Internet magazine sites are always on the lookout for writers willing to post reviews of fiction and non-fiction books, graphic novels, children's books and all other genres. For the reviewer this translates into an endless stream of their favourite books. What better way to supplement your income and fill up your bookshelves than by writing book reviews for online sites?
Of course, reviewing books is not the same as writing a book report in school. It takes skill and talent to be a good or a great reviewer. Unfortunately, what many freelancers don't realize is that there is much more to writing a book review than just summarizing a novel's plot. In fact, the plot synopsis should be the smallest part of the review.
A Book Review Must Include:
Even though book reviews are largely subjective (whether or not you liked or disliked the book is entirely up to you), a book review should include the following information:
- Title of Book
- Author's name
- Publisher
- Publication Date
- ISBN
A Book Review Should Answer at Least Some of the Following Questions:
- Is this the author's first book? If not, what are the other books by the same author – this allows the reader some context about the book being reviewed. Is this an early, mid career or late career work?
- If this is not the author's first book, how does it differ from her other books? Does the book divert from the author's usual style/topic/genre?
- List any awards the book has won or is currently nominated for. Has the author won awards for other books?
- Is the book on a best seller list?
- How does this book make the reader feel? Is it a fun read or a sad story? Is it a hard-to-put-down page turner, or is it a slog? Does the story deal with current events or is it historical? Is it a laugh-out-loud tale or a horror story? Is it suitable for everyone, or is it chick-lit or sci-fi? Is the plot fast moving or slow? Is the story character driven or plot driven?
- What about the dialogue? Is it realistic?
- Whose point of view is the story told from? Is the POV first, second or third person? Is this characters voice convincing? Are the characters likeable? Can the reader relate to the characters and to their stories?
Site Guidelines for Book Reviews
Book reviewers like any other freelancer should read and understand the style guide of the Internet site they are reviewing books for. Before posting ask the following questions:
- Should titles be underlined, in italics or quote marks?
- What percentage of the article can be in direct quotes taken from the book being reviewed?
- What is the optimal length of the book review?
Although these seem like very basic questions, they will save both you and your editor a lot of time if you know the answers before you post your review.
Books, Books and More Books
The biggest advantage to becoming a freelance book reviewer, is of course, the books. A competent reviewer is a publisher's best friend. That doesn't mean a writer should create copy in order to please a publication house. Always be honest about your reaction to the book – build up trust with your readers. In no time, you will be able to contact publishers with your freelancing CV and they will be pleased to send their books to you for review purposes.
Interested in More Writing on Writing? Read:
How to Optimize Online Book Reviews
Creative Writing Tips for Emerging Writers
New Year's Resolutions for Writers
Julie Burtinshaw - Julie is the Reading and Literature and Writing and Publishing Editor for Suite101.com. She is also the author of five books and is ...
