🌟Writing a book review

How to Write a Book Review

Want your review read? Try some of these tips:

  • Finish the book!: It seems obvious, but you want to have a complete picture of the story before writing your review.

  • Let it simmer: Give yourself a little time after finishing the book to let your thoughts settle. Sometimes your initial feelings can change over a day or two.

  • Proofread: Nothing ruins a great review like typos and mistakes.

  • A little personality: Don't be afraid to let your own voice shine through. Did the book make you laugh? Say that!

How should I structure my book review?

1: The Hook

Grab the reader's attention with a strong opening:

  • A thought-provoking question. ("Would you save someone who destroyed your life?")

  • A relatable statement about the book. ("We've all felt like an outsider at some point...")

  • A short impactful quote from the book itself.

2: No-Spoiler Summary

Briefly describe what the book's about without giving away major plot points. Focus on the book's setting, genre, main character, and the central problem they're facing.

3: Your Honest Reaction

This is the heart of the review! Did you love it? Why?

  • Focus on specifics: Don't just say "The characters were great." Why were they great? Did they feel real? Were they funny? Complex?

  • It's okay to be critical: If you didn't like something, explain why. BUT if you're going to rate the book less than 3 stars, choose a different book to review!

  • Use examples: A quick quote from the book can back up what you're saying.

4: Who Would Like This Book?

Consider:

  • Fans of specific authors or genres. ("If you liked The Hunger Games, you'll probably enjoy this…")

  • Particular year groups

  • People with a particular interest

  • Readers looking for a particular mood. ("Perfect for a cozy weekend read.")

Here's an example (remove the section headings in your version):

Spy School by Stuart Gibbs

  1. Hook: Imagine if your clumsy, totally normal life suddenly turned into a James Bond movie. That's Ben Ripley's reality in the Spy School series!

  2. No-Spoiler Summary: Ben's an average kid until he's mistaken for a genius and thrown into a secret CIA academy. There's gadgets, villains, action-packed missions, and a whole lot of Ben just trying to keep up.

  3. Honest Reaction: These books are total popcorn fun - fast, hilarious, and impossible to put down. Ben's the perfect underdog hero, always getting into ridiculous situations. Plus, there are just enough twists to keep you guessing.

  4. Who Would Like This Book?: If you love action movies, a side of awkward humor, and stories where the stakes are ridiculously high, Spy School is for you.

You don't have to follow the above structure! Another good option is a listicle review; e.g. "5 Reasons Why I Loved This Book".

When your review is finished, follow the instructions below to add the review to Destiny Discover.

Add your Book Review to Destiny Discover

1. Login

2. Sign in with Google

3. Find the book you want to review and click 'View More Details'

4. Add your Review and give it a Star Rating

5. Send me a message to fast-track your review's approval

Last updated