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How to Write a Fiction Book Report

Writing a fiction book report can be fun and easy once the writer creates an outline. For many students writing a book report, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. However, there are some definitive ways of approaching this sort of writing. All it takes is a good outline, some insight about the book and comprehensive reading skills. Looking at the book report as an investigative effort may make it more fun. The student should provide necessary information while cluing the reader to their own thoughts and ideas.

Things You'll Need

  • Computer
  • Book
  • Pen
  • Notebook
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Instructions

  1. Reading, Reporting and Editing

    • 1
      Take valuable notes about the book.

      Read the book from start to finish. Make notes in the margins about the book's characters, settings, metaphors and recurring themes or motifs. Make notes on a separate piece of paper if the book cannot be marked. Take note of why the characters may be experiencing what they are experiencing, what they feel about the situation they're in, and what this says about the book as a whole.

    • 2
      The book report should be engaging and informative

      Generate a web that expands upon what will be written about. Make an introductory statement about the book that discusses the book's topic and main protagonist. Write this statement so that it is one paragraph. Create a main idea that can be followed throughout the length of the book; this idea can be about the main character's development, goal or the book's general meaning. Write down a few key ideas that will discussed in the body of the report, including setting, time period, main character information and the basic plot.

    • 3
      The book report should reflect the reader's opinion

      Write the report's body paragraphs by discussing the setting, time, characters and plot. Make these points informational, but also include personal thought. Write about the plot in such a way that it does not simply reveal the events in chronological order, but in an insightful way that relates to the ideas in the introduction. Make this section two to three paragraphs long.

    • 4
      A book report should provide insight

      Write a last statement that summarizes thoughts about the book. Make this section one paragraph in length. Write about personal feelings and provide a sense of revelation. Include ideas that show the book's overall impression on the reader, which, according to Student Guide to Book Reports, is essential. Highlight the book's ability to make the reader think about, question or feel something. Zone in on topics that relate to society or life on a larger scale, such as political or religious ideas.

    • 5
      Make sure to error-proof the writing.

      Edit the book report so that is contains no errors. Have another person read the paper to check for unclear ideas.

Fiction

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