Elements of Language: Fifth Course, Chapter 8

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Writer's Model

Nonfiction Book Review

A nonfiction book review evaluates the success of a work of nonfiction. A good book review uses solid reasons to support the reviewer's opinion and can persuade readers either to read a book or to avoid it.

Many nonfiction book reviews use the structure illustrated in the framework below. Print this framework and use it as a guide when you write your own nonfiction book review.

Introduction
• Hook your reader.
• Provide background information and a brief overview.
• State your opinion.

Draw readers in Use an attention-getting statement, an anecdote, a quotation, or another rhetorical device to hook readers.
Lay the groundwork Provide background information that will help readers understand your review.
Assert yourself Offer an opinion statement that both evaluates the book and persuades readers either to read it or to avoid it. Make sure your statement includes the title of the book.

Body
• Provide first reason and its corresponding evidence.
• Provide second reason and supporting evidence.
• Provide additional reasons and evidence.

Present the reasons Include at least three reasons that support your opinion statement.
Convince them Back up your reasons with evidence: examples and quotations from the book. Remember to use evidence that will persuade your readers.

Conclusion
• Remind readers of your opinion and leave them with something to think about.

Wrap it up Restate your opinion and offer any additional information that will convince your readers either to read the book or to leave it alone.