

Writing Book Reviews

When I began writing book reviews in July this year, I started off by writing about books that I liked, books that stayed in my mind long after I had stopped turning its pages. Soon, I started accepting books for review and then began the process of moving away my comfort zone and reading books by new authors. Today, I enjoy this tremendously, as it helps me explore new genres and exposes me to new writing. Reading work by budding writers gives me an insight into what others are writing about, which further helps me hone my own skills. Below are the steps I usually follow while writing book reviews on my blog.

Describe the book briefly -

Write the review without giving too many details about the book. It is fine to add the blurb or just write a summary in order to let the readers know what the story is about! 

Talk about what you liked/did not like about the book -

Think about what you have just read and try and answer a few questions:

·     Who your favorite character was and what did you like about him/her?

·     Did the characters seem real to you?

·     Was the writer able to use the appropriate words to express what he/she wanted to?

·     Was the story woven in such a way that it held your attention till the end?

·     What did you like most about the book?

If there was something that did not appeal to you, then you can also mention that in your review. In that case, you might want to first mention what you liked and then what could have been better! From experience I have realized that most writers are happy with the feedback as it helps them improve their writing skills.

Rate the Book -

Personally I do not like to rate books, but I have realized that most reviewers do! Well! This is a personal choice so go ahead and rate the book or just concentrate on writing.

Author’s Bio and Important Links -

 I usually include an author’s bio and picture in my reviews in order to give it a personal feel. A writer feels passionately about his book and I feel that including the above gives them as well as their work good exposure. Of course, this too is optional! You can also add a link to the author’s Facebook page or website where the book can be purchased.

About the Author –

Rachna is an educationist, book reviewer, blogger, interior designer and author. She loves to spend her time reading, travelling, listening to music, dancing and writing. Whenever she is alone and deep in thought, you will find her typing away on her laptop writing about topics like life, nature and human emotions. You can read more about her and her work on her website – www.rachnagupta.in

You can also follow her on Twitter - @GuptaRach