Subject: Reading and Writing Skills
Book Review
Garrido, Josh Lawrence
Gulmatico, Gaius Lucas Mrs. Anne Janette P. Huelar
Kilayko, Samantha Beatrix Facilitator
Lam, Christine Joyce
Discussants, Group 4
STEM - A
WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW? - They are often assigned at the K–12
level.
- A critical assessment of a book - Instead of analyzing or evaluating,
(content, style, plot, quality, a book report simply retells the
etc.). story and provides a straightforward
- Goes beyond summary, it includes account of what happens.
evaluation and judgment.
- Offers readers a sneak peek without
revealing spoilers.
- Usually 500–700 words, but can be FOUR STAGES OF WRITING A BOOK REVIEW
shorter or longer.
Stage 1: Before You Read
BOOK REVIEW VS. BOOK REPORT
a. Author
Book Review
- Know who the author is.
- A book review requires significant - Research the author’s background,
intellectual effort. education, and experiences.
- It analyzes and evaluates the book - Identify other works written by the
in detail. author.
- The reviewer examines the contents, - Understand the author’s purpose or
understands the plot, grasps the reason for writing the book.
main message, identifies strengths - Consider how the author’s
and weaknesses, and shares personal background may influence the content
opinions. of the book.
- Reviews are usually longer, ranging
from about 250 to 1,000 words or b. Title
more.
- They are often considered college- - Analyze the meaning of the title.
level assignments. - Predict what the book might be
about.
Book Report - Think about how the title relates to
the theme or message.
- A book report is simpler. - After reading, check if the title
- It mainly summarizes the plot, truly reflects the story.
characters, and major themes of a
book. c. Genre
- Reports are shorter, usually between
200 and 250 words. - Identify the type of book (fiction
or nonfiction).
- Fiction is based on imagination and
creative storytelling.
- Nonfiction is based on real facts - Identify the central message or
and information. lesson.
- Knowing the genre helps you - Think about what the author wants
understand the author’s purpose and readers to learn or realize.
writing style.
e. Style
d. Preface and Introduction
- Examine how the author uses
- Read the preface to understand why language.
the book was written. - Notice the tone (serious, humorous,
- Look for background information formal, etc.).
about the topic. - Observe sentence structure and word
- Identify the author’s goals and choice.
main ideas.
e. Table of Contents
Stage 3: Writing the Review
- Examine how the book is organized.
- Identify the main chapters or - Start with a short summary of the
sections. book.
- Understand the structure and flow of - Include title, author, publisher,
topics. publication date.
- Avoid spoilers.
- Focus on main characters or themes.
- Share likes and dislikes.
Stage 2: As You Read - Conclude with a recommendation.
a. Characters
- Identify the main and supporting Stage 4: Revising
characters.
- Observe their traits, roles, and - Wait at least a day before revising.
development. - Check grammar, spelling,
- Notice how they contribute to the punctuation.
story. - Ensure unity, organization, and
logical flow.
b. Setting - Remove repetitions.
- Clarify main points.
- Determine where and when the story
takes place.
- Understand how the setting affects
the events.
c. Plot
- Follow the sequence of events.
- Identify the beginning, rising
action, climax, falling action, and
resolution.
- Observe how conflicts are introduced
and solved.
d. Theme