book review for middle school students

How to Write a Book Review: The Ultimate Guide

WHAT IS A BOOK REVIEW?

Traditionally, book reviews are evaluations of a recently published book in any genre. Usually, around the 500 to 700-word mark, they briefly describe a text’s main elements while appraising the work’s strengths and weaknesses. Published book reviews can appear in newspapers, magazines, and academic journals. They provide the reader with an overview of the book itself and indicate whether or not the reviewer would recommend the book to the reader.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A BOOK REVIEW?

There was a time when book reviews were a regular appearance in every quality newspaper and many periodicals. They were essential elements in whether or not a book would sell well. A review from a heavyweight critic could often be the deciding factor in whether a book became a bestseller or a damp squib. In the last few decades, however, the book review’s influence has waned considerably, with many potential book buyers preferring to consult customer reviews on Amazon, or sites like Goodreads, before buying. As a result, book review’s appearance in newspapers, journals, and digital media has become less frequent.

WHY BOTHER TEACHING STUDENTS TO WRITE BOOK REVIEWS AT ALL?

Even in the heyday of the book review’s influence, few students who learned the craft of writing a book review became literary critics! The real value of crafting a well-written book review for a student does not lie in their ability to impact book sales. Understanding how to produce a well-written book review helps students to:

●     Engage critically with a text

●     Critically evaluate a text

●     Respond personally to a range of different writing genres

●     Improve their own reading, writing, and thinking skills.

Not to Be Confused with a Book Report!

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOOK REVIEW AND A BOOK REPORT?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are clear differences in both the purpose and the format of the two genres. Generally speaking, book reports aim to give a more detailed outline of what occurs in a book. A book report on a work of fiction will tend to give a comprehensive account of the characters, major plot lines, and themes in the book. Book reports are usually written around the K-12 age range, while book reviews tend not to be undertaken by those at the younger end of this age range due to the need for the higher-level critical skills required in writing them. At their highest expression, book reviews are written at the college level and by professional critics.

Learn how to write a book review step by step with our complete guide for students and teachers by familiarizing yourself with the structure and features.

BOOK REVIEW STRUCTURE

ANALYZE Evaluate the book with a critical mind.

THOROUGHNESS The whole is greater than the sum of all its parts. Review the book as a WHOLE.

COMPARE Where appropriate compare to similar texts and genres.

THUMBS UP OR DOWN? You are going to have to inevitably recommend or reject this book to potential readers.

BE CONSISTENT Take a stance and stick with it throughout your review.

FEATURES OF A BOOK REVIEW

PAST TENSE You are writing about a book you have already read.

EMOTIVE LANGUAGE Whatever your stance or opinion be passionate about it. Your audience will thank you for it.

VOICE Both active and passive voice are used in recounts.

A COMPLETE UNIT ON REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TEXTS

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This collection of  21 INDEPENDENT TASKS  and  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS  takes students beyond the hype, special effects and trailers to look at visual literacy from several perspectives offering DEEP LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES by watching a  SERIES, DOCUMENTARY, FILM, and even  VIDEO GAMES.

ELEMENTS OF A BOOK REVIEW

As with any of the writing genres we teach our students, a book review can be helpfully explained in terms of criteria. While there is much to the ‘art’ of writing, there is also, thankfully, a lot of the nuts and bolts that can be listed too. Have students consider the following elements before writing:

●     Title: Often, the title of the book review will correspond to the title of the text itself, but there may also be some examination of the title’s relevance. How does it fit into the purpose of the work as a whole? Does it convey a message or reveal larger themes explored within the work?

●     Author: Within the book review, there may be some discussion of who the author is and what they have written before, especially if it relates to the current work being reviewed. There may be some mention of the author’s style and what they are best known for. If the author has received any awards or prizes, this may also be mentioned within the body of the review.

●     Genre: A book review will identify the genre that the book belongs to, whether fiction or nonfiction, poetry, romance, science-fiction, history etc. The genre will likely tie in, too with who the intended audience for the book is and what the overall purpose of the work is.

●     Book Jacket / Cover: Often, a book’s cover will contain artwork that is worthy of comment. It may contain interesting details related to the text that contribute to, or detract from, the work as a whole.

●     Structure: The book’s structure will often be heavily informed by its genre. Have students examine how the book is organized before writing their review. Does it contain a preface from a guest editor, for example? Is it written in sections or chapters? Does it have a table of contents, index, glossary etc.? While all these details may not make it into the review itself, looking at how the book is structured may reveal some interesting aspects.

●     Publisher and Price: A book review will usually contain details of who publishes the book and its cost. A review will often provide details of where the book is available too.

BOOK REVIEW KEY ELEMENTS

As students read and engage with the work they will review, they will develop a sense of the shape their review will take. This will begin with the summary. Encourage students to take notes during the reading of the work that will help them in writing the summary that will form an essential part of their review. Aspects of the book they may wish to take notes on in a work of fiction may include:

●     Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their motivations? Are they convincingly drawn? Or are they empathetic characters?

●     Themes: What are the main themes of the work? Are there recurring motifs in the work? Is the exploration of the themes deep or surface only?

●     Style: What are the key aspects of the writer’s style? How does it fit into the wider literary world?

●     Plot: What is the story’s main catalyst? What happens in the rising action? What are the story’s subplots? 

A book review will generally begin with a short summary of the work itself. However, it is important not to give too much away, remind students – no spoilers, please! For nonfiction works, this may be a summary of the main arguments of the work, again, without giving too much detail away. In a work of fiction, a book review will often summarise up to the rising action of the piece without going beyond to reveal too much!

The summary should also provide some orientation for the reader. Given the nature of the purpose of a review, it is important that students’ consider their intended audience in the writing of their review. Readers will most likely not have read the book in question and will require some orientation. This is often achieved through introductions to the main characters, themes, primary arguments etc. This will help the reader to gauge whether or not the book is of interest to them.

Once your student has summarized the work, it is time to ‘review’ in earnest. At this point, the student should begin to detail their own opinion of the book. To do this well they should:

i. Make It Personal

Often when teaching essay writing we will talk to our students about the importance of climbing up and down the ladder of abstraction. Just as it is helpful to explore large, more abstract concepts in an essay by bringing it down to Earth, in a book review, it is important that students can relate the characters, themes, ideas etc to their own lives.

Book reviews are meant to be subjective. They are opinion pieces, and opinions grow out of our experiences of life. Encourage students to link the work they are writing about to their own personal life within the body of the review. By making this personal connection to the work, students contextualize their opinions for the readers and help them to understand whether the book will be of interest to them or not in the process.

ii. Make It Universal

Just as it is important to climb down the ladder of abstraction to show how the work relates to individual life, it is important to climb upwards on the ladder too. Students should endeavor to show how the ideas explored in the book relate to the wider world. The may be in the form of the universality of the underlying themes in a work of fiction or, for example, the international implications for arguments expressed in a work of nonfiction.

iii. Support Opinions with Evidence

A book review is a subjective piece of writing by its very nature. However, just because it is subjective does not mean that opinions do not need to be justified. Make sure students understand how to back up their opinions with various forms of evidence, for example, quotations, statistics, and the use of primary and secondary sources.

EDIT AND REVISE YOUR BOOK REVIEW

As with any writing genre, encourage students to polish things up with review and revision at the end. Encourage them to proofread and check for accurate spelling throughout, with particular attention to the author’s name, character names, publisher etc. 

It is good practice too for students to double-check their use of evidence. Are statements supported? Are the statistics used correctly? Are the quotations from the text accurate? Mistakes such as these uncorrected can do great damage to the value of a book review as they can undermine the reader’s confidence in the writer’s judgement.

The discipline of writing book reviews offers students opportunities to develop their writing skills and exercise their critical faculties. Book reviews can be valuable standalone activities or serve as a part of a series of activities engaging with a central text. They can also serve as an effective springboard into later discussion work based on the ideas and issues explored in a particular book. Though the book review does not hold the sway it once did in the mind’s of the reading public, it still serves as an effective teaching tool in our classrooms today.

Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

BOOK REVIEW GRAPHIC ORGANIZER (TEMPLATE)

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Book and Movie review writing examples (Student Writing Samples)

Below are a collection of student writing samples of book reviews.  Click on the image to enlarge and explore them in greater detail.  Please take a moment to both read the movie or book review in detail but also the teacher and student guides which highlight some of the key elements of writing a text review

Please understand these student writing samples are not intended to be perfect examples for each age or grade level but a piece of writing for students and teachers to explore together to critically analyze to improve student writing skills and deepen their understanding of book review writing.

We would recommend reading the example either a year above and below, as well as the grade you are currently working with to gain a broader appreciation of this text type .

BOOK REVIEW VIDEO TUTORIALS

OTHER GREAT ARTICLES RELATED TO BOOK REVIEWS

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How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay

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Keeping your students engaged in reading in the midst of a busy school year is no easy feat. Enter: Our reading list of the best new books for students in the middle grades. What’s more, we’ve provided free resources and discussion guides to further engage students in what they’re reading. 

The Best Middle Grade Books and Discussion Guides

Use these free discussion guides to facilitate meaningful conversation, inspire curiosity, and spark engagement with your middle grade readers — each one is centered on a middle grade book and provides opportunities for young readers to reflect on the story. These discussion guides will also help deepen  your students’ understanding of the plot and build upon their reading comprehension skills . 

For instance, the Show Me a Sign Trilogy by Ann Clare LeZotte shares three unique stories that center the Deaf experience. These gripping and touching titles will enrich students' understanding of the history and culture of Deaf and Hard of Hearing, disabled, and marginalized youth. 

Spark further conversation in your classroom with this Ann Clare LeZotte discussion guide , which includes discussion questions and extension activities for each of the three books in the trilogy: Show Me a Sign , Set Me Free , and Sail Me Away Home . 

Sample question for Show Me a Sign :  When we first meet Mary, she is using her “birch stick to poke at curious things on the ground, like the tunnels made by moles.” (p. 5) What does this immediately tell us about her personality? How do Mary's actions throughout the story tell us about her character?

Additionally,  Wildoak is a compelling story about an unlikely friendship between a young girl and a snow leopard. This middle grade novel explores intricate connections between humans and the natural world, and raises themes of friendship, self confidence , and resilience. Follow along as these two become best friends. This title is a Kids’ Indie Next List pick and  Kirkus Reviews ’ most anticipated book. 

Download the Wildoak  teaching guide for discussion questions, research topics and prompts, and other activities to support your students’ understanding of the book.

Sample question for Wildoak :  What year does Wildoak take place, and where? What do you know about that place and that time period? What can you learn about that time and place from trusted sources? What about that time and place do you think is significant to the story? 

Meanwhile, Attack of the Black Rectangles is about a sixth grade student’s fight against censorship at school. This must-read book tackles complex topics — from navigating family and friend dynamics to speaking up for what’s right — and delves into the growing awareness of Banned Books Week and the intellectual freedom of readers everywhere. 

Use this Attack of the Black Rectangles teaching guide to engage your students. It includes discussion questions and other activities and resources to spark discussion about the important themes raised in the novel. 

Sample question for Attack of the Black Rectangles :  What is censorship? Should some books be restricted? How can young people learn to make responsible book choices for themselves? How do the characters in Attack of the Black Rectangles make book choices for themselves?

Lastly, readers from the third grade to seventh grade year will be captivated by The Secret Battle of Evan Pao , which has received multiple star reviews from the New York Times , Publishers Weekly , and more. This touching story follows the journey of Evan Pao as he learns to navigate a new school, a new life, and new friends after his father left the family. Being the only Chinese American in his class, Evan struggles to fit in and find a sense of belonging. 

Take a look at   the discussion guide for The Secret Battle of Evan Pao  for resources to teach your students about bullying , community , conflict resolution, and other issues that affect them as they grow into young adulthood. 

Shop the best middle grade books below! Find your graphic novel, science fiction read, and more books and activities at The Teacher Store .

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Best of 2021: Our Favorite Middle-Grade Books

BY Laura Simeon • Dec. 5, 2021

The following titles—representing different genres, subjects, and formats and aimed at readers across the entire middle-grade developmental spectrum—are ideal jumping-off points for celebrating a year of exceptional publishing for young readers. You’ll find our complete list of 100 Best Middle-Grade Books of 2021 here .

These first two books reflect children’s natural affinity for the outdoors. In Crossing the Stream by Elizabeth-Irene Baitie (Norton Young Readers, June 8), Ato, a Ghanaian boy, and his best friends grow vegetables with nontoxic pesticides, trying to win a contest that grants the rare opportunity to visit the bird sanctuary established by Ato’s late father. Thoughtful, sensitive Ato’s passion for the wild grounds him when relationships with people are confusing. The graphic novel Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear written and translated by Trang Nguyen and illustrated by Jeet Zdung (Dial Books, Sept. 14) was inspired by the author’s childhood in Vietnam and her fierce determination to become a wildlife conservationist. It follows the reintroduction into the wild of an orphaned sun bear, incorporating environmental facts into a dramatic storyline.

The best historical works tread a fine line, making the past accessible to contemporary readers while providing fascinating insights into cultural differences. While dealing with utterly dissimilar subject matter, the following three books have in common vivid writing and memorable characterization. Shackleton’s Endurance : An Antarctic Survival Story by Joanna Grochowicz, illustrated by Sarah Lippett (A and U Children/Trafalgar, Oct. 1), is an immersive nonfiction account of the famously grueling expedition. The atomic bomb’s intergenerational legacy of human suffering is the subject of the tragically beautiful novel Soul Lanterns by Shaw Kuzki, translated by Emily Balistrieri (Delacorte, March 16), set in 1970 Hiroshima. English and German families alike confront the dislocation of World War II with love, hope, courage, and great humanity in The Swallows’ Flight by Hilary McKay (McElderry, Oct. 19), companion to her 2018 novel, Love to Everyone .

The enduring appeal of escaping into fantasy worlds needs no explanation—especially not this year. The graphic novel ¡¡Manu!! , written and illustrated by Kelly Fernández (Graphix/Scholastic, Nov. 2), is a vibrant story set in a convent school in fictional Santa Dominga where a girl struggles as her good intentions go awry, her lively spirit doesn’t always want to obey, and magic proves hard to control. Series opener Strangeworlds Travel Agency by L.D. Lapinski (Aladdin, May 25) brings all the charm of bygone classics into a thoroughly modern, witty adventure. Flick finds starting over in the new town her family moves to much more interesting after she stumbles into a travel agency that transports its clients through multiverses. The Troubled Girls of Dragomir Academy by Anne Ursu (Walden Pond Press/HarperCollins, Oct. 12) is a grand, sweeping fantasy set in a world where boys are privileged and girls who challenge the status quo are subject to repressive reeducation; nevertheless, young Marya asks difficult questions and seeks real answers.

Packing huge emotional impact into an economical word count, poetry is a natural fit for young readers. We Belong by Cookie Hiponia (Dial Books, March 30) combines Pilipino cosmology with a mother’s immigration story as she spins magical, stirring tales for her daughters. “We are mothers and sisters and daughters. / We are friends and family. / We are singers of stories. // We belong.” (Read our interview with Hiponia .) The exquisite, gut-wrenching Niños: Poems for the Lost Children of Chile by María José Ferrada, illustrated by María Elena Valdez and translated by Lawrence Schimel (Eerdmans, March 23), imagines the voices of the youngest victims of brutal Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. In “Hugo” Ferrada writes, “He will be a poet. / And he’ll create a poem that rhymes / with the clap-clap of the soles of his sneakers / in the puddles.”

Laura Simeon is a young readers’ editor.

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25 of the Best Middle School Books for Today’s Readers

Chelsea Hensley

After receiving her BA in English from the University of Missouri, Chelsea Hensley realized she had no idea what she was doing with her life. So she decided to call herself a writer and is just rolling with it. She's read Pride and Prejudice , and watched the Keira Knightley adaptation, so many times that she often gets them confused. In addition to reading and writing, she enjoys taking selfies, watching Netflix, and everything Beyonce does. Blog: The Chelsea Review Twitter: ChelseaBigBang

View All posts by Chelsea Hensley

Middle grade is a rapidly growing and always evolving age category, and it continues to become broader. As the world changes rapidly for today’s young readers, the best middle school books are keeping pace. Read on for 25 of the best middle school books for today’s readers, ranging in topics from friendship and sisterhood to immigration, xenophobia, and racism, and as always, just figuring yourself, and the world, out.

The Best Middle School Books

Amal unbound by aisha saeed.

Amal lives a quiet life in her Pakistani village, hoping to become a teacher one day, but after an encounter with her village’s landlord, she’s sent to work off her family’s debt as a servant in his household.  As Amal becomes more aware of the danger the family poses and crimes they’ve committed to maintain their station, she realizes she’ll have to ally with others if she wants to escape not only her servitude but the tyrannical rule of the landlord and one day achieve her dreams.

Clean Getaway by Nic Stone (January 7, 2020)

In  Dear Martin author Nic Stone’s middle grade debut, Scoob Lamar (he’s black) heads on a road trip with his grandmother (she’s white), joining her in her attempt to finish the road trip she started with the grandfather Scoob never met. On their trip, Scoob begins to learn more about his grandparents’ past, their interracial relationship, the ways the world has changed, and the ways it has not. But as they go, Scoob begins to think his grandmother, who’s never been known for her “normalcy,” is acting even stranger than usual.

Blended by Sharon Draper

Isabella is biracial—her mother is white, her father is black—and she’s spent her life answering questions about who she is. It’s worse now that her parents are divorced and she’s shuffling between their homes—and their lives—all the time. Now she has to not only navigate switching homes but also switching nicknames and identities, making it harder than ever to figure out who she is.

Dear Sweet Pea by Julie Murphy

When her parents got divorced, Sweet Pea wasn’t sure what to expect, but she didn’t expect them to move onto the same street. Besides adjusting to switching houses, she also must adjust to the loss of her best friend, Keira, only made bearable by her new friend Oscar. When Sweet Pea’s neighbor, famous local advice columnist Flora Mae, goes on a trip and asks Sweet Pea to forward her letters for her column, Sweet Pea recognizes the handwriting in one of the letters and finds herself in trouble as she decides what to do with it.

Front Desk by Kelly Yang

After immigrating to the United States, Mia Tang and her family struggled for years before finding work at the Calivista Motel, working for the exploitative Mr. Yao. Despite their cruel boss, the Tangs tackle the challenges of the motel with determination and kindness, aspiring writer Mia running the front desk while her parents service the rooms. And it’s not only guests Mia and her family are taking care of but also other immigrants in a worse position than they are, who they hide in the empty rooms without Mr. Yao knowing.

A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramee

In the spirit of The Hate U Give , 7th grader Shayla has always followed the rules. She prefers to keep her head down and not make waves, but after her first protest experience, alongside her older sister, Shayla realizes there are some rules worth breaking and starts wearing a black armband to show her support to Black Lives Matter.

Hurricane Child by Kacen Callender

A child born during a hurricane is said to be unlucky, and 12-year-old Caroline has had plenty of bad luck already. Everyone at her school hates her, she can see things no one else can, and her mother has abandoned her. Caroline’s luck begins to turn when she meets new student Kalinda. She also seems to have visions no one else does, and she becomes Caroline’s only friend—and her first crush. Now Caroline has to find a way to brave her feelings for Kalinda, a spirit haunting her island, and a hurricane, so she can find her mother and face the reason she left her.

In the Role of Brie Hutchens by Nicole Melleby (April 21, 2020)

Brie’s big plans for 8th grade at her Catholic school are: convincing her parents to enroll her in a performing arts high school and landing the lead role in the school play. Her plans do not include her mom catching her looking at some probably inappropriate photos of her favorite actress. When Brie panics and announces that she’s been chosen to crown Mary in the May Crowning ceremony, she successfully distracts her mother. But she hasn’t actually been chosen, and she’s got no chance of it either, so she turns to the classmate who everyone thinks will actually be chosen, the same classmate who Brie has a crush on.

Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring Blake

After a tornado tears through their home, Ivy and her family are displaced. And more than coping with the storm’s aftermath, Ivy’s notebook of secret drawings (some of girls holding hands) has also gone missing. But then her drawings start to reappear, encouraging her to open up about her identity, and Ivy begins to hope that the person giving them back is a classmate she’s developed a crush on.

Lalani of the Distant Sea by Erin Entrada Kelly

Twelve-year-old Lalani lives on the island of Sangalita, bordered on one side by a mountain that could bury her island at any moment and by a fog that swallows up anyone who enters it. On her island, Lalani knows where her future lies: in mending, just like the other women, living in fear of contracting the deadly mender’s disease, contracted from the needles used to mend fishing nets. When Lalani’s mother falls ill, Lalani leaves her mother, her island, and her best friend to embark on a journey that not even grown men have returned home from.

The Line Tender by Kate Allen

When a great white shark is captured in the bay, Lucy’s quiet summer begins to take a turn. Lucy’s mother, a shark biologist, died of a brain aneurysm when Lucy was seven, and it’s just been Lucy and her dad, a police diver, ever since. When a fisherman reels in a great white in the bay, Lucy’s quiet summer working on a field guide with her best friend takes a turn, bringing up feelings of grief for Lucy again. When tragedy strikes again, Lucy has to find a way to cope again by delving into her mom’s research.

Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

In this new book from Jason Reynolds, kids walk back home from school. Each of the ten stories covers a different journey home, with the kids in each of them facing their own unique challenges. Like the kid who’s afraid of dogs and plotting a way to avoid one on his route home, or the girl with sickle-cell disease who’s been out of school for awhile.

Louisiana’s Way Home by Kate DiCamillo

Picking up with  Raymie Nightingale ‘s Louisiana Elefante, this story finds Louisiana being spirited away on another of her granny’s whims. Though Louisiana at first thinks this might just be like her granny’s other spontaneous ideas, she soon realizes her granny doesn’t mean for either of them to come back. Leaving behind her friends Raymie and Beverly, Louisiana ends up in a small town in Georgia, trying to find a way back home.

Meg, Beth, Jo and Amy: A Modern Retelling of Little Women by Rey Tercerio and Bre Indigo

In this modern graphic novel adaptation of Little Women , the March family is a blended one struggling to make ends meet in Brooklyn. With their dad serving overseas, the sisters all have to work overtime to make ends meet, and their challenges—from boy troubles to school problems to just sorting out who they are—can only be solved if the sisters lean on each other.

More to the Story by Hena Khan

If you want more Little Women , Hena Khan, author of  Amina’s Voice , has a new story inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s original, about a family of four Muslim American girls growing up in Georgia. Jameela’s excited to get a job writing for the school paper, but less excited when she realizes the editor-in-chief keeps shooting down all her ideas. When her dad has to take a job overseas, Jameela decides to write an article that will make him proud, but her little sister’s illness throws Jameela off her axis.

New Kid by Jerry Craft

Though Jordan wants nothing more than to go to art school where he can perfect his cartoon drawings, his parents have other ideas. Instead, Jordan’s sent to an upscale prep school where he’s one of only a few kids of color. Struggling to fit in with his new classmates, and to maintain his friendships with his neighborhood friends, Jordan must find a way to remain true to himself as he straddles the line between two worlds.

The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani

In 1947, a newly-independent India has been separated into two countries: Pakistan and India, and tensions are rising between Hindus and Muslims. When 12-year-old Nisha’s father decides they must leave their homeland, Nisha and her family begin a long and difficult journey. As Nisha struggles with leaving behind her home, she writes to the mother she lost as a baby in her diary.

Other Words For Home by Jasmine Warga

When things in her home country of Syria become too dangerous, Jude and her mother come to the United States. As Jude adjusts to life in America, she also has to adjust to find herself again in a new place, especially when some of the people don’t seem to like that she’s there.

The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson

One summer, Candice finds a letter in the attic. It’s addressed to her grandmother, who left their town of Lambert, South Carolina, in shame. Candice isn’t sure she should read it. But when she does, the letter describes a mysterious young woman, a decades-old injustice, a mysterious letter-writer, and a fortune awaiting the person who can decipher the letter and solve its clues. With the help of Brandon, the quiet boy across the street, Candice gets to work, and their investigation leads them deep into Lambert’s forgotten history.

Pie in the Sky by Remy Lai

Written in a hybrid style similar to Diary of a Wimpy Kid , Pie in the Sky follows Jingwen, new to America and embarking on a secret baking enterprise with his younger brother. Though their mom says they can’t turn the oven on when she isn’t there, Jingwen is determined to bring to life all the cakes his dad put on the menu of his dream bakery, Pie in the Sky, before he unexpectedly died.

Stargazing by Jen Wang

When the quirky and imaginative Moon moves next door, Christine doesn’t expect the two of them to become friends, especially not best friends. But it happens, despite some bumps in the road, and Moon even confides in Christine a secret: that she sees celestial beings who tell her that Earth isn’t really where she belongs.

To Night Owl from Dogfish by Holly Goldberg Sloan and Meg Wolitzer

Told through emails and letters, this modern epistolary story follows Bett and Avery, who live across the country from one another. They’ve got nothing in common except both are being raised by their single, gay dads. When their dads fall in love, Bett and Avery are sent to the same sleep-away camp in the hopes that they’ll click and become friends (and one day, maybe sisters).

Queen of the Sea by Dylan Meconis

Margaret’s been the only child on the island for as long as she can remember. When another child finally arrives, it’s not long before they’re sent away, and Margaret is alone again—until Eleanor arrives. And it’s not long before Margaret realizes Eleanor isn’t just anyone but Eleanor of Albion, whose sister has seized the throne and banished Eleanor to languish on the island. As Eleanor and Margaret become friends, Margaret begins to unravel the island’s true purpose and her own history and must decide between helping her new friend or helping herself.

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

Since her mom and sisters died five years ago, Coyote and her dad have crisscrossed the country in a school bus. But when Coyote learns that the park where she, her mother, and sisters buried a beloved memory box is soon to be demolished, she hatches a plan to get her dad to return to their home state…without him realizing it.

A Wolf Called Wander by Rosanne Parry

After a raid leaves him separated from his family, wolf cub Swift has to find his own way alone, battling danger and starvation the whole way. Partially based on OR-7, a lone wolf in Oregon whose 100-mile journey was tracked by naturalists, it also includes thorough back matter on wolves.

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Book Review Writing Examples

Examples: learn from the efforts of others.

Learning how to write strong reviews takes time and not a little effort. Reading the reviews others have done can help you get a feel for the flow and flavor of reviews.

If I Never Forever Endeavor Review by Hayden, age 4, Southeast Michigan Mensa

This book was about a bird who didn't yet know how to fly.

The bird has to decide if it will try to fly, but it was not sure if it wants to. The bird thought, "If I never forever endeavor" then I won't ever learn. On one wing, he worries he might fail and on the other wing he thinks of how he may succeed. He worries that if he tries, he may get lost in the world. That makes him want to stay in his nest where he's safe.

I think this book would help other children to learn that trying new things can be scary, but sometimes when we try, we can find things that make us happy too. And this book will help others know that mistakes are okay and part of learning.

My favorite part is that the bird tried and learned that she could fly. I also liked that I read this book because it gave me a chance to talk to mom about making mistakes and how I don't like making them. Then I learned they are good and part of learning.

Boys and girls who are 3 to 8 years old would like this book because it teaches about trying a new thing and how it's important to get past being scared so you can learn new things.

I give the book 5 stars since I think it's important for other children to learn about courage.

Flesh & Blood So Cheap Review by Umar B., age 8, Central New Jersy Mensa

I liked this book. People who are interested in national disasters and US history as well as immigration will most probably be interested in reading this book.

Readers can gain knowledge of what it was like to work in New York City in the early 1900s. One of the things that was especially interesting was that there were no safety laws at work. Also, there was a big contrast between the rich and the poor. Some people may not like this book because it is very depressing, but it is an important event in history to remember.

This book was very well written. It has black and white photos along with descriptions of the photos. These photos give us a better idea of what people's lives were like. This book is suitable for 9-20 year olds.

I give this book 5 stars.

Galaxy Zach: Journey to Juno Review by Young Mensan Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

Journey To Juno is the second book of the Galaxy Zack series. It is just as good as the first one. It's awesome!

Zack joins the Sprockets Academy Explorers Club at school. They fly on a special trip to Juno, a new planet no one has ever visited. Zack gets paired up with Seth, the class bully, and that's dreadful but Zack is excited when he finds a huge galaxy gemmite. A gemmite that large had not been found in 100 years! Kids will love this book!

Boys and girls will both like it. It's an easy chapter book with pictures on every page. I love the illustrations. I think ages 6-8 would like this but younger kids would like the story being read to them.

My favorite parts are the galactic blast game (it is similar to baseball except there are robots playing), recess at Zack's school where everything is 3-D holographic images, the rainbow river in a crystal cave on Juno, and the galaxy gemmite that Zack finds on Juno. I also loved when a life-size holographic image of his Earth friend appears in Zack's room because he calls him on a hyperphone. I give this book one hundred stars! There is a "to be continued" at the end so you have to read the next book see what's in store. I can't wait to find out what happens!!!

I Capture the Castle Review by Lauren W., age 17, Mensa in Georgia

Dodie Smith's novel I Capture the Castle is a journey through the mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle her daily life. Seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and she decides to work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those around her.

Cassandra lives in a fourteenth-century English castle with an interesting cast of characters: her beautiful older sister, Rose; her rather unsociable author father and his second wife, artist-model Topaz; Stephen, the garden boy; a cat and a bull terrier; and sometimes her brother Thomas when he is home from school. One fateful day they make the acquaintance of the Cotton family, including the two sons, and a web of tangled relationships ensues.

While I definitely recommend this book to other readers, I would recommend it to older teenagers, mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that younger teens could also read it, but most of the characters are adults or on the verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Cassandra's sometimes subtle humor.

Over the course of the novel, Cassandra undergoes a definite transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the course of several months. I love that I could see into her mindset and read exactly what she was feeling when she thought out situations. Her thoughts flowed well and moved the book along very quickly.

Cassandra's narrative voice is wonderful. She is serious at times, but also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account. Her emotions and the dialogue are so genuine, and they are spot-on for a seventeen-year-old girl in her situation.

Cassandra has many wonderful insights on life, on topics ranging from writing to faith to matters of the heart. I personally have had some of the same thoughts as Cassandra, except Ms. Smith was able to put them into words.

Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books. Dodie Smith is an exceptional writer, and I Capture the Castle is a book that will never become obsolete.

Frankenstein's Cat Review by Zander H., age 12, Mid-America Mensa

I appreciated Frankenstein's Cat for its fascinating explanation about the often baffling subject of bioengineering and its sister sciences. Emily Anthes explains the many sides of today's modern technology, such as gene modification, cloning, pharmaceutical products (from the farm), prosthesis, animal tag and tracking and gene cryogenics. This book provides a well-rounded summary of these complicated sciences without being boring or simply factual. Her real world examples take us on a journey from the farm, to the pet store and then from the pharmacy to the frozen arc.

Have you ever wondered if the neighborhood cat is spying on you? Read about Operation Acoustic Kitty and find out if this feline fantasy fiction or fact. Do you think bugs are creepy? What about a zombified cyborg beetle? Is Fido so special that you want two of him? Money can buy you an almost exact copy of your pooch BUT don't expect the same personality. Emily Anthes makes you crave more information. She makes you want to know the future of Earth's flora and fauna, as well as humanity itself.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who desires a guide to the future of biological science and technology. Frankenstein's Cat is best read by the light of a glow-in-the-dark fish, while cuddling your favorite cloned dog and drinking a glass of genetically modified milk.

About Marsupials Review by Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

About Marsupials is the title so the book is about...marsupials, of course. It's non-fiction. I really think everyone would like the book. I think someone who likes animals would especially like to read it.

The glossary of facts in the back of About Marsupials is the most useful part. I thought the most interesting parts were that some marsupials have their pouch at their back legs and one marsupial, the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, is very small but can jump 13 feet wide!

Kids in the 4-8 age range would like this book. Even though it's not a story book, 4 year olds would like the few words on each page and they would love the beautiful pictures. But older kids would like it because of all the facts in the back of the book. There's a lot of information for each animal. I think boys and girls (and parents) would enjoy reading it. This book is very interesting. I give it 4 stars.

Mapping the World Review by Umar A., age 10, Central New Jersey Mensa

Every day, people around the world use maps. Whether it is an airplane pilot or businessman, housewife or museum group, maps have always and will continue to provide useful information for all.

Mapping the World talks about the uses of maps, as well as how to differentiate between the type of map projection and type of map.

In this series, we travel to the past and learn about historical mapmakers, from Claudius Ptolemy (who stated the idea that the Earth is at the center of the universe) to Gerardus Mercator (who created one of the most widely used map projections) and more. This series goes into tremendous detail on the cartographer's life and maps. We then journey to the present era to learn about map projections and the diverse types of maps used today. You might ask, "What is the difference between the two? They sound the same to me." No map projection is perfect, because you cannot really flatten a sphere into a rectangle. An uncolored projection could be used in many ways. We could use it for population concentration, highways, land elevation, and so many other things!

For example, we could make a topographic map of the U.S., which shows land elevation. We could make it a colorful map that shows the amount of pollution in different areas, or it could be a population map, or it could even be a map that shows the 50 states, their capitals and borders! Our last step in this amazing excursion is the near future, where we see some hypothetical solutions as to what maps will be used for. Currently, we are working on better virtual map technology.

Now, scientists have been able to put maps on phones. Back in the early 1900s, people had to lug a lot of maps around to find your way from place to place, or just keep asking for directions. Now, all the information is on a phone or global positioning system (GPS). It is amazing how much maps have changed technology and the world in this century.

The Mapping the World 8-book set goes into amazing levels of detail. It is a long read, but it gives an immense range and amount of information that you would not find in any other book or series on maps. The flowing way the chapters and books are organized makes it easy to link passages from different books in this series together. Mapping the World is a treasure box, filled with the seeds of cartography. Collect and plant them, and you soon will have the fruits of cartography, beneficial to those who want to be cartographers. Use this series to the utmost, then the fruits of mapping will be sweet for all who endeavor to succeed in cartography.

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.

30 Best Books For Middle School Boys & Girls (Ages 11, 12, & 13)

Finding books for middle school kids can be tough . Other influences fight for their attention. Plus, how do you know what books they’ll love?

This article will help! You’ll find the best books for 11, 12, and 13 year olds. These are popular page-turners even if your child doesn’t like reading .

Reading Specialist Recommendations!

This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no cost to you. See our disclaimer for more.

In a hurry? Our top 3 favorites: The Lightning Thief , The Girl Who Drank the Moon , The Hobbit

Most Popular Middle School Books

Let’s start with award-winning and bestseller books for ages 10-13. Your middle schooler won’t be able to put them down!

1. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

*Editor’s Inspirational Pick & New York Times BESTSELLER

Meet Auggie. He is an ordinary boy with an unusual face. His personality inspires an entire community to discuss what kindness, empathy, and compassion mean in practice.

See Wonder here >>

2. Refugee by Alan Gratz

*Teacher’s Pick

This action-packed novel follows three different kids seeking refuge.

• Josef is a Jewish boy boarding a ship out of 1930s Nazi Germany.
• Isabel is a Cuban girl who gets on a raft to escape 1994 Cuba.
• Mahmoud is a Syrian boy in 2015 beginning a long trek.

What ties these three stories together? Find out in Refugee .

3. Ghost by Jason Reynolds

*A National Book Award Finalist for Young People’s Literature

Ghost (Castle Cranshaw) has been running all his life. From running for his life when he was a small boy to joining an elite middle school track team.

He has the talent to be the best sprinter in the city. But will he be able to stay on track? Read this book to find out .

4. Counting by 7’s by Holly Goldberg

* New York Times Bestseller

When 12-year-old genius Willow Chance suffers the tragic loss of her parents, she pushes through her grief and feelings to discover the true meaning of family.

See Counting by 7s here >>

5. The Crossover by Kwame Alexander

*Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winning book

12-year old Josh Bell and his twin brother Jordan are a dynamic duo on the basketball court. But when trouble starts to brew in their family, they will have to grow up on and off the court.

Find The Crossover here .

6. Restart by Gordon Korman

* New York Times Best Seller

After an accident, Chase wakes up with no memory of his previous life.

Faced with the reality of starting over, Chase has to figure out who he was and who he is going to be.

7. The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1

*#1 Best Seller: Action and Adventure Fantasy

12-year-old Percy Jackson is always in trouble. Unfortunately, his biggest troubles are just starting!

Now, he has to bring peace to Mount Olympus and find Zeus’s lightning bolt. All while facing a host of enemies trying to stop him. Will he succeed?

Read The Lightning Thief to find out!

Pro Tip: Many of these middle school books have been made into movies . Read the book, then watch the movie!

Fantasy Books to Read for Middle School

My kids LOVE fantasy adventure books. And it has been hard to separate them from the books and book series on this list!

8. Eragon: Inheritance, Book 1 by Christopher Paolini

* New York Times bestselling series

What would happen if you discovered a stone that hatches a dragon?

In this book, 15-year old Eragon will soon find out. His life will go from being simple to dangerously magical.

See Eragon here >>

9. Seraphina by Rachel Hartman: Book 1 (Ages 12+)

Seraphina is half-dragon and lives in a world where humans and dragons coexist.

She works to protect the secret of her true identity. But one day, she is flung into a crime investigation that may cost her everything.

10. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

* Newbery Medal Winner

In this fantasy story, the forest witch Xan accidentally feeds a baby moonlight instead of starlight on the way to deliver her to a family.

The baby is filled with magic, and so the witch raises her as her own. But as Luna’s magic begins to emerge near her thirteenth birthday, danger approaches with it.

See The Girl Who Drank the Moon here >>

11. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoneix, Book 5 by J.K. Rowling

*Middle school students will love the 5th book of this beloved series !

As Harry starts his 5th year at Hogwarts, tensions rise in the government of the magical world. Trust is hard to find.

Harry will lean on his friends to find the strength to face the threats upon them all.

Check it out here >>

12. Amari and the Night Brothers, Book 1 by B.B. Alston

*New York Times Bestseller

Amari is certain her missing brother is still alive. In fact, she’s uncovered a secret magical organization that could be the key to finding him.

Will Amari be able to compete in this threatening new world to find her brother?

Read Amari and the Night Brothers to find out!

13. The Alchemyst: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel Book Series

Nicholas Flamel died in 1418…unless he has the secret to eternal life? When this power gets into the wrong hands, it could destroy everything.

Magic, mystery, and the timeless struggle of good versus evil make this book series a must-read.

Start with book 1 here >>

14. Artemis Fowl, Book 1 by Eoin Colfer (Middle School Book Series)

* New York Times best-selling author

12-year-old Artemis Fowl is a criminal mastermind who has discovered a dangerous below-ground world.

When he gets tangled up with fairies, will he cause a larger problem than he can handle? Find out in the first book in the series.

15. Furthermore, Book 1 by Tahereh Mafi

Journey with 12-year-old Alice as she fights to find her father. She will have to travel through the dangerous, mythical land of Futhermore on her quest to bring him home.

See Furthermore here >>

16. Alone by Megan E. Freeman

*New bestseller in middle school fiction

When twelve-year-old Maddie wakes up one day, she finds herself utterly alone in her small Colorado town. With no one to rely on, and no modern-day luxuries, she must learn to survive on her own.

Can Maddie’s will carry her through? Read Alone to find out .

• Most Inspiring Books for Teens
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Fiction and Mystery Books (for 11, 12, & 13 year olds)

Next, these middle school mystery novels keep kids coming back for more.

17. A Horse Named Sky by Roseanne Parry

A young wild horse named Sky is captured for the Pony Express. He must escape to reunite with his family.

See a Horse Named Sky on Amazon >>

18. The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead (Good Middle School Books to Read)

* New York Times bestselling author

A free library appears in a small town. And 11-year-old Evan’s life changes when he takes a book from its shelf. He is thrown into an old town mystery that no one wants to talk about.

Mystery readers will love this book !

19. Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson

*Made into a movie!

This hilarious and heartwarming tale starts with Rafe. He has enough problems at home without middle school. So, he hatches a plan to break all the school rules – from chewing gum to running in the halls. But one day, his bad behavior catches up with him. And he’s forced to see the truths he’s been avoiding.

“James Patterson’s debut middle-grade novel addresses some of middle schoolers’ biggest issues: bullies, first crushes, and finding out what makes each of us special.” Amazon

20. Worst Broommate Ever: Middle School and Other Disasters, Book 1 by Wanda Coven

When you are a witch-in-training, mishaps are bound to happen. But when Heidi finds out that her new roommate is an old rival, a prank war ensues. Will it go too far?

See The Worst Broommate Ever here >>

21. The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels by Beth Lincoln

Join Shenanigan Swift in her quest to catch her aunt’s killer. And prove to her family that she can achieve anything, despite her mischievous name.

Check it out >>

22. City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab

*New York Times Best-selling author

Ever since a drowning accident, Cass has been able to see the spirit world. But when she meets another girl like her, she realizes she has a lot to learn about the city of ghosts. And her journey will be dangerous.

Middle schoolers will love this spooky action-packed tale !

* Related: Great Spooky Books for Kids & Teens

23. Coraline by Neil Gaiman

* #1 Best Seller in Scary Stories for Children

Coraline unlocks a door and finds a hidden passage into another house. At first, everything seems better. But she soon discovers that other children are trapped there. And she is the only one who can rescue them.

See Coraline here >>

Graphic Novels For Middle School

Next, visual readers will adore these middle school graphic novels.

24. New Kid by Jerry Craft

*Newbery Medal Winner & Coretta Scott King Author Award

Navigating seventh grade in a new school is hard. Especially when faced with a different environment and unfamiliar faces. Jordan must find a balance between this new adventure and his old life.

Find New Kid here.

25. Awkward (Berrybrook Middle School, 1) by Svetlana Chmakova

Peppi Torres just wants to survive middle school. But she has already broken the cardinal rules on her first day.

Will she make it through middle school without getting more awkward? Read this graphic novel to find out.

26. Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonazlez

When five kids are forced to complete community service hours together, they meet someone who needs their help. Will they be vulnerable enough in the middle school world to do what is needed?

See Invisible here >>

Invisible contains text in both Spanish and English.

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Classic Literature For Middle School

Finally, dig into these classics. They stand proud through the test of time, for good reason!

27. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

*Newbery Medal winner

Meg’s father has disappeared in a wrinkle of time. Join Meg, Charles Wallace, and Calvin O’Keefe in an adventure through time and space to find him.

See A Wrinkle in Time here >>

28. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

“In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.”

Journey with Bilbo Baggins on a dangerous and exciting adventure to the Lonely Mountain. There he will cross paths with a magic ring and a scary creature named Gollum.

29. The Giver by Lois Lowry

*Newbery Medal-winning classic

Jonas has lived in an ideal world. That is what he believes.

But when he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory, he learns the secrets of his life and community.

Read this Newbery medal-winning classic and powerful novel .

30. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

*Newbery Honor winner

When 13-year-old Brian Robeson survives a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness, he must use the only items he has with him- his clothes and a hatchet- to learn how to survive.

A must-read page-turner about survival and adventure >>

Quick Tips for Using Middle School Books

Here are a few great suggestions to keep kids reading!

• Books series are great for engagement : If the child loves the first book, he or she will want to keep going.
• Play to their interests : Look for books that highlight what your child loves.
• Be a reading role model : Do the kids see you reading too? If you show that reading is fun and important, they’ll think it is as well.

What’s Next?

Don’t miss the book lists for younger ages too!

• 5 Year Old Book List
• 6 Year Old Book List
• 7 Year Old Book List
• 8 Year Old Book List
• 9 Year Old Book List
• 10 Year Old Book List

Good Books for Middle Schoolers to Read

Jessica is a contributing editor for Healthy Happy Impactful. She is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and empowering women and families. Jessica holds a Master's degree in Education and is a licensed Reading Specialist. She is a mom to 2 kids.

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Book Review

Book Review Examples

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Good Book Review Examples to Help you Write a Great Review

By: Nova A.

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Mar 30, 2021

A book review is a common assignment that allows the students to demonstrate the author’s intentions in the book. It also provides them with the chance not only to criticize but also to give constructive criticism on how they can make improvements.

The purpose of writing a book review is to come up with your opinion about the author’s ideas presented in the book. On the other hand, a book analysis is completely based on opinions that are relevant to the book.

Writing a review is something that can be done with any book that you read. However, some genres are harder to write. But with a proper plan, you can easily write a great review on any book.

Read some short book review examples in this guide. They will help you understand the key elements of writing a great review in no time.

On this Page

Academic Book Review Examples

If you are assigned to write a book review, referring to some examples will be of great help. In addition, reading examples before starting the writing process will help you understand what elements are needed for a great book review. There are also many review sites online you can get help from.

Academic book reviews follow a fairly simple structure. It usually includes an introduction, middle paragraphs, and a conclusion that sums up all the ideas.

For a great book review, here are the things you need to focus on during the writing process.

• The main argument presented by the author
• Author’s methodologyAppropriateness for the audience
• Relationship to the real world

Have a look at the following book review examples for kids before beginning the writing process.

Book Review Examples for Middle School Students

Book Review Example For Kids

Book Review Examples for High School Students

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Book Review Examples for College Students

Book Review Examples for University Students

How to Write a Book Review - Examples

If you don’t know how to write a book review, look at the following steps.

The first step is to plan and create an outline that includes all the points that you will have to cover in the review. Don’t forget to include all the information about the characters, plot information, and some other parts of the chosen book.

The three parts of a book review are:

1. Provide a Summary

What is the book about? Write about the main characters and what is the conflict that is discussed in the book.

2. Provide Your Evaluation

Share your thoughts about the book and what elements work best.

3. Rate the Book

Rate and recommend the book to others who will enjoy reading this book.

If you need to submit a book review soon, we suggest you start reading some book reviews online. Here you can also find some good book review writing examples to understand how to craft each section of a book review.

Book Review Introduction Examples

Thesis Statement Book Review Examples

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Book Review Conclusion Examples

Critical Book Review Examples

A book review is a critical evaluation of the book, movie, or any other literary work. It has two goals: the first is to inform the readers about the content of the book, and the second is to evaluate your judgment about the book.

A book review is more than a book report. A review is basically a critical essay that evaluates the merits of a literary work. The purpose of writing a book review is not to prove that you have read a book but to show that you think critically about the chosen book.

When you are asked to write a critical book review, you need to identify, summarize and evaluate the ideas of the author. In simpler words, you will be examining and evaluating another person’s work from your point of view.

Science Book Review Examples

A scientific book review will contain the same elements as writing a review for a fiction book; some elements might vary. When you are reviewing a scientific text, you need to pay attention to the writing style and the validity of the content.

Most students turn to non-fictional sources of information. It is important to make sure the information you provide in your review is factual and scientific.

Book review writing can be difficult if you don’t know how to follow the standard protocols. That’s where our reliable book review writing service aims to provide the necessary help.

No matter what your academic level is, we can provide you with the best book review writing help. This type of writing assignment can be tricky and time-consuming. So, if you don’t know how to crack this task, better get professional help.

We at 5StarEssays.com provide exceptional book review writing help. Not only book reviews, but we also provide the best ‘ write an essay for me ’ help to students. Moreover, we also have an AI essay writer to help you with tight deadlines, give it a try now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you write a book review example.

Here are some steps that will help you to write a book review example.

• Start writing with few sentences and describe what the book is all about
• Focus on your thoughts
• Mention things that you dont like about the book.
• Summarize your thoughts.
• Give rating to the book.

Thesis, Law

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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• Book Review - An Easy Guide To Write A Review

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Book Review Writing

Book Review Examples

Book Review Examples to Help You Get Started

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How to Write a Book Review - A Step By Step Guide

A Complete Book Review Format Guide For Students

Are you in desperate need of some assistance to up your book review writing game? 

We know that penning down a review can come off as a tricky challenge, but do not worry!

To help you write book reviews that carry the essence of the book and engage readers, we have collected a handful of book review examples in this blog. 

The included examples will enable you to understand different writing styles and approaches taken toward book review writing . So, you can use your words effectively to craft the perfect book review.

Let’s kickstart things off!

• 1. Good Book Review Examples for Students
• 2. Short Book Review Examples for Fiction Books
• 3. Non-Fiction Book Review Examples

Good Book Review Examples for Students

You might be a professional writer, or you may not have any experience in writing book reviews. Rest assured, we’ll show you how to write perfect book reviews with the help of a sample template and great examples.

See this template to know what you should include in your book review: 

Book Review Template

Here is a good book review example for 4th-grade students:

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Book Review Examples for Middle School Students

Reading reviews written by others can help you get a feel and flavor of good book reviews. Learning how to write a perfect book review can help students to:

• Critically analyze a text
• Give a personal opinion on the text
• Improve analyzing and critical thinking skills 

Here are some interesting book review examples suitable for middle school students. 

Book Review Example for Middle School Students

Book Review Example for Kids

Book Review of Any Book in 300 Words

Science Book Review Example

Book Review Examples For High School Students

Below, you can also find some good book review examples for high school students. These real-life examples can help you get a clear understanding of the standard book review format that you should follow.

Book Review Example for High School Students

Book Review Examples for Class 9

Book Review Example for Grade 10

Book Review Examples for College Students

As a college student, you are required to demonstrate that you have examined the book from different angles. The points you raise in your book review need to be supported with clear facts and evidence.

The following are some interesting critical book review examples for college students to learn how to write a perfect review. 

Book Review Example for Class 12

Short Book Review for Students

Conclusion of Book Review Example

Short Book Review Examples for Fiction Books

Fiction book reviews follow the same basic formula as writing book reviews of any other genre. For your help, we have compiled exciting examples of fiction book reviews that you can get valuable assistance from. 

Short Book Review Example for Fiction Books

Book Review of Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

“The Hazel Wood” by Melissa Albert is a work of fiction and falls into fantasy and young adult fiction genres. The novel revolves around fantastical fairy tales, and magical realism, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

Here is an example of a comprehensive review of the book Hazel Wood:

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Non-Fiction Book Review Examples

For reviewing a non-fiction book, you are required to describe the book and summarize major points of interest. You should evaluate the author’s contribution to a subject that you may know very little about.

Here is a great non-fiction book review example to help you come up with a critical perspective on a text. 

Non-Fiction Book Review Example

Hopefully, with the help of the above examples, you get a better idea of how to write a perfect book review.

To wrap it up, Writing a great book review is a tricky task, no matter if you are a high school, college, or university student. Book review writing might seem like a simple task, but it requires excellent analyzing and critical thinking skills.

But, not everyone can crack this task easily. They might need additional help from expert book review writers. That’s why our professional essay writing service offers book review writing help whenever you need it. 

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So What Do You Think? Writing a Review

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

Teenagers are often outspoken and opinionated. Writing reviews of the literature they read gives them a chance to express their ideas while developing style and voice. This lesson uses discussion of student opinions about yesterday's lunch or a popular TV show serves as an introduction to the genre of reviews. Students then read and analyze conflicting reviews. After examining samples of movie, music, restaurant, and book reviews, students devise guidelines for writing interesting and informative reviews. They then produce their own reviews of the literature they're reading in class. Finally, students compare their ideas and their pieces with published reviews of the same piece of literature. Though this lesson is illustrated with examples from student and professional reviews of Raymond Carver's writing, the techniques can be used with whatever literature students are reading.

Featured Resources

Components of a Review : This handout gives an overview of what is normally included in a critical review.

Review Guidelines : Students can use these guidelines when writing their own critical reviews.

From Theory to Practice

While it's important for students to learn to read and evaluate critical commentary, "Each reader has a right-and even a responsibility-to form his or her own opinions, based on that reader's reading and understanding of a piece of literature, and to be able to support those opinions with solid reasons" (97).

When students express ideas on an author's work that are also noted by critics, "it presents a perfect opportunity to introduce critical commentary naturally into class discussion in order to promote a deeper understanding of the literature" (100).

Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 1. Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.
• 3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, sentence structure, context, graphics).
• 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
• 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
• 6. Students apply knowledge of language structure, language conventions (e.g., spelling and punctuation), media techniques, figurative language, and genre to create, critique, and discuss print and nonprint texts.
• 7. Students conduct research on issues and interests by generating ideas and questions, and by posing problems. They gather, evaluate, and synthesize data from a variety of sources (e.g., print and nonprint texts, artifacts, people) to communicate their discoveries in ways that suit their purpose and audience.
• 8. Students use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases, computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and communicate knowledge.
• 9. Students develop an understanding of and respect for diversity in language use, patterns, and dialects across cultures, ethnic groups, geographic regions, and social roles.
• 12. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Materials and Technology

• Sample reviews of various types (movie, music, restaurant, book, etc.), both print and online
• Specific reviews of the literature students are reading
• Components of a Review
• Creating Classroom Discussion about Reviews
• Student Example of a Book Review
• Review Guidelines
• Writing a Review Checklist
• Student Reflection Sheet

Preparation

• two conflicting reviews of a current movie, television show, or CD with which students are likely familiar.
• reviews specific to the writer(s) who students are reading. The Stauffer Library Reference and  Book Reviews in the Yahoo! Directory may be helpful in finding those reviews.
• Make appropriate number of copies of handouts.
• Test the ReadWriteThink Pinting Press on your computers to familiarize yourself with the tool and ensure that you have the Flash plug-in installed. You can download the plug-in from the technical support page.

Student Objectives

Students will

• read a variety of different kinds of reviews.
• determine the qualities and characteristics of an effective review.
• use critical thinking skills to formulate their own opinions about a writer's work.
• apply their knowledge to write their own reviews.
• compare their ideas and their work to that of professional reviewers.

Session One

• In this first class session, work to generate interest in writing a review-and to convince students that they do have strong and valid opinions.
• If lunch was "gross," what made it so?
• If the show was "really funny," why did it make them laugh?
• Ask students why they go to certain movies, buy specific CDs, or choose to eat in particular restaurants. Encourage them to explore where they get their "recommendations" from.
• Invite students to share both positive and negative experiences they have had as a result of listening to someone else's opinion.
• Lead the discussion to a point where students begin to see that word-of-mouth recommendations and published reviews essentially serve the same purpose: to comment on and evaluate a work or an event.
• Share two conflicting reviews with students.
• the kind of information included in both reviews.
• the specific points the reviewers agree and disagree about.
• any differences in focus between the reviews.
• which review is more entertaining—and why.
• which review is more convincing—and why.
• Ask students to list various kinds of reviews and to suggest where they can find these reviews (newspapers, magazines, journals, and online).
• For homework, ask each student bring one to three reviews to class.

Session Two

• In this second session, focus on helping students determine the qualities and characteristics of a good review.
• the name of what is being reviewed
• a clear statement of the reviewer's opinion (i.e., a thesis)
• specific examples that support the reviewer's opinion
• a particular tone (use of humor, sarcasm, authority, etc.).
• book reviews may include quotations from the work.
• restaurant reviews may discuss atmosphere.
• both music and literary reviews may trace developments in the writer/musician's history.
• Each small group should choose one review to read to the class along with their own short oral analysis.
• As a conclusion to the activity, the class as a whole should compile a list on the board or on chart paper of qualities that contribute to a good review. If desired, share the Components of a Review handout, which reviews the parts of a review.
• The teacher should collect all reviews students brought in for homework for use in future sessions.

Session Three

• In this third session, work to get students to focus on the particular attributes of a book review in preparation for writing their own reviews of the literature they're reading.
• Ideally, the teacher should have a selection of book reviews from those collected from students the previous day. In case students have not brought in book reviews, the teacher should have such reviews available. These reviews should be carefully chosen so that their content is accessible to students. It's best if some reviews focus on works students may have read while others are of work unfamiliar to students.)
• In small groups of three or four, have students examine a book review and break it down into its components to determine how the introduction, the body, and the conclusion allow the writer to make his/her points.
• Next, students should examine the particular style of their group's review and determine how the writer achieves a unique voice. Each group should try to determine the tone of their review (i.e., pompous and authoritative, humorous, enthusiastic, analytical, etc.) by noting such things as word choice, sentence structure, and use of detail. If students have collected reviews written by the same reviewer, these "elusive" qualities may be easier to spot.
• Invite a class discussion about how a review combines the informative aspects of straight journalism with the "pizzazz" of personal narrative.
• Where did your review appear?
• What do you know about this publication?
• Who do you think the audience for this publication would be?
• What would a reader who had read the book take from the review?
• What would a reader unfamiliar with the book take from the review?
• By the end of the session, ask students to compile a class list of broad, basic guidelines for writing a review. Example guidelines are also available.
• Invite students to begin writing the first draft of a review based on the particular piece(s) of literature the class is studying.
• If students are reading one book, that one work would be the focus of the review.
• If students are reading more than one work (i.e., a number of short stories, poems, or essays) by an author, the review can cover any or all of this material.
• Ask students to design a rating system to include with the written review. The system can be as traditional as 1-5 stars or something more creative.

NOTE: Older students tend to get the style and tone of a review quite quickly, while younger students often produce something more like a book report in the early drafts. Writing instruction should be geared to the ability of each class.

• Use the Writing a Review Checklist as a guide to help students draft and edit their reviews.

Session Four

• In this fourth session, introduce critical commentary into class discussion.
• When the students have completed their reviews, invite them to publish their reviews using one of the options on the ReadWriteThink Printing Press . Print them when they are complete.
• With their final drafts complete, have students read professionally written reviews on the same text and compare their ideas as well as their writing to these reviews. Depending on the accessibility of these reviews, you can collect all published material or students can be assigned this task. (It's for this reason that this aspect of the assignment works best if the writers reviewed are contemporary.)
• When comparing their reviews with the published pieces, students should find points that are raised in both. This process demystifies critical commentary and allows students to feel comfortable discussing the work of reviewers. For example, one of my students writes of his appreciation of Carver's "deadpan humor."
• Teachers can use such excerpts to generate lively classroom discussion. If desired, use the this suggestion for creating a classroom discussion.
• After all students have reacted to each excerpt, invite the class to break into pairs or small groups, with each group responsible for sifting through the material on one of the papers.
• Finally, have students present conclusions based on their peers' responses to the critical commentary.
• a classroom bulletin board displaying reviews, accompanied by artwork and photographs of the authors.
• a class compilation of reviews. Students can use the ReadWriteThink Printing Press to compile their reviews in a reader-friendly format.
• a class publication with all reviews collected in a booklet, brochure, or binder and saved for future classes who will be studying the same author. This collection can be added to over the years to create an "historical perspective" on a particular works/authors.
• submissions to print and online publications that seek reviews. (Note: Teen Ink seeks student written reviews on all topics.)
• writing an individual response to a review to then share with the class.
• revising and rewriting their own original reviews to address points raised by the professional reviewer.
• working with a partner and each taking a side in response to a review, with one student proving the reviewer is "right" and the other proving him/her "wrong."
• When students are comparing different types of reviews, invite them to use the Venn Diagram interactive.

Student Assessment / Reflections

• Grade the review as a complete writing assignment.
• As students write and revise their reviews, guide their work with the Review Checklist , a worksheet that outlines the vital features of a good review and asks students to verify that their final review includes these specific features. This checklist can be used by the teacher in evaluating the review.
• Students can assess their own work and learning by completing a Reflection Sheet that is handed in with the review. As with all reflection sheets, the form should include 4–5 questions that make writers really think about their pieces and the process that led to their creation.
• Publish student reviews using one of the options listed above to provide further feedback and assessment for students.
• Calendar Activities
• Professional Library
• Student Interactives
• Lesson Plans

The interactive Printing Press is designed to assist students in creating newspapers, brochures, and flyers.

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

6. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. This teacher blogger describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

7. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

8. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. See the sandwich and pizza options above and check out this blog for more delicious ideas.

9. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

10. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc. A fun adaptation of this project is the book report cheeseburger.

11. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

12. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over the report.

13. T-Shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint. Get step-by-step directions .

14. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

15. Watercolor Rainbow Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

16. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

17. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

18. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

19. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

20. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

21. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

22. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

23. Book Report Triorama

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but Elisha Ann provides a lesson to show students how to glue four triangles together to make a 4D model.

24. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8 x 11 sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

25. Clothes Hanger Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

26. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then give them a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

27. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels , and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

28. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

29. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

30. Letter to the Author

Write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

31. Book Report Charm Bracelet

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

33. Cereal Box TV Book Report

This book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut-out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

34. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

35. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

36. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach , this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

37. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment. For more, here are step-by-step directions .

38. Comic strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strips. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

39. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

40. Cereal Box

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report Wheaties-style. Decorate all sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a “wanted” poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

What creative book report ideas did we miss? Come share in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most popular kids’ books in every grade..

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The Essential Book List for Navigating Middle School

Stacy McAnulty |  The Children’s Book Review | July 10, 2018

Navigating Middle School with Novels

My family lives in an area of North Carolina where we have school choice. This means my kids select their school, rather than having a school assigned based on where we live. When my oldest was in fifth grade, we toured three middle schools, in an effort to find the “perfect” one. She was stressing out about the decision, so I turned to her and said, “Relax. It doesn’t really matter where you go, because middle school stinks.” Perhaps not my best parenting moment, but come on, everyone has at least a few crummy middle school memories. I had more than a few.

As in life, each middle school experience is unique, and that can make kids feel alone and isolated. It can help for kids to see characters experiencing similar issues in the books they read. I’ve touched on some common trials of middle school life, illustrated them with my own experience, and then suggested novels that do a fantastic job navigating these bumpy roads.

Books About Academic Pressure

Bonjour. Je m’appelle  Stacy. Je déteste le classe de Français.  Before sixth grade, I was excited to learn French. I imagined having secret conversations with my BFF that my mom would not be able to understand! But I quickly realized learning a language was HARD (and trés  difficult pour moi! ) And, being a kid who preferred to blend into the furniture, this class required a ton of participation. I don’t believe I raised my hand once in all of middle school (and maybe even high school). I basically felt like a failure every time I entered Madame Bonbon’s* room.

*name changed to protect the innocent

I would have loved a book that showed kids struggling, and eventually overcoming, academic hurdles. The end result does not have to be going from an F to an A. It can be a powerful thing for a kid to realize everyone’s strengths are different.

UNGIFTED by Gordon Koman (2014)

THE TRUTH AS TOLD BY MASON BUTTLE by Leslie Connor (2018)

SPIN THE GOLDEN LIGHT BULB by Jackie Yeager (2018)

FISH IN A TREE by Lynda Mullaly Hunt (set in elementary school) (2015)

ABSOLUTELY ALMOST by Lisa Graff (2014)

SAVE ME A SEAT by Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan (2016)

Books About Friendship and Fitting In

My middle school divided its approximately two hundred fifty students into three teams. They assigned us the creative names of Team A, B, and C. Your team assignment dictated which kids you spent your day with, from math to music, to the all important Lunchtime. If you were on C and your friend was on A, she might as well have lived on Mars. My anxiety while awaiting team assignment reminds me of the reaping in The Hunger Games . No one wants to go through life alone, and that sentiment feels magnified in middle school.

So many middle-grade books focus, at least in part, on friendship, including my debut, The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl . Novels that illustrate the complexity of these relationships can become lifelines to a lonely kid trying to understand their changing world.

POSTED by John David Anderson (2017)

THE MAGIC OF MELWICK ORCHARD by Rebecca Caprara (Sept 2018)

WISH by Barbara O’Connor (2016)

THE SCIENCE OF BREAKABLE THINGS by Tae Keller (2018)

THE THREE RULES OF EVERYDAY MAGIC by Amanda Rawson Hill (set in elementary school) (Sept 2018)

REAL FRIENDS by Shannon Hale (2017)

YOU GO FIRST by Erin Entrada Kelly (2018)

GOODBYE, STRANGER by Rebecca Stead (2015)

FREAK THE MIGHTY by Rodman Philbrick (1993)

Books About Social Issues and News

Every morning before school, my mom tuned our small black-and-white TV in the kitchen to the Today Show . As I ate Rice Krispies, I watched Bryant Gumbel and Jane Pauley deliver the news. I remember the Gulf War and something about Oliver North, but I don’t think my dose of morning news was anything like what kids see and hear today. I recall the ‘don’t do drugs’ message (and how a frying egg represented your brain on drugs) and a vague fear about AIDS. I think my children are exposed to much more news, including social issues and social injustices. And, at 12-years-old, they care much more than I did. Kids know about Black Lives Matters, #metoo, immigration, and March for Our Lives. They have opinions and concerns, and they don’t expect adults will take care of the problems. They’re living these moments too.

GHOST BOYS by Jewell Parker Rhodes (2018)

REFUGEE by Alan Gratz (2017)

GHOST (TRACK Series) by Jason Reynolds (2016)

FRONT DESK by Kelly Yang (2018)

FOREVER, OR A LONG, LONG TIME by Caela Carter (2017)

THE STARS BENEATH OUR FEET by David Barclay Moore (2017)

THE NIGHT DIARY by Veera Hiranandani (2018)

Books About Self Esteem

Skinny with a blond bowl cut suitable for a medieval pageboy, she hunched her shoulders because if she stood up straight, everyone would realize she didn’t even need a training bra.

That was eighth-grade me.

Middle school students are experiencing change—as any pamphlet on puberty will tell you. But it’s more than just their bodies. It can be tough to sort out your individual strengths and abilities, especially when you’re spending most of your time just trying to blend in with everyone else. Differences aren’t always celebrated.

SHORT by Holly Goldberg Sloan (2017)

ROLLER GIRL by Victoria Jamieson (2015)

THE FIRST RULE OF PUNK by Celia C. Pérez (2017)

THE BLOSSOMING UNIVERSE OF VIOLET DIAMOND by Brenda Woods (2015)

GERTIE’S LEAP TO GREATNESS (elementary school) by Kate Beasley (2016)

LIONS & LIARS by Kate Beasley (2018)

FRAZZLED by Booki Vivat (2016)

THE PRINCE AND THE DRESSMAKER by Jen Wang (2018)

Books About Screwing Up Big Time

In sixth grade, I lied to a new “friend,” by telling her that a boy had a crush on her. I made up this tale because I wanted this cool girl to like me. The boy was a family friend, so she believed me. It gets worse. I forged notes from him and put them in her locker. This Parent-Trap-like ruse went on for a while until she got the courage to call him. I, inexplicably, supplied his phone number. Of course, after she made the call, the jig was up. He didn’t even know who she was. She was embarrassed and mad, and our friendship ended. Wow, had I screwed up. But I wasn’t doing it to be mean. I just wanted to connect with a new friend.

In the best novels, it’s not just the bullies making mistakes. It’s the main character making mistakes, and either fixing it or living with the results.

MILLICENT MIN, GIRL GENIUS by Lisa Yee (2004)

EVERY SHINY THING by Cordelia Jensen (2018)

LOVE SUGAR MAGIC by Anna Meriano and Mirelle Ortega (2018)

THE HOUSE THAT LOU BUILT by Mae Respicio (2018)

THE 11:11 WISH by Kim Tomsic (2018)

RESTART by Gordon Korman (2018)

“Middle school is supposed to be the worst. It’s like a giant hazing for adulthood. We all gotta go through it”. – THE MISCALCULATIONS OF LIGHTNING GIRL

We can’t protect kids from everything they’ll see and endure in middle school. But chances are, there’s a novel out there that can accompany them on the journey.

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

Written by Stacy McAnulty

Publisher’s Synopsis:  A lightning strike gave her a super power…but even a super genius can’t solve the problem of middle school. This smart and funny novel is perfect for fans of The Fourteenth Goldfish , Rain Reign , and Counting by Sevens .

Lucy Callahan was struck by lightning. She doesn’t remember it, but it changed her life forever. The zap gave her genius-level math skills, and ever since, Lucy has been homeschooled. Now, at 12 years old, she’s technically ready for college. She just has to pass 1 more test–middle school!

Lucy’s grandma insists: Go to middle school for 1 year. Make 1 friend. Join 1 activity. And read 1 book (that’s not a math textbook!). Lucy’s not sure what a girl who does calculus homework for fun can possibly learn in 7th grade. She has everything she needs at home, where nobody can make fun of her rigid routines or her superpowered brain. The equation of Lucy’s life has already been solved. Unless there’s been a miscalculation?

A celebration of friendship, Stacy McAnulty’s smart and thoughtful middle-grade debut reminds us all to get out of our comfort zones and embrace what makes us different.

Ages 8-12 | Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers | 2018 | ISBN-13: 978-1524767570

Available Here: 

About The Author

Stacy McAnulty is a children’s book author, who used to be a mechanical engineer, who’s also qualified to be a dog therapist (is that a thing???), a correspondent for  The Daily Show  (why not), and a Green Bay Packer coach (totally!). She has written dozens of books including her debut middle-grade novel,  The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl  , a Junior Library Guild Selection, and the 2017 Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Honor book  Excellent Ed , illustrated by Julia Sarcone-Roach. Her other picture books include  Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years , illustrated by David Litchfield;  Max Explains Everything: Grocery Store Expert,  illustrated by Deborah Hocking,  Brave   and  Beautiful , both illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff;  Mr. Fuzzbuster Knows He’s the Favorite , illustrated by Edward Hemingway; and  101 Reasons Why I’m Not Taking a Bath , illustrated by Joy Ang. She’s also authored the chapter book series  Goldie Blox , based on the award-winning toys, and  The Dino Files . When not writing, Stacy likes to listen to NPR, bake triple-chocolate cupcakes, and eat triple-chocolate cupcakes. Originally from upstate NY, she now lives in Kernersville, NC with her 3 kids, 3 dogs, and 1 husband.

For more information, visit:  http://www.stacymcanulty.com

The article  The Essential Book List for Navigating Middle School was written by Stacy McAnulty, author of  The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl  (Random House Books for Young Readers, 2018). For similar books and articles, follow along with our content tagged with  Friendship ,  Middle Grade Books ,  Middle School ,  Self-Esteem ,  Social Justice , and  Stacy McAnulty .

The Children’s Book Review, named one of the ALSC (Association for Library Service to Children) Great Web Sites for Kids, is a resource devoted to children’s literacy. We publish reviews and book lists of the best books for kids of all ages. We also produce author and illustrator interviews and share literacy based articles that help parents, grandparents, teachers and librarians to grow readers. This article was written and provided by a guest author.

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Your current subscription allows you to be actively logged in on up to three (3) devices simultaneously. click on continue below to log out of other sessions and log in on this device., 13 joy-filled middle grade titles for tweens’ summer reading | we are kid lit collective.

From magical school fantasies to hilarious sibling stories, these 13 selections will keep middle schoolers turning pages during summer break. Complete with graphic novels, biographies, and poetry, this list has something for every tween.

  School Library Journal  has proudly partnered with We Are Kid Lit Collective to share and promote the group’s 10th annual summer reading recommendations. In the next couple of weeks, SLJ will publish individual posts featuring their recommendations for picture books, transitional books, middle grade, and young adult titles.

The downloaded complete list will be available on May 30th.

Amid all the challenges and disruptions that our youth face, we’re releasing our 10th We Are Kid Lit Summer Reading List as a message to young readers: We see you. We hear you. We are with you. You motivate us every day to keep moving the needle by elevating narratives that feature Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) voices while being inclusive of intersectional queer and disability representation and limiting the harms of biases and microaggressions.  

CLAYTON, Dhonielle. The Marvellers. (The Conjureverse: Bk. 1). Holt. 2022. ISBN 9781250174949. Ella Durand is the first Conjurer to integrate the Marveller’s Arcanum Training Academy. She finds their magic to be as similar to her own as it is different, while her classmates just find her different. Suspicion and intrigue grow when criminals escape and one of the school’s teachers disappears. Ella’s classmates assume her guilt, but Ella works to prove them wrong.

CRAFT,  Aimée. Treaty Words: For As Long As the Rivers Flow. illus. by Luke Swinson. Annick Pr. 2021. ISBN 9781773214962. This lyrical short story, published in a novella-type format, follows an Anishinaabe grandfather and granddaughter. They spend time near the river discussing the relationship among earth, nature, and humans.

EDELMAN,  Claudia Romo & J. Gia Loving. Hispanic Star en español: Sylvia Rivera. illus. by Cheyne Gallarde. tr. by Terry Catasús Jennings. Roaring Brook. 2023. ISBN 9781250840158. SP This biography of Rivera, an activist and drag queen, highlights the many ways she showed up for her trans community during a seminal time in the American Gay Rights Movement. Includes important and age-appropriate discussions on transphobia, racism, and classism within LGBTQIA+ spaces and communities.

HAYNES, Clarence A. & Jennifer Sabin. The Legacy of Jim Crow. (True History). Penguin Workshop. 2022. ISBN 9780593385999. This is a solid introduction to the ways Jim Crow laws, along with other forms of systemic anti-Blackness, were baked into all facets of our society. Haynes begins chapters by highlighting famous Black people, showing the ways each person has excelled in their field despite Jim Crow’s legacy on their lives.

HOHN, Nadia L., ed. The Antiracist Kitchen: 21 Stories (and Recipes). illus. by Roza Nozari. Orca. 2023. ISBN 9781459833432. This nonfiction title blends food, cultures, stories, and communities to spark conversations about racial justice and intergenerational solidarities. Author and illustrator biographies and a glossary are appended.

JONES-QUARTEY, Ofosu. Love Your Amazing Self: Joyful Verses for Young Voices. illus. by Ndubisi Okoye. Storey. 2022. ISBN 9781635865479. This collection of mindful verses covers a range of topics, from loving yourself to having fun, and encourages readers to learn, take pauses, and embrace kindness, acceptance, and solidarities.

KASSIS, Reem. We Are Palestinian: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition. illus. by Noha Eilouti. Crocodile. 2023. ISBN 9781623717254. Palestinian author Kassis and Palestinian Canadian illustrator Eilouti celebrate their heritage and culture in this vibrant book. It is divided into seven sections—geography, cultural symbols, major figures, agriculture, cuisine, performing arts, and history and religion. Covering everything from tatreez embroidery to Dabke folk dancing, the book also profiles Palestinian intellectuals, such as poet Mahmoud Darwish and scholar Edward Said.

KING, Thomas. Borders. illus. by Natasha Donovan. Little, Brown Ink. 2021. ISBN 9780316593069. In this graphic novel, a young Blackfoot boy and his mom plan to go visit his sister in Salt Lake City, Utah. They make it to the land between the U.S. and Canada border, but when they try to enter either country, they are asked to declare their citizenship, which is Blackfoot. The guards, unaware of treaties between the tribes and the countries, will not let the boy and his mother into the U.S. or back into Canada.

LAPENSÉE, Elizabeth. Rabbit Chase. illus. by KC Oster. tr. by Aarin Dokum. Annick Pr. 2022. ISBN 9781773216195. In this retelling of Alice in Wonderland , nonbinary Anishinaabe middle schooler Aimée gets lost while on a class trip to offer gifts to Paayehnsag, the water spirits known to protect the land. Distracted by a white rabbit, Aimée enters an alternate dimension populated by traditional Anishinaabe figures and must help Trickster hunt dark water spirits to find their way back home. Anishinaabemowin is sprinkled throughout this graphic novel.

LIU-TRUJILLO, Robert. Art of Rob. illus. by author. Come Bien Bks. 2022. ISBN 9780996717816. A sketchbook that provides a glimpse into the doodles, drawings, and paintings of the titular author, illustrator, and artist. Short stories, lettering, and how-to-draw activities are included in this art book that also highlights images of BIPOC people throughout history.

NIMR, Sonia. Thunderbird. tr. by M. Lynx Qualey. (Thunderbird: Bk. 1). Center for Middle Eastern Studies UT Austin. 2022. ISBN 9781477325810. Noor, an orphaned young Palestinian girl, lives with her uncle and his family. They might be more accepting of her if they didn’t think she was starting the fires that seem to mysteriously happen around her. But Noor’s life changes when she realizes she’s being called on to save the world. Accompanied by a djinn cat, she travels through time to gather magical feathers and complete her task. Along the way, she learns Palestinian history.

ROSELLÓ, Jarod. Red Panda & Moon Bear. illus. by author. (Red Panda & Moon Bear: Bk. 1). Top Shelf Productions. 2019. ISBN 9781603094443. Through their alter egos Red Panda and Moon Bear, two Cuban American siblings embark on a series of adventures to save the day and their South Florida town. Spanish words are sprinkled throughout this graphic novel.

VARGAS, Rodrigo. The Do-Over. illus. by Coni Yovaniniz. (Do-Over: Bk. 1). Harper/Clarion. 2023. ISBN 9780358394044. In this graphic novel, Peruvian American Mariana Gutiérrez moves from California to Ohio after her mother’s death. Despite being close to extended family, she feels anxious about starting anew and making friends. But classmates Zoe and Everly seem promising; together, they even start up a hairstyling business called True Colors. But can they navigate bumps in the road to success in business, friendship, and family?

Sam Bloom is a children’scollection development librarian at the Lane Library in Hamilton, OH. Edith Campbell is a librarian at Indiana State University. Ariana Hussain is a teacher librarian at the Blake School, Hopkins, MN. Dr. Sujei Lugo is a children’s librarian at the Boston Public Library and an independent researcher. Lyn Miller-Lachmann is an award-winning author and translator of children’s books.

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Best Reading Comprehension Strategies for Middle School Students

Does your child often struggle with reading comprehension in school?

This can affect their grades, as well as their self-esteem. If your child is finding it hard to absorb the contents of their texts in class, they may need a few extra reading tactics.

These can help them digest materials and enjoy reading more. When they enjoy reading more, they’ll naturally improve their reading comprehension.

To find out which reading comprehension strategies for middle school can help your child, keep reading.

Active Reading

Active reading means becoming an engaged participant in the reading process rather than a passive observer. Encourage middle school readers to interact with the text actively.

Encourage them to underline key points, highlight important sentences, and jot down notes or questions in the margins. This process helps students not only keep information but also better comprehend the material.

When students actively engage with a text, it’s as if they’re having a conversation with the author. This interaction leads to a deeper understanding of the content. This fosters a more thoughtful and critical approach to reading.

Previewing the Text

Before delving into a text, students should preview it by examining the title, subheadings, and any bold or italicized words. This initial scan gives them an idea of what the text is all about. It’s like getting a sneak peek before watching a movie – it helps them prepare mentally and activate their prior knowledge.

As your middle school student previews the text, encourage them to think about what they already know related to the topic. This helps them make connections and gives them a head start in understanding the new material. Think of it as setting the stage for the main performance, making the reading experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Asking Questions

Asking questions while reading is a powerful strategy for enhancing comprehension. Teach them to inquire about the who, what, when, where, why, and how aspects of the text. These questions help guide their thinking and promote critical examination of the material.

When your child asks questions while reading, they’re actively seeking answers and engaging with the text. These queries can be as simple as “Who is the main character?” or “Why did the author say that?” By doing so, they’re actively exploring the content, leading to a deeper understanding.

Vocabulary Building

A strong vocabulary is essential for comprehension. Encourage students to keep a vocabulary journal where they record unfamiliar words and their meanings. This not only enhances their understanding of the current text but also builds a valuable skill for future reading.

Think of vocabulary as the building blocks of comprehension. When your middle schooler encounters a new word, it’s like discovering a new tool in their toolbox. This tool helps them unlock the meaning of the text and expands their ability to understand and communicate effectively.

Summarizing

After reading a section or a chapter, encourage students to summarize what they’ve read in their own words. This forces them to process the information and identify the main ideas and supporting details.

Summarizing helps your middle schooler distill the essential points from the text. It’s like making a condensed version of a long movie into a trailer.

This skill is particularly valuable when studying. It allows students to review the material more efficiently and understand it more thoroughly.

Visualizing

Visualization is a powerful tool for comprehension. Encourage students to create mental images of the scenes or concepts described in the reading. This can make the material more relatable and memorable.

When your middle school student visualizes what they’re reading, it’s like creating a movie in their mind. These mental images bring the text to life and help them connect with the content on a deeper level.

For instance, if they’re reading about a character in a story, they can imagine what that character looks like, where they live, and what they do. This visualization aids in understanding and retention.

Making Connections

Help students make connections between the text and their own experiences, other texts they’ve read, or current events. This enhances comprehension by providing reading context and relevance to the material.

Encourage your middle schooler to think about how the content relates to their own life. This could be as simple as connecting a character’s feelings to their own experiences. Making these connections brings the reading to life and makes it more meaningful.

Encourage students to predict what will happen next in a story or what the author’s main argument will be in an informational text. This keeps them engaged and encourages them to anticipate the direction of the text.

Predicting is like trying to guess the plot of a movie based on the first few scenes. When they do, they become active participants in the narrative. It’s not just about reading words; it’s about making educated guesses and being engaged in the storyline or the author’s argument.

Inferencing

Inferencing is the art of drawing conclusions based on evidence in the text. Middle school students should be taught to identify clues. They can use them to make educated guesses about character motivations, plot developments, or the author’s purpose.

When your child makes inferences while reading, they’re like detectives piecing together a puzzle. They gather clues from the text and use their reasoning skills to make sense of the information.

This not only improves comprehension but also sharpens critical thinking abilities. Reading tutoring can provide extra practice in making inferences, helping students become more adept at this skill. 

Critical Reading

Teach middle school students to read critically. This means analyzing the author’s tone, biases, and the credibility of the information presented. Critical reading promotes a deeper understanding of the text and encourages students to question what they read.

They’re not just accepting everything at face value. They’re evaluating the information and considering the source. This skill empowers them to be effective readers who can separate fact from opinion and identify potential biases.

Effective Reading Comprehension Strategies for Middle School Students

Reading comprehension strategies for middle school can help them excel. By using the strategies discussed, students can become more confident and independent readers.

So, let’s encourage our young learners to practice these strategies and watch them thrive in their reading abilities. Try incorporating these strategies in your classroom today! Please take a look at our blog for more educational articles.

Please take a look at our blog for more educational articles.

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.