How to Write a Book Report

Book report

Outline of Book Report

Introduction.

The introduction presents the main information about your book. Include the following:

  • Title of the book which is either underlined or italicized
  • The author’s first and last name
  • Where the book was published
  • The date of publication

Your introduction for both fiction and non-fiction may also include background information about the author, the main sections you will be focusing on, and questions you will raise.

The main body makes up the essence of the book report. It is here you go more in depth and present and discuss your main headings or sections from your outline.

For Fiction:

  • Setting – Where and when (present, past or future) the story take place
  • Social circumstances – The social conditions of the time.
  • Main characters – Description of the characters and their personalities.
  • A plot summary – The basic plot in the story. What happens. The most important events.
  • Climax of the story –The most intense moment; the turning point of the story.
  • Point of view – Through whose eyes the story is being told.
  • Style – the author’s style. The mood and tone of the story (choice of words, use of metaphor, etc.)
  • Themes –The main ideas behind the story.
  • Personal impressions – Your thoughts and opinions about the book. Your likes and dislikes regarding the ending.

For Non-fiction :

  • Author’s topic – What the author is writing about.
  • Main points - What the main thesis of book is. – Make a short summary of the author’s main points.
  • Arguments – The arguments the author uses to prove his case. Do you agree with him?
  • Conclusions – The author's final opinion. Do you agree?
  • Personal Impressions – What did you learn? Did you think it was interesting?
  • Would you recommend the book to others?

A conclusion is a final paragraph which summarizes the main points in your book report. It should recapitulate your introduction and answer questions raised in the introduction. You may be required to give your personal impression of the book as a whole, discuss its strengths and weaknesses, give your reasons for likes and dislikes, or maybe explain what you have learned.

Relatert innhold

The following article will give you an understanding of the basic elements of literary analysis.

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Literary Analysis

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Book review schreiben: Aufbau, Leitfragen und Übungen

  • Was ist eine book review? 
  • Wie schreibe ich eine book review?

Wenn du deine eigene Meinung zu einem Buch mitteilen sollst, tust du dies in Form einer Buchrezension , die auf Englisch book review   genannt wird. Wie du selbst eine  book review auf Englisch schreibst, kannst du hier lernen. 

Was ist eine book review ? 

Im Allgemeinen ist eine Rezension  ( review ) eine meist schriftlich veröffentlichte Kritik . Filme, Bücher, Kunstwerke, Konzerte oder Computerspiele können auf diese Weise beurteilt werden. Eine  book review  ist eine Art von Literaturkritik ( literary criticism ). 

Gut zu wissen

Eine Kritik ist eine Beurteilung , die sowohl positiv als auch negativ sein kann. Mit Kritik ist also nicht automatisch, wie im alltäglichen Sprachgebrauch, etwas Negatives gemeint. 

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Wie schreibe ich eine book review ?

Vorbereitung.

Deine book review kannst du schon während des Lesens vorbereiten, indem du dir wichtige Stellen markierst oder dir Notizen machst. Auf diese Weise hast du hinterher eine Orientierung, um den Inhalt wiederzugeben und das Thema des Buches zu beschreiben. 

Aufbau 

Insgesamt besteht deine book review aus drei Teilen : 

1. Inhaltswiedergabe - summary  

2. Beurteilung, deine eigene Meinung - evaluation, your own opinion 

3. Fazit - conclusion  

1. Inhaltswiedergabe -  summary  

Die Inhaltswiedergabe beginnst du mit einem Einleitungssatz , in dem du den Titel, Autor, die Gattung und das Erscheinungsjahr des Buches nennst. Danach erwähnst du die Hauptfiguren (Protagonisten) und gibst einen Überblick über die Handlung. Verrate bei einem Roman allerdings nicht das Ende , denn vielleicht möchte derjenige, der deine review liest, das Buch ebenfalls lesen. Achte darauf, dass du den Inhalt nicht zu detailliert wiedergibst. Wenn das Buch ein Teil einer Buchreihe ( book series ) ist, solltest du das ebenfalls erwähnen. Im nächsten Schritt nennst du das Thema des Buches. 

Das Thema ( topic ) ist nicht das Gleiche wie die Handlung ( plot ). Häufige Themen sind beispielsweise Liebe, Krieg oder Rache. Die Handlung hingegen ist die Abfolge bestimmter Ereignisse vom Beginn bis zum Ende des Buches, die insgesamt einem übergeordneten Thema (z. B. Freundschaft) zugeordnet werden können. 

2. Beurteilung - evaluation 

Die eigentliche Rezension findet im zweiten Teil statt. Hier reicht es allerdings nicht, wenn du nur kurz sagst, ob dir das Buch gefallen hat oder nicht. Du solltest deine Beurteilung begründen können und verschiedene Aspekte des Buches bewerten. Die folgenden Leitfragen können dir vielleicht helfen, deine eigene Meinung ausführlich zu beschreiben. 

What did you like?  What didn't you like? 

  • Was the book gripping?
  • Did you like the topic of the book? Was it interesting or rather boring?
  • Did the book have an emotional effect on you? Did you laugh or cry while you were reading?
  • Did you like any characters in particular and why?
  • Was the plot logical and comprehensible? 

Sieh dir außerdem die deutsche Übersetzung der Fragen an:

Übersetzung - Was hat dir gefallen? Was mochtest du nicht? 

  • War das Buch mitreißend?
  • Mochtest du das Thema des Buches? War es interessant oder eher langweilig?
  • Hatte dich das Buch emotional berührt? Hast du während des Lesens gelacht oder geweint?
  • Mochtest du einen Charakter besonders und wieso?
  • War die Handlung logisch und verständlich? 

Am Schluss deiner book review  solltest du deine Bewertung noch einmal kurz zusammenfassen und eventuell eine Empfehlung ( recommendation ) aussprechen. Du kannst dabei auch darauf eingehen, welcher Zielgruppe du das Buch empfehlen würdest oder vielleicht auch, wieso du es für eine andere Zielgruppe nicht empfehlen kannst. 

Wir haben dir hier noch einmal einen Überblick über die Struktur deiner book review erstellt:  

  • Einleitungssatz
  • Protagonisten
  • Überblick über Handlung
  • Thema 
  • Beurteilung (Handlung, Stil, Gefühle und Gedanken während des Lesens)
  • Fazit 

Du weißt jetzt, was du beim Schreiben einer book review beachten musst. Ob du alles verstanden hast, kannst du jetzt in den Übungsaufgaben testen. Viel Erfolg!

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Bitte die richtigen Aussagen auswählen.

Eine book review muss möglichst objektiv, also sachlich, geschrieben werden.

Eine book review ist eine persönliche Beurteilung und darf daher subjektiv geschrieben werden.

In der Inhaltswiedergabe sollten lediglich die wichtigsten Ereignisse beschrieben werden.

Die Inhaltswiedergabe sollte die Handlung möglichst detailliert wiedergeben.

In der Inhaltswiedergabe solltest du die Protagonisten nennen.

Worin liegt der Unterschied zwischen Thema ( theme ) und Handlung ( plot )?

Das Thema (theme) kann die Ereignisse der Handlung zusammenfassend und übergeordnet beschreiben.

Die Handlung (plot) beinhaltet alle Ereignisse vom Anfang bis zum Ende des Buches.

Die Begriffe Thema ( theme ) und Handlung (plot) können synonym verwendet werden. Sie unterscheiden sich in ihrer Bedeutung also nicht.

Es reicht aus, wenn du in deiner book review sagst, ob dir das Buch gut gefallen hat oder nicht.

Die Bewertung beinhaltet eine begründete Einschätzung zu einem Buch.

Es ist nicht erlaubt, ein Buch in deiner book review weiterzuempfehlen.

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How To Write a Good Book Report in Seven Steps

Are you having trouble writing your book report? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to give you seven easy steps that’ll help you write the perfect book report.

Need helping writing a book report? LanguageTool can help.

Quick Summary on How To Write a Book Report

  • As you read the book, highlight and take notes.
  • Reread the instructions of the assignment.
  • Organize your notes and create an outline.
  • Write a compelling introduction.
  • Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.
  • Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.
  • Edit and proofread.

What Is a Book Report?

A book report is an essay in which students explain and support their thoughts and views on a story, novel, or any other literary work.

There are several different types of book reports. Regardless of which type you’re writing, teachers and professors usually assign book reports as a way to ensure that their students have thoroughly understood the book. Below, we’ll go over how to write a good book report in seven easy steps.

What are the steps on how to write a book report? Find out below.

How To Write a Book Report

1. as you read the book, highlight and take notes..

The first step of writing a good book report is to read the book, of course. However, it’s important to highlight and takes notes while reading it. Highlight anything that stands out to you or that evokes certain emotions. Write notes on patterns, themes, and characters. If you’re writing a book report on a nonfiction book, write notes on the major points of the book and what you think about them.

2. Revisit and reread the instructions of the assignment.

Once you’re done reading and taking notes, reread the instructions of the assignment. Find what it is you’re supposed to write about. Is it a character analysis? A plot summary? An exploration of themes and patterns, or something else? It’s also essential to follow the formatting guidelines, so make sure to use the correct font and spacing. If you have any questions, reach out to your teacher or professor.

3. Organize your notes and create an outline.

Gather your notes and arrange them into categories. Once you’ve completed this, write an outline and organize the categories to become the paragraphs of your book report. Jot down bullet points on what each paragraph will include and what part of the book can support it. As you start writing the book report, remain flexible. You don’t have to follow the outline exactly. You may realize that a few edits create a better flow.

4. Write a compelling introduction.

The introduction should be informative and catchy. You may want to start with a quote, climactic scene, or an unusual observation you had while reading the book. Towards the end of the introduction, you should write a one or two-sentence summary about the book, and then the last sentence should explain what exactly you’ll be writing about in the rest of the report.

Book Report Elements

Keep in mind that all book reports should contain:

  • The name and author of the book.
  • A thesis statement.
  • If you're writing about a fiction book, mention the setting, time period, and characters.
  • If you’re writing about a nonfiction book, mention the author’s main point in writing the book.
  • Evidence to support your arguments.

5. Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.

The body paragraphs are where you can include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence that bring your book report together.

For example, let’s say you’re writing a character analysis. You believe that the character that everyone sees as the protagonist is actually the antagonist. You should write why you believe that and include specific scenarios that help prove your point.

Or if you’re writing about a non-fiction book, you could use the body paragraphs to write about why you agree or disagree with the author. Similarly, you’d have to use examples and evidence to support your argument.

It’s a good idea to start off with your most compelling, evidence-backed point. Leave the weakest arguments for the middle, and end with another strong point. Lastly, whether you’re writing about fiction or non-fiction, commenting on writing style and tone is recommended (especially if it’s explicitly requested in the instructions).

6. Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.

The conclusion is just as important as the introduction, so make sure to set aside enough time to write one (students tend to rush through this part). Use the concluding paragraph to pull all your arguments together. Reiterate again what the main point was about, and then briefly summarize the main idea of your book report.

7. Edit and proofread.

Now that you’ve completed the first draft of your book report, it’s time to reread and make edits if needed. Are there any paragraphs you can move around that’ll improve the rhythm of your writing? Do you have enough evidence to back up your claims? Is your introduction captivating and descriptive?

While you’re rereading the book report, you should also be looking for typos and spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. If you want an extra set of eyes to look for all types of errors, you should use LanguageTool as your spelling and grammar checker. Not only will this advanced editor correct mistakes, but it supports more than twenty languages—meaning your book report will be perfect regardless of which language you’re writing it in.

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How to Write a Book Report

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Book Report Fundamentals

Preparing to write, an overview of the book report format, how to write the main body of a book report, how to write a conclusion to a book report, reading comprehension and book reports, book report resources for teachers .

Book reports remain a key educational assessment tool from elementary school through college. Sitting down to close read and critique texts for their content and form is a lifelong skill, one that benefits all of us well beyond our school years. With the help of this guide, you’ll develop your reading comprehension and note-taking skills. You’ll also find resources to guide you through the process of writing a book report, step-by-step, from choosing a book and reading actively to revising your work. Resources for teachers are also included, from creative assignment ideas to sample rubrics.

Book reports follow general rules for composition, yet are distinct from other types of writing assignments. Central to book reports are plot summaries, analyses of characters and themes, and concluding opinions. This format differs from an argumentative essay or critical research paper, in which impartiality and objectivity is encouraged. Differences also exist between book reports and book reviews, who do not share the same intent and audience. Here, you’ll learn the basics of what a book report is and is not.

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

This article, written by a professor emeritus of rhetoric and English, describes the defining characteristics of book reports and offers observations on how they are composed.

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab outlines the steps in writing a book report, from keeping track of major characters as you read to providing adequate summary material.

"How to Write a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

This article provides another helpful guide to writing a book report, offering suggestions on taking notes and writing an outline before drafting. 

"How to Write a Successful Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

Another post from ThoughtCo., this article highlights the ten steps for book report success. It was written by an academic advisor and college enrollment counselor.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and an Essay?

"Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing" ( Classroom)

In this article from the education resource Classroom,  you'll learn the differences and similarities between book reports and essay writing.

"Differences Between a Book Report and Essay Writing" (SeattlePi.com)

In this post from a Seattle newspaper's website, memoirist Christopher Cascio highlights how book report and essay writing differ.

"The Difference Between Essays and Reports" (Solent Online Learning)

This PDF from Southampton Solent University includes a chart demonstrating the differences between essays and reports. Though it is geared toward university students, it will help students of all levels understand the differing purposes of reports and analytical essays.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and a Book Review?

"How to Write a Book Review and a Book Report" (Concordia Univ.)

The library at Concordia University offers this helpful guide to writing book report and book reviews. It defines differences between the two, then presents components that both forms share.

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s writing guide shows the step-by-step process of writing book reviews, offering a contrast to the composition of book reports.

Active reading and thoughtful preparation before you begin your book report are necessary components of crafting a successful piece of writing. Here, you’ll find tips and resources to help you learn how to select the right book, decide which format is best for your report, and outline your main points.

Selecting and Finding a Book

"30 Best Books for Elementary Readers" (Education.com)

This article from Education.com lists 30 engaging books for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It was written by Esme Raji Codell, a teacher, author, and children's literature specialist.

"How to Choose a Good Book for a Report (Middle School)" (WikiHow)

This WikiHow article offers suggestions for middle schoolers on how to choose the right book for a report, from getting started early on the search process to making sure you understand the assignment's requirements.

"Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers" (Common Sense Media)

Common Sense Media has compiled this list of 25 of the best books for middle school book reports. For younger students, the article suggests you check out the site's "50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12."

"50 Books to Read in High School" (Lexington Public Library)

The Lexington, Kentucky Public Library has prepared this list to inspire high school students to choose the right book. It includes both classics and more modern favorites.

The Online Computer Library Center's catalogue helps you locate books in libraries near you, having itemized the collections of 72,000 libraries in 170 countries.

Formats of Book Reports

"Format for Writing a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

Here, Your Dictionary supplies guidelines for the basic book report format. It describes what you'll want to include in the heading, and what information to include in the introductory paragraph. Be sure to check these guidelines against your teacher's requirements.

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

Nancy Barile’s blog post for Scholastic lists the questions students from middle through high school should address in their book reports.

How to Write an Outline

"Writer’s Web: Creating Outlines" (Univ. of Richmond)

The University of Richmond’s Writing Center shows how you can make use of micro and macro outlines to organize your argument.

"Why and How to Create a Useful Outline" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab demonstrates how outlines can help you organize your report, then teaches you how to create outlines.

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

EasyBib, a website that generates bibliographies, offers sample outlines and tips for creating your own. The article encourages you to think about transitions and grouping your notes.

"How to Write an Outline: 4 Ways to Organize Your Thoughts" (Grammarly)

This blog post from a professional writer explains the advantages of using an outline, and presents different ways to gather your thoughts before writing.

In this section, you’ll find resources that offer an overview of how to write a book report, including first steps in preparing the introduction. A good book report's introduction hooks the reader with strong opening sentences and provides a preview of where the report is going.

"Step-by-Step Outline for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This article from Classroom furnishes students with a guide to the stages of writing a book report, from writing the rough draft to revising.

"Your Roadmap to a Better Book Report" ( Time4Writing )

Time4Writing offers tips for outlining your book report, and describes all of the information that the introduction, body, and conclusion should include.

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

This ThoughtCo. post, another by academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, demonstrates how to write a pithy introduction to your book report.

"How to Write an Introduction for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief but helpful post from Classroom  details what makes a good book report introduction, down to the level of individual sentences.

The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

Plot Summary and Description

"How Do You Write a Plot Summary?" ( Reference )

This short article presents the goals of writing a plot summary, and suggests a word limit. It emphasizes that you should stick to the main points and avoid including too many specific details, such as what a particular character wears.

"How to Write a Plot for a Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

In this article from a resource website for writers, Patricia Harrelson outlines what information to include in a plot summary for a book report. 

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

Using Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone as an example, this WikiHow article demonstrates how to write a plot summary one step at a time.

Analyzing Characters and Themes

"How to Write a Character Analysis Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kristine Tucker shows how to write a book report focusing on character. You can take her suggestions as they are, or consider  incorporating them into the more traditional book report format.

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

The SixMinuteScholar Channel utilizes analysis of the film  Finding Nemo to show you how to delve deeply into character, prioritizing inference over judgment.

"How to Define Theme" ( The Editor's Blog )

Fiction editor Beth Hill contributes an extended definition of theme. She also provides examples of common themes, such as "life is fragile."

"How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story" ( ThoughtCo )

This blog post from ThoughtCo. clarifies the definition of theme in relation to symbolism, plot, and moral. It also offers examples of themes in literature, such as love, death, and good vs. evil.

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

"How to Choose and Use Quotations" (Santa Barbara City College)

This guide from a college writing center will help you choose which quotations to use in your book report, and how to blend quotations with your own words.

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

This PDF from Ashford University's Writing Center introduces the ICE method for incorporating quotations: introduce, cite, explain.

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

This video from The Write Way YouTube channel illustrates how to integrate quotations into writing, and also explains how to cite those quotations.

"Using Literary Quotations" (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison)

This guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writing Center helps you emphasize your analysis of a quotation, and explains how to incorporate quotations into your text.

Conclusions to any type of paper are notoriously tricky to write. Here, you’ll learn some creative ways to tie up loose ends in your report and express your own opinion of the book you read. This open space for sharing opinions that are not grounded in critical research is an element that often distinguishes book reports from other types of writing.

"How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief article from the education resource  Classroom illustrates the essential points you should make in a book report conclusion.

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Writing Center lays out strategies for writing effective conclusions. Though the article is geared toward analytical essay conclusions, the tips offered here will also help you write a strong book report.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Pat Bellanca’s article for Harvard University’s Writing Center presents ways to conclude essays, along with tips. Again, these are suggestions for concluding analytical essays that can also be used to tie up a book report's loose ends.

Reading closely and in an engaged manner is the strong foundation upon which all good book reports are built. The resources below will give you a picture of what active reading looks like, and offer strategies to assess and improve your reading comprehension. Further, you’ll learn how to take notes—or “annotate” your text—making it easier to find important information as you write.

How to Be an Active Reader

"Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read" (Princeton Univ.)

Princeton University’s McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning recommends ten strategies for active reading, and includes sample diagrams.

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

The Open University offers these techniques for reading actively alongside video examples. The author emphasizes that you should read for comprehension—not simply to finish the book as quickly as possible.

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

In this post, Grace Fleming outlines seven methods for active reading. Her suggestions include identifying unfamiliar words and finding the main idea. 

"5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments" (YouTube)

Thomas Frank’s seven-minute video demonstrates how you can retain the most important information from long and dense reading material.

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

Take this online, interactive test from a publishing company to find out your reading level. You'll be asked a number of questions related to grammar and vocabulary.

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

ACCUPLACER is a placement test from The College Board. This 20-question practice test will help you see what information you retain after reading short passages.

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

The English Maven site has aggregated exercises and tests at various reading levels so you can quiz your reading comprehension skills.

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

ThoughtCo. recommends five tips to increase your reading comprehension ability, including reading with tools such as highlighters, and developing new vocabulary.

"How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar provides ideas for improving your reading comprehension, from expanding your vocabulary to discussing texts with friends.

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video equips you with tools to read more effectively. It will help you determine how much material you need to read, and what strategies you can use to absorb what you read.

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

From a pre-reading survey through post-reading review, Education Corner  walks you through steps to improve reading comprehension.

Methods of In-text Annotation

"The Writing Process: Annotating a Text" (Hunter College)

This article from Hunter College’s Rockowitz Writing Center outlines how to take notes on a text and provides samples of annotation.

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

This video from the SchoolHabits YouTube channel presents eleven annotation techniques you can use for better reading comprehension.

"5 Ways To Annotate Your Books" ( Book Riot )

This article from the Book Riot  blog highlights five efficient annotation methods that will save you time and protect your books from becoming cluttered with unnecessary markings.

"How Do You Annotate Your Books?" ( Epic Reads )

This post from Epic Reads highlights how different annotation methods work for different people, and showcases classic methods from sticky notes to keeping a reading notebook.

Students at every grade level can benefit from writing book reports, which sharpen critical reading skills. Here, we've aggregated sources to help you plan book report assignments and develop rubrics for written and oral book reports. You’ll also find alternative book report assessment ideas that move beyond the traditional formats.

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

These reading templates courtesy of Unique Teaching Resources make great visual aids for elementary school students writing their first book reports.

"Elementary Level Book Report Template" ( Teach Beside Me )

This   printable book report template from a teacher-turned-homeschooler is simple, classic, and effective. It asks basic questions, such as "who are the main characters?" and "how did you feel about the main characters?"

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

ABC Teach ’s resource directory includes printables for book reports on various subjects at different grade levels, such as a middle school biography book report form and a "retelling a story" elementary book report template.

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

This page from Busy Teachers’ Cafe contains book report templates alongside reading comprehension and other language arts worksheets.

Teaching Middle School and High School Students How to Write Book Reports

"How to Write a Book Report: Middle and High School Level" ( Fact Monster)

Fact Monster ’s Homework Center discusses each section of a book report, and explains how to evaluate and analyze books based on genre for students in middle and high school.

"Middle School Outline Template for Book Report" (Trinity Catholic School)

This PDF outline template breaks the book report down into manageable sections for seventh and eighth graders by asking for specific information in each paragraph.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( Classroom )

In this article for Classroom,  Elizabeth Thomas describes what content high schoolers should focus on when writing their book reports.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kori Morgan outlines techniques for adapting the book report assignment to the high school level in this post for The Pen & The Pad .

"High School Book Lists and Report Guidelines" (Highland Hall Waldorf School)

These sample report formats, grading paradigms, and tips are collected by Highland Hall Waldorf School. Attached are book lists by high school grade level.

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

This free resource from Teachers Pay Teachers allows you to edit your book report rubric to the specifications of your assignment and the grade level you teach.

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

This PDF rubric from a city school district includes directions to take the assignment long-term, with follow-up exercises through school quarters.

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

Perfect for oral book reports, this PDF rubric from North Carolina State University's Midlink Magazine  will help you evaluate your students’ spoken presentations.

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

This article from the Scholastic website lists creative alternatives to the standard book report for pre-kindergarteners through high schoolers.

"Fresh Ideas for Creative Book Reports" ( Education World )

Education World offers nearly 50 alternative book report ideas in this article, from a book report sandwich to a character trait diagram.

"A Dozen Ways to Make Amazingly Creative Book Reports" ( We Are Teachers )

This post from We Are Teachers puts the spotlight on integrating visual arts into literary study through multimedia book report ideas.

"More Ideas Than You’ll Ever Use for Book Reports" (Teachnet.com)

This list from Teachnet.com includes over 300 ideas for book report assignments, from "interviewing" a character to preparing a travel brochure to the location in which the book is set.

"Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report" (National Council of Teachers of English)

In this PDF resource from the NCTE's  English Journal,  Diana Mitchell offers assignment ideas ranging from character astrology signs to a character alphabet.

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

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How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Close up shot of student writing a book report in class. Book report example.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

  • Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
  • What positive characteristics does the character possess?
  • Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
  • Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
  • Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

  • Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
  • Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
  • Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
  • After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

Close up shot of male student writing a book report in journal. Book report example.

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

High school teacher hands back graded book reports. Book report example.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

  • The type of book report you are writing
  • The book's title
  • The author of the book
  • The time when the story takes place
  • The location where the story takes place
  • The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
  • Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
  • A thesis statement
  • The point of view of the narrator
  • Summary of the book
  • The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
  • The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
  • The writing styles of the author
  • A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

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ESL writing activities

How to Write a Book Report

Book reports in the esl class.

Asking ESL students to read a book, write a report and present it as part of a small group discussion is a good way to incorporate multiple strands of language learning into an activity. Here’s one way to structure a book report lesson.

Step 1. Introduce the Assignment

A book report lesson has several stages. Steps 1 and 2 need to be completed in class several weeks before the due date.

What will the students do?

Each student will choose a level-appropriate book. They will read it and write a 1 to 2 page report. Then they will discuss the book in a small group. In small groups, students will listen and, hopefully, ask lots of questions to learn more or clarify points.

Reading level-appropriate books is a good way to improve English language skills. It builds vocabulary and helps students learn new ideas. If students read a lot, they will learn to read faster as well.

The activities in this lesson also touch on the four strands of language learning popularized by Paul Nation:

  • Fluency development: reading an easy graded reader
  • Meaning focused input: reading a book, listening to a short presentation
  • Meaning focused output: writing a report, giving a short presentation
  • Language focused learning: memorizing parts of the book report before giving a presentation

What book should the student choose?

There are two rules.

  • The book should be interesting to the student. It should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Reading shouldn’t feel like work.
  • The book should match the student’s reading level. Don’t try to read a book that is too hard to understand.

Graded readers are usually a good choice for ESL students. They are not too long and it is easy to find a subject and level that matches the student’s interests and needs.

How to find a book that matches my level?

Graded readers usually have a number which shows their level. But, different companies have different ways to rank a book. So, it’s hard to make sense of the level just by looking at the number on the cover.

Here’s an easy solution.

Pick a book that looks interesting and open it up to a page, say page 12. Read the page. If you understand 95% of the words without a dictionary, that level is probably good for you.

Is this for a grade?

In my class, the book report assignment is 10% of the final grade. My grading system is rudimentary. Some teachers may prefer a more developed rubric.

5% – written report

  • 4-5: Good text that covers all of the book report items with reasonably good passages, evidence of proofreading
  • 3-4: Looks promising but seems rushed and incomplete, looks like it was written the night before with no editing
  • 0-2: poor effort, incomplete, less than a page, hard to understand, gibberish

5% – oral presentation and participation in group discussion

  • 4-5: speaks well, at least 2 to 4 minutes, good eye contact with others, knows the book and can speak about it without reading notes, asks thoughtful questions to other speakers
  • 3-4: basic outline of book, some reading of written text, unable to answer questions in detail, not active in discussions
  • 0-2: incomplete, no evidence the person actually read the book, short presentation, minimal participation in group discussion

Step 2. Book Report Structure

A book report will have these basic parts.

  • Introduction. Tell us the title of the book and the author’s name.
  • Summarize the characters and setting.
  • Describe the plot. This is where the action is.
  • The end. What happened?
  • What is the tone of the book? Is it funny, creepy, an adventure, or a mystery?
  • What are the book’s good and bad points?
  • What do you think? Did you like the book? Why or why not?

Are you reading a book of fiction?

  • Tell us who is telling the story. Is it first person or third person?
  • Give us some details about the main characters, plot and setting. What do the main characters want? Do they have a problem? What do they do? Don’t need to talk about every small detail, just include the most important information.

Are you reading a non-fiction book?

  • What is the writer’s main idea?
  • Don’t summarize each chapter. Just talk about the main points.

Step 3. Collect Book Names

After the lesson introduction, give students a week to find a book. Then ask students to bring the book to class. Write down each student’s name and book title. This is a small step, but a deadline helps motivate students to take action.

Be sure to set a firm deadline to complete the written book report. Three to six weeks after introducing the assignment should be sufficient for most students.

Step 4. Book Discussion Day

Break class into small groups. (e.g. 3 to 4 students per group).

In turns, each student will present his/her book report. The others listen and ask questions. Encourage students not to read from their written report (it’s too boring for the others).

As students present, the teacher moves through the room listening to the presentations.

Make notes about the quality of each student’s presentation, level preparation and participation in group discussions.

At the end of class, students hand in their written reports. One week later, hand back reports with feedback.

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How to Write a Book Report

How to Write a Book Report

5-minute read

  • 5th September 2021

A book report is an essay that summarizes the main ideas presented by the author. But how do you write a good book report? Our top tips include:

  • Check the assignment instructions so you know what you need to do.
  • Read the book , making notes as you go.
  • Plan your book report and create an essay outline .
  • Write up your report , using examples and quotes to support your points.
  • Revise and proofread your work to eliminate errors.

In the rest of this post, we look at how to write a book report in more detail.

1. Check the Assignment Instructions

Book reports come in many different types, so the first thing you should do if you’re asked to write one is check the assignment instructions carefully. Key aspects of the essay instructions to pay attention to include:

  • The required length of the book report (and any maximum word count ).
  • Whether you will be assigned a book to write about or whether you will be asked to pick one yourself (either from a list supplied by the tutor or based on a set of requirements, such as a book about a set topic).
  • What aspects of the book to write about (e.g., will it just be a summary of the book’s content, or will you also need to offer some critical analysis?).
  • Any requirements for structuring and formatting your report (e.g., whether to break the essay up into sections with headings and subheadings).

If anything about the instructions is unclear, check it with your tutor.

2. Read the Book and Make Notes

Next, you’ll need to read the book you’re writing about in full, not just skim through or read a synopsis! This means you’ll need to leave enough time before the deadline to read the text thoroughly (and write up your report).

When you are reading, moreover, make sure to take notes on:

  • Basic bibliographic details, including the title, author name(s), year of publication, publisher, and number of pages.
  • How the book is structured (e.g., whether it uses chapters).
  • The overall plot or argument, plus key ideas and/or plot points from each part.
  • For works of fiction, important characters and themes.
  • Significant quotations or examples you might want to use in your report.

Where possible, make sure to note down page numbers as well. This will make it easier to find the relevant parts again when you’re reviewing your notes.

3. Outline Your Book Report

How you structure your report will ultimately depend on the length (e.g., a short, 500-word report is unlikely to use separate sections and headings, while a longer one will need these to help break up the text and guide the reader) and the assignment instructions, so make sure to review these carefully.

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However, common elements of a book report include:

  • An introductory paragraph or section with basic book details (e.g., the title, author(s), genre, publisher, publication date, and intended audience).
  • Information about the author’s background and, where relevant, credentials.
  • An overview of the book’s plot (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or its main idea (other non-fiction), sometimes with a section-by-section breakdown.
  • Information on characters, setting, and themes (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or key ideas and concepts set out by the author (other non-fiction).
  • Where required, critical analysis or evaluation of the book.

When planning your book report, then, use your notes and the assignment instructions to outline your essay, breaking it down into clearly defined sections and noting what you will include in each one.

4. Write Up Your Book Report

When it comes to writing up your report, helpful tips include:

  • Imagine the reader will be unfamiliar with the book and try to ensure your report covers all the information they’d need to know what it is about.
  • Use clear, concise language to make your report easy to follow. Look out for wordiness and repetition, and don’t be tempted to pad out your report with irrelevant details just to increase the word count!
  • Use examples and quotations to support your points (but don’t rely too heavily on quotations; keep in mind that the report should be in your own words).
  • Follow the formatting instructions set out in your style guide or the assignment instructions (e.g., for fonts, margins, and presenting quotations).

If you use quotations in your report, moreover, make sure to include page numbers! This will help the reader find the passages you’ve quoted.

5. Revise and Proofread Your Work

When you have the first draft of your book report, if you have time, take a short break (e.g., overnight) before re-reading it. This will help you view it objectively. Then, when you do re-read it, look out for ways you could improve it, such as:

  • Typos and other errors that need correcting.
  • Issues with clarity or places where the writing could be more concise (reading your work aloud can make it easier to spot clunky sentences).
  • Passages that would benefit from being supported with a quote or example.

It’s also a good idea to re-read the assignment instructions one last time before submitting your work, which will help you spot any issues you missed.

Finally, if you’d like some extra help checking your writing, you can have it proofread by a professional . Submit a free sample document today to find out more.

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How to Write a Book Report in English – The Best Step by Step Guide

For most college students, writing a book report is not an easy job. It always scares them when students are asked to write a book report as an assignment. Because it requires them to concentrate for long enough and think deeply and analytically about what they have read in the book. But you do not need to worry because if you follow a proper step-by-step guide, you will soon learn how to write a book report easily.

What is a Book Report?

A book report is a certain kind of assignment that students are asked to write after reading a book. It is a piece of writing that summarizes any book and tells about the theme, characters, plot, and background of the book briefly. So, you can write a book report for both fiction or a non-fiction book. Besides, there are several ways you can present the information which totally depends upon your personal choice.

Moreover, writing a book report is helpful in improving student’s reading skills and their analytical skills. Besides, they can also learn how to present their point of view while writing a book report.

Book Report vs Book Review

Even though a book report and book review may sound the same, they are very different pieces of writing. A book review is more of an in-depth analysis of a book than a book report. So, book reports are usually less detailed. The important differences between a book report and a book review are:

  • A book report is usually 200 to 250 words long while a book review could be 1000+ words long. Besides, the length of a book review depends upon the difficulty of the literature of the book.
  • A book report is usually an assignment for lower academic level students such as K-12. On the other hand, a book review is usually assigned to college students.
  • A book report features the book’s main details such as the theme, the key characters, and plot. But a book review has more details such as the writer’s personal opinions too.
  • However, the format and the structure of both of them do not differ a lot. They both include the setting, the plot, the author, main characters, publication, theme, and genre.

How to Write a Book Report

Now that you know what a book report is and what are the differences between a book review and a report, you are good to start learning how to write a book report. So, follow the steps below to learn how to write a book report.

Step 1: Read Carefully and Take Notes

The first thing you do is select a book you want to write a report on. In most cases, the teacher assigns the book to you. Otherwise, choose a book that interests you. Next, start reading the book carefully, highlight key ideas and take notes. You can note down all the important points, ideas, and quotes on a piece of paper. This will be very helpful once you start writing your book report.

Moreover, writing down important quotes and points will make your book report more vivid. Besides, this will also help you share your point of view easily and in a better way.

Step 2: Create an Outline

Creating an outline is extremely important for writing an impressive book report. And it helps you to stay organized while writing your book report. Thus, after you have read your book and taken notes, you are ready to start writing your book report. But first, you should create the outline. An easy and simple outline for a book report is given below.

  • Introductory paragraph
  • Character details
  • Plot details
  • Conclusion and personal evaluation

Step 3: Write Your Book Report

Once you have successfully read your book, took notes, and created an outline, you should start making the first draft of your book report. Meanwhile writing concentrate on the points and notes that you have taken. Besides, it is okay if you make spelling mistakes or there are any syntax errors.

Introductory Paragraph

The first paragraph of a book report includes all the basic information such as the book title, the author name, the genre, the publication, the year it was published, and much more. This paragraph is also essential as it can help you to build the interest of the reader. Therefore, try to include any interesting or unusual facts about the book or the author if there are any. For instance, the reader would want to know if the book was a bestseller or if the writer has any specialty in the subject.

Moreover, you can also add your personal view about why you chose to read this particular book because book reports are personal too.

What is the Book about?

Next, it is time to tell the reader that you have read the book and have been able to understand it well enough. In the body of your book report, you will explain whatever you have read in the book but briefly. This is where your notes will be most helpful. Because they will give you a roadmap as to what to include and what is essential to include in the book report. The body of a boo report includes:

  • character details
  • plot details

You begin writing the body of a book report by giving an overview of the book. It includes the plot of the story, setting, time period, and the main character of the book. Besides, you also tell your reader the tone of the story in the summary; whether it is an adventure, science fiction, or thriller.

Character Details

Next, you should tell your reader who are the characters of the book and what issues or problems they have faced in the story. And you can also describe the characters by telling your reader their main strengths and weaknesses you have learned while reading the book.

Plot Details

Meanwhile writing your plot details, do not write everything. You just need to include plots and events that are essential to mention. Otherwise, a background to the story would also be enough. So, focus on the main events that take place in the story. Moreover, do not forget to explain the literary devices as well.

Conclusion and Personal Evaluation

The last paragraph is quite fun to write. Because it is where you include your personal views and thoughts. Here you can add your personal critic including the strengths and weaknesses of the book. Moreover, you can also detail such as what are your takeaways from the book, did the book provoke any certain emotions in you (in the case of fiction), and much more.

Step 4: Finally, Review and Edit

Lastly, this is where you refine your draft. Reread and check your book report for errors and gaps that you need to fill. You can check if you have correctly quoted the quotes or if the details are correct or not. You can also ask your friends to help you in this process. They can read your draft and give their feedback. So, that you can fill the gaps in your draft before you hand in your book report to your teacher.

You may also want to read:

  • How to Write a Film Treatment in English- The Best Step by Step Guide
  • 10 Best Assignment Writing Tools to Boost Your Grades
  • How to Write a Perfect Screenplay – Step by Step Screenwriting Guide
  • Best Online Homework Help Websites for Students in 2021
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book report englisch oberstufe

Writing Beginner

13 Free Book Report Templates (Easy Copy & Paste)

Book reports are an essential part of the educational process, helping students develop critical thinking and writing skills.

To make this task easier, we’ve created 13 unique and highly useful book report templates that you can download or copy and paste. Each template is designed to cater to different needs and situations, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your assignment.

Template 1: Basic Summary Book Report

A creative bulletin board filled with pinned book report templates, sketches, and notes -- Book Report Templates

Table of Contents

Introduction This template is perfect for beginners or younger students who need to summarize the key elements of a book.

Title : Author : Genre : Publication Date :

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the book’s main events. Focus on the beginning, middle, and end.

Main Characters : List the main characters and provide a short description of each.

Themes : Identify the central themes of the book.

Personal Opinion : Share your thoughts about the book. What did you like or dislike?

Conclusion : Summarize your overall impressions of the book.

Template 2: Character Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template is designed for a deeper dive into the characters of a book, ideal for middle school and high school students.

Character Overview : List the main characters.

Character Analysis :

  • Description :
  • Role in the Story :
  • Development :
  • Personal Thoughts :

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot focusing on how it relates to the character analysis.

Themes : Discuss how the themes are reflected through the characters.

Conclusion : Wrap up your analysis with your final thoughts on the characters and their roles.

Template 3: Theme Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template focuses on analyzing the themes of a book, suitable for high school and university students.

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot.

Themes Analysis :

  • Examples from the Book :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters contribute to these themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how these themes impacted you.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and final thoughts.

Template 4: Comparative Book Report

Introduction Perfect for advanced students, this template compares two books, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Book 1 Title : Book 1 Author : Book 2 Title : Book 2 Author :

Plot Summary :

  • Summary of main events.

Characters Comparison :

  • Book 1 Description:
  • Book 2 Description:

Themes Comparison :

Personal Reflection : Discuss your thoughts on the similarities and differences.

Conclusion : Summarize your comparative analysis and final thoughts.

Template 5: Plot Analysis Book Report

Introduction Focuses on analyzing the plot structure, ideal for detailed plot discussions.

Plot Overview : Brief summary of the main plot.

Plot Analysis :

  • Exposition :
  • Rising Action :
  • Falling Action :
  • Resolution :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters influence the plot.

Themes : Identify the main themes revealed through the plot.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and overall thoughts.

Template 6: Symbolism Book Report

Introduction Designed for analyzing symbols within the book, this template is perfect for high school and college students.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the book’s plot.

Symbolism Analysis :

  • Significance in the Story :

Themes : Discuss how the symbols relate to the themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on the symbolism and its impact on your understanding of the book.

Template 7: Creative Book Report

Introduction Encourages creativity by allowing students to express their understanding in unique ways.

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the plot.

Creative Expression : Choose one of the following:

  • Write a diary entry from a character’s perspective.
  • Create a comic strip summarizing the story.
  • Design a new book cover with a summary.

Character Insights : Discuss your creative choices and what they reveal about the characters.

Themes : Identify the main themes expressed through your creative work.

Conclusion : Reflect on your creative process and overall understanding of the book.

Template 8: Historical Context Book Report

Introduction Focuses on the historical context of the book, ideal for historical fiction or non-fiction.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the plot.

Historical Context :

  • Time Period :
  • Key Historical Events :
  • Impact on the Story :

Character Analysis : Discuss how historical context influences the characters.

Themes : Identify themes related to the historical setting.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how understanding the history enhanced your reading experience.

Conclusion : Summarize your insights and overall thoughts.

Template 9: Genre Analysis Book Report

Introduction Analyzes the book within the context of its genre, perfect for exploring genre-specific elements.

Genre Characteristics :

  • Typical Elements of the Genre :
  • How the Book Fits or Deviates :

Character Analysis : Discuss how the characters embody genre traits.

Themes : Identify genre-specific themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on your understanding of the genre through the book.

Conclusion : Summarize your genre analysis and final thoughts.

Template 10: Book Report for a Movie Adaptation

Introduction Compares the book to its movie adaptation, great for understanding different media interpretations.

Book Title : Author : Movie Title : Director : Release Date :

Character Comparison :

  • Book Description:
  • Movie Description:

Themes Comparison : Discuss how themes are presented differently in the book and movie.

Personal Reflection : Share your thoughts on the adaptation. Which did you prefer and why?

Conclusion : Summarize your comparison and final thoughts.

Mad-Libs Style Book Report Templates

Mad-Libs style templates can make writing a book report fun and easy, guiding you through each step while allowing room for your personal touch.

Here are three templates to help you create a comprehensive and original book report.

Mad-Libs Style Template 1: Basic Summary Report

Title : __________ Author : __________ Genre : __________ Publication Date : __________

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is about __________ (main character) who lives in __________ (setting). The story begins when __________ (main event). As the plot progresses, __________ (main character) encounters __________ (challenge or conflict). In the end, __________ (resolution).

Main Characters :

  • [Main Character] : __________ (description of character)
  • [Supporting Character] : __________ (description of character)
  • [Antagonist] : __________ (description of character)

Themes : The central themes of [Title] are __________ (theme 1) and __________ (theme 2). These themes are illustrated through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Opinion : I thought [Title] was __________ (adjective). My favorite part was __________ (favorite part) because __________ (reason). I would/would not recommend this book because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In summary, [Title] is a book about __________ (brief summary of themes and story). Overall, it left me feeling __________ (emotion).

Mad-Libs Style Template 2: Character Analysis Report

Plot Summary : In the book [Title] , the story revolves around __________ (main character) who __________ (brief plot overview). The plot thickens when __________ (major event), leading to __________ (consequences).

  • Description : __________ (physical and personality traits)
  • Role in the Story : __________ (main character’s role)
  • Development : __________ (how the character changes)
  • Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (main character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).
  • Role in the Story : __________ (supporting character’s role)
  • Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (supporting character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).

Themes : One of the main themes in [Title] is __________ (theme). This is shown through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Reflection : My favorite character was __________ (character) because __________ (reason). This book made me think about __________ (personal reflection).

Conclusion : The book [Title] offers deep insights into __________ (theme) and __________ (theme). It is a great read for anyone interested in __________ (topic).

Mad-Libs Style Template 3: Theme Analysis Report

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is set in __________ (setting) and follows __________ (main character) as they __________ (brief plot overview). The story takes a turn when __________ (major event).

  • Description : One of the central themes is __________ (theme). This theme is evident when __________ (example from the book).
  • Significance : This theme is important because __________ (reason).
  • Description : Another significant theme is __________ (theme). It is portrayed through __________ (example from the book).
  • Significance : This theme matters because __________ (reason).

Character Involvement : The characters help develop these themes, especially __________ (main character) who __________ (character’s actions related to the theme).

Personal Reflection : Reading [Title] made me realize __________ (personal insight). The theme of __________ (theme) particularly resonated with me because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In conclusion, [Title] explores themes of __________ (theme) and __________ (theme) through its characters and plot. This book is __________ (adjective) and leaves a lasting impression because __________ (reason).

50 Best Words to Use in a Book Report

  • Protagonist
  • Development
  • Perspective
  • Foreshadowing
  • Juxtaposition
  • Interpretation

50 Best Phrases to Use in a Book Report

  • “The protagonist of the story is…”
  • “The central conflict revolves around…”
  • “The theme of the novel is…”
  • “This character’s development is evident when…”
  • “The author uses symbolism to…”
  • “A significant motif in the book is…”
  • “From the perspective of the narrator…”
  • “The plot takes a turn when…”
  • “The resolution of the story is…”
  • “The climax of the novel occurs when…”
  • “Foreshadowing is used to hint at…”
  • “The setting plays a crucial role in…”
  • “Dialogue between characters reveals…”
  • “The tone of the book is established by…”
  • “The mood created by the author is…”
  • “This work can be seen as an allegory for…”
  • “In the context of the story…”
  • “Juxtaposition of these elements highlights…”
  • “Through flashbacks, we learn…”
  • “The character’s motivation is driven by…”
  • “An archetype presented in the book is…”
  • “The synopsis provides an overview of…”
  • “The depiction of this scene is…”
  • “Intrigue is built through…”
  • “Readers empathize with the character because…”
  • “The integrity of the character is shown by…”
  • “The complexity of the plot is revealed in…”
  • “Transitions between scenes are marked by…”
  • “The conclusion of the story leaves readers…”
  • “Evocative language is used to…”
  • “The ambiguity of the ending suggests…”
  • “This interpretation of the text shows…”
  • “Realism is portrayed through…”
  • “The narrative structure includes…”
  • “Exposition in the story provides…”
  • “My reaction to the book is…”
  • “The evaluation of this work suggests…”
  • “Insightful commentary is provided by…”
  • “Emphasis is placed on…”
  • “A critical point in the book is…”
  • “The reflection on these themes shows…”
  • “Character interactions demonstrate…”
  • “A pivotal moment in the story is when…”
  • “The author’s use of metaphor illustrates…”
  • “Irony is present in the scene where…”
  • “The vivid imagery captures…”
  • “The tone shifts when…”
  • “Mood changes are evident in…”
  • “This allegory reflects…”
  • “Overall, the book emphasizes…”

Now that you have your book report templates, watch this video to learn the basics of how to write your book report:

Final Thoughts: Book Report Templates

Book reports don’t have to be boring or difficult. With these templates, you’re all set to tackle any book report assignment with ease and creativity. Download, customize, and impress!

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IMAGES

  1. Book Report in English 8

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  2. English Book Report

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  3. Fit für die Oberstufe

    book report englisch oberstufe

  4. Book Report English Worksheet Template

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  5. SOLUTION: English book report sheet

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  6. Book Report Eng 6 Final

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VIDEO

  1. Wie du 10 Jahre deines Lebens rettest 📵(Bildschirmzeit reduzieren)

  2. E-Book PLUS

  3. How to write a Report for the Cambridge B2 First (FCE) exam

  4. DAS ist das BESTE Bizarroraum Team!

  5. Book Report With a Twist

  6. 5. Manually marked activities in the gradebook on Oxford English Hub

COMMENTS

  1. PDF HvB "How to" Reader for English in the Oberstufe Introduction

    a) Stick to the point and do not waffle (schwafeln). b) Do not "pad out" (auspolstern) your answers e.g. by repeating yourself. c) Avoid long and/or complex sentences. Unknown words: If you do not know a word and cannot paraphrase it, write down the German word in quotation marks (e.g.

  2. How to Write a Book Report

    Personal impressions - Your thoughts and opinions about the book. Your likes and dislikes regarding the ending. For Non-fiction: Author's topic - What the author is writing about. Main points - What the main thesis of book is. - Make a short summary of the author's main points. Arguments - The arguments the author uses to prove his ...

  3. 3 Writing a summary

    English, in the form of mediation. This means you are expected to • sum up the key arguments of a text. • outline the main aspects in a condensed form, omitting details and examples. • summarise a German text in English (mediation) Grammar focus If you want to write a good summary, you will have to know the correct use of … • conjunctions

  4. How to Write a Book Report, With Examples

    When writing a book report, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, avoid repetition by adding a new perspective about the book. Second, be concise and keep your analysis focused on the content your readers are looking for. Third, support your claims and positions with insights from the book and provide evidence for your arguments.

  5. Book review schreiben: Aufbau, Leitfragen und Übungen

    Teste dein Wissen! Übung 1. Übung 2. Übung 3. Übung 4. Bitte die richtigen Aussagen auswählen. Eine book review muss möglichst objektiv, also sachlich, geschrieben werden. Eine book review ist eine persönliche Beurteilung und darf daher subjektiv geschrieben werden.

  6. Writing a Book Report in Seven Steps

    3. Organize your notes and create an outline. Gather your notes and arrange them into categories. Once you've completed this, write an outline and organize the categories to become the paragraphs of your book report. Jot down bullet points on what each paragraph will include and what part of the book can support it.

  7. How to Write a Book Report

    The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

  8. PDF from the perspective of a literary character

    Lernen in der gymnasialen Oberstufe im Fach Englisch - Text production Writing a diary entry from the perspective of a literary character 1 Criteria for writing a diary entry If you are asked to write a diary entry from the perspective of a literary character, you should reflect on an issue which is important to this character.

  9. How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example)

    2. Identify the main elements of the book. Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report. 3. Formulate a thesis statement. Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book.

  10. book report Oberstufe AHS

    book report Oberstufe AHS Beschreibung: book report für 7. oder 8. klasse AHS, Schüler sollen sich selbständig mit Texten auseinandersetzen, Vorgaben für Inhalt des book report Es stehen vier verschiedene Romane zur Auswahl.

  11. ESL Writing Activities: Book Reports

    Be sure to set a firm deadline to complete the written book report. Three to six weeks after introducing the assignment should be sufficient for most students. Step 4. Book Discussion Day. Break class into small groups. (e.g. 3 to 4 students per group). In turns, each student will present his/her book report.

  12. PDF Themenfelder für den Aufgabenpool Englisch des IQB für die ...

    Das Lehrwerk Green Line Oberstufe (Ausgabe ab 2021, ISBN: 978-3-12-550004-4) greift die Themenbereiche wie folgt auf. Themenfelder 2024 bis 2029 Inhalte in Green Line Oberstufe 2021 (sofern keine Seitenzahlen angegeben sind, behandelt die gesamte Topic das Thema) Den Lesetexten des Aufgabenpools zugrunde liegende Themenbereiche für die Jahre

  13. How to Write a Book Report (Guide, Examples & Templates)

    Steps: Title and Author: Include the book's title and the author's name. Plot Summary: Provide a detailed summary with major plot points. Character Analysis: Discuss the main and secondary characters, their development, and relationships. Theme Analysis: Identify and explore the main themes with examples from the text.

  14. How to Write a Book Report

    2. Read the Book and Make Notes. Next, you'll need to read the book you're writing about in full, not just skim through or read a synopsis! This means you'll need to leave enough time before the deadline to read the text thoroughly (and write up your report). When you are reading, moreover, make sure to take notes on:

  15. How to Write the Perfect Book Report (4 easy steps)

    Step 2. Once you have finished reading the book and have taken thorough notes, it is time to start organizing your thoughts. Create an outline to structure your report like the one in the example above. Make sure you over all the necessary components.

  16. How to Write a Book Report in English

    Step 1: Read Carefully and Take Notes. The first thing you do is select a book you want to write a report on. In most cases, the teacher assigns the book to you. Otherwise, choose a book that interests you. Next, start reading the book carefully, highlight key ideas and take notes.

  17. book report Oberstufe AHS

    book report für 7. oder 8. klasse AHS, Schüler sollen sich selbständig mit Texten auseinandersetzen, Vorgaben für Inhalt des book report Es stehen vier verschiedene Romane zur Auswahl. 5 Seiten, zur Verfügung gestellt von alex25 am 16.02.2006 , geändert am 14.10.2009

  18. PDF Krista Foss: 'The Longitude of Okay'

    78 RAAbits Englisch Februar 2014 V „The Longitude of Okay" (ab Klasse 10) Einzelmaterial 189 S 1 Krista Foss: „The Longitude of Okay" - Eine kanadische Short Story zum Thema „School Shootings" (ab Klasse 10) Dr. Rainer H. Berthelmann, Halle M 1 Krista Foss: The Longitude of Okay The tone sounds and Katrin turns to the class.

  19. PDF Global English and Globalization

    Vocab work: Use a bilingual dictionary and look up the following words: Wohlstand, Investitionen, Arbeitsteilung, Anreize, Ausweitung, Zustrom, Entwicklungsländer. Choose five more words that you think have something to do with globalisation and that you ́d like to know. Look them up.

  20. How to write a report

    Dieses Material enthält eine Checkliste zum Verfassen eines Reports mit Useful Phrases im Englischunterricht. Kunden, die diesen Artikel gekauft haben, kauften auch: 7 Seiten. how to write a report. creative cat. 1,75 €. 6 Seiten. Writing-Workshop: How to write a report in Englisch. englishlove.

  21. 13 Free Book Report Templates (Easy Copy & Paste)

    Book reports are an essential part of the educational process, helping students develop critical thinking and writing skills. To make this task easier, we've created 13 unique and highly useful book report templates that you can download or copy and paste. Each template is designed to cater to different needs and situations, ensuring that you […]

  22. Book Report: How To Write A Book Report/ Review

    If your students are writing their report on a non-fiction book, the main body of the report should include a description of the topic and a summary of the author's opinions and arguments. Rather than reporting on every argument or point raised in the text, students should pick the main points they wish to cover.

  23. book report englisch oberstufe Archives

    Homepage / book report englisch oberstufe. Tag: book report englisch oberstufe. Book Report Template 3rd Grade. By Marissa Posted on April 3, 2018 July 16, 2019. We are going to tell a lot of parts in imitation of regards to Book Report Template 3rd Grade which […] Search for: Categories. Banner Templates;