Independent Book Report
Prepare a book report on a novel of your choice (pending approval). The book should be a work of fiction. It must include the following:
-Reading Log – as discussed in class, use the log to record your thoughts/feelings/reactions as you read. You have opportunity every day to record in your log.
-Book Review – see the attached page for the format of a review
-Questions – see the attached page for some discussion questions
-Oral – share your review orally with the class. As well, you should read aloud a brief passage from the novel.
Timeline – Since you have known about this since the beginning of January and you have had time to read every day in class, the time for completing this will be fairly short. The report (and oral) is due by February 17. If you finish sooner, you may submit it sooner.
Book Review
Your review will consist of three (3) paragraphs, each addressing a different question: What is the book about? What is the book’s theme or message? What do I like or dislike about this book?
Paragraph #1 : Summary – What is the book about?
Highlight a few of the most important events – don’t get hung up on too many specific details. Think of it this way – if you only had thirty seconds to tell someone what happened, what would you say?
Paragraph #2 : Theme or Message – What lesson or message about life is the author trying to make? (ex. you should help others, you should stand up for your rights). How do you know this is a message? (you can be specific here). Often, books have more than one message. Focus on one or two prominent ones.
Paragraph #3 : Opinion – Do you like it or not?
Honestly state how you felt about the book. It is OK to not like something. You can comment on the plot, characters, themes, word choice, imagery, etc… You may even include a recommendation.
Discussion Questions
Answer any two (2) of the following questions:
- What connection does the title have with the novel? (Is it a good title?) Explain.
- Is the main character better or worse off then at the beginning of the novel? Explain.
- Describe a conflict from the novel and its outcome.
- Which character is most like you? Explain.
- Discuss the setting of the novel. What contribution to the story is made by the setting? How did it impact the story? Was this setting essential or could the story have happened anywhere?