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Make notes. Jot down points you want to make about the book before you begin the review.
Reveal the title and author of the book at the beginning of the review; don’t keep the readers in suspense over this important fact.
Give an overview of the plot. You don’t want to give away spoilers, but you do want to give your readers a summary of what happens in the book.
State the overall theme. This will reveal more about the book than a simple plot synopsis.
Avoid clichés if at all possible. This may be the most difficult thing to do. Some words and phrases to avoid: gripping, haunting, deceptively simple, lyrical, timely, powerful, nuanced, and compelling. These words have become overused in "reviewerspeak."
Compare. Compare the book to others in its genre: how does it follow or not follow the genre, or does it combine several genres?
Discuss the voice. How does the writing style contribute to the book’s feel? Describe the point of view.
Discuss the author. Give biographical information on the author, and place his writings in context.
Exemplify your points. Quote from the book to illustrate your line of reasoning.
Form an opinion. After telling what you think of the book and why, conclude your review by advising the reader whether to buy the book, read it, consider it, or pass it over.
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