thesis statement for a book critique

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How to Write a Book Critique: Step-By-Step Guide & Examples

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A book critique is a written evaluation of a book that provides an objective assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. Its purpose is to help readers understand the book's content and provide a thoughtful analysis of its quality.

Preparing book critique entails reading a piece of writing and describing the author's overall purpose and intent to the reader. You can also pose a question to readers, who might look through the novel, to spark their curiosity.

Drafting a good book critique is not easy, as you should take into account different aspects of writing. In this article, we will give you a breakdown of how to write a book critique from beginning to end. Additionally, you will find some proper book critique examples that may help you write a piece that genuinely reflects your personal opinion on any author's works. Need professional assistance? Consider hiring a proficient book report writer who will tackle your assignment according to the highest academic standards.

What Is a Book Critique?

A book critique is a critical analysis of ideas expressed by an author in a publication. It is an assessment of the novel's strengths and weaknesses, its style, structure, the author's use of language, and effectiveness of its major themes and ideas. Book critiques can be written by a professional book reviewer or an ordinary reader who just wants to share their opinion. It usually includes a book summary, an evaluation of its content, and a discussion of its significance.  Writing a book critique may also be used as an academic assignment for students. In this case, they will be expected to demonstrate their ability to analyze and evaluate a novel using critical thinking skills and providing evidence to support their arguments.

Purpose of a Book Critique

The primary purpose of a book critique is to allow the audience to interact with the author's text and analyze it carefully. It can be used to offer feedback to writers on the quality of their work or to contribute to literary criticism and analysis. A book critique is aimed at helping readers decide whether or not to read a particular publication. Instructors also use it to evaluate their students' critical thinking skills more precisely.

Book Critique Outline

An outline of a book critique is a summary of your write-up's content in a less detailed manner. It helps you logically organize and structure your text. The importance of an outline lies in its ability to help writers clarify what needs to be included in their essays, along with things that should be left out. This is one aspect you need to get right when learning to critique a book or, basically, when writing any complex, lengthy work. Generally, outlines are used by authors to organize their thinking patterns for a paper at the very beginning of essay writing process. Here is an example of a book critique template outline.

• Brief introduction of the novel and its author
• State the genre or novel's purpose
• Summarize the author's key points
• Thesis statement
• Give a summary of the publication
• Provide arguments that support your statement of purpose
• Support your logic with evidence from the novel
• Give your objective opinion
• Summarize your arguments
• Restate thesis statement
• Give your recommendations

Follow the tips from a book report writing service outlined below to nail your task. 

Book Critique Introduction

Writing a book critique introduction is important in providing readers with an overview of the publication you will be critiquing. The introduction should preview what readers can expect from your critique and give some context for the publication itself. To write a book critique preface that accurately serves its purpose, consider following steps:

• Start by providing a title and a brief overview of the book's plot, characters, and setting.
• Give some background information about the author, historical period in which the novel is set, or any cultural or literary influences that may have inspired the writer.
• State your thesis. It should be the last element of an introduction.

Book Critique Thesis Statement

The thesis statement for a book critique aims to provide readers with a clear summary of the arguments you will address further. Thesis is usually developed after you read the novel and understand its contents. It should be clear and concise and touch on the main idea you want to get across. It consists of one or two sentences and is normally placed at the end of your introduction. Understanding what constitutes a strong thesis is vital for writers since it is an integral part of every single write-up. As you will see in most book critiques upon doing your research, thesis statement guides your work's structure and lays out a plan for readers to follow.

Body of a Book Critique

The body of your book critique is the meat and flesh of your essay because the most valuable content is located here. Generally, it should contain several paragraphs. Each section should address a specific point you’ve laid out in the outline. As a writer, such structure will allow you to delve deeper into a particular point without any limitations and help to write your book critique much faster. Remember, each paragraph should focus on one main idea, highlight the argument, and support it with an explanation or evidence. However, if a paragraph is too long, you can split it into two for easier reading.

Book Critique Conclusion

This is the final part of book critique writing. One of the easiest ways to prepare it is by going through your work from beginning to end. It helps you highlight the essay's overall point and ensures that nothing important is left out. To prepare a proper book critique conclusion, summarize your main ideas, restate your thesis statement, and give recommendations. You may also include whether or not you agree with the author's presentation of ideas. When writing a conclusion, you should also remember to provide your overall impression of the novel and, optionally, mention it if you want other readers to try it.

How to Write a Book Critique?

To write a book critique that is really useful and outstanding, first and foremost, make sure to actually read the novel; no matter how funny it sounds, this is the only core component. Reread as many times as possible to ensure you understand the author's points. That way, you will be able to formulate strong arguments. In some cases, you may find that you do not understand the writer's position or ideas, which may call for some research. Research the author, his personal life, and his experiences. This will help you comprehend his approach and make analysis and evaluation easier. Formulate your thesis statement and have an outline in place. If the process still proves challenging, do not hesitate to ask your peers or tutors for advice or borrow inspiration from numerous online materials on how to write a book critique for college. Further in the section, the critique process will be expounded on in nitty-gritty details.

1. Choose and Read the Book

Before starting your analysis, you need to identify the piece you are going to read. It would be better if you read the novel at least once or twice to internalize its contents. Remember to highlight main points and reasoning behind them when reading. This will help you formulate arguments to include in your book critique. It is also crucial to take notes while reading, as it will help you avoid forgetting key points and tightly grasp chronological order of events. Furthermore, it will aid you in creating an outline, which is vital in book critique writing.

2. Do Research on Author's Background

Researching the author's background is necessary before writing book critique. It can help you understand their point of view. For example, we all know the environment one grows up in influences so much of their behavior. You may, for instance, find that writers raised in the countryside and those from urban areas have different interpretations of the same things in life. Understanding the author's views and hypothesis is key as it will inform your arguments. You can also check their credentials, competencies, and corpus (bibliography). Knowing this will help you better formulate the book's summary in introduction and body paragraphs. After doing preliminary research, you will be equipped with all the necessary information to actually critique a book using fundamental assessment "tools" - analysis and evaluation.

3. Analyze and Evaluate the Book

Analysis and evaluation will majorly inform how your critique flows. Evaluation involves an in-depth study of all points in a particular piece. Consider how the characters are developed and ways in which they contribute to a story. While assessing the plot, note whether there are any twists to the narrative. Evaluate whether the story is original and engaging to readers. Just like in a literary analysis , you need to examine its general impact, if it achieves its intended purpose, its thoroughness, objectivity, accuracy, and timeliness. Finally, develop your arguments, forming the foundation for writing a book critique. Remember to be fair and objective in your assessment.

4. Build a Book Critique Outline

Creating a book critique outline can help you organize your thoughts and write clear and comprehensive text. This is where you use notes you gathered earlier while researching and evaluating. These notes will guide you in penning down your thoughts chronologically, starting from introduction to conclusion. Your outline need not be too detailed but should include the primary info you intend to use in your essay. However, do not limit yourself too much as well. While drafting outline for a book critique, ensure it is wide-ranging to avoid missing any parts. Above, you can find an example of an outline to use as a template for creating your own.

Read more: How to Write an Outline for an Essay ?

5. Introduce a Book and Details of an Author

This section is rather straightforward. You need to provide readers with brief background information. In your book critique introduction, discuss the publication, any recurring themes presented, and the purpose it intends to serve. You can also highlight similar titles the author has written, but not too many to not get side-tracked here. In the introduction for a book critique, include clear reasoning behind why the author engages with specific topics in the first place. For example, it could be a result of their own experiences or just stories from other people. You can also consider how the authors attempt to differentiate themselves in the genre without alienating or missing their intended audience.

Book Critique Introduction Example

The introduction paragraph should set pace for the rest of your paper. It should grab the reader's attention and encourage them to read your essay. It is important to note that this is not a summary of your paper but rather just a preview. Here is an example of a book critique introduction.

In literature, you may come across many novels that leave you with lasting impressions, either good or bad. Such is the case with "Romeo and Juliet", a play by William Shakespeare written in the years 1591 and 1595 that is considered one of his most popular and frequently performed plays. This blockbuster of a tragedy has been met with mixed reviews, with some readers finding it a masterpiece while others deeming it a disappointment. In this critique, I will delve into the author's writing style, plot, characters, and themes, ultimately providing a comprehensive evaluation of "Romeo and Juliet". I will also determine whether it is still worth reading in the 21st century.

Read more: How to Start an Essay ?

6. Create a Thesis Statement

Creating a strong thesis statement is vital when you want to critique a book as it provides readers with a clear overview of your position or arguments. Proper thesis statement, in this case, should capture your overall evaluation of the author's work. Here are some general tips to help you write a good thesis statement for a book critique.

• Identify the text's main components, including the author's writing style, plot, characters, and themes.
• Determine your stance on the author's work. Is it good or bad, and what specifically makes it so?
• Using information from the publication, write a sentence summarizing your evaluation.

Thesis Statement Sample

A thesis statement can comprise one or two sentences. You must ensure that it is clear, concise, and arguable. It should be delivered in the form of an idea that provokes opposition, instead of being a factual statement. Here is an example of a book critique thesis statement.

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare offers an intricate exploration of love and nature of human choices, masterfully brought to life through rich, well-developed characters and compelling narrative.

7. Write a Book Summary

When prewriting critique of a book, a summary will be one of the key components in your outline. It is important because your critique might be read by people who have never heard about the publication, so a properly detailed summary will initially introduce the novel to your audience and explain what it is generally about. Most common way to write a book critique summary is by giving a brief overview of the themes, characters, and main ideas. It requires careful reading, analysis, and the ability to articulate one's opinions about the author's work in a clear and concise manner.

8. Write Your Book Critique

The main part of your book critique is the body. This is the longest part of your essay as well. The goal here is to take the reader through your arguments and evidence supporting your thesis statement. Here are some steps to guide you through book critique writing.

• Provide arguments that support your statement of purpose This entails determining the publication’s strongest and weakest points, analyzing the author's success in formulating ideas and developing themes. Use textual proof to support your views.
• Evaluate the author's purpose in writing the novel What message were they trying to convey? Is the publication intended to entertain, inform, persuade, or educate? Does the writer achieve their purpose? In addition, assess the author's writing style, book's plot, narrative, flow and make a character analysis.
• State your overall opinion of the book Do you think the novel is well-written and engaging? Would you recommend it to others? Be sure to back up your opinion with evidence from the book.

Book Critique Body Example

Below is a book critique body sample for a fictional novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett , The Secret Garden.

“The Secret Garden” is a beautifully written classic that explores the power of nature, friendship, and self-discovery. The story is set in a grand estate in England and follows the journey of Mary Lennox, a young girl who is sent to live with her uncle after parent's death. Its setting is described in rich detail, painting a vivid picture of the estate. Descriptions of the natural world are enchanting and bring the story to life in a magical way. Characters in “The Secret Garden” are well-developed, making it easy for readers to connect with them on an emotional level. Mary, the main character, is a determined young girl who learns to face her fears and find joy through her experiences in the garden. Supporting characters, such as Colin and Dickon, are equally compelling and add depth to the story. Writing style is poetic, with an intense mood that makes readers feel like they are right there with Mary. Themes, such as power of nature and importance of friendship, are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making them both subtle and well-pronounced. In conclusion, the book's deliberate pace allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the secret garden world. Its climax is satisfying, bringing the story's themes to a fitting end.

9. Give Your Opinion and Recommendations

Consider different aspects of the text when giving your opinion, including its plot, theme, setting, and purpose. For example, you can look at whether the author addressed the main idea as per themes and whether his content meets its central purpose. Do not fear to give an opinion as any reader is entitled to have one, and this is, basically, what writing a book critique is majorly intended for. After all, you may even find that many other readers agree with your views! Once you learn how to give an objective opinion, it will be safe to say that you know how to critique a book.

Book Critique Recommendations Example

When writing a book critique for college or university, you must always have a conclusion in your essay. This is where you give your final thoughts on the piece, whether it was good or bad. It will be best if you also provide reasoning for your opinion to make it convincing. Here is a book critique conclusion example.

Overall, "Romeo and Juliet" is a thrilling and enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of tragedy and love story novels. The author's skillful use of language and well-constructed plot make this a must-read for anyone. It highlights human flaws present in our societies and consequences of our choices. One must be keen not to idealize the purity of main characters' love but also look at external forces such as anger and hate that play a big role in their story. Whether you are a fan of tragedy novels or enjoy well-written love stories, this is a text you will surely not want to miss.

10. Proofread Your Critique of a Book

Proofreading is an important step in the writing process. Good book critiques should be clear, accurate, and free of errors. This helps you make a strong impression on your audience and effectively communicate your ideas. By taking the time to go through your critique, you demonstrate that you take your writing seriously and value reader's experience. Here are some useful editing tips.

• Look for spelling and grammar errors Use a spell-check tool and carefully read your book critique to eliminate any possible mistakes.
• Check for consistency Ensure your tone is consistent throughout your essay.
• Verify facts Ensure any facts or quotes you include in your critique are accurate and properly cited. Check our guide on how to cite a quote from a book , in case you need any help.

Book Critique Examples

Before you begin working on your assignment, it is advisable to look through a few book critique samples to understand better how it may be done. This will help you write an excellent paper. Look for a book critique example online to borrow ideas on arranging your work. You should be keen on appropriate articles and narrow your search until you get an example of a good book critique that will be worth your time. Example of a book critique 1

Book critique sample 2

Book critique example 3

Book Critique Format

When writing a book critique, the content of your work must be orderly. Quality of presentation is largely informed by how you arrange your paper. Different formats are used for literary works, such as APA, MLA, and Chicago. Depending on your educational institution, your teacher will guide you on what book critique format to use. Upon knowing the structure, follow it to the letter to ensure that your work has a consistent style. In most cases, by looking at the format for a book critique, you can tell whether you are about to read a good piece.

Book Critique Writing Tips

Here are some extra tips on how to critique a book.

• Know your audience Consider who you are writing the book critique for and what they are interested in reading. For example, if you are composing a review for a literary magazine, you will want to focus more on the novel's stylistic elements.
• Be objective While a book critique writing assignment is a chance to investigate and express your opinions, staying accurate and avoiding overly personal attacks on the author or text is also essential.
• Use credible evidence to support your opinions Whenever you make a statement about the text, back it up with examples. Reliable proof refers to information that majority of readers would deem authentic.
• Maintain an organized structure Good book critiques are well-organized and have a good flow that is easy for an audience to follow.
• Avoid spoilers While including key details in your summary is essential, avoid giving away the ending or plot twists.

If you're a book lover, you might also wonder how to write a book review .  But what if you're also interested in learning how to critique an article ? Check out our blog, which provides tips and strategies for analyzing and evaluating all types of works.

Bottom Line on Book Critique Writing

When writing a book critique, you are not merely describing the book's contents but also critically examining it. After briefly introducing the book and summarizing its contents, proceed to comprehensively review its advantages and disadvantages. This can involve analyzing the author's style of writing, the persuasiveness of their arguments or narrative, and the book's influence on readers. If necessary, use examples from the text and outside sources on how to do a book critique to bolster your analysis. Furthermore, consider that book critiques are subjective, and your viewpoint counts. In your assessment, be forthright and truthful, but also refrain from disparaging the writer or their work in any other way. Best of luck!

Try our expert academic writing service for high-quality work and top-notch grades. Receive quick book review help and achieve success worry-free. 

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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Book Reviews

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you write a book review, a report or essay that offers a critical perspective on a text. It offers a process and suggests some strategies for writing book reviews.

What is a review?

A review is a critical evaluation of a text, event, object, or phenomenon. Reviews can consider books, articles, entire genres or fields of literature, architecture, art, fashion, restaurants, policies, exhibitions, performances, and many other forms. This handout will focus on book reviews. For a similar assignment, see our handout on literature reviews .

Above all, a review makes an argument. The most important element of a review is that it is a commentary, not merely a summary. It allows you to enter into dialogue and discussion with the work’s creator and with other audiences. You can offer agreement or disagreement and identify where you find the work exemplary or deficient in its knowledge, judgments, or organization. You should clearly state your opinion of the work in question, and that statement will probably resemble other types of academic writing, with a thesis statement, supporting body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Typically, reviews are brief. In newspapers and academic journals, they rarely exceed 1000 words, although you may encounter lengthier assignments and extended commentaries. In either case, reviews need to be succinct. While they vary in tone, subject, and style, they share some common features:

• First, a review gives the reader a concise summary of the content. This includes a relevant description of the topic as well as its overall perspective, argument, or purpose.
• Second, and more importantly, a review offers a critical assessment of the content. This involves your reactions to the work under review: what strikes you as noteworthy, whether or not it was effective or persuasive, and how it enhanced your understanding of the issues at hand.
• Finally, in addition to analyzing the work, a review often suggests whether or not the audience would appreciate it.

Becoming an expert reviewer: three short examples

Reviewing can be a daunting task. Someone has asked for your opinion about something that you may feel unqualified to evaluate. Who are you to criticize Toni Morrison’s new book if you’ve never written a novel yourself, much less won a Nobel Prize? The point is that someone—a professor, a journal editor, peers in a study group—wants to know what you think about a particular work. You may not be (or feel like) an expert, but you need to pretend to be one for your particular audience. Nobody expects you to be the intellectual equal of the work’s creator, but your careful observations can provide you with the raw material to make reasoned judgments. Tactfully voicing agreement and disagreement, praise and criticism, is a valuable, challenging skill, and like many forms of writing, reviews require you to provide concrete evidence for your assertions.

Consider the following brief book review written for a history course on medieval Europe by a student who is fascinated with beer:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600, investigates how women used to brew and sell the majority of ale drunk in England. Historically, ale and beer (not milk, wine, or water) were important elements of the English diet. Ale brewing was low-skill and low status labor that was complimentary to women’s domestic responsibilities. In the early fifteenth century, brewers began to make ale with hops, and they called this new drink “beer.” This technique allowed brewers to produce their beverages at a lower cost and to sell it more easily, although women generally stopped brewing once the business became more profitable.

The student describes the subject of the book and provides an accurate summary of its contents. But the reader does not learn some key information expected from a review: the author’s argument, the student’s appraisal of the book and its argument, and whether or not the student would recommend the book. As a critical assessment, a book review should focus on opinions, not facts and details. Summary should be kept to a minimum, and specific details should serve to illustrate arguments.

Now consider a review of the same book written by a slightly more opinionated student:

Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 was a colossal disappointment. I wanted to know about the rituals surrounding drinking in medieval England: the songs, the games, the parties. Bennett provided none of that information. I liked how the book showed ale and beer brewing as an economic activity, but the reader gets lost in the details of prices and wages. I was more interested in the private lives of the women brewsters. The book was divided into eight long chapters, and I can’t imagine why anyone would ever want to read it.

There’s no shortage of judgments in this review! But the student does not display a working knowledge of the book’s argument. The reader has a sense of what the student expected of the book, but no sense of what the author herself set out to prove. Although the student gives several reasons for the negative review, those examples do not clearly relate to each other as part of an overall evaluation—in other words, in support of a specific thesis. This review is indeed an assessment, but not a critical one.

Here is one final review of the same book:

One of feminism’s paradoxes—one that challenges many of its optimistic histories—is how patriarchy remains persistent over time. While Judith Bennett’s Ale, Beer, and Brewsters in England: Women’s Work in a Changing World, 1300-1600 recognizes medieval women as historical actors through their ale brewing, it also shows that female agency had its limits with the advent of beer. I had assumed that those limits were religious and political, but Bennett shows how a “patriarchal equilibrium” shut women out of economic life as well. Her analysis of women’s wages in ale and beer production proves that a change in women’s work does not equate to a change in working women’s status. Contemporary feminists and historians alike should read Bennett’s book and think twice when they crack open their next brewsky.

This student’s review avoids the problems of the previous two examples. It combines balanced opinion and concrete example, a critical assessment based on an explicitly stated rationale, and a recommendation to a potential audience. The reader gets a sense of what the book’s author intended to demonstrate. Moreover, the student refers to an argument about feminist history in general that places the book in a specific genre and that reaches out to a general audience. The example of analyzing wages illustrates an argument, the analysis engages significant intellectual debates, and the reasons for the overall positive review are plainly visible. The review offers criteria, opinions, and support with which the reader can agree or disagree.

Developing an assessment: before you write

There is no definitive method to writing a review, although some critical thinking about the work at hand is necessary before you actually begin writing. Thus, writing a review is a two-step process: developing an argument about the work under consideration, and making that argument as you write an organized and well-supported draft. See our handout on argument .

What follows is a series of questions to focus your thinking as you dig into the work at hand. While the questions specifically consider book reviews, you can easily transpose them to an analysis of performances, exhibitions, and other review subjects. Don’t feel obligated to address each of the questions; some will be more relevant than others to the book in question.

• What is the thesis—or main argument—of the book? If the author wanted you to get one idea from the book, what would it be? How does it compare or contrast to the world you know? What has the book accomplished?
• What exactly is the subject or topic of the book? Does the author cover the subject adequately? Does the author cover all aspects of the subject in a balanced fashion? What is the approach to the subject (topical, analytical, chronological, descriptive)?
• How does the author support their argument? What evidence do they use to prove their point? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Does any of the author’s information (or conclusions) conflict with other books you’ve read, courses you’ve taken or just previous assumptions you had of the subject?
• How does the author structure their argument? What are the parts that make up the whole? Does the argument make sense? Does it persuade you? Why or why not?
• How has this book helped you understand the subject? Would you recommend the book to your reader?

Beyond the internal workings of the book, you may also consider some information about the author and the circumstances of the text’s production:

• Who is the author? Nationality, political persuasion, training, intellectual interests, personal history, and historical context may provide crucial details about how a work takes shape. Does it matter, for example, that the biographer was the subject’s best friend? What difference would it make if the author participated in the events they write about?
• What is the book’s genre? Out of what field does it emerge? Does it conform to or depart from the conventions of its genre? These questions can provide a historical or literary standard on which to base your evaluations. If you are reviewing the first book ever written on the subject, it will be important for your readers to know. Keep in mind, though, that naming “firsts”—alongside naming “bests” and “onlys”—can be a risky business unless you’re absolutely certain.

Writing the review

Once you have made your observations and assessments of the work under review, carefully survey your notes and attempt to unify your impressions into a statement that will describe the purpose or thesis of your review. Check out our handout on thesis statements . Then, outline the arguments that support your thesis.

Your arguments should develop the thesis in a logical manner. That logic, unlike more standard academic writing, may initially emphasize the author’s argument while you develop your own in the course of the review. The relative emphasis depends on the nature of the review: if readers may be more interested in the work itself, you may want to make the work and the author more prominent; if you want the review to be about your perspective and opinions, then you may structure the review to privilege your observations over (but never separate from) those of the work under review. What follows is just one of many ways to organize a review.

Introduction

Since most reviews are brief, many writers begin with a catchy quip or anecdote that succinctly delivers their argument. But you can introduce your review differently depending on the argument and audience. The Writing Center’s handout on introductions can help you find an approach that works. In general, you should include:

• The name of the author and the book title and the main theme.
• Relevant details about who the author is and where they stand in the genre or field of inquiry. You could also link the title to the subject to show how the title explains the subject matter.
• The context of the book and/or your review. Placing your review in a framework that makes sense to your audience alerts readers to your “take” on the book. Perhaps you want to situate a book about the Cuban revolution in the context of Cold War rivalries between the United States and the Soviet Union. Another reviewer might want to consider the book in the framework of Latin American social movements. Your choice of context informs your argument.
• The thesis of the book. If you are reviewing fiction, this may be difficult since novels, plays, and short stories rarely have explicit arguments. But identifying the book’s particular novelty, angle, or originality allows you to show what specific contribution the piece is trying to make.
• Your thesis about the book.

Summary of content

This should be brief, as analysis takes priority. In the course of making your assessment, you’ll hopefully be backing up your assertions with concrete evidence from the book, so some summary will be dispersed throughout other parts of the review.

The necessary amount of summary also depends on your audience. Graduate students, beware! If you are writing book reviews for colleagues—to prepare for comprehensive exams, for example—you may want to devote more attention to summarizing the book’s contents. If, on the other hand, your audience has already read the book—such as a class assignment on the same work—you may have more liberty to explore more subtle points and to emphasize your own argument. See our handout on summary for more tips.

Analysis and evaluation of the book

Your analysis and evaluation should be organized into paragraphs that deal with single aspects of your argument. This arrangement can be challenging when your purpose is to consider the book as a whole, but it can help you differentiate elements of your criticism and pair assertions with evidence more clearly. You do not necessarily need to work chronologically through the book as you discuss it. Given the argument you want to make, you can organize your paragraphs more usefully by themes, methods, or other elements of the book. If you find it useful to include comparisons to other books, keep them brief so that the book under review remains in the spotlight. Avoid excessive quotation and give a specific page reference in parentheses when you do quote. Remember that you can state many of the author’s points in your own words.

Sum up or restate your thesis or make the final judgment regarding the book. You should not introduce new evidence for your argument in the conclusion. You can, however, introduce new ideas that go beyond the book if they extend the logic of your own thesis. This paragraph needs to balance the book’s strengths and weaknesses in order to unify your evaluation. Did the body of your review have three negative paragraphs and one favorable one? What do they all add up to? The Writing Center’s handout on conclusions can help you make a final assessment.

Finally, a few general considerations:

• Review the book in front of you, not the book you wish the author had written. You can and should point out shortcomings or failures, but don’t criticize the book for not being something it was never intended to be.
• With any luck, the author of the book worked hard to find the right words to express her ideas. You should attempt to do the same. Precise language allows you to control the tone of your review.
• Never hesitate to challenge an assumption, approach, or argument. Be sure, however, to cite specific examples to back up your assertions carefully.
• Try to present a balanced argument about the value of the book for its audience. You’re entitled—and sometimes obligated—to voice strong agreement or disagreement. But keep in mind that a bad book takes as long to write as a good one, and every author deserves fair treatment. Harsh judgments are difficult to prove and can give readers the sense that you were unfair in your assessment.
• A great place to learn about book reviews is to look at examples. The New York Times Sunday Book Review and The New York Review of Books can show you how professional writers review books.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Drewry, John. 1974. Writing Book Reviews. Boston: Greenwood Press.

Hoge, James. 1987. Literary Reviewing. Charlottesville: University Virginia of Press.

Sova, Dawn, and Harry Teitelbaum. 2002. How to Write Book Reports , 4th ed. Lawrenceville, NY: Thomson/Arco.

Walford, A.J. 1986. Reviews and Reviewing: A Guide. Phoenix: Oryx Press.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Literary Criticism

• Introduction
• Literary Theories
• Steps to Literary Criticism
• Find Resources
• Cite Sources
• thesis examples

SAMPLE THESIS STATEMENTS

These sample thesis statements are provided as guides, not as required forms or prescriptions.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The thesis may focus on an analysis of one of the elements of fiction, drama, poetry or nonfiction as expressed in the work: character, plot, structure, idea, theme, symbol, style, imagery, tone, etc.

In “A Worn Path,” Eudora Welty creates a fictional character in Phoenix Jackson whose determination, faith, and cunning illustrate the indomitable human spirit.

Note that the work, author, and character to be analyzed are identified in this thesis statement. The thesis relies on a strong verb (creates). It also identifies the element of fiction that the writer will explore (character) and the characteristics the writer will analyze and discuss (determination, faith, cunning).

Further Examples:

The character of the Nurse in Romeo and Juliet serves as a foil to young Juliet, delights us with her warmth and earthy wit, and helps realize the tragic catastrophe.

The works of ecstatic love poets Rumi, Hafiz, and Kabir use symbols such as a lover’s longing and the Tavern of Ruin to illustrate the human soul’s desire to connect with God.

The thesis may focus on illustrating how a work reflects the particular genre’s forms, the characteristics of a philosophy of literature, or the ideas of a particular school of thought.

“The Third and Final Continent” exhibits characteristics recurrent in writings by immigrants: tradition, adaptation, and identity.

Note how the thesis statement classifies the form of the work (writings by immigrants) and identifies the characteristics of that form of writing (tradition, adaptation, and identity) that the essay will discuss.

Further examples:

Samuel Beckett’s Endgame reflects characteristics of Theatre of the Absurd in its minimalist stage setting, its seemingly meaningless dialogue, and its apocalyptic or nihilist vision.

A close look at many details in “The Story of an Hour” reveals how language, institutions, and expected demeanor suppress the natural desires and aspirations of women.

The thesis may draw parallels between some element in the work and real-life situations or subject matter: historical events, the author’s life, medical diagnoses, etc.

In Willa Cather’s short story, “Paul’s Case,” Paul exhibits suicidal behavior that a caring adult might have recognized and remedied had that adult had the scientific knowledge we have today.

This thesis suggests that the essay will identify characteristics of suicide that Paul exhibits in the story. The writer will have to research medical and psychology texts to determine the typical characteristics of suicidal behavior and to illustrate how Paul’s behavior mirrors those characteristics.

Through the experience of one man, the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave, accurately depicts the historical record of slave life in its descriptions of the often brutal and quixotic relationship between master and slave and of the fragmentation of slave families.

In “I Stand Here Ironing,” one can draw parallels between the narrator’s situation and the author’s life experiences as a mother, writer, and feminist.

SAMPLE PATTERNS FOR THESES ON LITERARY WORKS

1. In (title of work), (author) (illustrates, shows) (aspect) (adjective). 

Example: In “Barn Burning,” William Faulkner shows the characters Sardie and Abner Snopes struggling for their identity.

2. In (title of work), (author) uses (one aspect) to (define, strengthen, illustrate) the (element of work).

Example: In “Youth,” Joseph Conrad uses foreshadowing to strengthen the plot.

3. In (title of work), (author) uses (an important part of work) as a unifying device for (one element), (another element), and (another element). The number of elements can vary from one to four.

Example: In “Youth,” Joseph Conrad uses the sea as a unifying device for setting, structure and theme.

4. (Author) develops the character of (character’s name) in (literary work) through what he/she does, what he/she says, what other people say to or about him/her.

Example: Langston Hughes develops the character of Semple in “Ways and Means”…

5. In (title of work), (author) uses (literary device) to (accomplish, develop, illustrate, strengthen) (element of work).

Example: In “The Masque of the Red Death,” Poe uses the symbolism of the stranger, the clock, and the seventh room to develop the theme of death.

6. (Author) (shows, develops, illustrates) the theme of __________ in the (play, poem, story).

Example: Flannery O’Connor illustrates the theme of the effect of the selfishness of the grandmother upon the family in “A Good Man is Hard to Find.”

7. (Author) develops his character(s) in (title of work) through his/her use of language.

Example: John Updike develops his characters in “A & P” through his use of figurative language.

Perimeter College, Georgia State University,  http://depts.gpc.edu/~gpcltc/handouts/communications/literarythesis.pdf

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Step-by-Step Guide: Writing an Excellent Book Critique Made Easy for Students

Table of contents

So, you've got a book to critique. Whether it's a bestseller, a scholarly piece, or a lesser-known gem, breaking it down can feel like a monumental task. It's not just about summarizing the plot or stating whether you enjoyed the book or not. A book critique dives deeper, examining elements such as theme, character development, style, and context, all while offering a balanced, informed perspective.

If the thought of critiquing a book seems daunting, you're not alone. The process can be intricate, and it requires more than just surface-level engagement with the text. However, the rewards are equally significant - improving your analytical skills, understanding literature on a deeper level, and sharpening your writing skills.

In this guide, we aim to demystify the process of writing a book critique. We'll take you through a step-by-step journey, from initial reading to final draft. So, pull up a chair, grab your favorite book, and let's delve into the world of book critique.

What Does a Book Critique Entail

When you think about a book critique, you may be picturing a simple book review or summary. But there's so much more to it than that. A book critique is an analytical piece of writing where you will be expected to engage with the book on a deeper level, exploring the various themes, narrative structure, character development, and the author's writing style.

Comprehending the Content : This is the basic stage where you read the book thoroughly and understand its plot, characters, themes, and settings. Your critique will be based on your comprehension of these elements.

Analyzing the Elements : Once you understand the content, you dig deeper. How have the characters been developed? How do different themes interplay? How is the plot structured, and how does it build over the course of the book? These are the kind of questions you should be asking.

Assessing the Author's Style : How does the author use language? What's unique about their writing style? Do they favor long, descriptive passages, or is their writing more dialogue-driven?

Critiquing the Book : Finally, you evaluate and critique the book. This isn't just about saying whether you liked it or not. It's about offering an informed, balanced analysis.

Now that you have a general understanding of what a book critique entails, let's delve into the step-by-step guide on how to write one effectively.

Pre-Writing Stage: Preparations for Your Book Critique

Before you start writing your book critique, there's some preparation you need to do. This stage is crucial as it sets the foundation for your critique. Here's what the pre-writing stage entails:

This might seem obvious, but it's the most important step. Make sure to read the book attentively, absorbing its storyline, characters, settings, and themes.

As you read, make sure to take notes. Write down your observations about the plot, characters, themes, and any other significant elements. Jotting down your thoughts can help you remember crucial points and will make the actual writing process smoother.

What's the main idea or message of the book? What themes does the author explore? Identifying these can provide a framework for your critique.

The characters are the heart of any book. Understand their motives, their character arcs, and how they contribute to the overall story.

How is the plot constructed? Is it linear, or does it use flashbacks? Is it character-driven or plot-driven? These factors can greatly impact the reader’s experience.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to start writing your book critique. Now, let's explore the actual writing process.

Step-By-Step Guide to Write Compelling Book Critique

Once you've thoroughly read the book and have your notes at hand, you're ready to start writing your critique. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to go about it.

Step 1: Understanding the Book

Fully understanding the book is crucial to a strong critique. To do this, you may need to read the book more than once. As a student, consider the book in the context of your coursework. What themes, motifs, or literary devices has your teacher emphasized in class? Also, try to view the book through the author's lens. What were their likely intentions? The better you understand the book, the more nuanced and insightful your critique can be.

Step 2: Taking Detailed Notes

As you read, it's important to actively engage with the text, not just passively absorb it. Highlight key passages, jot down interesting quotes, and record your reactions. Write down questions that come to mind or aspects that confuse you. Try to observe patterns and connections between different parts of the book. These notes will serve as the raw material for your critique.

Step 3: Identifying Key Themes and Messages

Look for recurring ideas or themes within the book. How are they expressed? How do they contribute to the overall story? Do they resonate with you? Consider if the author is making a larger comment about society, human nature, or life in general. Remember, a book may not have one singular message but several underlying themes.

Step 4: Critiquing the Author's Writing Style

Analyze the author's choice of words, sentence structure, rhythm, and pacing. Notice the tone and mood of the book. Is the language formal or casual? Is the writing dense with imagery or straightforward and direct? How do these choices contribute to or detract from the book's impact? Does the writing style make it easier or harder to understand the book's themes?

Step 5: Character Analysis

Pay attention to the main characters and how they change over the course of the book. Are the characters believable and relatable? Do their motivations and actions make sense? Do they experience growth or remain static? How do they interact with each other and respond to the events in the plot? A deeper understanding of the characters can often provide insights into the book's main themes.

Step 6: Plot Evaluation

Analyze the plot structure. Does the story progress logically? Are there unexpected twists or turns? How does the author build suspense or interest? Does the climax provide a satisfying resolution? Examine how the plot devices contribute to the overall narrative and themes.

Step 7: Developing Your Thesis

Your thesis is the cornerstone of your critique. It should summarize your overall assessment of the book and guide your critique. Use your notes and observations to form a clear, concise thesis statement. It should indicate whether you believe the book was successful in achieving its purpose and why.

Step 8: Writing the Introduction

Your introduction should hook the reader's attention and provide basic information about the book, including the author's name, the title of the book, and a brief summary of its content. Also, introduce your thesis statement here. A well-crafted introduction sets the tone for the rest of your critique.

Step 9: Writing the Body

The body paragraphs are where you make your case. Each paragraph should focus on a single point related to your thesis. Start with a topic sentence, provide evidence or examples from the book to support your point, and then explain how this supports your thesis. Ensure there is a logical flow from one paragraph to the next.

Step 10: Writing the Conclusion

Your conclusion should not just restate your thesis but also synthesize your main points. Avoid introducing new information or arguments here. Instead, tie everything together, and leave the reader with a clear understanding of your perspective on the book.

Step 11: Revising and Editing

After writing, take the time to revise your critique. Check for clarity, coherence, grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider getting a peer or teacher to review your critique for an outside perspective. Revision is where good writing becomes great, so don't skip this step!

REMEMBER : good book critique doesn't just summarize the story but provides insightful analysis and evaluation of the book. It should give readers a deeper understanding of the book and help them decide whether it's worth their time.

Deconstructing "The Boy Who Lived": A Practical Example of a Chapter Analysis from Harry Potter

To help you better understand how to critique a book, let's take a practical example. We'll be analyzing the first chapter "The Boy Who Lived" from J.K. Rowling's renowned book, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone".

Introduction : The first chapter of J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" sets the stage for the epic saga of magic and adventure that is to follow. The chapter is titled "The Boy Who Lived," signaling the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the protagonist, Harry Potter.

Summary : The chapter introduces us to the Dursleys, an ordinary family living in England, who are perturbed by the strange occurrences happening around them. These are linked to the celebration of the magical community, following the downfall of the dark wizard Lord Voldemort, who lost his powers while trying to kill the infant Harry Potter.

Analysis : Rowling's writing style is descriptive and imaginative, making the fictional world feel real and engaging. The use of humor, particularly in the depiction of the Dursleys, keeps the narrative light-hearted, despite the grim circumstances. Rowling presents a clear contrast between the ordinary (Dursleys) and the extraordinary (Potter). The characters introduced are memorable, and the plot successfully generates curiosity about the events to follow.

Evaluation : The first chapter serves its purpose well, setting up the tone and premise for the series. Rowling’s characterization and attention to detail make the chapter compelling, paving the way for the magical journey ahead. It provides an enticing entry point into the magical world that appeals to readers across age groups.

Conclusion : In essence, "The Boy Who Lived" serves as an excellent first chapter, skillfully balancing exposition and intrigue. It leaves the reader eager to delve further into the extraordinary life of Harry Potter, marking a strong start to an iconic series.

This is a simplified example, but it gives you a clear idea of how to structure your book critique and what points to consider while writing it. Always remember to back up your points with examples from the book.

Challenges in Writing a Book Critique and Strategies to Overcome Them

Even for seasoned readers and writers, crafting a book critique can pose unique challenges. However, understanding these difficulties can help you devise strategies to conquer them. Let's unpack some of the most common obstacles you might face and explore ways to address them.

1. Trouble Getting Started : You've read the book, you have an opinion, but the blank page is staring back at you. The initial inertia can be challenging.

* Solution : Begin by jotting down your immediate reactions and thoughts about the book. Don't worry about structure or coherence at this point; the key is to get your thoughts flowing.

2. Understanding the Difference between Summary and Analysis : Many students tend to summarize the book rather than critique it.

* Solution : Remember, a critique requires you to delve deeper, examining the book's elements and providing your perspective on them. Keep summary to a minimum and focus on your analysis and interpretation.

3. Being Overly Critical or Generous : Some students may veer towards being overly critical or excessively generous in their critique. It’s important to find a balance.

* Solution : Support your critique with evidence from the book. If you didn't like a particular aspect, explain why and provide examples from the text.

4. Difficulty Expressing Opinions : Some students may feel uncomfortable expressing their opinions, particularly if they are negative or controversial.

* Solution : Remember that a critique is a space for you to articulate your viewpoints. Keep your tone respectful and your criticism constructive. Back your opinions with reasons to make your critique credible and persuasive.

5. Struggling with Structure : A well-structured critique can significantly enhance its effectiveness. Some students may struggle with organizing their critique coherently.

* Solution : Follow the structure outlined in the guide above. Having a clear roadmap can help ensure your critique flows logically.

It's perfectly fine to encounter challenges along the way. What's important is to persevere and learn from the process. Each critique you write will bring you a step closer to mastering the art of book critique writing.

Conclusion 

With each book critique you pen, you are not just providing an analysis of a book. You're undertaking a journey that holds tremendous value. By engaging critically with a text, you strengthen your analytical thinking, deepen your understanding of literature, and refine your writing skills. The process of crafting a critique is, in itself, an enriching learning experience.

Writing a book critique may seem daunting, especially if you're new to it. But remember, every seasoned critic was once a beginner. The key is to start - pick up a book, follow the steps outlined in this guide, and begin your journey. Don't worry about getting it perfect the first time around. Like any skill, critique writing improves with practice.

If you ever find yourself feeling stuck or overwhelmed, remember, help is just a click away. At Writers Per Hour, we have a team of professional writers who can assist you in writing book reports and critiques . No matter the book or the deadline, our experienced writers are here to support you in your critique writing journey.

So, grab your pen, or open that laptop, dive into the world of the book you've chosen, and let your critical journey begin.

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How to Write a Critical Book Review

Your review should have two goals: first, to inform the reader about the content of the book, and second, to provide an evaluation that gives your judgment of the book’s quality.

Your introduction should include an overview of the book that both incorporates an encapsulated summary and a sense of your general judgment. This is the equivalent to a thesis statement.

Do NOT spend more than one-third or so of the paper summarizing the book. The summary should consist of a discussion and highlights of the major arguments, features, trends, concepts, themes, ideas, and characteristics of the book. While you may use direct quotes from the book (make sure you always give the page number), such quotes should never be the bulk of the summary. Much of your grade will depend on how well you describe and explain the material IN YOUR OWN WORDS. You might want to take the major organizing themes of the book and use them to organize your own discussion. This does NOT mean, however, that I want a chapter-by-chapter summary. Your goal is a unified essay.

So what do I want, if not just a summary? Throughout your summary, I want you to provide a critique of the book. (Hence the title: “A Critical Book Review.”) A critique consists of thoughts, responses, and reactions. It is not necessarily negative. Nor do you need to know as much about the subject as the author (because you hardly ever will). The skills you need are an ability to follow an argument and test a hypothesis. Regardless of how negative or positive your critique is, you need to be able to justify and support your position.

Here are a number of questions that you can address as part of your critique. You need not answer them all, but questions one and two are essential to any book review, so those must be included. And these are ABSOLUTELY NOT to be answered one after another ( seriatim ). Don’t have one paragraph that answers one, and then the next paragraph that answers the next, etc. The answers should be part of a carefully constructed essay, complete with topic sentences and transitions.

• What is your overall opinion of the book? On what basis has this opinion been formulated? That is, tell the reader what you think and how you arrived at this judgment. What did you expect to learn when you picked up the book? To what extent – and how effectively – were your expectations met? Did you nod in agreement (or off to sleep)? Did you wish you could talk back to the author? Amplify upon and explain your reactions.
• Identify the author’s thesis and explain it in your own words. How clearly and in what context is it stated and, subsequently, developed? To what extent and how effectively (i.e., with what kind of evidence) is this thesis proven? Use examples to amplify your responses. If arguments or perspectives were missing, why do you think this might be?
• What are the author’s aims? How well have they been achieved, especially with regard to the way the book is organized? Are these aims supported or justified? (You might look back at the introduction to the book for help). How closely does the organization follow the author’s aims?
• How are the author’s main points presented, explained, and supported? What assumptions lie behind these points? What would be the most effective way for you to compress and/or reorder the author’s scheme of presentation and argument?
• How effectively does the author draw claims from the material being presented? Are connections between the claims and evidence made clearly and logically? Here you should definitely use examples to support your evaluation.
• What conclusions does the author reach and how clearly are they stated? Do these conclusions follow from the thesis and aims and from the ways in which they were developed? In other words, how effectively does the book come together?
• Identify the assumptions made by the author in both the approach to and the writing of the book. For example, what prior knowledge does the author expect readers to possess? How effectively are those assumptions worked into the overall presentation? What assumptions do you think should not have been made? Why?
• Are you able to detect any underlying philosophy of history held by the author (e.g., progress, decline, cyclical, linear, and random)? If so, how does this philosophy affect the presentation of the argument?
• How does the author see history as being motivated: primarily by the forces of individuals, economics, politics, social factors, nationalism, class, race, gender, something else? What kind of impact does this view of historical motivation have upon the way in which the author develops the book?
• Does the author’s presentation seem fair and accurate? Is the interpretation biased? Can you detect any distortion, exaggeration, or diminishing of material? If so, for what purpose might this have been done, and what effect does hit have on the overall presentation?

These questions are derived from Robert Blackey, “Words to the Whys: Crafting Critical Book Reviews,” The History Teacher, 27.2 (Feb. 1994): 159-66.

– Serena Zabin, Feb. 2003

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A book review describes, analyzes, and evaluates a book by examining its purpose and its contribution.

A book review should address the following:

• What are the authors trying to accomplish? What is their argument?
• Who is the author trying to convince?
• What strategies and evidence did you see in the book?
• To what extent are you convinced by the book? To whom (if anyone) would you recommend this book?

Your professor may specify additional instructions or objectives for their book review assignment. Therefore, be sure to read the assignment instructions carefully.

In many ways, your book review can be structured like a typical essay, using an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Like other introductions, the book review introduction should move from broad (the topic of the book) to narrow (your specific argument or purpose statement).

Your reader will expect you to do the following in your introduction:

• Introduce the topic of the book (what is the issue at hand, and why should we care?)
• Introduce the title and author of the book
• State the purpose of the book (including the author’s thesis or major findings)
• State your thesis (or the purpose of your review)

The thesis of your book review may vary depending on the assignment.

• If you are given a specific task (e.g., to relate the book to course themes), that task will likely form the basis of your review.
• If you are asked to evaluate the book’s contribution to a specific field, that evaluation will be the backbone of your thesis.

Example thesis relating the book to course themes:

George Orwell’s 1984 provides insight into three course themes: critical thinking as a form of resistance, the role of misinformation in totalitarian societies, and the connection between privacy and personal freedom. The review that follows argues that the novel’s engagement with these themes can deepen our understanding of these themes in the course context by illustrating their interconnections.

Example thesis evaluating the book’s contribution to the field:

Sara Jaquette Ray’s The Ecological Other: Environmental Exclusion in American Culture is an important contribution to environmental justice scholarship because it offers a nuanced account of how environmental discourse has positioned people with disabilities, immigrants, and Native Americans as environmental outsiders. At the same time, it suggests how environmental activists can frame their arguments with greater inclusivity and care.

In your body paragraphs, you will describe, analyze, and evaluate the book. Your reader will expect you to do the following in the body of your review:

• Summarize the major points of the author’s argument
• Discuss the author’s engagement with larger themes
• Identify key strengths and weaknesses
• Evaluate the author’s contribution to the field
• Support your claims with evidence from the text
• Suggest how the book extends, complicates, or overturns arguments from other sources

Paragraph Order

In the body of your book review, you will support your thesis with reference to specific examples from the text. Although you may organize this material in a number of different ways, three common patterns of organization are thematic, chronological, and evaluative.

• If you are tasked with relating a book to course themes, use these themes to structure your review.
• You can devote each section of the body to one theme.
• Use topic sentences and transitions to show your reader when you are moving from one theme to the next.
• This structure can help you discuss the author’s engagement with a set of issues.

Chronological

• The structure of your review can mirror the structure of the book itself.
• You can discuss topics in the same order as the author, providing an evaluation that moves from chapter to chapter or section to section.
• This structure can help you emphasize the thoroughness of your review.
• Many published academic reviews begin by highlighting the strengths of the book under discussion and then move toward a critique of the weaknesses.
• This structure can help you assert your own critical voice as a scholar.

Rather than summarizing the book or restating your thesis, use the conclusion to provide your final thoughts. Consider the following questions:

• What have you learned from reviewing the book?
• What is your overall assessment of the book’s importance?
• Who might benefit most from reading it?
• How can future researchers build on this book?
• Does the book make space for new kinds of research within its field?

The conclusion is your last chance to add analysis to your book review, so be sure to address the book’s overall significance.

Try using signal words like ‘ultimately’ or ‘overall’ instead of ‘in conclusion’ to help you frame your conclusion through an analytical lens while also telling the reader that they should pay special attention to what follows.

The assignment’s instructions may also provide clues for material that you could include in the conclusion.

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How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to write a book review- a step by step guide.

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Since knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could improve? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair:Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with an additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

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

Who is the target audience for book reviews and book reports, how do book reviews and reports differ in length and content, can i write professional book reviews, what are the key aspects of writing professional book reviews, how can i enhance my book-reviewing skills to write professional reviews, what should be included in a good book review.

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Thesis Statement for Review

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In the realm of reviews, whether they concern books, films, products, or services, a compelling thesis statement is pivotal. It serves as the anchor, succinctly conveying your evaluative stance and guiding readers through your perspective. As reviews often sway opinions and decisions, mastering the art of crafting a potent thesis statement is essential. Dive into stellar examples, learn the crafting process, and grasp pro tips to perfect your review narratives.

What is a Review Thesis Statement? – Definition

A concise thesis statement summary of the reviewer’s main evaluation or judgment about the subject under consideration. Unlike research or argumentative thesis statements, a review thesis primarily focuses on the reviewer’s stance, be it positive, negative, or mixed, providing readers with a clear indication of the overall tone and direction the review will take.

What is a good thesis statement Example for a Review?

Book Review : “In J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’, the intricacies of the plot, combined with the depth of character development, create not only the strongest book in the series but also a testament to her evolving writing prowess.”

Movie Review : “Christopher Nolan’s ‘Inception’ masterfully combines complex storytelling with breathtaking visuals, making it an audacious and mesmerizing cinematic experience.”

Product Review : “Apple’s iPhone 12 Pro offers a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology and sleek design, setting a new benchmark in the smartphone industry despite its steep price.”

Each of these good thesis statements offers a clear evaluative stance, providing a snapshot of the reviewer’s perspective on the subject in question.

100 Thesis Statement Examples for Review

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In crafting a review, your specific thesis statement sets the tone, offering readers a glimpse into your assessment. Whether it’s a book, film, product, or service, a well-penned thesis encapsulates your viewpoint, guiding readers through your evaluative journey. Below are diverse examples to inspire and guide your review writing endeavors.

• “Margaret Atwood’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ presents a haunting dystopian world, prompting readers to reflect on societal structures.”
• “Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Irishman’ delves deep into the psyche of its characters, showcasing his directorial genius.”
• “Samsung’s Galaxy S21 fuses functionality with design, though its battery life leaves room for improvement.”
• “The newly opened ‘Cafe Delight’ boasts an eclectic menu but struggles with service consistency.”
• “Netflix’s ‘The Crown’ brilliantly captures the nuances of the British monarchy, making it a binge-worthy series.”
• “Nike’s latest running shoes offer unparalleled comfort but come with a hefty price tag.”
• “Trevor Noah’s ‘Born a Crime’ is an enlightening memoir that seamlessly blends humor and poignant moments.”
• “Taylor Swift’s ‘Folklore’ is a melodious departure from her usual genre, proving her versatile artistry.”
• “The MacBook Air M1 is Apple’s crowning achievement in balancing performance and portability.”
• “Spielberg’s ‘Schindler’s List’ remains a cinematic masterpiece, shedding light on humanity’s darkest hours.”
• “The PlayStation 5, while boasting groundbreaking graphics, suffers from limited availability.”
• “The vegan dishes at ‘Green Haven’ are a delight, offering both flavor and nutritional value.”
• “Disney’s ‘Mulan’ remake, although visually stunning, lacks the charm of the original animation.”
• “Fender’s latest guitar series is a boon for professionals, though beginners might find them overwhelming.”
• “Erin Morgenstern’s ‘The Starless Sea’ is a lyrical journey through whimsical worlds, though it occasionally loses its narrative thread.”
• “The ‘Zen Retreat Spa’ offers a holistic wellness experience but could benefit from a wider range of services.”
• “Billie Eilish’s ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’ pushes musical boundaries, heralding a new era of pop.”
• “The Pixel 6, with its AI capabilities, sets a new standard, though it falls short in the aesthetics department.”
• “Amazon’s ‘The Boys’ offers a gritty take on superheroes, breaking away from conventional portrayals.”
• “The latest Adidas workout gear combines style with functionality but demands a premium.”
• “The new Honda Accord impresses with its fuel efficiency, though the interior design feels dated.”
• “BBC’s adaptation of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ remains unparalleled in capturing the essence of Austen’s classic.”
• “While GoPro’s latest model offers groundbreaking stabilization, its battery life remains a sore point.”
• “Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty line is revolutionary in its inclusivity, setting new standards for the cosmetic industry.”
• “Ubisoft’s ‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’ offers a rich historical setting, but glitches occasionally disrupt gameplay.”
• “While the ‘Eco Bistro’ boasts an organic menu, its dishes often lack seasoning and flavor.”
• “Jordan Peele’s ‘Get Out’ is a masterclass in blending horror with societal commentary.”
• “The Dyson V11 stands out in performance among vacuum cleaners, but its price is discouraging for many.”
• “Spotify’s user interface makes it the top choice for music streaming, though its podcast section could be improved.”
• “Stephen King’s ‘The Institute’ reiterates his prowess in writing gripping narratives but treads familiar themes.”
• “The newly launched Microsoft Surface Pro excels in versatility but struggles with battery longevity.”
• “‘Circe’ by Madeline Miller is a spellbinding retelling of mythology, highlighting the nuances of its titular character.”
• “While the Xbox Series X boasts impressive specs, its game library needs expansion.”
• “Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance in ‘The Revenant’ is raw and captivating, making it a cinematic gem.”
• “Nikon’s latest DSLR camera offers stunning photo quality but falls short in video capabilities.”
• “The ‘Mountain View Resort’ provides a serene escape, though its dining options are limited.”
• “Beyonce’s ‘Lemonade’ is a powerful blend of music and activism, showcasing her evolution as an artist.”
• “Adobe’s Photoshop remains the top choice for professionals, though its steep learning curve is daunting for newbies.”
• “Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal in ‘Joker’ provides a harrowing look into mental health issues, making it a standout film.”
• “The Tesla Model X, with its innovative features, is reshaping the automobile industry.”
• “George Orwell’s ‘1984’ is eerily relevant today, underlining the dangers of unchecked power.”
• “While the iPhone SE offers value for money, it lacks the flair of its high-end counterparts.”
• “Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’ blends nostalgia with suspense, creating an irresistible binge-watch.”
• “While Bose’s new headphones provide exceptional sound, they are not the most comfortable for extended use.”
• “Barack Obama’s ‘A Promised Land’ is an introspective memoir providing invaluable insights into his presidency.”
• “Sony’s Bravia range offers unmatched picture quality, but its sound system could use an upgrade.”
• “The ‘Desert Oasis Retreat’ stands out for its rejuvenating experiences, though it’s far removed from urban amenities.”
• “Ariana Grande’s ‘Sweetener’ album showcases her vocal prowess, though some tracks feel repetitive.”
• “The Nikon Z5, while great for photography enthusiasts, might be an overkill for casual users.”
• “HBO’s ‘Game of Thrones’, despite its controversial ending, has set a benchmark for fantasy television.”
• “The Google Home smart speaker, with its intuitive features, stands out in the crowded smart home market.”
• “Ernest Hemingway’s ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ is a testament to human resilience and determination.”
• “Canon’s EOS series offers versatility for both amateurs and professionals, though its price range is vast.”
• “Marvel’s ‘Avengers: Endgame’ serves as a fitting conclusion to an epic saga, balancing emotion with action.”
• “Fitbit’s latest model excels in tracking accuracy but lacks in battery longevity.”
• “Starbucks, while offering a wide coffee range, often compromises on the personal touch of local cafes.”
• “Christopher Nolan’s ‘Dunkirk’ is a technical marvel, but its narrative feels disjointed at times.”
• “The Galaxy Tab series is a strong contender to the iPad, offering versatility at a competitive price.”
• “Paulo Coelho’s ‘The Alchemist’ remains a timeless tale of dreams and destiny.”
• “‘The Mediterranean Breeze’ restaurant offers authentic flavors but could work on ambiance.”
• “Apple Watch, with its health features, is more than just a smart accessory.”
• “Lana Del Rey’s ‘Norman F***ing Rockwell’ is a musical journey of melancholy and romance.”
• “While Canon’s mirrorless cameras offer innovation, they come with a steep learning curve.”
• “Amazon Prime’s ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ is a refreshing take on comedy, set against a vibrant period backdrop.”
• “Samsung’s QLED TVs, while providing stunning visuals, are on the pricier side.”
• “Agatha Christie’s ‘And Then There Were None’ is a masterful suspense that keeps readers on edge.”
• “Bose’s SoundTouch 300 offers cinematic sound but falls short in bass depth.”
• “The French bakery ‘La Delice’ offers authentic pastries but is often crowded due to limited seating.”
• “Hulu’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ is a chilling adaptation, shedding light on societal regression.”
• “The Tesla Model 3, while revolutionary in design, often faces software glitches.”
• “Tom Hanks’ performance in ‘Saving Private Ryan’ delivers a raw portrayal of the horrors of war, making it an iconic film.”
• “The latest update of the Android OS impresses with its user-friendly features but is not without minor bugs.”
• “The Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’ revolutionizes theater by blending history with contemporary music genres.”
• “Sony’s WH-1000XM4 headphones provide noise-cancellation at its best, but their hefty price tag is a deterrent for some.”
• “J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’ brilliantly blends mystery and magic, setting the tone for the series’ darker undertones.”
• “The ‘Seaside Resort’ is perfect for a tranquil getaway, but its remote location might not appeal to those seeking more lively surroundings.”
• “Lady Gaga’s ‘Chromatica’ is a powerful return to her dance-pop roots, resonating with many of her longtime fans.”
• “Adobe Premiere Pro stands tall in video editing software but demands a high-performance machine for smooth functioning.”
• “Scorsese’s ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ is a gritty dive into corporate greed, bolstered by DiCaprio’s stellar performance.”
• “Fitbit’s Versa 3 excels in sleep tracking, but its design is somewhat generic.”
• “The novel ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee remains a poignant exploration of racial and moral complexities in the American South.”
• “LG’s OLED TV lineup boasts unrivaled picture quality, but concerns over screen burn-in persist.”
• “The restaurant ‘Urban Eats’ offers innovative fusion cuisine, though sometimes it tries too hard to impress.”
• “The movie ‘Parasite’ by Bong Joon-ho is a masterclass in genre-blending, tackling social issues with dark humor.”
• “Apple’s iPad Pro is a formidable contender in the tablet market but is often seen as overpriced.”
• “BTS’s album ‘Map of the Soul: 7’ showcases their evolution as artists, touching upon themes of self-reflection and growth.”
• “The video game ‘The Last of Us Part II’ is a narrative powerhouse, though it polarized fans with its bold storytelling choices.”
• “The ‘Alpine Lodge’ offers a cozy winter retreat with stunning mountain views, but its in-house dining options are limited.”
• “Dua Lipa’s ‘Future Nostalgia’ is a refreshing blend of pop genres, echoing past eras while sounding unmistakably modern.”
• “The novel ‘The Night Circus’ by Erin Morgenstern paints a mesmerizing picture, though its plot occasionally meanders.”
• “Samsung’s Fold series pushes the boundaries of smartphone design but raises durability concerns.”
• “The documentary ‘Our Planet’ is a visual spectacle that underscores the urgent need for environmental conservation.”
• “The ‘Zenbook’ series by Asus strikes a balance between portability and performance, appealing to both students and professionals.”
• “Ari Aster’s ‘Midsommar’ is a haunting exploration of grief, set against the eerie backdrop of a Swedish midsummer festival.”
• “Nike’s React series offers unmatched cushioning for runners, but some find its design too flashy.”
• “The film ‘La La Land’ is a heartfelt homage to classic Hollywood musicals, blending romance with stunning cinematography.”
• “OnePlus, with its latest smartphone, offers flagship features at a competitive price but compromises on camera quality.”
• “The musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ touches upon pressing issues of mental health, resonating deeply with contemporary audiences.”
• “Canon’s RF lens lineup provides stunning clarity, setting new benchmarks in photography.”
• “The TV show ‘Breaking Bad’ remains a testament to character development, chronicling Walter White’s descent into the criminal underworld.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Literature Review

In literature reviews, the goal is often to identify trends, gaps, or controversies in the body of literature on a specific topic. The statements should reflect a comprehensive understanding of various works under review.

• “An examination of 20th-century Russian literature reveals a recurring theme of resistance against political oppression.”
• “Post-colonial African literature predominantly focuses on the struggle for identity amidst external influences.”
• “Modern American poets have shown a distinct shift towards exploring the nuances of urban life.”
• “Romantic-era literature frequently romanticizes nature as an antidote to the perils of industrialization.”
• “The rise of feminist literature in the 1960s challenged conventional gender norms and roles.”
• “A review of dystopian literature exposes society’s fears and anxieties about technological advancement.”
• “Contemporary Asian literature reveals the tensions between tradition and modernity.”
• “Magic realism in Latin American literature serves as a tool to critique political and social realities.”
• “Victorian literature’s portrayal of women reflects the era’s restrictive gender expectations.”
• “Middle Eastern literature post-9/11 frequently grapples with themes of identity, migration, and conflict.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Book Review

Book reviews encapsulate the essence, themes, and overall impact of a specific book.

• “In ‘1984’, George Orwell presents a harrowing vision of a totalitarian future that challenges the essence of individuality.”
• “J.D. Salinger’s ‘Catcher in the Rye’ offers an introspective look at teenage angst and the quest for purpose.”
• “Through ‘Beloved’, Toni Morrison confronts the haunting legacies of slavery on personal and collective memory.”
• “J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Hobbit’ is a captivating adventure tale that also delves into themes of bravery and friendship.”
• “In ‘The Road’, Cormac McCarthy paints a bleak post-apocalyptic world, highlighting the enduring spirit of human survival.”
• “Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ masterfully weaves a tale of societal norms and true love.”
• “‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald critiques the American Dream’s elusive nature amidst the Roaring Twenties’ excess.”
• “Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ is a profound exploration of racial prejudice and moral growth in the American South.”
• “Paulo Coelho’s ‘The Alchemist’ is a spiritual journey emphasizing the importance of following one’s dreams.”
• “Gabriel García Márquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ chronicles the Buendía family’s generational saga, infused with magic realism.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Restaurant Review

Restaurant reviews offer insights into the dining experience, emphasizing ambiance, service, and cuisine.

• “The Bistro delights with its fusion of Asian and Mediterranean flavors, though it falls short in ambiance.”
• “OceanView offers fresh seafood dishes with a panoramic view that justifies its premium pricing.”
• “At Bella Italia, authentic Italian cuisine meets a rustic and cozy environment.”
• “Despite its urban setting, Green Haven surprises with its farm-to-table approach, prioritizing organic and locally-sourced ingredients.”
• “Midtown Diner offers classic American dishes but needs to improve its service times during rush hours.”
• “Le Petite Café stands out for its delicate pastries and a delightful Parisian atmosphere.”
• “Tex-Mex Hub is a must-visit for spicy food lovers, offering a genuine taste of Southern American cuisine.”
• “While the sushi at DragonRoll is top-notch, the limited vegetarian options can be off-putting for some.”
• “UrbanGrill impresses with its innovative dishes but sometimes tries too hard to stand out.”
• “Moonlit offers a unique rooftop dining experience, though its menu is somewhat predictable.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Product Review

Product reviews evaluate the efficiency, design, and value of a specific product.

• “Apple’s iPhone 13 boasts improved battery life and camera enhancements but still struggles with iOS restrictions.”
• “Sony’s A7IV camera sets new standards in mirrorless technology, though it’s not budget-friendly.”
• “The Dyson V11 vacuum impresses with its suction power, but its weight can be cumbersome for extended use.”
• “Adidas’ Ultraboost 21 shoes provide exceptional comfort for runners but might feel too soft for some.”
• “Samsung’s QLED TV series offers vibrant colors and sharp contrasts, but the smart interface needs refining.”
• “Bose’s QuietComfort earbuds lead in noise cancellation, yet some users report connectivity issues.”
• “The Kindle Paperwhite’s latest version offers a warmer light feature, enhancing the reading experience at night.”
• “GoPro’s Hero 9 is a significant improvement in stabilization and resolution, but its bulkiness can be a drawback for some.”
• “Nespresso’s Vertuo machine delivers on taste and convenience but is limited by its pod variety.”
• “Fitbit’s Charge 4 excels in fitness tracking but falls short in smart features compared to competitors.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Movie Review

Movie reviews provide an analysis of a film’s storyline, cinematography, performances, and overall impact.

• “Christopher Nolan’s ‘Inception’ challenges viewers with its intricate plot but rewards with stunning visuals and performances.”
• “‘Parasite’ is a masterclass in genre-blending, tackling social issues with dark humor and suspense.”
• “Disney’s ‘Mulan’ offers a fresh take on a beloved story, but some purists might miss the original’s songs and humor.”
• “Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Irishman’ is a lengthy yet riveting exploration of crime, loyalty, and aging.”
• “Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of ‘Little Women’ brings a contemporary feel while honoring the classic’s spirit.”
• “‘Joker’, led by Joaquin Phoenix’s haunting portrayal, delves deep into the psyche of Batman’s iconic nemesis.”
• “Despite its blockbuster action sequences, ‘Avengers: Endgame’ shines brightest in its quieter, character-driven moments.”
• “Pixar’s ‘Soul’ is a heartwarming exploration of life’s purposes and passions, appealing to both kids and adults.”
• “Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ is a nostalgic trip back to a bygone era, sprinkled with his signature style.”
• “‘Frozen II’ expands the magical world of Arendelle but struggles to capture the original’s charm.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Evaluation

Evaluation thesis statements provide a balanced assessment, considering various criteria.

• “While the government’s new policy promises economic growth, it lacks clear provisions for environmental protection.”
• “The museum’s latest exhibit excels in interactivity, though some historical inaccuracies weaken its credibility.”
• “The new school curriculum offers a broader range of subjects, but its heavy workload might stress students.”
• “The city’s public transportation overhaul is commendable for its coverage but needs to prioritize punctuality.”
• “The company’s rebranding strategy succeeded in attracting a younger demographic, though it alienated its long-term customers.”
• “The festival, while boasting international artists, lacked adequate facilities and organization.”
• “The new app update enhances user experience with its design but raises privacy concerns with data collection.”
• “While the online course offers flexibility, it lacks the community engagement of traditional classroom settings.”
• “The company’s sustainability initiative is praiseworthy, but its implementation in overseas factories remains questionable.”
• “The software’s latest version promises enhanced features, but its steep learning curve can deter novice users.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Analysis

Analysis thesis statements delve deep into subjects, dissecting their intricacies.

• “Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ intricately explores the human psyche through its complex protagonist.”
• “The architectural design of the new library emphasizes accessibility, reflecting a democratic approach to knowledge.”
• “Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 represents a triumphant battle against fate, evident in its progression from minor to major tonalities.”
• “Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ is a profound commentary on the horrors of war, using distorted imagery to convey pain and chaos.”
• “The marketing campaign’s success lies in its appeal to emotions, creating a strong brand-community connection.”
• “The poem’s use of iambic pentameter mirrors the rhythmic quality of natural speech, drawing readers into its narrative.”
• “The software’s code reveals an emphasis on user privacy, using encryption techniques that prioritize data protection.”
• “The character’s development throughout the novel is a reflection of society’s evolving views on gender roles.”
• “The film’s use of light and shadow not only establishes mood but also accentuates character dynamics.”
• “The policy’s language subtly promotes corporate interests, evident in its emphasis on deregulation and market freedoms.

Does a review need a thesis statement?

Absolutely! A review, whether of a book, film, product, or any other subject, should possess a clear thesis statement. This statement helps set the tone for the review and provides readers or listeners with an understanding of the reviewer’s main stance or perspective. The thesis establishes the foundational argument or point the reviewer is trying to convey. This clarity not only aids in structuring the review but also offers readers a lens through which they can understand the subsequent analysis and critique.  In addition, you should review our  college essay thesis statement .

How do you write a thesis statement for a review? – Step by Step Guide

• Identify the Main Element : Begin by pinpointing what the core element or aspect of the item you’re reviewing is. For a book, this could be the plot or a character; for a product, perhaps its primary function.
• Evaluate Your Response : Reflect on your reactions to this core element. Did it resonate with you? Was there something lacking?
• Draft a Preliminary Statement : Start with a general statement that captures your initial thoughts about the review subject.
• Be Specific : Avoid vague phrases. For instance, rather than saying a book was “good” or “bad,” specify what made it so – was the character development rich, or was the plot predictable?
• Consider Counterarguments : Think about potential counterarguments to your stance. This doesn’t mean you should necessarily include them in the thesis, but being aware of them can help you craft a more robust statement.
• Revise and Refine : Like all thesis statements, your initial draft might not be perfect. Revisit and refine it to ensure it’s concise, clear, and compelling.
• Ensure It’s Arguable : A good thesis statement for a review should present a point that someone could reasonably disagree with.
• Avoid Subjectivity : While reviews are inherently subjective, try to ground your thesis in objective observations. Instead of “I didn’t like the book,” you might say, “The book lacked depth in character development, leading to a less immersive experience.”
• Test It : Before finalizing your thesis statement, present it to someone unfamiliar with the review subject. If they get a clear sense of your stance and the direction of your review, you’re on the right track.
• Position Appropriately : Place your thesis statement at the beginning of your review to give readers a clear sense of direction from the outset.

Tips for Writing a Review Thesis Statement

• Stay Concise : Brevity is key. Ensure your thesis is one to two sentences long and clearly encapsulates your main argument or perspective.
• Use Active Voice : Active voice makes your statement sound more decisive. For instance, “The film delivers a powerful message about resilience” is preferable to “A powerful message about resilience is delivered by the film.”
• Be Open to Change : As you delve deeper into your review, you might find your perspective shifting slightly. Be ready to adjust your thesis accordingly.
• Avoid Spoilers : Especially for book and movie reviews, make sure your thesis doesn’t give away key plot points.
• Stay Objective : While personal opinions in reviews are inevitable, aim for a balanced view that’s grounded in observable facts or features.
• Remember the Audience : Consider who you’re writing for. If your audience is more specialized, like in a scholarly review, your thesis might be more detailed and nuanced. If it’s for a broader audience, clarity and accessibility are paramount.
• Seek Feedback : Sometimes, having another set of eyes on your thesis can be invaluable. They might catch ambiguities or vaguenesses that you missed.

Writing a specific thesis statement for a review is as much an art as it is a science. It requires introspection, a clear understanding of the review subject, and the ability to articulate one’s thoughts concisely and compellingly. By following the above steps and tips, you can craft a thesis that anchors your review effectively.

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• Instructive
• Professional

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How to Write a Book Critique Like a Professional

Last updated: November 2019

First and foremost, let’s define critique:

Do not confuse book critique and book reviews! When assigned to write a critique essay, you need to analyze a book (or an article) rather than summarize and retell its contents.

In other words, it’s not about information but analysis and persuasion . When writing a critique paper, you enhance brain functions and critical thinking. And teachers assign such tasks to encourage students to  read books  and help them shape an opinion on literary works.

Ready to learn how to write a book critique like a boss?

Table of Contents:

• What is a critique?
• Types of critique

What to do before writing

How to start a critique, a body of your critique paper.

• How to write a critique conclusion
• How to critique an article
• The format of your critique paper
• Critique examples
• Your checklist for writing a critique

What is a Critique?

When assigned to write a critique, don’t hurry up to fly to a pen or a keyboard. First, make sure you understand the critique meaning and the specification of this task.

Critique is a detailed analysis and assessment of something: a book, an article, a political or philosophical theory, etc.

To define critique, remember that it’s not the same with a review. And here’s the difference:

• A book review  = its summary aimed at telling readers about the plot.
• A book critique  = its analysis aimed at critical responding and evaluating its quality.

When writing a critique paper, you need to give an assessment of literary works. It’s a systematic analysis discussing a book’s validity and evaluating its worth. Also known as a critical response , this type of writing argues whether a book is worth reading and why. In other words, your paper should discuss:

• a book’s thesis and major argument
• a book’s style
• a reviewer’s (your) comments and assumptions on the book

Critique synonyms are analysis , evaluation , discourse , assessment , commentary , opinion , or study .

Types of Critique

No matter what written work you need to critique, you’ll conduct its systematic analysis, describe its strengths and weaknesses, and decide on a strategy to use for critiquing.

The most common types of critique you’ll meet in college:

• A book critique.  Here you’ll need to describe its contents, summarize the book’s strong and weak points, and provide a recommendation for the audience: to read or not to read this book.
• An article summary (critique).  Here you’ll review an article, discuss its key concepts, and analyze if it’s of value for the field.

For a paper to sound professional, you need to choose and adhere to a language strategy for stating your points.

If you offer praise or criticism, use  modal words and expressions , consider qualifying adjectives and adverbs, and remember about tentative verbs.

Examples ( source ):

• The approach of an online orientation program could be useful for students as it would allow them to have important information at their fingertips, regardless of if they are on campus or not.
• Significant results were noted in the results of this study, but there are limitations to these findings.
• This article focused on an important topic within higher education, as administrators need to find solutions to improve retention.

If you offer suggestions on what could be done for a book or an article to look better, consider conditional verb forms such as “would… if…” and “would have been… if.”

Example ( source ):

• Bolland’s dialectical analysis of Creole society  would be  put to test  if  the antagonisms he identifies were examined in the context of a Hispanic environment.

How to Write a Book Critique

As well as any other type of academic paper, a critique has its structure. It should include:

• An introduction with a clear  thesis statement .
• A body with your synopsis and arguments.
• A conclusion with your article summary and thesis re statement.

So, let’s get right to it. Here’s how to write a critique essay that’s worth A+.

No matter if it was a teacher who assigned a particular book for you to analyze or you had a freedom of choice here, you’ll need to do research and craft a detailed essay outline before writing.

Say you’ve got a book to assess in your essay. What’s next?

• Read the book, taking notes of its main points.
• While reading, write a brief summary for each section.
• Determine the author’s core statement.
• Read some reviews of the book to get a better idea of its content and message.
• Make notes from those reviews. (You can use them for arguments afterward.)
• State your thesis .
• Make sure that you don’t plagiarize it from other reviewers.
• Come up with 3-5 arguments for your thesis.
• Search for relevant references to support your thesis and  arguments .
• Find evidence from the book and write a detailed outline of your critique.

That’s a suggested outline for your work:

Once ready, it’s time to start writing the first draft. Be sure your outline relates to the thesis, and you’ve organized each section coherently.

This one is the easiest part of critique writing because it reminds a summary of a book. Your introduction includes basic information: the book’s title, author, topic, and core ideas. Also,  hook a reader  by stating your essay’s purpose and your reaction to the book (it will be your thesis statement).

With this in mind, the introduction might be as follows:

• Sentence 1:  A book’s author + its title + the main idea. Be objective, and use so-called evaluative verbs to power your writing.
• Sentence 2:  A book’s summary + its purpose ( a core argument ). Stay unbiased and avoid details.
• Sentence 3:  A brief statement of your evaluation. It can be positive-positive (when you want to praise a book) or positive-negative (when you want to criticize it and offer suggestions on what might be done better there).

Depending on a literary work you criticize, the essay introduction may consist of 1-2 sentences or 1-3 paragraphs.

No strict rules exist for how to critique and how many paragraphs to write in your paper’s body. It depends on your task’s requirements and a book you evaluate. With a standard 5-paragraph essay structure, let’s say a body of your critique paper will consist of three paragraphs.

Points to consider while writing:

• Organization.  Depending on the approach, you can arrange paragraphs by points, strengths vs. weaknesses, or topics. Your goal isn’t to just negatively criticize a book but also point out what the author did well.
• Writing techniques and style.  Evaluating a book, don’t forget to mention these points. Discuss how effectively (or not) the author used stylistic devices to prove their ideas.
• Evidence.  Describe what types of arguments the author used. Were they logical and appropriate? Don’t forget to explain why the evidence supports your point.
• Usefulness.  Discuss what the book adds to understanding its topic. Is it useful? Does it present ideas in original and engaging ways? How does it address the core aspects of society?
• Examples.  Support every argument of your critique with examples. You can’t just write that the book was boring; provide a quote as evidence and explain why it does not appeal to you.

And that’s what David Taylor, senior  advisor from UMUC , determines as evaluative criteria for how to critique:

How to write a conclusion

The final part of your paper, this is a paragraph where you summarize and qualify judgments, as well as offer your recommendations on a book.

Writing your  essay conclusion , answer the questions:

• Do you agree with the author? Why, or why not?
• What is the overall opinion on this book?

Be specific . Remind readers of the importance of a literary work you criticized, focus on its strengths and weaknesses, and state what you consider its ultimate success.

The same approach works for those asking how to write analytical book review an article.

How to Critique an Article

An article review of a book essay is a paper when you summarize and evaluate a piece of research, specifying its strengths and weaknesses.

Unlike with a review, the main focus here is on your analysis , not a  narrative  of what the article is about.

As well as a book critique, an article one consists of:

• An introduction.  Here you write about the article’s title, author, and the main point, also stating your thesis that will preview your analysis.
• An article summary .  In short, introduce the arguments and the findings of the article.
• A critique itself.  Discuss the article’s pros and cons, and state your opinion about its clarity and accuracy. Use the data and examples from the article to support your arguments.
• A conclusion.  Summarize the article as well as key points from your analysis and comment about why such research matters or what else needs to be researched in the field.

Article summary example:

The Format of Your Paper

This essay type has clear style guidelines for students to adhere while writing, which are:

• Typed, double-spaced, on one side of a paper
• One-inch margins on all sides
• All pages numbered (except the first one)
• Turabian  or  Chicago  citation style
• No first-person (except referring to your opinion)
• Active voice
• A new paragraph each time you change the point

Content and grammar are of equal importance here. If a reader doesn’t understand your sentence structure, they won’t be able to follow your argument. That’s why revise and proofread your essay but don’t rely much on spell-checkers, as they often miss even the  most obvious spelling mistakes .

Instead, ask someone to proofread your work and revise it accordingly. Or,  chat with our essay writers for help .

Critique Examples

That’s all well and fine, but are there any examples of how to write a critical book review ?

 Here go samples for your consideration.

  ( Note!  Samples are aimed for assistance purposes only: don’t plagiarize them and don’t copy their parts to use in own papers.)

And here go additional resources for you to check when you need the information on how to write:

• How to Write the Academic Assignment , video
• Critical Analysis , with a sample outline
• How to Write a Book Review
• The Article Analysis , with a process of writing and evaluating your critique
• How to Write a Book Analysis

Your Checklist for Writing a Critique

Answer these questions to make sure you have enough data for writing a book evaluation:

To smooth things down, just save this checklist to make sure you haven’t missed anything – and refer to it every time you need a guide for writing a book critical analysis.

Ready to start writing? Essay maker is an amazing tool to help you write an essay quickly and efficiently. With it, you can create an incredible essay in no time!

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A multiple book review essay involves assessing the quality of two or more books that cover the same overall subject area [e.g., analysis of the European debt crisis] or that are related to each other in a particular way [e.g., applying grounded theory methods to study student access to education]. The review is written in the form of a short scholarly paper [essay] rather than as a descriptive book review. The purpose is to compare and contrast the works under review, to identify key themes and critical issues, and to evaluate each writer's contributions to understanding the overarching topics common to each book. Professors assign reviews of multiple books to help students gain experience critically evaluating the ways in which different researchers examine and interpret issues related to a specific research problem.

Erwin, R. W. “Reviewing Books for Scholarly Journals.” In Writing and Publishing for Academic Authors . Joseph M. Moxley and Todd Taylor. 2 nd edition. (Lanham, MD: Roman and Littlefield, 1997), pp. 83-90.

How to Approach Writing Your Review

Developing an Assessment Strategy

An important first step in approaching how to write a review of two or more books is to identify and think critically about the research problem that ties each of the books together. This information is usually summarized in the preface or introductory chapter of each book. The challenge is to develop an argument about each book you are reviewing and then clearly compare, contrast, and ultimately synthesize your analysis into an well organized and well supported essay.

Think of a multiple book review essay as a type of compare and contrast paper similar to what you may have written for a general issue-oriented composition class . As you read through each book, write down questions concerning what you want to know about each book and answer them as you read [remember to note the page numbers from the book you got the information from so you can refer back it later!]. Which questions to ask yourself will depend upon the type of books you are reviewing and how the books are related to each other.

Here are a series of questions to focus your thinking:

• What is the thesis—or main argument—of each book? If the author wanted you to get one idea from the book, what would it be? How does it compare or contrast to the world you know? What has the book accomplished?
• What exactly is the subject or topic of each book? Does the author cover the subject adequately? Does the author cover all aspects of the subject in a balanced fashion? Can you detect any biases? What is the approach to the subject [topical, historical, analytical, chronological, descriptive]?
• How does the author of each book support his or her argument? What evidence [i.e., sources cited and data collection] does each author use to prove their point? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Does any of the author's information [or conclusions] conflict with other books you've read, courses you've taken, or just previous assumptions you had about the research problem under study?
• How does the author structure their argument? What are the parts that make up the whole? Does the argument make sense to you? Does it persuade you? Why or why not? Were there any questions left unanswered? Were limitations to the study effectively addressed?
• How has each book helped you understand the subject? Would you recommend the books to others? Why or why not? In what ways have the books collectively expanded your understanding of the research problem?

Beyond the content of the book, you may also consider some information about each author and the circumstances of the text's production:

• Who is the author? Nationality, political persuasion, education, intellectual interests, personal history, and historical context may provide crucial details about how a work takes shape. Does it matter, for example, that the author is affiliated with a particular organization? What difference would it make if the author participated in the events he or she writes about? What other topics has the author written about? Does this work build on prior research or does it seem to represent a new area of research?
• What is each book's genre? Out of what discipline do they emerge? Do they conform to or depart from the conventions of its genre? These questions can provide a historical or other contextual standard upon which to base your evaluations. If you are reviewing a book described as the first book ever written on the subject, it will be important for your readers to know this. Keep in mind, though, that declarative statements about being the “first,” the "best," or the "only" book of its kind can be a risky unless you're absolutely certain because your professor [presumably] has a much better understanding of the overall research literature.

Bazerman, Charles. Comparing and Synthesizing Sources. The Informed Writer: Using Sources in the Disciplines. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Comparing and Contrasting. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Comparison and Contrast Essays. Writing Support Centre. University of Western Ontario; Hartley, James. “Reading and Writing Book Reviews Across the Disciplines.” Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology 57 (July 2006): 1194-1207; Walk, Kerry. How to Write a Compare-and-Contrast Paper. Writing Center. Princeton Writing Program; Rhetorical Strategies: Comparison and Contrast. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Visvis, Vikki and Jerry Plotnick; Writing a Compare/Contrast Essay. The Comparative Essay. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Writing a Compare/Contrast Essay. CLRC Writing Center. Santa Barbara City College.

Structure and Writing Style

I.  Bibliographic Information

Provide the essential information about each book using the writing style asked for by your professor [e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.]. Depending on how your professor wants you to organize your review, the bibliographic information represents the heading of your review. In general, they would be arranged alphabetically by title and look like this:

Racing the Storm: Racial Implications and Lessons Learned from Hurricane Katrina . Hillary Potter, ed. (Lanham, MD: Lexington Books, 2007. 320 pp) The Sociology of Katrina: Perspectives on a Modern Catastrophe . David L. Brunsma, David Overfelt, and J. Steven Picou, eds. (Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield, 2007. 288 pp.) Through the Eye of Katrina: Social Justice in the United States . Kristin A. Bates and Richelle S. Swan, eds. (Durham, NC: Carolina Academic Press, 2007. 440 pp.) Reviewed by [your full name]

II.  Thesis Statement

The thesis statement of an essay that compares and contrasts multiple works should contain an idea or claim that unites the discussion of each text under review . It should include the argument that will be advanced in support of the claims being made. To begin, ask yourself: What is the overarching subject or issue that ties together all of the books? Why is it important? In most scholarly works, the author(s) will state the purpose of their book in the preface or in an introductory chapter. Look for common themes or points of divergence among the books.

If you cannot find an adequate statement in the author's own words or if you find that the thesis statement is not well-developed, then you will have to compose your own introductory thesis statement that does cover all the material. The comparative thesis statement will vary in length depending on the number and complexity of the books under review. Regardless of length, it must be succinct, accurate, unbiased, and clear.

If you find it difficult to discern the overall aims and objectives of each book [and, be sure to point this out in your review if you believe it to be a deficiency], you may arrive at an understanding of the purpose by asking yourself a the following questions:

• Scan the table of contents because it can help you understand how the book is organized and will aid in determining the author's main ideas and how they are developed [e.g., chronologically, topically, historically, etc.].
• Why did the authors write on this subject rather than on some other subject?
• From what point of view is each work written?
• Were the authors trying to provide information, to explain something technical, or to convince the reader of a belief’s validity by dramatizing it in action?
• What is the general field or genre, and how does each book fit into it? If necessary, review related literature from other books and journal articles to familiarize yourself with the field.
• Who is the intended audience for each book? Is it the same or are the books intended for difference sets of readers?
• What is each author's style? Is it formal or informal? You can evaluate the quality of the writing style by noting some of the following standards: coherence, clarity, originality, forcefulness, accurate use of technical words, conciseness, fullness of development, and fluidity.
• How did the books affect you? Were any prior assumptions you had on the subject that were changed, abandoned, or reinforced after reading the books? How are the books related to your own personal beliefs or assumptions? What personal experiences have you had that relate to the subject?
• How well has each book achieved the goal(s) set forth in the preface, introduction, and/or foreword?
• Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

A useful strategy to help organize your thoughts is to create a table with a column for each book and rows for each question. Enter your answer to each book in the chart. When completed, you'll have an easy guide to how each author has addressed the questions.

NOTE:   Your thesis statement underpins the purpose of your review and helps the reader understand how the books are related. However, while a book review essay should evaluate books about the same topic [e.g., hurricane Katrina recovery], there may not be an overarching issue that ties the books together. If this is the case, then the thesis could, for example, center around the diversity of issues scholars have chosen to examine a topic or the fractured nature of scholarship on the subject.

ANOTHER NOTE :   Your thesis statement should include the rationale for why the key points you highlight or compare and contrast among the books being reviewed were deliberate and meaningful and not random. Explain their significance.

III.  Methods of Organizing the Essay

Organization is critical to writing an essay that compares and contrasts multiple works because you will most likely be discussing a variety of evidence and you must be certain that the logic and narrative flow of your paper can be understood by the reader. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

• If your professor asks you to choose the books to review, identify works that are closely related in some way so they can be easily compared or contrasted.
• Compare according to a single organizing idea [e.g., analysis of how each author assessed the effectiveness of post-Katrina recovery efforts].
• Choose a method of development [see below] that works well with your organizing idea.
• Use specific and relevant examples to support your analysis.
• Use transitional words or phrases to help the reader understand the similarities and differences in your subject.
• Conclude your paper by restating your thesis, summarizing the main points, and giving the reader a final "so what" answer to the major similarities and/or differences that you discussed [i.e., why are they important?

There are two general methods of organizing your multiple book review essay. If you believe one work extends another, you'll probably use the block method; if you find that two or more works are essentially engaged in a debate or examine a topic from different perspectives, the point-by-point method will help draw attention to the conflict. However, the point-by-point method can come off as a rhetorical ping-pong match. You can avoid this effect by grouping more than one point together, thereby cutting down on the number of times you alternate from one work to another. No matter which method you choose, you do not need to give equal time to similarities and differences. In fact, your paper will be more interesting if you state your main argument(s) as quickly as possible. For example, a book review essay evaluating three research studies that examine different interpretations of conflict resolution among nations in the Middle East might have as few as two or three sentences in the introduction regarding similarities and only a paragraph or two to set up the contrast between the author’s positions. The rest of the essay, whether organized by block method or point-by-point, will be your analysis of the key differences among the books.

The Block Method Present all the information about A, and then present parallel information about B. This pattern tends to work better for shorter book review essays, and those with few sub-topics. The method looks like this:

I. Introduction     A. Briefly introduce the significance of the overall subject matter     B. Thesis Statement         --First supporting point         --Second supporting point         --Third supporting point II. First book     A. Summary of book         --Relationship of work to first point         --Relationship of work to second point         --Relationship of work to third point III. Second book     A. Summary of book         --Relationship of work to first point         --Relationship of work to second point         --Relationship of work to third point IV. Third book     A. Summary of book         --Relationship of work to first point         --Relationship of work to second point         --Relationship of work to third point V. Conclusion     A. Restate thesis     B. Briefly summarize how you proved your argument The Point-by-Point Method Present one point about A, and then go to the parallel point about B. Move to the next point, and do the same thing. This pattern tends to work better for long book review essays and those with many sub-topics. The method looks like this:

I. Introduction     A. Briefly introduce significance of overall subject matter     B. Thesis statement II. Brief explanation of first book III. Brief explanation of second book IV. First comparative point     A. Relation of point to first book     B. Relation of point to second book V. Second comparative point     A. Relation of point to first book     B. Relation of point to second book VI. Third comparative point     A. Relation of point to first book     B. Relation of point to second book VII. Conclusion     A. Restate thesis     B. Briefly summarize how your proved your argument

IV.  Critically Evaluate the Contents

Regardless of whether you choose the block method or the point-by-point method, critical comments should form the bulk of your book review essay . State whether or not you feel the author's treatment of the subject matter is appropriate for the intended audience. Ask yourself:

• Has the objectives of each author(s) been achieved?
• What contribution do the books make to the field of study or discipline?
• Is the treatment of the subject matter objective?
• Are there facts and evidence that have been omitted, either in one of the books or collectively?
• What kinds of data, if any, are used to support each author's thesis statement?
• Can the same data be interpreted to alternate ends?
• Is the writing style clear and effective?
• Do the books raise important or provocative issues or topics for discussion and further research?
• What has been left out?

Support your evaluation with evidence from the text of each book and, when possible, in relation to other sources. If relevant, make note of each book's format, such as, layout, binding, typography, etc. Are there maps, illustrations? Do they aid in understanding the research problem? This is particular important in books that contain a lot of non-textual elements, such as tables, charts, pictures, and illustrations.

NOTE:   It is important to carefully distinguish your views from those of the authors, so that you don’t confuse your reader.

V.  Examine the Front Matter and Back Matter

Front matter refers to anything before the first chapter of the book. Back matter refers to any information included after the final chapter of the book . Front matter is most often numbered separately from the rest of the text in lower case Roman numerals [i.e. i-xi ]. Critical commentary about front or back matter is generally only necessary if you believe there is something that diminishes the overall quality of the work [e.g., the indexing is poor] or there is something that is particularly helpful in understanding the book's contents [e.g., foreword places the book in an important context].

The following front matter may be included in a book and may be considered for evaluation when reviewing its overall quality:

• Table of contents -- is it clear? Is it detailed or general? Does it reflect the true contents of the book?
• Author biography -- also found as back matter, the biography of author(s) can be useful in determining the authority of the writer and whether the book builds on prior research or represents new research. In scholarly reviews, noting the author's affiliation can be a factor in helping the reader determine the overall validity of the work [i.e., are they associated with a research center devoted to studying the research problem under investigation].
• Foreword -- the purpose of a foreword is to introduce the reader to the author as well as the book itself, and to help establish credibility for both. A foreword may not contribute any additional information about the book's subject matter, but it serves as a means of validating the book's existence. Later editions of a book sometimes have a new foreword prepended [appearing before an older foreword, if there was one], which may be included to explain in how the latest edition differs from previous ones.
• Acknowledgements -- scholarly studies in the social sciences often take many years to write, so authors frequently acknowledge the help and support of others in getting their research published. This can be as innocuous as acknowledging the author's family or the publisher. However, an author may acknowledge prominent scholars or subject experts, staff at key research centers, or people who curate important archival collections. In these particular cases, it may be worth noting these sources of support in your review.
• Preface -- generally describes the genesis, purpose, limitations, and scope of the book and may include acknowledgments of indebtedness to people who have helped the author complete the study. Is the preface helpful in understanding the study? Does it provide an effective framework for understanding what's to follow?
• Chronology -- also may be found as back matter, a chronology is generally included to highlight key events related to the subject of the book. Do the entries contribute to the overall work? Is it detailed or very general?
• List of non-textual elements -- a book that contains a lot of charts, photographs, maps, etc. will often list these items after the table of contents in order that they appear in the text. Is it useful?

The following back matter may be included in a book and may be considered for evaluation when reviewing the overall quality of the book:

• Afterword -- this is a short, reflective piece written by the author that takes the form of a concluding section, final commentary, or closing statement. It is worth mentioning in a review if it contributes information about the purpose of the book, gives a call to action, or asks the reader to consider key points made in the book.
• Appendix -- is the supplementary material in the appendix or appendices well organized? Do they relate to the contents or appear superfluous? Does it contain any essential information that would have been more appropriately integrated into the text?
• Index -- is the index thorough and accurate? Are elements used, such as, bold or italic fonts to help identify specific places in the book?
• Glossary of Terms -- are the definitions clearly written? Is the glossary comprehensive or are key terms missing? Are any terms or concepts mentioned in the text not included?
• Footnotes/Endnotes -- examine any footnotes or endnotes as you read from chapter to chapter. Do they provide important additional information? Do they clarify or extend points made in the body of the text?
• Bibliography/References/Further Readings -- review any bibliography, list of references to sources, and/or further readings the author may have included. What kinds of sources appear [e.g., primary or secondary, recent or old, scholarly or popular, etc.]? How does the author make use of them? Be sure to note important omissions of sources that you believe should have been utilized.

NOTE:   Typically, multiple book review essays do not compare and contrast the quality of the back and front matter unless the books share a common deficiency [e.g., poor indexing], the front or back matter is particularly important in supplementing the primary content of the books, or one book stands out in regards to the quality of information presented in the front or back matter.

VI.  Summarize and Comment

Your conclusion should synthesize the key similarities and differences among the books and their collective contributions to understanding of the research problem. Avoid re-stating your assessment word for word; your goal is to provide a sense of closure and to leave the reader with a final perspective about the overall topic under review and whether you believe each book has effectively contributed to the overall research literature on the subject. Do not introduce new information in the conclusion. If you've compared the books to any other studies or used other sources in writing the review, be sure to cite them at the end of your book review essay.

Bazerman, Charles. Comparing and Synthesizing Sources. The Informed Writer: Using Sources in the Disciplines. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Comparing and Contrasting. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Comparison and Contrast Essays. Writing Support Centre. University of Western Ontario; Rhetorical Strategies: Comparison and Contrast. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Hartley, James. “Reading and Writing Book Reviews Across the Disciplines.” Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology 57 (July 2006): 1194-1207; Hooker, Fran and Kate James. Apples to Oranges: Writing a Compare and Contrast Paper. The Writing Center. Webster University; Oinas, Päivi and Samuli Leppälä. “Views on Book Reviews.” Regional Studies 47 (2013): 1785-1789; Visvis, Vikki and Jerry Plotnick. The Comparative Essay. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Writing a Compare/Contrast Essay. CLRC Writing Center. Santa Barbara City College.

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• Writing Theological Book Reviews

Introduction

Whether your future vocation is in the academy or the church, it is important to become familiar with significant books in your field. Having insight into a book is more than being able to summarize its contents. It is essential to be able to critically analyse the argument of any given book. Writing book reviews can be a profitable pathway towards developing the skills of critical reading and expressing your ideas in a clear and succinct manner. On a more practical level, Basic Degree students sometimes write book reviews as part of their course requirements and Advanced Degree students write them as their first step into the world of publishing. This guide suggests some basic steps for writing book reviews.

1. Prepare to Read and Review

Before you begin to read the book, think about the following:

Purpose : The aim of a book review is to summarize its contents and give a fair appraisal of its merit. One author has described a book review as “a really honest advertisement.” (Thornton in Theology 65 (October 1962), 397).

Audience : Is this review a class assignment or a submission to a publication? This will affect the aim of your review, the elements of the book that you highlight and the way you express your thoughts. Whatever the case may be, make sure that you know the expectations of your readers. Ask professors and publications to provide clear guidelines for book reviews.

Preliminary Sections : What does the title suggest about the point that the author wants to make? Read the preface for clues to the author’s argument, theological biases and methodology. Study the table of contents for the author’s main ideas and how s/he presents them.

Field or Genre : A knowledge of where this book fits into the “big picture” is essential. The author’s intention is to make a significant contribution to a particular field of research. Knowledge of the discipline may give insight as to where the author stands on key debates within the area. For instance, the author may represent one perspective within a particular area in theology and biblical studies. Awareness of this fact will help the reviewer discern the author’s biases as well as evaluate his or her contribution.

2. Read the Book

As you read the book, do the following:

Read Critically : Be a vigilant reader, not a casual observer. To do an effective book review one should be aware of the author’s agenda and how s/he promotes that agenda.

Determine the author’s thesis : The author usually makes this apparent within the preface or introduction of the work. The thesis statement is like an opening argument in a criminal trial. You, like a jury, are required to judge the validity of this argument as the book unfolds.

Analyse the author’s argument : As the book evolves, the author will attempt to persuade the reader to accept his or her initial thesis statement. Your task is to determine whether the author has argued his or her case in a logical and accurate manner.

Weigh the evidence presented : To support his or her argument, the author will provide evidence from a number of sources, i.e., the Bible, ancient historians, archaeology, etc. The reviewer must evaluate the evidence on a number of fronts (accuracy, currency, relation to author’s argument and the author’s use of).

Acknowledge the author’s biases : Every author has his or her preconceived notions. You need to recognize these presuppositions and note how they influence the overall argument.

Assess the author’s presentation : An important part of successful communication is presentation of information. To assess a book properly the reviewer must consider its style and editing (grammar, spelling, typographical accuracy), its format (illustrations, index, bibliography, footnotes) and whether the writing was understandable.

Take Effective and Useful Notes : Your notes need not be unwieldy, but you should have enough information to write an accurate review. Your notes should reflect the steps of the previous section. Here are a few suggestions to make your note-taking more effective:

Make a flow chart of the author’s argument : This can be done in a pictorial or written form. Begin with the author’s thesis and as the book proceeds, show the progression of the argument. As well, note the evidence cited at each point in the argument. This will help you to be cognizant of the author’s thesis and the way that his or her argument corroborates that thesis.

Record significant quotes to cite in your review : Do not engage in painstaking copying of the work, but note key statements made at crucial junctures in the book.

Tally the number of obvious errors : Keep track of spelling, typographical or grammatical errors since they indicate careless writing and editing.

3. Organize Your Thoughts

You may feel somewhat overwhelmed by the amount of information that you have about this particular book. So much so that you may not know where to begin in writing the review. To make the transition from researching to writing it is essential to organics your thoughts.

Establish the thesis of your review : It is important to unify your research on the book into a statement that describes your overall impression of it. This statement will be the central point that you wish to convey to the readers of your review.

Outline the arguments that support your thesis : By drafting an outline of your review you will establish the major points of your argument about this book. This outline will enable you to organics your information.

4. Write the Review

After reading, researching and organizing your thoughts, you are ready to begin to write the first draft of the review.

Record the preliminary information : List the complete bibliographical citation for the book (full title, author, place, publisher, date of publication, edition, pages, special features, price and ISBN).

Write a compelling introduction : The opening sentence should capture the reader’s attention and state your thesis.

Present your argument : Flowing out of your thesis statement will be supporting arguments that will be the essence of your review. Furthermore, the points of your argument should be supported by summary or citation of the book¹s contents. In assessing a work properly, it is important to represent it fairly.

Make your conclusion : If your thesis has been well argued, this should be the logical end of your review. This could include a recommendation on the value of the work.

Revise your draft : Carefully proof-read your review and allow others to read and respond to it.

5. Additional Resources

This document is not intended to be an exhaustive guide to book reviewing, so if you want to learn more consider these helpful resources.

Books and Journal Articles

• Berryhill, Carisse Mickey. “Instructing Theological Students in Book Reviewing” ATLA: Summary of Proceedings 49 (1995), 161-164.
• Drewry, John Eldridge. Writing Book Reviews . Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1966.
• Hoge, James O. and West, James L. W. “Academic book reviewing: some problems and suggestions” Scholarly Publishing 11:1 (October 1979), 35-41.
• Klemp, P.J. “Reviewing academic books: some ideas for beginners” Scholarly Publishing 12: 2 (January 1981): 135-139.
• Thomson, Ashley. “How to Review a Book” Canadian Library Journal (December 1991), 416-418.
• Thornton, Martin. “Theological Book Reviews: Some Tentative Proposals” Theology 65 (October 1962), 397-401.
• Walford, A.J., ed. Reviews and Reviewing: A Guide . Phoenix, AZ: Oryx Press, 1996.

Numerous universities have outstanding web pages with links to their libraries. Many libraries have excellent research guides on book reviewing. Here are some sites to visit:

• Queen’s University Library
• Indiana University

Prepared by James Knight, February 1999; revised Tom Power, Nov. 2018.

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Thesis Critique

What does a good thesis entail  this activity helps students identify the features of a strong thesis.  .

The instructor brings 4-5 thesis statements about texts read previously in the class.  Among the sample theses, there is 1 strong one and the rest are relatively weak.  Students break into groups and discuss the positive and negative aspects of the sample theses.  By examining theses that are not their own, students come to appreciate the differences between theses of different qualities, which will help their own writing.

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Prospect Capital Is A Steal

• Prospect Capital Corporation's loan quality and dividend coverage remain healthy.
• The BDC is originating new loans, which will contribute to its net investment income and potentially improve dividend coverage.
• Despite a 37% discount to net asset value, the stock's 13% yield makes it a worthwhile investment for passive income investors.

The loan quality profile of Prospect Capital Corporation ( NASDAQ: PSEC ) continued to look very healthy in the last quarter, as did the business development company’s dividend coverage setup.

The BDC is also originating a healthy amount of new loans which will add to Prospect Capital’s net investment income moving forward and that therefore could further improve the BDC’s dividend coverage.

I think that Prospect Capital’s 37% discount to net asset value is not appropriate and when taking into account that the BDC’s portfolio metrics, the stock’s 13% yield is still worth buying for passive income investors, in my view.

My Rating History

My last stock classification for Prospect Capital was Buy due to the business development company maintaining its dividend and having a diversified portfolio profile.

Taking into account that Prospect Capital’s non-accrual ratio remained overall very low as of March 31, 2024 and that the dividend continued to be well-covered by net investment income, I think that passive income investors are getting a really good bargain here with Prospect Capital.

Portfolio Review, Originations And Health Non-Accrual Setup

First and Second Liens made up 73.6% of Prospect Capital’s portfolio investments as of March 31, 2024 which signifies only a small change compared to the prior quarter which is when those investments accounted for 74.2%. Prospect Capital’s portfolio was valued at $7.8 billion in the last quarter, reflecting a 2.3% increase QoQ due primarily to new originations.

Portfolio Review (Prospect Capital)

In the quarter ended March 31, 2024, Prospect Capital originated a total of $219.5 million in new originations, which compares against total repayments of $114.5 million. As a consequence, net originations were up $105.0 million, and these new loans will add incrementally to net investment income in the future.

Originations Net Of Repayments And Sales (Prospect Capital)

Prospect Capital’s portfolio quality continues to look healthy from a performance standpoint as well: The business development company had only 0.4% of its loans on non-accrual status as of March 31, 2024. Though non-accruals doubled QoQ, the actual non-accruals are rather low, particularly when compared against those of other business development companies.

Ares Capital ( ARCC ) , to name just one example, presently has a non-accrual ratio of 0.7% based on fair value, so Prospect Capital has a stronger loan quality profile than one of the most well-regarded names in the industry right now.

Non-Accrual Loans (Prospect Capital)

Dividend Coverage Still Looks Very Healthy

Though Prospect Capital’s net investment income declined one cent QoQ, the business development company did not have any problems covering its high 13% dividend yield with portfolio income.

Prospect Capital earned $0.23 per share in the last quarter in net investment income which, given an unchanged $0.06 per share per month dividend pay-out, translated into a 128% dividend coverage ratio. This ratio was down 5.5 percentage points QoQ due to a slight contraction in net investment income, but the dividend coverage ratio is still looking rather healthy. As a matter of fact, the last twelve months dividend coverage ratio was 147%, which makes it highly improbable that the business development company is headed for a dividend cut in the short term.

As the BDC is oriented towards floating-rate loans (which accounted for 83% of investments as of March 31, 2024), Prospect Capital’s net investment income outlook, in the short- to medium-term, is favorable, primarily because the central bank is not making any major moves right now, and it might even delay rate cuts until 2025.

From a coverage/pay-out angle, Prospect Capital does not depend on a lot of net investment income growth in order to sustain its present dividend pay-out.

With a 128% coverage ratio, Prospect Capital’s net investment income is more than sufficient to ensure dividend stability for the remainder of 2024. New investments and new net originations, however, could enhance Prospect Capital’s dividend coverage and NII potential, however.

Dividend (Author Created Table Using BDC Information)

Still A Big Discount To Book Value

Prospect Capital is still selling for a rather excessive discount to net asset value, which is a reflection of the BDC’s checkered past in which it offered new stock below net asset value and slashed its dividend numerous times due to a decline in net investment income at the time. Prospect Capital may not be growing its dividend, but the $0.06 per share per quarter has been well-covered with net investment income and consistently paid since October 2017.

However, the present version of Prospect Capital looks quite solid to me, with robust dividend coverage and a credit profile that is actually looking better than that of Ares Capital, which is no small name in the BDC industry.

I think that Prospect Capital’s 37% discount to net asset value is a bit exaggerated here when taking into account the BDC’s solid portfolio metrics. Thus, I think that Prospect Capital is not only compelling from a yield, but also total return point of view.

In the long term, I think, Prospect Capital could re-rate to its net asset value of $8.99 per share, but only if the BDC maintains its present dividend and defends its credit profile.

Why The Investment Thesis Might Disappoint

A rise in the company’s non-accruals would negatively affect the investment case for Prospect Capital that I have laid out here. An increase in non-accruals would threaten the company’s net investment income and net asset value, which in turn would bode badly for Prospect Capital’s dividend coverage.

I think that Prospect Capital is on the right track here, particularly as far as its credit quality management is concerned, but a decline in the dividend coverage ratio would most probably lead to a change in my stock classification for Prospect Capital moving forward.

My Conclusion

Prospect Capital is selling for an exaggerated 37% discount to net asset value, which is the result of the business development company having an underwhelming long-term track record in growing its net asset value.

So in a certain sense, the present 37% discount to NAV is punishment for the BDC’s past mistakes, which included selling stock below net asset value. Prospect Capital has stopped this practice, however, and the dividend coverage as well as credit quality situations look very healthy to me.

As a consequence, I do see re-rating potential for Prospect Capital, particularly if the non-accrual ratio remains as low as it is now.

The risk/reward relationship still favors Prospect Capital at this point, and I see no reason to change my stock classification from ‘Buy.’

This article was written by

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of PSEC either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

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