Ask yourself this question. What is it about a book review that makes you want to go out and buy that certain book? Is it the hype? Is it the author? I think for many like myself it is the content, storyline, characters and setting. When reading a review, I like to see quotes from the book and passages from different chapters. I like to hear about what made the particular reviewer laugh, cry, get angry etc... a short story within a story if you will. In writing a review all of these things should be taken into consideration.

While you do not need to be a professional book reviewer it is helpful to write more than "I just loved this book". There has to be something more concrete for the prospective buyer of the book to sink their teeth into than just the fact that you liked the book. Why did you like it? Did you have questions while reading the book and if so were they answered? Did it hold your interest? Did you read it from cover to cover in just one sitting because you could not put it down? If so why? You should ask yourself these questions before your review any books.

Learn a little something about the author. Find out why he or she decided to delve into a particular field of writing and how it has impacted their life and writing life.

If it is a non fiction book make sure the factual content is true and correct. If it is fictional, poetic etc... review it for it's creative content. Did it touch your senses? Was it compelling and left you thinking, feeling or even knowing? Consider your review as an answer to these questions and you'll have a sold book review to write.

Learn more about this author, Joanne Olivieri.
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