How to Write a Book Review

The Power of Constructive Criticism: Why Your Opinion Matters

Writing a book review is a powerful skill for any writer, not only because it helps you engage with the literary world but also because it sharpens your analytical and writing skills. Whether you’re reviewing a newly released bestseller or a classic piece of literature, knowing how to write a book review that is both insightful and well-balanced can establish your credibility as a reader and a writer. But how do you go about it? What should you focus on? And how can you make your review stand out? Let’s look at some essential steps in writing a compelling book review, covering everything from what to include, how to critique effectively, to where your review can find its audience!

What Makes a Good Book Review?

A well-rounded book review offers more than just a basic summary of the plot. It’s about providing an informed critique that both praises and critiques the book in a balanced way, giving readers enough information to decide whether or not the book is worth their time. Let’s break down the essential components to help outline how to write a good book review.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

One of the first things readers expect from a book review is a summary of the book. However, this shouldn’t be a detailed recounting of every event. Instead, provide just enough of the plot to give readers context about the book’s genre, setting, and main conflict.

In a review of The Great Gatsby, you might say: “Set in 1920s New York, The Great Gatsby tells the story of Nick Carraway, who becomes entangled in the enigmatic life of his neighbor, Jay Gatsby, whose wealth and mysterious past drive him to pursue an unattainable dream.”

Avoid spoilers, especially if the book has a major plot twist or reveal!

Evaluation of the Writing Style

The writing style is a crucial part of a book review. How well does the author use language? Are the descriptions vivid, and is the dialogue realistic? Is the writing elegant or concise, or does it leave the reader disengaged?

A detailed assessment of the writing gives readers insight into whether they will enjoy the author’s style.

In a review of To Kill a Mockingbird, you might say: “Harper Lee’s prose is both simple and poetic, capturing the nuances of small-town life while delving deeply into complex social issues with remarkable sensitivity.”

Character Development and Themes

No book review is complete without discussing the characters and their development over the course of the story. What makes the characters relatable or compelling? Are their motivations clear, and do they evolve in meaningful ways throughout the narrative?

In addition to characters, explore the themes of the book. What larger messages or questions does the book address? Does it leave you with something to ponder after the last page?

In reviewing 1984 by George Orwell, you might say: “Winston Smith’s journey from a disillusioned member of a totalitarian regime to an individual fighting for autonomy serves as a chilling exploration of the power of surveillance and state control.”

Strengths and Weaknesses

A balanced book review highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of the work. Praise what works well—whether it’s the pacing, character complexity, or a particularly clever twist. Similarly, critique what didn’t resonate or felt lacking. Perhaps the pacing dragged, or the plot wasn’t as cohesive as it could have been.

This honest critique allows readers to make an informed decision.

You could say: “While the plot of The Da Vinci Code is intricately woven and suspenseful, some of the historical and religious liberties taken might feel jarring for more serious readers of historical fiction.”

Conclusion and Recommendation

At the end of your review, provide a clear recommendation. Would you recommend the book? Why or why not? This is your chance to wrap up your thoughts and give the reader an overall sense of your stance on the book.

A recommendation might look like: “For fans of dystopian literature and sharp social commentary, The Handmaid’s Tale is a must-read. Atwood’s exploration of gender, power, and religion remains timely and thought-provoking.”

Disclosures to Include in Your Book Review

When writing a book review, it’s important to be transparent with your audience, especially when it comes to possible conflicts of interest. Here are a few disclosures you should consider and how you might write them into your book review:

1. Were You Provided the Book for Free?

If you were given a free copy of the book (whether by the author, publisher, or another party) in exchange for an honest review, it’s important to disclose this. This is especially true if the book was gifted as part of a marketing or promotion strategy. Transparency helps maintain your credibility as a reviewer.

“Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.”

2. Do You Have Any Personal Connections to the Author?

If you have a personal relationship with the author, this should be mentioned in your review. For instance, if you are friends, collaborators, or fellow writers, disclosing this will help ensure your objectivity is clear to your readers.

“Disclosure: I am friends with the author, but this review reflects my honest opinions.”

3. Affiliations or Sponsored Content

If your review is part of a sponsored campaign or you’re part of an affiliate program that could lead to you earning a commission if readers purchase the book, disclose that information clearly. Being transparent about sponsorship helps to maintain the trust of your audience.

Where Should You Post Your Book Review?

Once you’ve written your review, the next step is determining where to share it. There are numerous platforms where book reviews are welcomed, each with its own audience and reach.

Goodreads

Goodreads is a natural place for book reviews. The site has a large community of avid readers, and reviews often spark discussions. If you have a profile with followers, your review can get significant attention here.

Amazon

For authors, posting a review on Amazon is crucial since it’s one of the most visited online marketplaces for books. Be sure to follow Amazon’s guidelines and avoid any overly promotional language.

Book Blogs

Many writers and readers follow book blogs for in-depth reviews and recommendations. If you run your blog, this is a great place to showcase your reviews. Alternatively, guest posting on well-established book blogs can expose your reviews to a larger audience.

Social Media (Instagram, Twitter, YouTube)

Shorter reviews can be shared on social media platforms like Instagram or Twitter, where readers often look for quick recommendations. Platforms like YouTube are also great for video reviews, giving you an opportunity to engage with your audience through facial expression and tone.

How Can Writing Book Reviews Improve Your Writing?

Writing book reviews can benefit you in more ways than just helping you build a reputation as a reviewer. It’s a valuable exercise that improves your skills as a writer and a reader! By breaking down the strengths and weaknesses of a book, you’re practicing how to analyze structure, pacing, character development, and thematic exploration—skills that are transferable to your own writing.

Writing Book Reviews: A Valuable Skill

Writing a book review isn’t just about offering praise or criticism—it’s about analyzing the book in a way that provides useful feedback for readers. By summarizing the plot, evaluating the writing style, discussing the themes, and pointing out both strengths and weaknesses, you create a balanced review that serves as a useful resource for your audience. Remember to always disclose any relevant information, such as receiving a free copy of the book or any personal connections to the author. Finally, share your review across platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, or your personal blog to ensure it reaches the right readers.

Writing reviews can also improve your own writing by teaching you how to break down complex ideas, spot patterns, and refine your understanding of what makes a good story. With time and practice, you’ll develop a strong voice as a reviewer, and your critical analysis will help you grow both as a writer and as a reader!

Erin K. Larson-Burnett, Production Manager at Atmosphere Press (submit your manuscript here!), is a born-and-raised Southerner currently living in Katy, Texas, with her husband and their small domestic zoo. She is an avid ink drinker who lives and breathes books—during the day, she works remotely with authors around the world, honing and perfecting books published through Atmosphere Press. By night, she crafts her own stories…or at least tries to. The Bear & the Rose is her debut novel.