Book Review / Report

What is the difference between a book review and a book report?

book review is a descriptive and critical/evaluative account of a book. It provides a summary of the content, assesses the value of the book, and recommends it (or not) to other potential readers.

book report is an objective summary of the main ideas and arguments that the book's author has presented. The purpose of the report is to give enough information to help decide whether the book will be of use or interest to any potential readers.

Why develop this skill?

Instructors often assign book reviews/reports as practice in careful analytical reading which reinforces how to make connections between texts or ideas and encourages you to go beyond memorization of facts by encouraging critical thinking skills.  As a reviewer, you bring together the two strands of accurate, analytical reading and strong, personal response when you indicate what the book is about and what it might mean to a reader (by explaining what it meant to you). This is a life skill that can help you any time you need to make a choice, whether it’s purchasing a new car, shopping for insurance, or even choosing a home.  

Research & citation assistance

Research assignments can be difficult to begin, especially if you are not sure how to get started.  The resources below are intended to help you with the research and writing process, but there is more help available. 

Book a session with a TSTC librarian to get one-on-one assistance.

Visit our FAQ and tutorials for after hours assistance.

Writing Guides

Citation Guides

Research assignments can be difficult to begin, especially if you are not sure how to get started.  The resources below are intended to help you with the research and writing process, but there is more help available. 

Book a session with a TSTC librarian to get one-on-one assistance.

Visit our FAQ and tutorials for after hours assistance.

Pre-Writing

Writing

Citation