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A Beginner's Guide to Writing a Book Report (with Examples)

Last Updated: June 25, 2024 Fact Checked

• Researching
• Drafting the Report
• Reviewing & Revising

Sample Book Reports & Summaries

Expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,420,185 times.

A book report is a short essay that summarizes and analyzes a work of fiction or nonfiction. Writing a book report may not seem fun at first, but it gives you a great chance to fully understand a work and its author. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to write a book report, from choosing a book and outlining to drafting and editing your final paper.

Things You Should Know

• Read the entire book and take notes on important themes, characters, and events. Use your notes to create an outline with evidence that supports your analysis.
• Include the title and author in your intro, then summarize the plot, main characters, and setting of the book.
• Analyze the author’s writing style, as well as the main themes and arguments of the book. Include quotes and examples to support your statements.

Researching Your Book Report

• For example, find out if your teacher wants you to include citations, such as page numbers from the book, in your report.
• Ask your teacher how much of your paper to devote to summary versus analysis. Most book reports are direct summaries with objective analysis rather than your personal opinions. In contrast, a book review or commentary is more opinion-driven.

• Some popular books for book reports include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Animal Farm by George Orwell, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Choose a book at your grade level.

• Author: Who wrote the book? Do you know any other works by this author?
• Genre: Is the book fiction or nonfiction? If it’s fiction, is it historical, fantasy, horror, etc.? If it’s nonfiction, is it a biography, memoir, science, etc.?
• Audience: Who would find this book appealing? Is it intended for a specific age range or gender? Do you typically enjoy books like this?
• Title: Does the title catch your interest? Does it fit well with the book’s content?
• Book Cover/Illustrations: What does the book cover convey and does it accurately represent the book? How do you feel when you look at it? If the book has illustrations, what are they and do they hold your interest?

• Take breaks while reading to keep your attention sharp. Try to find a pace that is comfortable for you. If you get distracted after 15 minutes, read in 15-minute intervals. If you can go an hour, read for an hour at a time.
• Give yourself enough time to read the entire book. It’s very difficult to write a book report if you’ve just skimmed over everything. Don’t procrastinate!
• Don’t trust online book summaries. You can’t guarantee that they are accurate or true to the text.

• For example, look for a sentence that clearly describes a main setting in the book, such as “The castle was gloomy and made out of large black stones.”

Outlining Your Book Report

• Introduction: Introduce the title, author, and publication information. Include a brief overview of the book’s genre and main theme, and state your purpose for writing the report.
• Summary: Concisely summarize the plot or central idea, highlighting main events, characters, and conflicts. Focus on important aspects while avoiding spoilers.
• Analysis and Evaluation: Evaluate the author’s writing style and use of literary devices, like foreshadowing, metaphors, imagery, etc. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the book and use quotes and examples from the text.
• Themes and Messages: Identify the book’s main themes or messages and how they develop through the course of the book. Provide specific quotes and examples.
• Character Analysis: Analyze the main characters in the book, their development, and their relationships. Explain their motivations, personalities, and significance to the story. Provide examples and quotes to support your analysis.
• Personal Reflection: Depending on your teacher’s instructions, you might share your personal opinions and discuss what you liked and disliked about the book. Reflect on how the book relates to broader themes or issues.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points and conclude with your final thoughts or reflections on the book.
• Bibliography: If required, include a works cited page or bibliography listing all the sources you used to write your book report.
• Outlining takes time, but it saves you more time once you reach the editing stage.
• Some people prefer to outline with pen and paper, while others just type up a list on the computer. Choose the method that works best for you.

• Be careful not to overuse quotes. If it seems like every other line is a quote, try to dial back. Aim to include a maximum of one quotation per paragraph. Quotes and examples should still take a backseat to your summary.

• For example, you’ll likely need to focus primarily on discussing the most important characters or the characters that appear most frequently in the text.
• When you are finished with your outline, go back through it to see if it makes sense. If the paragraphs don’t flow into one another, move them around or add/delete new ones until they do.
• Also, check to see if your outline covers all of the major elements of the book, such as the plot, characters, and setting.

Writing Your Book Report

• For example, a sentence summary might state, “This book is about the main character’s journey to Africa and what she learns on her travels.”
• Don’t take up too much space with your introduction. In general, an introduction should be 3-6 sentences long, though in rare cases, they may be longer or shorter.

• Use vivid language when you can and include plenty of details. For example, you might write, “The farm was surrounded by rolling hills.”

• For instance, if the main character moves to Africa, you might describe what happens before the move, how the move goes, and how they settle in once they arrive.

• For example, you might write that the main character is “a middle-aged woman who enjoys the finer things in life, such as designer clothes.” Then, connect this description to the plot summary by describing how her views change after her travels, if they do.
• Expect to introduce the characters in the same sentences and paragraphs as the plot introduction.

• You might write, “The author argues that travel gives you a new perspective. That is why her main characters all seem happier and more grounded after visiting new places.”
• For fiction, determine if the author is using the story to pass along a certain moral or lesson. For example, a book about an underdog athlete could encourage readers to take chances to pursue their dreams.

• For example, an author who uses lots of slang terms is probably going for a hip, approachable style.

• Some teachers require, or strongly suggest, that you include the author’s name and the book title in your concluding paragraph.
• When writing a conclusion , don’t introduce any new thoughts. Any important points should be made in your body paragraphs. Save the space for your recap.

Reviewing and Revising Your Book Report

• Before you submit your paper, make sure that you’ve spelled the author’s name and any character names correctly.
• Don’t trust your computer’s spell check to catch all the errors for you. Spell check can be helpful, but it isn’t perfect and can make mistakes.

• If you’re nervous about asking, try saying something like “It would be great if you could go over my book report and make sure that it reads smoothly.”
• Remember, no one’s first draft is perfect, so don’t get upset if someone suggests you do something differently. They want to help make your report the best it can be, so don’t take constructive criticism personally.

• For example, double-check that you are using the correct font, font size, and margins.
• Once you've finished proofreading, revising, and checking that you've addressed all the requirements, you're ready to submit your book report!

• Even though your book report is your own work, avoid using “I” too much. It can make your writing feel choppy. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• It might be tempting to watch the movie or read the online notes instead of reading the book. Resist this urge! Your teacher will be able to tell the difference. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Calm down and walk around if you get too frustrated while writing. If you write a book report while angry, you're more likely to misspell things!
• Choose a unique book. Harry Potter or Percy Jackson is an absolute no. Everyone chooses those. Try something different!
• Write when anything comes to mind! You don't want to lose your ideas!

• Give yourself plenty of time to write your report. Don’t wait until the last minute or you may feel rushed. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Stealing or using another person’s work is considered plagiarism and academic dishonesty. Make sure that the work you submit is all your own. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.aresearchguide.com/write-book-report.html
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
• ↑ https://grammark.org/how-to-write-a-book-report/
• ↑ https://takelessons.com/blog/steps-to-writing-a-book-report
• ↑ https://www.infoplease.com/homework-help/homework-center-writing-book-report
• ↑ https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-setting
• ↑ https://www.tcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/archive/writing-center-handouts/essay-types-plot-summary.pdf
• ↑ https://www.cornerstone.edu/blog-post/six-steps-to-really-edit-your-paper/

About This Article

To write a book report, start by introducing the author and the name of the book and then briefly summarizing the story. Next, discuss the main themes and point out what you think the author is trying to suggest to the reader. Finally, write about the author’s style of writing, paying particular attention to word choice and the overall tone of the book. For tips on editing and polishing your paper before turning it in, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Have a book report submission deadline and want to know how to write one? We’re here to help! Book reports are vital in academics, helping students sharpen their understanding and critical thinking, while for authors, they offer a deep dive into a text’s composition and stylistic elements.

In this article, we will understand how to write a good book report. It’s a skill that not only helps you get more out of what you’re reading but also lets you create a report that truly reflects how good the book is. Let’s get started!

Ace your assignment with a perfect book report! Learn more

Firstly, let us understand what is a book report.

What is a book report?

A book report is an in-depth analysis, an objective summary of a book’s main content and arguments. Book reports discuss a book’s content, structure, and themes. Far from just a recap of the plot outline , a book report examines the details of a book’s narrative, offering insights into the characters, themes of the story , and the author’s writing style. 

Note: A book report is usually assigned to students from secondary schools to colleges. As per book report format, book reports are typically 500–1000 words long.

Elements of a book report

A proper book report outline consists of the following elements:

• Introduction: Think about how to start a book report with an engaging opening. Mention the book’s title, author, genre, and a brief plot summary. State your main theme or viewpoint.
• Content summary: Give a clear, summary of the plot. Highlight key events and turning points. Avoid spoilers.
• Analysis and perspective: Examine the key characters, their traits, motivations, development, and plot roles. Explore major themes, symbols, and motifs, and their narrative effect. Review the author’s style and perspective, and their impact on the story.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points. Restate your overall impression of the book and possibly suggest who might enjoy it or what kind of readers would benefit from it.
• Citations and references (if necessary): If you have used external sources or have been influenced by other analyses, make sure to cite these references properly to avoid plagiarism.

By following this book report outline, your book report will be comprehensive, informative, and engaging.

How to write a book report

Before learning how to do a book report, it is important to remember that following a book report format is essential. 

Here’s how to write a book report:

• Read the book carefully: Start by reading the book thoroughly. Take notes on key points, characters, themes, and any passages that stand out.
• Create an Outline: Organize your thoughts and notes into an outline. This will be your roadmap and will help keep your writing focused.
• Write the introduction: Begin with an engaging introduction that provides basic information about the book, including the title, author, and a brief synopsis.
• Develop the body: You can follow your outline or a book report template to write the body of your report. Discuss each element (plot, characters, themes, etc.) in separate paragraphs or sections.
• Conclude your report: Summarize your main points and offer your final thoughts and evaluation of the book.
• Review and revise: Finally, review and proofread your report for clarity, coherence, and correctness. Make sure to correct any grammatical mistakes and ensure your report flows logically.

Taking a look at a few examples of book reports will help you understand how to do a book report easily.  So let’s explore some book report examples next.

Book report examples

Starting with book report examples, let’s look at a book report example on The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.

Introduction: Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a powerful and poignant diary that gives an intimate glimpse into the life of a Jewish teenager during the Holocaust.

Summary: The diary chronicles Anne Frank’s life from 1942 to 1944, during which she and her family hid from the Nazis in Amsterdam. The entries detail her daily life in the secret annex, her thoughts, fears, and hopes for a better future.

Analysis and themes: Anne’s diary is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. Themes of hope, the cruelty of war, the innocence of youth, and the power of writing shine through her words.

Conclusion: Diary of a Young Girl is more than just a diary; it’s a moving narrative that brings to light the horrors of war and the timeless strength of hope and human dignity. Anne Frank’s voice continues to resonate with readers around the world, making this book a must-read for understanding history and humanity.

Now let’s look at a fiction book report example on Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan.

Introduction: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is a thrilling fantasy novel that introduces us to a world where Greek gods and mythology come to life in the modern era.

Summary: The story follows Percy Jackson, a young boy who discovers he is the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. After being accused of stealing Zeus’s lightning bolt, Percy embarks on a dangerous adventure across America to find the real thief and prevent a war among the gods.

Analysis and themes: Riordan’s novel is rich in Greek mythology and cleverly intertwined with modern-day settings and issues. Themes of identity, friendship, and bravery are prominent as Percy navigates the challenges of being a demigod. The book also explores the concept of good vs. evil and the importance of understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is an engaging and imaginative novel that offers a fresh perspective on Greek mythology. It’s a captivating read for young adults, effectively combining action, humor, and life lessons, making it a standout in the genre of fantasy fiction.

Book report template

You can easily write a book report using our free book report template.

It’s clear that writing a book report is more than a mere academic exercise; it’s an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of literature and gain insights. 

By using the provided template and examples as starting points, you’re well on your way to writing insightful and compelling book reports. Also, to make your book report perfect, we are always here to help you with our expert editing and proofreading services ! 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a book report be, what should a book report include, how to conclude a book report, how to write an introduction for a book report, what is the purpose of a book report.

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

Featured Middle School Resources

Related Resources

How to Write a Book Report

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Book Report Fundamentals

Preparing to write, an overview of the book report format, how to write the main body of a book report, how to write a conclusion to a book report, reading comprehension and book reports, book report resources for teachers .

Book reports remain a key educational assessment tool from elementary school through college. Sitting down to close read and critique texts for their content and form is a lifelong skill, one that benefits all of us well beyond our school years. With the help of this guide, you’ll develop your reading comprehension and note-taking skills. You’ll also find resources to guide you through the process of writing a book report, step-by-step, from choosing a book and reading actively to revising your work. Resources for teachers are also included, from creative assignment ideas to sample rubrics.

Book reports follow general rules for composition, yet are distinct from other types of writing assignments. Central to book reports are plot summaries, analyses of characters and themes, and concluding opinions. This format differs from an argumentative essay or critical research paper, in which impartiality and objectivity is encouraged. Differences also exist between book reports and book reviews, who do not share the same intent and audience. Here, you’ll learn the basics of what a book report is and is not.

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

This article, written by a professor emeritus of rhetoric and English, describes the defining characteristics of book reports and offers observations on how they are composed.

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab outlines the steps in writing a book report, from keeping track of major characters as you read to providing adequate summary material.

"How to Write a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

This article provides another helpful guide to writing a book report, offering suggestions on taking notes and writing an outline before drafting. 

"How to Write a Successful Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

Another post from ThoughtCo., this article highlights the ten steps for book report success. It was written by an academic advisor and college enrollment counselor.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and an Essay?

"Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing" ( Classroom)

In this article from the education resource Classroom,  you'll learn the differences and similarities between book reports and essay writing.

"Differences Between a Book Report and Essay Writing" (SeattlePi.com)

In this post from a Seattle newspaper's website, memoirist Christopher Cascio highlights how book report and essay writing differ.

"The Difference Between Essays and Reports" (Solent Online Learning)

This PDF from Southampton Solent University includes a chart demonstrating the differences between essays and reports. Though it is geared toward university students, it will help students of all levels understand the differing purposes of reports and analytical essays.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and a Book Review?

"How to Write a Book Review and a Book Report" (Concordia Univ.)

The library at Concordia University offers this helpful guide to writing book report and book reviews. It defines differences between the two, then presents components that both forms share.

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s writing guide shows the step-by-step process of writing book reviews, offering a contrast to the composition of book reports.

Active reading and thoughtful preparation before you begin your book report are necessary components of crafting a successful piece of writing. Here, you’ll find tips and resources to help you learn how to select the right book, decide which format is best for your report, and outline your main points.

Selecting and Finding a Book

"30 Best Books for Elementary Readers" (Education.com)

This article from Education.com lists 30 engaging books for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It was written by Esme Raji Codell, a teacher, author, and children's literature specialist.

"How to Choose a Good Book for a Report (Middle School)" (WikiHow)

This WikiHow article offers suggestions for middle schoolers on how to choose the right book for a report, from getting started early on the search process to making sure you understand the assignment's requirements.

"Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers" (Common Sense Media)

Common Sense Media has compiled this list of 25 of the best books for middle school book reports. For younger students, the article suggests you check out the site's "50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12."

"50 Books to Read in High School" (Lexington Public Library)

The Lexington, Kentucky Public Library has prepared this list to inspire high school students to choose the right book. It includes both classics and more modern favorites.

The Online Computer Library Center's catalogue helps you locate books in libraries near you, having itemized the collections of 72,000 libraries in 170 countries.

Formats of Book Reports

"Format for Writing a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

Here, Your Dictionary supplies guidelines for the basic book report format. It describes what you'll want to include in the heading, and what information to include in the introductory paragraph. Be sure to check these guidelines against your teacher's requirements.

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

Nancy Barile’s blog post for Scholastic lists the questions students from middle through high school should address in their book reports.

How to Write an Outline

"Writer’s Web: Creating Outlines" (Univ. of Richmond)

The University of Richmond’s Writing Center shows how you can make use of micro and macro outlines to organize your argument.

"Why and How to Create a Useful Outline" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab demonstrates how outlines can help you organize your report, then teaches you how to create outlines.

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

EasyBib, a website that generates bibliographies, offers sample outlines and tips for creating your own. The article encourages you to think about transitions and grouping your notes.

"How to Write an Outline: 4 Ways to Organize Your Thoughts" (Grammarly)

This blog post from a professional writer explains the advantages of using an outline, and presents different ways to gather your thoughts before writing.

In this section, you’ll find resources that offer an overview of how to write a book report, including first steps in preparing the introduction. A good book report's introduction hooks the reader with strong opening sentences and provides a preview of where the report is going.

"Step-by-Step Outline for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This article from Classroom furnishes students with a guide to the stages of writing a book report, from writing the rough draft to revising.

"Your Roadmap to a Better Book Report" ( Time4Writing )

Time4Writing offers tips for outlining your book report, and describes all of the information that the introduction, body, and conclusion should include.

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

This ThoughtCo. post, another by academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, demonstrates how to write a pithy introduction to your book report.

"How to Write an Introduction for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief but helpful post from Classroom  details what makes a good book report introduction, down to the level of individual sentences.

The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

Plot Summary and Description

"How Do You Write a Plot Summary?" ( Reference )

This short article presents the goals of writing a plot summary, and suggests a word limit. It emphasizes that you should stick to the main points and avoid including too many specific details, such as what a particular character wears.

"How to Write a Plot for a Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

In this article from a resource website for writers, Patricia Harrelson outlines what information to include in a plot summary for a book report. 

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

Using Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone as an example, this WikiHow article demonstrates how to write a plot summary one step at a time.

Analyzing Characters and Themes

"How to Write a Character Analysis Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kristine Tucker shows how to write a book report focusing on character. You can take her suggestions as they are, or consider  incorporating them into the more traditional book report format.

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

The SixMinuteScholar Channel utilizes analysis of the film  Finding Nemo to show you how to delve deeply into character, prioritizing inference over judgment.

"How to Define Theme" ( The Editor's Blog )

Fiction editor Beth Hill contributes an extended definition of theme. She also provides examples of common themes, such as "life is fragile."

"How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story" ( ThoughtCo )

This blog post from ThoughtCo. clarifies the definition of theme in relation to symbolism, plot, and moral. It also offers examples of themes in literature, such as love, death, and good vs. evil.

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

"How to Choose and Use Quotations" (Santa Barbara City College)

This guide from a college writing center will help you choose which quotations to use in your book report, and how to blend quotations with your own words.

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

This PDF from Ashford University's Writing Center introduces the ICE method for incorporating quotations: introduce, cite, explain.

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

This video from The Write Way YouTube channel illustrates how to integrate quotations into writing, and also explains how to cite those quotations.

"Using Literary Quotations" (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison)

This guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writing Center helps you emphasize your analysis of a quotation, and explains how to incorporate quotations into your text.

Conclusions to any type of paper are notoriously tricky to write. Here, you’ll learn some creative ways to tie up loose ends in your report and express your own opinion of the book you read. This open space for sharing opinions that are not grounded in critical research is an element that often distinguishes book reports from other types of writing.

"How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief article from the education resource  Classroom illustrates the essential points you should make in a book report conclusion.

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Writing Center lays out strategies for writing effective conclusions. Though the article is geared toward analytical essay conclusions, the tips offered here will also help you write a strong book report.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Pat Bellanca’s article for Harvard University’s Writing Center presents ways to conclude essays, along with tips. Again, these are suggestions for concluding analytical essays that can also be used to tie up a book report's loose ends.

Reading closely and in an engaged manner is the strong foundation upon which all good book reports are built. The resources below will give you a picture of what active reading looks like, and offer strategies to assess and improve your reading comprehension. Further, you’ll learn how to take notes—or “annotate” your text—making it easier to find important information as you write.

How to Be an Active Reader

"Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read" (Princeton Univ.)

Princeton University’s McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning recommends ten strategies for active reading, and includes sample diagrams.

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

The Open University offers these techniques for reading actively alongside video examples. The author emphasizes that you should read for comprehension—not simply to finish the book as quickly as possible.

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

In this post, Grace Fleming outlines seven methods for active reading. Her suggestions include identifying unfamiliar words and finding the main idea. 

"5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments" (YouTube)

Thomas Frank’s seven-minute video demonstrates how you can retain the most important information from long and dense reading material.

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

Take this online, interactive test from a publishing company to find out your reading level. You'll be asked a number of questions related to grammar and vocabulary.

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

ACCUPLACER is a placement test from The College Board. This 20-question practice test will help you see what information you retain after reading short passages.

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

The English Maven site has aggregated exercises and tests at various reading levels so you can quiz your reading comprehension skills.

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

ThoughtCo. recommends five tips to increase your reading comprehension ability, including reading with tools such as highlighters, and developing new vocabulary.

"How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar provides ideas for improving your reading comprehension, from expanding your vocabulary to discussing texts with friends.

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video equips you with tools to read more effectively. It will help you determine how much material you need to read, and what strategies you can use to absorb what you read.

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

From a pre-reading survey through post-reading review, Education Corner  walks you through steps to improve reading comprehension.

Methods of In-text Annotation

"The Writing Process: Annotating a Text" (Hunter College)

This article from Hunter College’s Rockowitz Writing Center outlines how to take notes on a text and provides samples of annotation.

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

This video from the SchoolHabits YouTube channel presents eleven annotation techniques you can use for better reading comprehension.

"5 Ways To Annotate Your Books" ( Book Riot )

This article from the Book Riot  blog highlights five efficient annotation methods that will save you time and protect your books from becoming cluttered with unnecessary markings.

"How Do You Annotate Your Books?" ( Epic Reads )

This post from Epic Reads highlights how different annotation methods work for different people, and showcases classic methods from sticky notes to keeping a reading notebook.

Students at every grade level can benefit from writing book reports, which sharpen critical reading skills. Here, we've aggregated sources to help you plan book report assignments and develop rubrics for written and oral book reports. You’ll also find alternative book report assessment ideas that move beyond the traditional formats.

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

These reading templates courtesy of Unique Teaching Resources make great visual aids for elementary school students writing their first book reports.

"Elementary Level Book Report Template" ( Teach Beside Me )

This   printable book report template from a teacher-turned-homeschooler is simple, classic, and effective. It asks basic questions, such as "who are the main characters?" and "how did you feel about the main characters?"

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

ABC Teach ’s resource directory includes printables for book reports on various subjects at different grade levels, such as a middle school biography book report form and a "retelling a story" elementary book report template.

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

This page from Busy Teachers’ Cafe contains book report templates alongside reading comprehension and other language arts worksheets.

Teaching Middle School and High School Students How to Write Book Reports

"How to Write a Book Report: Middle and High School Level" ( Fact Monster)

Fact Monster ’s Homework Center discusses each section of a book report, and explains how to evaluate and analyze books based on genre for students in middle and high school.

"Middle School Outline Template for Book Report" (Trinity Catholic School)

This PDF outline template breaks the book report down into manageable sections for seventh and eighth graders by asking for specific information in each paragraph.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( Classroom )

In this article for Classroom,  Elizabeth Thomas describes what content high schoolers should focus on when writing their book reports.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kori Morgan outlines techniques for adapting the book report assignment to the high school level in this post for The Pen & The Pad .

"High School Book Lists and Report Guidelines" (Highland Hall Waldorf School)

These sample report formats, grading paradigms, and tips are collected by Highland Hall Waldorf School. Attached are book lists by high school grade level.

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

This free resource from Teachers Pay Teachers allows you to edit your book report rubric to the specifications of your assignment and the grade level you teach.

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

This PDF rubric from a city school district includes directions to take the assignment long-term, with follow-up exercises through school quarters.

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

Perfect for oral book reports, this PDF rubric from North Carolina State University's Midlink Magazine  will help you evaluate your students’ spoken presentations.

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

This article from the Scholastic website lists creative alternatives to the standard book report for pre-kindergarteners through high schoolers.

"Fresh Ideas for Creative Book Reports" ( Education World )

Education World offers nearly 50 alternative book report ideas in this article, from a book report sandwich to a character trait diagram.

"A Dozen Ways to Make Amazingly Creative Book Reports" ( We Are Teachers )

This post from We Are Teachers puts the spotlight on integrating visual arts into literary study through multimedia book report ideas.

"More Ideas Than You’ll Ever Use for Book Reports" (Teachnet.com)

This list from Teachnet.com includes over 300 ideas for book report assignments, from "interviewing" a character to preparing a travel brochure to the location in which the book is set.

"Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report" (National Council of Teachers of English)

In this PDF resource from the NCTE's  English Journal,  Diana Mitchell offers assignment ideas ranging from character astrology signs to a character alphabet.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Book Report

• 5-minute read
• 5th September 2021

A book report is an essay that summarizes the main ideas presented by the author. But how do you write a good book report? Our top tips include:

• Check the assignment instructions so you know what you need to do.
• Read the book , making notes as you go.
• Plan your book report and create an essay outline .
• Write up your report , using examples and quotes to support your points.
• Revise and proofread your work to eliminate errors.

In the rest of this post, we look at how to write a book report in more detail.

1. Check the Assignment Instructions

Book reports come in many different types, so the first thing you should do if you’re asked to write one is check the assignment instructions carefully. Key aspects of the essay instructions to pay attention to include:

• The required length of the book report (and any maximum word count ).
• Whether you will be assigned a book to write about or whether you will be asked to pick one yourself (either from a list supplied by the tutor or based on a set of requirements, such as a book about a set topic).
• What aspects of the book to write about (e.g., will it just be a summary of the book’s content, or will you also need to offer some critical analysis?).
• Any requirements for structuring and formatting your report (e.g., whether to break the essay up into sections with headings and subheadings).

If anything about the instructions is unclear, check it with your tutor.

2. Read the Book and Make Notes

Next, you’ll need to read the book you’re writing about in full, not just skim through or read a synopsis! This means you’ll need to leave enough time before the deadline to read the text thoroughly (and write up your report).

When you are reading, moreover, make sure to take notes on:

• Basic bibliographic details, including the title, author name(s), year of publication, publisher, and number of pages.
• How the book is structured (e.g., whether it uses chapters).
• The overall plot or argument, plus key ideas and/or plot points from each part.
• For works of fiction, important characters and themes.
• Significant quotations or examples you might want to use in your report.

Where possible, make sure to note down page numbers as well. This will make it easier to find the relevant parts again when you’re reviewing your notes.

3. Outline Your Book Report

How you structure your report will ultimately depend on the length (e.g., a short, 500-word report is unlikely to use separate sections and headings, while a longer one will need these to help break up the text and guide the reader) and the assignment instructions, so make sure to review these carefully.

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However, common elements of a book report include:

• An introductory paragraph or section with basic book details (e.g., the title, author(s), genre, publisher, publication date, and intended audience).
• Information about the author’s background and, where relevant, credentials.
• An overview of the book’s plot (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or its main idea (other non-fiction), sometimes with a section-by-section breakdown.
• Information on characters, setting, and themes (fiction and narrative non-fiction), or key ideas and concepts set out by the author (other non-fiction).
• Where required, critical analysis or evaluation of the book.

When planning your book report, then, use your notes and the assignment instructions to outline your essay, breaking it down into clearly defined sections and noting what you will include in each one.

4. Write Up Your Book Report

When it comes to writing up your report, helpful tips include:

• Imagine the reader will be unfamiliar with the book and try to ensure your report covers all the information they’d need to know what it is about.
• Use clear, concise language to make your report easy to follow. Look out for wordiness and repetition, and don’t be tempted to pad out your report with irrelevant details just to increase the word count!
• Use examples and quotations to support your points (but don’t rely too heavily on quotations; keep in mind that the report should be in your own words).
• Follow the formatting instructions set out in your style guide or the assignment instructions (e.g., for fonts, margins, and presenting quotations).

If you use quotations in your report, moreover, make sure to include page numbers! This will help the reader find the passages you’ve quoted.

5. Revise and Proofread Your Work

When you have the first draft of your book report, if you have time, take a short break (e.g., overnight) before re-reading it. This will help you view it objectively. Then, when you do re-read it, look out for ways you could improve it, such as:

• Typos and other errors that need correcting.
• Issues with clarity or places where the writing could be more concise (reading your work aloud can make it easier to spot clunky sentences).
• Passages that would benefit from being supported with a quote or example.

It’s also a good idea to re-read the assignment instructions one last time before submitting your work, which will help you spot any issues you missed.

Finally, if you’d like some extra help checking your writing, you can have it proofread by a professional . Submit a free sample document today to find out more.

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Writing a Book Report

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Book reports are informative reports that discuss a book from an objective stance. They are similar to book reviews but focus more on a summary of the work than an evaluation of it. Book reports commonly describe what happens in a work; their focus is primarily on giving an account of the major plot, characters, thesis, and/or main idea of the work. Most often, book reports are a K-12 assignment and range from 250 to 500 words.

Book reviews are most often a college assignment, but they also appear in many professional works: magazines, newspapers, and academic journals. If you are looking to write a book review instead of a book report, please see the OWL resource, Writing a Book Review .

Before You Read

Before you begin to read, consider what types of things you will need to write your book report. First, you will need to get some basic information from the book:

• Publisher location, name of publisher, year published
• Number of Pages

You can either begin your report with some sort of citation, or you can incorporate some of these items into the report itself.

Next, try to answer the following questions to get you started thinking about the book:

• Author: Who is the author? Have you read any other works by this author?
• Genre: What type of book is this: fiction, nonfiction, biography, etc.? What types of people would like to read this kind of book? Do you typically read these kinds of books? Do you like them?
• Title: What does the title do for you? Does it spark your interest? Does it fit well with the text of the book?
• Pictures/Book Jacket/Cover/Printing: What does the book jacket or book cover say? Is it accurate? Were you excited to read this book because of it? Are there pictures? What kinds are there? Are they interesting?

As You Read

While reading a work of fiction, keep track of the major characters. You can also do the same with biographies. When reading nonfiction works, however, look for the main ideas and be ready to talk about them.

• Characters: Who are the main characters? What happens to them? Did you like them? Were there good and bad characters?
• Main Ideas: What is the main idea of the book? What happens? What did you learn that you did not know before?
• Quotes: What parts did you like best? Are there parts that you could quote to make your report more enjoyable?

When You Are Ready to Write

Announce the book and author. Then, summarize what you have learned from the book. Explain what happens in the book, and discuss the elements you liked, did not like, would have changed, or if you would recommend this book to others and why. Consider the following items as well:

• Principles/characters: What elements did you like best? Which characters did you like best and why? How does the author unfold the story or the main idea of the book?
• Organize: Make sure that most of your paper summarizes the work. Then you may analyze the characters or themes of the work.
• Your Evaluation: Choose one or a few points to discuss about the book. What worked well for you? How does this work compare with others by the same author or other books in the same genre? What major themes, motifs, or terms does the book introduce, and how effective are they? Did the book appeal to you on an emotional or logical way?
• Recommend: Would you recommend this book to others? Why? What would you tell them before they read it? What would you talk about after you read it?

Revising/Final Copy

Do a quick double check of your paper:

• Double-check the spelling of the author name(s), character names, special terms, and publisher.
• Check the punctuation and grammar slowly.
• Make sure you provide enough summary so that your reader or instructor can tell you read the book.
• Consider adding some interesting quotes from the reading.

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How To Write a Good Book Report in Seven Steps

Are you having trouble writing your book report? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to give you seven easy steps that’ll help you write the perfect book report.

Quick Summary on How To Write a Book Report

• As you read the book, highlight and take notes.
• Reread the instructions of the assignment.
• Organize your notes and create an outline.
• Write a compelling introduction.
• Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.
• Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.
• Edit and proofread.

What Is a Book Report?

A book report is an essay in which students explain and support their thoughts and views on a story, novel, or any other literary work.

There are several different types of book reports. Regardless of which type you’re writing, teachers and professors usually assign book reports as a way to ensure that their students have thoroughly understood the book. Below, we’ll go over how to write a good book report in seven easy steps.

How To Write a Book Report

1. as you read the book, highlight and take notes..

The first step of writing a good book report is to read the book, of course. However, it’s important to highlight and takes notes while reading it. Highlight anything that stands out to you or that evokes certain emotions. Write notes on patterns, themes, and characters. If you’re writing a book report on a nonfiction book, write notes on the major points of the book and what you think about them.

2. Revisit and reread the instructions of the assignment.

Once you’re done reading and taking notes, reread the instructions of the assignment. Find what it is you’re supposed to write about. Is it a character analysis? A plot summary? An exploration of themes and patterns, or something else? It’s also essential to follow the formatting guidelines, so make sure to use the correct font and spacing. If you have any questions, reach out to your teacher or professor.

3. Organize your notes and create an outline.

Gather your notes and arrange them into categories. Once you’ve completed this, write an outline and organize the categories to become the paragraphs of your book report. Jot down bullet points on what each paragraph will include and what part of the book can support it. As you start writing the book report, remain flexible. You don’t have to follow the outline exactly. You may realize that a few edits create a better flow.

4. Write a compelling introduction.

The introduction should be informative and catchy. You may want to start with a quote, climactic scene, or an unusual observation you had while reading the book. Towards the end of the introduction, you should write a one or two-sentence summary about the book, and then the last sentence should explain what exactly you’ll be writing about in the rest of the report.

Book Report Elements

Keep in mind that all book reports should contain:

• The name and author of the book.
• A thesis statement.
• If you're writing about a fiction book, mention the setting, time period, and characters.
• If you’re writing about a nonfiction book, mention the author’s main point in writing the book.
• Evidence to support your arguments.

5. Include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence in the body paragraphs.

The body paragraphs are where you can include quotations, examples, and supporting evidence that bring your book report together.

For example, let’s say you’re writing a character analysis. You believe that the character that everyone sees as the protagonist is actually the antagonist. You should write why you believe that and include specific scenarios that help prove your point.

Or if you’re writing about a non-fiction book, you could use the body paragraphs to write about why you agree or disagree with the author. Similarly, you’d have to use examples and evidence to support your argument.

It’s a good idea to start off with your most compelling, evidence-backed point. Leave the weakest arguments for the middle, and end with another strong point. Lastly, whether you’re writing about fiction or non-fiction, commenting on writing style and tone is recommended (especially if it’s explicitly requested in the instructions).

6. Encapsulate the main point of your text in the conclusion.

The conclusion is just as important as the introduction, so make sure to set aside enough time to write one (students tend to rush through this part). Use the concluding paragraph to pull all your arguments together. Reiterate again what the main point was about, and then briefly summarize the main idea of your book report.

7. Edit and proofread.

Now that you’ve completed the first draft of your book report, it’s time to reread and make edits if needed. Are there any paragraphs you can move around that’ll improve the rhythm of your writing? Do you have enough evidence to back up your claims? Is your introduction captivating and descriptive?

While you’re rereading the book report, you should also be looking for typos and spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. If you want an extra set of eyes to look for all types of errors, you should use LanguageTool as your spelling and grammar checker. Not only will this advanced editor correct mistakes, but it supports more than twenty languages—meaning your book report will be perfect regardless of which language you’re writing it in.

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How to write a book report: 9 simple steps.

• January 8, 2024

Table of Contents:

Step 1: choose the book, step 2: read the book carefully, step 3: take notes, step 4: understand the assignment guidelines, step 5: outline., step 6: write a draft, step 7: analyze and evaluate, step 8: conclude thoughtfully, step 9: submit or share, conclusion:, book report.

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When writing a book report, you want to do more than just list the characters’ names, describe the plot, and summarize the action. You want to give a thoughtful analysis of each of these aspects and provide a context for your ideas by explaining how your experience reading the book affected your reaction to it.

But what if you’ve never written a book report before? What if you’ve only read one or two and gotten an F on them? How can you write a great book report?

That’s why we put together this guide: by following our 9 simple steps, you’ll be able to learn how to write a book report that will wow both your teacher and yourself!

To learn how to write a report, you must first pick up a book.

When choosing a book, many options are available, especially from American book writers . Look for authors who have made significant contributions to literature and have a writing style that resonates with you.

Consider the genre and subject matter that you find intriguing. Whether it’s a classic novel, a thought-provoking non-fiction work, or a contemporary bestseller, ensure it fits your assignment or personal reading goals.

An important aspect to consider is your comprehension level. It’s essential to choose a book that you can understand and engage with fully. If the language or complexity of the book is too challenging, it might hinder your enjoyment and comprehension. To avoid this, you can read reviews or sample chapters to understand the writing style and difficulty level.

Additionally, think about how the chosen book aligns with your interests. Reading something that genuinely captivates you will make the journey more enjoyable. It will also encourage you to delve deeper, analyze different aspects, and gain a more profound understanding of the book’s themes and messages.

When reading the book, it’s crucial to approach it with careful attention and focus. As you delve into the pages, make note of the essential elements, such as the plot, characters, and themes. Doing this step will help you learn how to write a book report.

Take time to understand the details of the story and how they interconnect. Pay attention to any notable quotes or passages that resonate with you.

It’s also important to consider the author’s writing style and the book’s overall tone. Some authors have a poetic or descriptive style, while others may have a more straightforward and concise approach. Understanding the writing style can enhance your appreciation for the book and help you analyze how effectively the author communicates their ideas.

Experienced book publishers play a vital role in the selection and publication of books. They have a keen eye for quality writing and can identify books that have the potential to engage readers. Taking note of the experiences and recommendations of trusted publishers can be a helpful guide in selecting well-crafted and engaging books.

As you read, take notes in the margins and use a highlighter to mark important passages. This will help you to remember what you found interesting or relevant.

It’s also helpful to write down any questions while reading. These can be used as prompts for an introductory paragraph or section of your report.

When writing a report, it’s important to be concise. You don’t want to just list the facts and figures–you want your reader to understand what they mean and how they relate to one another.

This is where your notes will come in handy. You can use them to ensure that the information you include is relevant, clear, and concise. You might start by briefly outlining what you want to include in each section of your report.

Understanding the guidelines and expectations of a book report assignment is crucial in learning how to write a book report and create insightful analysis.

For an academic task or personal project, familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements set by your instructor or the parameters of your project is essential. Pay attention to details such as the desired report length, formatting guidelines, and the depth of analysis expected.

In addition to adhering to assignment guidelines, employing a structured approach enhances the quality of your book report. Creating an outline delineating sections like introduction, summary, analysis, and conclusion helps organize your thoughts and ensures a coherent presentation of your ideas.

As you’re reading, it’s easy to get lost in the details of a book and forget its overall structure. Before writing it out, you must think about how your paper will be organized.

Your outline should include:

• A summary of what happened in each chapter (or section). This is especially helpful if there are many characters or locations in your story; having this information written down will help keep them straight as you write about them later.
• A list of important facts from each section/chapter that support your thesis statement (the main idea behind your essay). For example, if my thesis is “This book was very confusing,” then I would want examples from throughout the book where things were confusing to use as evidence when defending this point later in my essay.

In this step, you will write a draft of your book report. You may want to use some sticky notes or index cards to help organize your thoughts. But try not to get too caught up in formatting at this point. The most important thing is that you’ve got all the information on paper, making it easy for others to read and understand.

If possible, get feedback from someone else who has also read the book. Perhaps another student who took this class with you or even one of their parents! Ask them if they agree with how much detail went into each section of your report. Also, ask them if there were any areas where more explanation would benefit readers.

Once you have finished reading the book, it’s time to dive into a deeper analysis and evaluation. Start by identifying the book’s strengths and weaknesses. Consider aspects such as character development, writing style, themes, and the overall message conveyed by the author.

This evaluation will help you understand the book better and allow you to form your own opinions and interpretations.

For instance, if you read one of the best psychological horror books , analyze how effectively the author builds suspense and delivers psychological chills. Explore how the characters are developed and whether their psychological struggles are portrayed convincingly. Evaluate the writing style and how it adds to the atmosphere of fear and unease.

Be sure to offer personal insights and opinions. Discuss what resonated with you, what surprised you, or what you found particularly effective. Share any connections you drew between the book and your own experiences or beliefs.

Concluding a book report requires a thoughtful reflection on the main points discussed throughout the report. There is a simple way to learn how to wrap a book ; Consider it a way to encapsulate your thoughts and impressions after engaging with the book.

Start by summarizing the main points you raised throughout the report. Highlight key elements such as the plot, characters, themes, and writing style that stood out to you. This summary allows the reader to recollect the important aspects of the book you discussed.

Next, reflect on the book’s impact and relevance. Did the book leave a lasting impression on you? Did it challenge your perspectives or offer new insights? Consider how the book fits into the larger literary landscape.

Lastly, share your recommendation. Would you recommend this book to others? Explain your reasoning behind your recommendation. Discuss who might enjoy the book and why it could benefit different readers.

By concluding thoughtfully, you provide a satisfying end to your book report while leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your thoughts and recommendations. Remember to combine your main points and insights to create a cohesive and impactful ending.

Sharing your insights on a book report can be as rewarding as the reading process itself. After completing the analysis and crafting a comprehensive report, the final step is crucial—submitting or sharing your work. This step aligns with the purpose of your assignment, whether it’s for academic evaluation or sharing valuable perspectives.

When submitting your book report, ensure adherence to any specific guidelines your instructor or institution provides. Format the document according to the required structure, including title pages, citations (if applicable), and additional components.

On the other hand, if you’re sharing your thoughts and recommendations informally, consider the audience. Whether it’s peers, friends, or fellow book enthusiasts, engagingly conveys your key takeaways. Highlight the aspects that resonated with you, discuss the character’s themes, and provide insightful critiques.

Remember, the essence of sharing your book report lies in enthusiasm and confidence. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your analytical skills and understanding of the book, inspiring others to explore the same literary journey. Ultimately, enjoy the process and be proud of the effort you’ve dedicated to the report!

Writing a book report is a great way to get your name and show off your writing skills. It’s also a great way to improve your reading comprehension skills, as you must read the book closely and analyze it to write a good report.

If you’re ready to get started with your book report, use these 9 steps as a guide!

By following these nine steps and considering the additional tips, you’ll be able to craft a comprehensive and insightful book report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

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Book Report Writing

Book Report Writing Guide - Outline, Format, & Topics

15 min read

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Guide to Craft an Outstanding Book Report Outline

Creative and Excellent Book Report Ideas for Students

Writing a book report can be a challenging task for students at all levels of education. Many struggle to strike the right balance between providing a concise summary and offering insightful analysis.

The pressure to submit a well-structured report often leaves students feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin. Unlike a book review that is longer and more detailed, the purpose of writing a book report is to summarize what happened in the story. 

In this blog, we will learn the book report writing, providing you with step-by-step instructions and creative ideas. Whether you're a reader or just starting your literary journey, this guide will help you write book reports that shine. 

So, let's dive in!

• 1. What is a Book Report?
• 2. How to Write a Book Report Outline?
• 3. How to Write a Book Report?
• 4. Book Report Formatting
• 5. Book Report vs. Book Review - How Do they Differ from Each Other? 
• 6. Book Report Templates for Different Grades
• 7. How to Write a Book Report for High School?
• 8. How to Write a Book Report for College Level?
• 9. Book Report Examples
• 10. Book Report Ideas

What is a Book Report?

A book report is a written summary and analysis of a book's content, designed to provide readers with insights into the book's key elements. It's a valuable exercise for students, offering a chance to look deeper into a book's characters, and overall impact. Why are book reports important? They serve as a way to not only showcase your reading comprehension but also your critical thinking skills. They help you reflect on the book's strengths and weaknesses, and they can be a great tool to start a discussion.

How to Write a Book Report Outline?

Before you start writing a book report, it's crucial to create a well-organized outline. A book report outline serves as the roadmap for your report, ensuring that you cover all essential aspects. Here's how to create an effective book report outline:

How to Write a Book Report?

Writing an effective book report is not just about summarizing a story; it's a chance to showcase your analytical skills.

Let’s go through the process of creating a compelling book report that will impress your instructor.

How to Start a Book Report

To start a book report follow the steps below:

• Pick the Perfect Book  Selecting the right book for your report is the first crucial step. If you have the freedom to choose, opt for a book that aligns with your interests. Engaging with a book you're passionate about makes the entire process more enjoyable.
• Dive into the Pages Reading the book thoroughly is non-negotiable. While summaries and online resources can be helpful, they can't replace the depth of understanding gained from reading the actual text. Take notes as you read to capture key moments and insights.
• Document Key Insights Keeping a physical notebook for jotting down important points and insights is a tried-and-true method. This tangible record allows for quick reference when you're ready to write your report.
• Collect Powerful Quotes Quotes from the book can be the secret sauce that adds weight to your report. Choose quotes that align with your report's themes and ideas. These quotes will serve as evidence to support your analysis and perspective.
• Craft Your Report Outline An book report outline serves as your roadmap for creating a structured and coherent report. Ensure it includes all the vital elements, from basic book information to your in-depth analysis. An organized outline keeps your writing on track.

Writing Your Book Report

Now that you've completed the preliminary steps, it's time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Follow these guidelines for an exceptional book report:

• Introduction: Open with a captivating introduction that introduces the book, its author, and your main thesis. This initial "hook" draws readers in and sparks their interest.
• Plot Summary: Concisely summarize the book's plot, including key events, main characters, and the overall narrative. Offer enough information for understanding without revealing major spoilers.
• Analysis: The core of your report, where you dissect the book's themes, characters, writing style, and any symbolism. Back your insights with book quotes and examples, revealing the author's intentions and how they achieved them.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate your thesis, and share your overall evaluation of the book. End with a thought-provoking statement or recommendation to leave readers engaged and curious.

Book Report Formatting

When it comes to formatting a book report, simplicity and clarity are key. Here's a straightforward guide on the essential formatting elements:

Book Report vs. Book Review - How Do they Differ from Each Other? 

The table below highlights how is a book report different from a book review :

What are the SImilarities between Book Report and Book Review?

Here are the things that are added in both a book report and a book review.

• Bibliographic details
• Background of the author
• The recommended audience for the book
• The main subject of the book or work
• Summary of the work and the only difference is that in the review, a critical analysis is also added

Due to the similarities, many students think that both of these are the same. It is wrong and could cost you your grade.

How to Write a Nonfiction Book Report? 

Writing a nonfiction book report may seem daunting, but with a few simple steps, you can craft an informative report. Here's a streamlined guide:

• Read Actively: Carefully read the chosen nonfiction book, highlighting key information. For instance, if you're reporting on a biography, mark significant life events and their impact.
• Introduction: Begin with the author's name, the book's publication year, and why the author wrote the book. Create an engaging opening sentence, such as "In 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,' Rebecca Skloot delves into the fascinating world of medical ethics."
• Focused Body: Structure the body into three paragraphs, each addressing crucial aspects. For instance, in a report on a science book, one paragraph could cover the book's key scientific discoveries.
• Concluding Thoughts: Share your personal opinion, if applicable. Would you recommend the book? Mention reasons, like "I highly recommend 'Sapiens' by Yuval Noah Harari for its thought-provoking insights into human history."

Writing a nonfiction book report requires adhering to facts but can still be enjoyable with a strategic approach.

How to Write a Book Report without Reading the Book?

Short on time to read the entire book? Here are quick steps to create a book report:

• Consult Summary Websites: Visit websites providing book summaries and analyses. For instance, SparkNotes or CliffsNotes offer concise overviews.
• Focus on Key Details: Select 2-3 crucial aspects of the book, like major themes or character development. Discuss these in-depth.
• Consider a Writing Service: Utilize professional writing services when time is tight. They can craft a well-structured report based on provided information.
• Offer a Unique Perspective: Differentiate your report by approaching it from a unique angle. For example, explore a theme or character relationship that hasn't been extensively covered by peers.

While challenging, writing a book report without reading the book is possible with these strategies.

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Book Report Templates for Different Grades

Students studying at different levels have different skills and ability levels. Here is how they can write book reports for their respective academic levels.

How to Write a Book Report for an Elementary School?

The following are some book report templates that you can use for your primary or elementary school.

How to Write a Book Report for Middle School

Here are the book report worksheets that you can use to write your middle school book report.

How to Write a Book Report for High School?

Writing a high school book report includes the following steps:

• Read the book thoroughly and with purpose.
• Make an outline before writing the report as a pre-writing step.
• Follow the guidelines and the given format to create the title page for your report.
• Add basic details in the introduction of your book report.
• Analyze the major and minor characters of the story and the role they play in the progress of the story.
• Analyze the major and significant plot, events, and themes. Describe the story and arguments and focus on important details.
• Conclude by adding a summary of the main elements, characters, symbols, and themes.

How to Write a Book Report for College Level?

Follow this college book report template to format and write your report effectively:

• Understand the Assignment: Familiarize yourself with the assignment and book details to ensure proper adherence.
• Read Thoroughly: Read the book attentively, noting essential details about the plot, characters, and themes.
• Introduction: Craft an informative introduction with bibliographic details. 

• Summary: Summarize key aspects like setting, events, atmosphere, narrative style, and the overall plot. 

• Plot: Cover the entire story, highlighting essential details, plot twists, and conflicts. 

• Conclusion: Summarize the story and assess its strengths and weaknesses. Unlike a review, a book report provides a straightforward summary.

Book Report Examples

Book Report of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Book Report of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone

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Book Report Ideas

Basic ideas include presenting your narrative and analysis in simple written form, while more creative ideas include a fun element. Some notable books to choose from for your book report writing assignment are mentioned below:

• "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• "1984" by George Orwell
• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
• "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling
• "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins
• "The Diary of Anne Frank" by Anne Frank
• "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien

Need more ideas? Check out our book report ideas blog to get inspiration!

To Sum it Up! Crafting a good book report involves striking the right balance between introducing the book, summarizing its key themes, and avoiding spoilers. It's a delicate art, but with the right guidance you can grasp this skill effortlessly. 

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If you're asking yourself, "Can someone write my essays online ?"Our professional writers have the answer. We can write a custom book report according to your personalized requirements and instructions. Get a high-quality book report to help you earn the best grades on your assignment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parts of a book report.

A book report often contains different sections that describe the setting, main characters, and key themes of the story. A common type is an expository one which details what happened in detail or discusses how people feel about it.

Is a report a summary?

No, a summary is more detailed than a book report. A book report is usually based on a short summary of the book, while a standalone summary is more detailed and could have headings, subheadings, and supporting quotes.

How many paragraphs should be included in a book report?

The book report is a typical assignment in middle and high school, usually with one introduction, three body, and one conclusion paragraph.

The number of paragraphs could vary depending on the academic level, with an expert or professional book report having more than three body paragraphs.

How long is a book report?

It should not exceed two double-spaced pages, be between 600 and 800 words in length. Your book report is a written reflection on the content of a novel or work of nonfiction.

How do you end a book report?

Sum up your thesis statement and remind the readers of the important points, one final time. Do not add any new ideas or themes here and try to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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How to write a book report

Published September 27, 2020. Updated May 8, 2022.

Book Report Definition

A book report is essentially the summarization of a fictional or non-fictional piece of literature.

Overview of Book Report

There are 10 steps that can be followed while writing a book report:

Step 1 – Carefully read the details of your assignment

Step 2 – Read the book

Step 3 – Take notes while reading

Step 4 – Create an outline

Step 5 – Write the introductory paragraph

Step 6 – Provide some background information

Step 7 – Summarize the book and provide analysis (if requested)

Step 8 – Write a concluding paragraph

Step 9 – Edit your book report

Step 10 – Revise and check your documentation of the primary text and any outside sources you used

Is a book report the same as a book review?

No, a book report is not the same as a book review. While a book review involves your personal opinions about the piece, a book report is usually free from judgment and comparisons to other books. That being said, different instructors have different ideas about book reports, and some will actually encourage you to voice your opinion as you write your report.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Step 1: Carefully read the details of your assignment

Read the details of your assignment and make sure that you understand the task ahead. Instructors will have differing requirements, so here are a few common things to look for:

• Is there a word count or page requirement?
• The number of sources, the types of sources used (e.g., primary and secondary, peer-reviewed, etc.), where the sources are found, etc.
• Do you need to submit an outline or a thesis first?
• Are there formatting requirements? If yes, in what style? Most English and humanities courses require the use of MLA format.
• Do you need to add in-text citations and a bibliography or works cited page?
• Are there parameters around the type of book you can choose?

Make sure you understand whether your instructor thinks opinions are acceptable in a book report, or whether they simply want a fact-based overview of the book. Many instructors want students to pay special attention to specific aspects of the book, such as characters, themes, literary elements, etc.

• Have you carefully reviewed your assignment?
• Are there specific steps the professor requires for your book report?
• How does the essay need to be formatted?
• Does your book report require a bibliography and formal documentation?
• Do you need to submit an outline to your professor for approval before starting the formal drafting process?
• Are you required to summarize every chapter?

Step 2: Read the book

This step is pretty self-explanatory. Yes, you actually have to read the book in order to write a top-notch book report. While it’s true that you can find quick book summaries on the web, it’s always best to read the book yourself.

When you absorb the text yourself, you can contribute personal insights and analysis to your book report. In addition, most instructors can easily spot which students have actually read the book and which ones are simply basing their book report on someone else’s brief summary.

Step 3: Take notes while reading

Taking notes while you read a book (or any text) is an excellent strategy to help you better understand what you read and how to begin writing about it. This is referred to as annotation . It is a matter of personal preference as to whether you use an actual book or digital text.

Tips for annotation:

• Write (or type) notes in the margins.
• Underline important passages.
• Highlight sections you do not understand.
• Summarize long sections with a few main ideas.
• Identify main themes and arguments.
• Identify supporting details and sources the author uses to help prove her point.

You should also write down any direct quotes that you might want to use for your book report, but be careful not to stuff your report with too many quotes. By the time you have finished reading the book, you should have a plethora of information and insights from which to build your outline.

Step 4: Create an outline

After you’ve finished reading the entire book, it’s time to start thinking about the outline of your book report. This is the “skeleton” of your assignment, and creating an organized, general guideline will make the entire writing process easier and more streamlined.

Be careful not to go overboard when creating your outline. Remember, it’s going to be impossible to cover every single detail of the book you’ve read. Instead, target the most important moments or topics.

When creating your outline, you should also plan to devote a certain number of words to each topic or chapter. This ensures that you’re not placing too much emphasis (or too little) on one aspect of the book.

Step 5: Write the introductory paragraph

When you’re ready to start writing the main body of your book report, start with the introductory paragraph. Include the author’s name and the book’s title in the first sentence; maybe even a powerful quote that sums up the entire narrative. Remember, your first paragraph should grab the reader’s attention and “get them hooked.”

Finish your introductory paragraph with a summary of the entire book in one final sentence. Let the reader know what the book is all about before moving on.

Write from a critical point of view that assumes the reader is not familiar with the book or author at all. It is easy to mistakenly think of your audience as only your professor, but most of these assignments require you to write for a “general academic audience.” This audience would include your instructor that assigned the essay and will grade it, your classmates, and the larger academic community.

Step 6: Provide some background information

After you’ve finished your introductory paragraph, launch into your book report by providing the reader with some background information. For a fictional piece, this might involve going over the setting of the book. For a nonfiction piece, you can explore why the book was written and what kind of information it provides.

You might also want to talk about the time period in which the book was written and what the author was experiencing when he or she wrote it. In this second paragraph, you need to set the stage for the rest of the book report.

Step 7: Summarize the book and provide analysis (if requested)

It’s now time to summarize the book in its entirety. Follow your outline and go through each section. Refer to your notes and add direct quotes wherever necessary. This is the most important part of your book report and also the most time-consuming.

• Describe the setting (time and location).
• Introduce and summarize the main characters. How does the author develop them over the course of the book or narrative (story)?
• For books that contain many chapters, avoid summarizing every chapter in its entirety (unless required). Instead, focus your summary on major sections of the book and/ or plot developments.
• To keep the summary interesting, write about how the major events impact the characters.

Remember, a book report is more than simply summarizing each chapter.  What are the primary plot developments? Think about what the author is trying to say. Are there any major themes? What are his/her characters trying to communicate to the reader through their actions? How do the characters transform and evolve throughout the book? By the end of the story, are their worldviews different? If so, how?

If you’re writing a report on a nonfiction book, search for the author’s primary thesis statement or argument. Is the author trying to convince the reader about something? Is she successful in her argument? How and why? What makes the book persuasive and convincing? Your book report should show that you understand the author’s central argument and assess the credibility of the research/ support the author uses to make their thesis more persuasive.

Other topics to write about:

• Devote a few paragraphs to the style and tone of the book. You may choose to hint at these points in your introduction and then give examples in the summary you provide later in your paper.
• Other literary elements to write about include characterization, setting, themes, plot, dialogue, irony, and satire. For nonfiction books, give an overview of the research and outside support the author uses to make their point more persuasive.
• Again, refer to your notes. If a specific passage or quote has a distinctive style or tone, make sure to mention this.

Step 8: Write a concluding paragraph

After you’ve finished writing your book report, it’s time to wrap everything up with a concluding paragraph. Keep this paragraph concise, and don’t introduce any new ideas. Quickly summarize everything you’ve just said and write a few succinct sentences that reestablish the general outline of the book.

Many instructors have very clear instructions regarding the concluding paragraph, and some require you to mention the author’s name and the book’s title. If your instructor allows you to voice your opinion in your book report, the concluding paragraph is the ideal place to do so. For example, you can reveal whether you’d recommend the book to others and why.

Click here  to see a book report example.

Step 9: Edit your book report

While self-editing can be effective, it’s always helpful to use another pair of eyes. Ask a friend or your parents to read your book report. A fellow student may also edit your report.

Step 10: Revise and check your documentation of the primary text and any outside sources you used 

After an initial editing stage, go over the report once again and search for any glaring errors. These might be small grammatical or spelling mistakes. You should also check over your quotes to make sure they have been worded correctly and confirm any outside sources used.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

Book report checklist

Here’s a checklist you can go over to make sure your book report is ready to hand in. Some of these items may not be required, and your professor may also have additional requirements not mentioned on this list. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to check the specific criteria of your book report before you hand it in. Ask yourself if you included the following:

• The author’s name
• The title of the book
• The publication date
• The name of your professor/instructor and class
• A bibliography or works cited page

Also make sure you mentioned all the major events, characters, and ideas within the story.

Additional tips for writing a book report

• Use a thesaurus to increase your vocabulary.
• Use transition words to ensure readability.
• Focus on the “why” instead of the “how.”
• When reading the book, search for a quote that encapsulates the entire narrative. You can use this in your introductory paragraph.
• Make sure you understand whether your instructor accepts personal opinions in the report and write it accordingly.
• Make sure to correctly cite from the primary source (the book) and any outside sources (if required or allowed).
• Use current MLA documentation style, unless otherwise directed.
• Use concise and engaging language, logical organization, and a variety of summary, paraphrasing, short direct quotations, and explanations that lead the reader through each section you are writing about.
• Avoid unnecessary wordiness, repetition, slang, jargon, informal phrases, and, obviously, grammatical mistakes.

Example book report on One Hundred Years of Solitude

By Andy Block. Block received his B.A. in English from the University of South Carolina and his M.A. in comparative literature from the University of New Mexico. After teaching ESL in Asia and Europe as well as public school in New York City, briefly, Andy taught writing at a community college for more than a decade — before transitioning to a new career in EdTech. He is currently at work on a creative non-fiction book and enjoys freelance writing.

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How to write a book report

A book report is one of the first types of essays you probably learned to write in elementary school. But no matter how many book reports you turn in over the course of your student life, they can still inspire some anxiety and some confusion about the best way to write a book report, especially as you reach the high school and college level.

The good news is that the basics you learned in the early grades will serve you in good stead, since the book report format remains mostly the same. The very same structure and tools you used to dissect Charlotte’s Web and Superfudge will work just as well for Animal Farm and The Handmaid’s Tale . What changes is the depth and breadth of your analysis as a high school and college student.

So, If you are wondering how to start a book report for a college class assignment, here are some of the key pieces of information you need to know.

What is a book report?

Let’s start off with some definitions. In the most general terms, a book report is a summary of a written text, often a fiction novel, but can also include other genres such as memoir and creative non-fiction. It includes an analysis of the different elements and authorial choices that comprise the work, such as tone, theme, perspective, diction, dialogue, etc.

While the analysis should be reasoned and objective, it should also include your opinion and assessment of the impact and overall success of the author’s choices on the final work.

Book reports usually fall into one of the following types:

Plot summary

This type of book report isn’t just a re-telling of the story, it’s a comment on your overall impression of the plot — whether you thought it was engaging or maudlin or vapid, for example — backed up by direct quotes from the text to support your opinion.

Example of a plot summary thesis statement: The plot of Herman Melville’s short story, “Bartleby the Scrivener,” offers a poignant portrait of how depression robs a person of all motivation and momentum in life.

Character analysis

A character analysis zeroes in on a particular character (their characterization and actions) and their impact on the unfolding of the plot and its eventual outcome.

Example of a character analysis thesis statement: In J.D. Salinger’s novel, The Catcher in the Rye , the character of Phoebe, Holden’s bright and precocious younger sister, is a catalyst for rekindling his hope in humanity and reconsidering the choices he’s made in his life.

Theme analysis

A theme analysis looks at the overarching concepts, or themes, that run through a book and that give the text meaning and direction. Themes tend to be broad in nature, such as love, the importance of family, the impact of childhood, etc.

Example of a theme analysis thesis statement: Banana Yoshimoto’s novella, Kitchen , explores the theme of death and how everyone sooner or later has to come to terms with the mortality of the people they love as well as their own.

How to start a book report

The very first step in writing a stellar book report that earns a top grade is actually reading the book. This may seem obvious, but many students make the assignment much harder on themselves by not putting in the time up front to do a thorough and complete reading of the book they’re going to be writing their report on. So resist the urge to skim the text or to rely on the Cliff’s notes version. A nuanced analysis requires a deep grasp of the text, and there is no substitute for focused, firsthand reading.

It’s a lot easier to stick with a book that you enjoy reading! If you have the chance to choose the book you’ll be writing a report on, take some time to select a book that appeals to you, considering the genre, time period, writing style, and plot.

It can be helpful to start thinking about your book report while you are still making your way through your initial reading of the text. Mark down passages that provide key turning points in the action, descriptive passages that establish time and place, and any other passages that stand out to you in terms of their word choice and use of language. This makes it much easier to go back later and start collecting the evidence you’ll need to support your argument and analysis.

Once you finish reading the book from cover to cover, you’ll likely find that your mind is swirling with thoughts, impressions, and burgeoning analyses. At this stage, trying to distill all of these half-formed thoughts into one cohesive report may seem like a daunting task. One way to make this task more approachable is to start by collecting and listing the objective facts about the book. The following list covers the basic elements that should be included in every book report you write, no matter what topic or specific type of book report you’re writing:

• The book’s title and author
• The historical context of the book (when it was written)
• The time(s) during which the story is set
• The location(s) where the story takes place
• A summary of the main characters and action of the story
• Quotes from the book that will function as evidence to support your analysis

With all of the basics in hand, you can start to write your book report in earnest. Just like most other essay types, a well-written book report follows a basic structure that makes it easy for your reader to follow your thoughts and make sense of your argument.

A typical book report will open with an introduction that briefly summarizes the book and culminates with a thesis statement that advances an opinion or viewpoint about it. This is followed by body paragraphs that provide detailed points to flesh out and support that opinion in greater detail, including direct quotes from the text as supporting evidence. The report finishes with a conclusion that summarizes the main points and leaves the reader with an understanding of the book, its aims, and whether or not you feel the book (and its author) was successful in doing what it set out to do. Ideally, the conclusion will also make a statement about how the book fits into the larger literary world.

A book report template you can use for any book report

If you find yourself stuck on how to start a book report, here’s a handy book report template you can use to get things off the ground. Simply use this structure and start filling it in with the specifics of the book you are writing your report on. Feel free to expand upon this book report template, adding more sections as appropriate.

Introduction

Write three to five sentences introducing the book and author as well as important contextual information about the book, such as the publication year and the overall critical reception at the time. Finish the paragraph with your thesis statement.

Body paragraphs

Include at least three body paragraphs that offer detailed information and analysis to support your thesis statement. Each paragraph should contain one idea, backed up with direct quotes from the text alongside your critical analysis.

Write three to five sentences that restate your thesis and summarize the evidence you’ve presented in support of it. Relate your findings to a larger context about the book’s place within both the literary world and the world at large.

Frequently Asked Questions about book reports

A book report follows the format of most papers you write - it will have an introduction, a body and a conclusion. Depending on the type of book report, you will fill these parts with the required information.

These are the basic parts that should be included in every book report you write, no matter what topic or specific type of book report you’re writing:

• The historical context of the book and time(s) during which the story is set

The book report is, among other things, also a summary of the plot, main characters, and ideas and arguments of the author. Your book report should help readers decide whether they want to read the book or not.

How many pages a book report should have depends on your assignment. It can be a half page, but it can also have many pages. Make sure to carefully read through your assignment and ask your professor if you are unsure .

A book report is a summary of a written text. A good book report includes an analysis of the different elements and authorial choices that comprise the work, such as tone, theme, perspective, diction, dialogue, etc. A good book report helps the reader decide whether they want to read the book or not.

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Book Report: Definition, Guidelines, and Advice

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A book report is a written composition or oral presentation that describes, summarizes , and (often, but not always) evaluates a work of fiction or nonfiction .

As Sharon Kingen points out below, a book report is primarily a school exercise, "a means of determining whether or not a student has read a book" ( Teaching Language Arts in Middle Schools , 2000).

Characteristics of a Book Report

Book reports generally follow a basic format that includes the following information:

• the title of the book and its year of publication
• the name of the author
• the genre (type or category) of the book (for example, biography , autobiography , or fiction)
• the main subject, plot , or theme of the book
• a brief summary of the key points or ideas treated in the book
• the reader's response to the book, identifying its apparent strengths and weaknesses
• brief quotations from the book to support general observations

Examples and Observations

• "A book report is a way for you to let others know about a book you have read. A good book report will help others decide whether they want to read the book or not." (Ann McCallum, William Strong, and Tina Thoburn, Language Arts Today . McGraw-Hill, 1998)
• Contrasting Views on Book Reports - "Keep in mind always that a book report is a hybrid, part fact and part fancy. It gives hard information about the book, yet it is your own creation, giving your opinion and judgment of it." (Elvin Ables, Basic Knowledge and Modern Technology . Varsity, 1987) - "Your instructor may occasionally assign a book report . A book report is to be sharply distinguished from a research paper , for it deals with one book in its entirety—not with certain aspects of several books and documents . . .. The book report is also to be clearly distinguished from a book review or a critical essay , for it merely reports on a book without undertaking to compare it with other books or to pass judgment on its value." (Cleanth Brooks and Robert Penn Warren, Modern Rhetoric . Harcourt, 1972) - "A book report is a summary of the contents, plot , or thesis of a particular book, . . . preceded by a full bibliographical citation . The writer of a book report is not required to evaluate the author, although he oftentimes does so." (Donald V. Gawronski, History: Meaning and Method . Sernoll, 1967)
• Quick Tips "I'll give you some tips on how to write a good book report right now. "Tell the name of the book. Tell the name of the author. The Wizard of Oz was written by L. Frank Baum. "Tell if you think he's a good writer. Tell the names of all the characters in the book. Tell what they did. Tell where they went. Tell who they were looking for. Tell what they finally found. Tell how they treated each other. Tell about their feelings. "Tell that you read some to your sister. Tell that she liked it. "Read some to a friend. Then you can even tell that your friend liked it." (Mindy Warshaw Skolsky, Love From Your Friend, Hannah . HarperCollins, 1999)
• Problems Associated With Book Reports "Typically a book report is a means of determining whether or not a student has read a book. Some teachers also consider these reports as a major part of their composition program. However, there are several problems associated with book reports. First, students can generally find out enough about a book to write a report without actually reading it. Second, book reports tend to be boring to write and boring to read. The writing is usually uninspired because students have no ownership of the task and no commitment to it. Furthermore, book reports are not real-world writing tasks. Only students write book reports." (Sharon Kingen, Teaching Language Arts in Middle Schools: Connecting and Communicating . Lawrence Erlbaum, 2000)
• The Lighter Side of Book Reports "I took a speed-reading course and read War and Peace in 20 minutes. It involves Russia." (Woody Allen)
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How to Write a Book Report : Step by Step Guide

By: Angelina Grin

This type of assignment can be a little more complicated than it sounds. But it doesn’t have to be. You can buy book report , but in fact, with a little planning and preparation, you can write an excellent report hassle-free.

• ⚑ What is a Book Report? 

✒️ Central Characters and Their Roles

✒️ the setting, ✒️ use of symbolism, ✒️ citations, ✒️ formatting, what is the format of a book report, ✍️ pre-writing steps, ✍️ brainstorm before you start writing, ✍️ have an objective, ✍️ read the book well, ✍️ mark interesting places, ✍️ create a rough outline, ✍️ develop ideas, how to write a book report outline, how to title a book report, how to start a book report, how to write a book report summary, how to write a conclusion for book report, 📗 elementary school, 📘 primary school, 📙 middle school, 📓 high school, 📚 university, get a book writing service, ➡️ what should a book report include, ➡️ what are the 5 parts of a book report, ➡️ how do you end a book report, ➡️ what are the basics of a book report.

If you're unsure how to do a book report, this article will help get you started. Let’s look at how to write a report that will impress your teacher and get an “A” grade.

⚑ What is a Book Report?

You might ask, “what does a book report look like?” So, it is necessary that we define book report before diving deeply into how you can write it.

A report is an exposition that summarizes a written work's plot, characters, and literary style. It generally centers on a single work but can also focus on a particular subject or theme.

Usually, a report is a secondary-level assignment that seeks to boost students’ communication and analytical skills. Also, it helps students to practice the art of self-expression in any aspect of life.

While a report might look similar to a book review, there are significant discrepancies between the two. Book reviews are critical evaluations of a literary piece. They require the student to analyze the content while expressing their personal opinions on the subject matter.

How to Structure a Book Report

To understand how to write a good book report, you must first know what to put in it. So, what do you need in a book report? Report writing at the secondary and college levels may take these forms:

• Character analysis
• Theme analysis
• Plot summary

So, what are the elements of a book report?

Depending on your course requirements, you may be required to write a summary of any literary work. Regardless of what type of work you are writing about, incorporate some key points that elucidate why the text you read captivated you.

👉 Some key elements to include in book report structure are:

• Include a timeline of the events described in your story.
• Write down key details such as the title, publication date, publishing company, and the number of pages.
• Include a summary of the plot and topic in your report.
• Include a description of the story's setting.
• Name and describe the main characters.
• Use quotes from the text to support your viewpoint.

Structural Elements of a Great Book Report

Knowing how to structure your report correctly can be a fun and engaging way to interact with your favorite books. What does a book report consist of? Generally, a report has a formal format that a student should follow to write a compelling sample of critical analysis. Below are the key structural elements to include in your writing:

The central characters are the ones who make the story what it is. They're usually the main people who drive the action forward and keep things interesting.

If you're writing a report, you need to discuss those characters in detail—what they look like, how they act, and so on. You should also mention how each of them fits into the story: what role does they play? What does his or her presence contribute to the overall plot?

The structure of a book report should also include the events that take place in the literary piece. Identify the main events in the story. Remember that an event happens in a story — it can be as simple as "the character gets out of bed," or it can be something incredibly complex like an epic battle between two opposing armies. Also, ensure that each event has a purpose within the story's plot.

The setting is the time and the place where the story takes place. Knowing the setting is important because it can help you understand what happens in the story. If you don't know where the characters are, you won't be able to understand what their lives are like.

The setting of the story foreshadows what will occur. It also helps to give the reader a sense of where everything is taking place so they can imagine themselves being there with the characters.

Symbolism is a literary writing style that allows an author to convey a message through objects, characters, and places in the story. An example of this would be when an author uses the color green to represent hope or life.

Your report should identify how the author uses symbols throughout the novel. So, read between the lines to contextualize the setting, events, and characters and demystify how the author incorporates symbolism in their literature.

The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story. In this part, you describe what happens to your characters as they try to achieve their goals. A great report will explain how the plot moves forward, changes over time, and impacts other aspects of the story (like characters).

When writing a report, you want to ensure you support your writing with lots of quotations. It makes your paper more interesting and helps your reader to understand the point you are trying to make.

Formatting is the first thing your teacher will look at when they open your report. You must ensure that your formatting is correct and that every piece of information has been included in the proper section.

👉 Here are some formatting tips:

• Put quotation marks around direct quotations
• Boldface keywords in titles and subtitles
• Underline sayings
• Organize the text into an introduction, body, and conclusion.

You've read the book, and now it's time to write a report on it. But what is the format of a book report? The format you adopt depends on your instructor’s book report instructions.

Probably you’re asking, “how do you do a book report?” Well, book reports generally follow this format:

• ✔️ Include the title, author, and the number of pages.
• ✔️ Mention the type of book, e.g., fiction, folktale, non-fiction, etc.
• ✔️ Mention and describe the key characters.
• ✔️ Write a summary of the plot.
• ✔️ Describe the theme.
• ✔️ Write a personal point of view about the book. I.e., what you liked or disliked about it.

Book Report Guidelines

Did you ask: " Write my book report! "? Or you looking for top tips on how to write a book report essay? If so, don’t fret – we got you covered in this book report guide. Writing a report that stands out doesn't have to be daunting as it might seem. All you need to do is know the right guidelines to follow, and you’ll be good to go.

Here are book report steps to follow to write an impeccable overview of a literary text:

Before we get into how to type a book report, let’s look at the preliminary things before you begin crafting your report.

👉 Follow this book report tips:

• Take notes when reading a fiction piece. Ensure you track the characters, setting, and plot.
• For non-fiction work, track ideas, themes, and symbols to include them in your overview.
• Jot down key quotes and cite them throughout your assignment
• Categorize your notes into headings and subheadings to make the writing process easier.

Before you start to write your report, it's important to brainstorm some key points you want to make about the story. Think about what you liked or didn't like or what made it special to you. Check your notes and decide the claims you want to make. Also, consider what the teacher said in class about how they want reports written.

Your objective will help determine how much work goes into the report and what type of information needs to be included. You'll need to explain why the story is interesting and unique and why it deserves a recommendation.

The first step in writing a book report is reading the entire publication well. This will help you understand it better and give you an idea of what information to include in your report. Take precise notes on important characters, events, and settings.

Marking up your text is a great way to keep track of all the important things you want to include in your report. It also makes it easier to find them when you're writing. Mark sentences highlighting events, symbols, patterns, etc. that are important to the plot or theme of the story. Underline key facts that will make your piece appealing.

You can start writing your rough outline by outlining all of your book's major events and themes. It will give you an image of how your assignment will look like.

Use your notes to decide which idea to include in what paragraph. Also, ensure there is a proper transition of ideas throughout your writing. Proper coordination of ideas will help the teacher follow the flow of the publication.

If you want to know how to write an outline for a book report , this section got your back. Below are key elements to include in your outline:

• Introduction – You need to know how to write a good introduction for a book report. Include the title and bibliographical information. Provide the context of the story.
• Summary – write an overview of the book, including the plot, events, and character description.
• Conclusion – provide your thoughts on the book in this section. Did the book succeed in teaching you something new?

A report title should include the novel title and author. The title needs to reflect the report's content so that when someone sees it, they know exactly what they're going to get if they read it.

Book Report on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

We have a tip for you if you are wondering how to start your report. Begin with an introduction that mentions the 1) publication's title , 2) author , and 3) context .

More information here .

When preparing for your work, you want to know how to write a summary for a book report. This summary is a short overview of the literary work's plot, events, and main characters.

Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet is the most famous romantic tragedy. In this play, Verona's Montague and Capulet families' long-running feud kills Romeo and Juliet (a Capulet).

Romeo and Juliet plunge into love in the first part of the play. Conflict, retribution, and secret machinations drive the lovers to suicide in despair.

Shakespeare condenses the play into four days. He condenses time to show how events combine to kill the lovers. The tragedy's main themes—conflict and inevitability—predict its ending: Romeo and Juliet's death ends the deadly struggle between Verona's noble families.

Your book report summary should include the main ideas you have discovered in the publication.

Summarize the key ideas you included in the report. Also, provide a personal recommendation about how you felt about the book.

How to Write a Book Report for Different Academic Levels

A report on a book is a form of writing that students can do at any academic level. As such, the components of a book report may differ depending on the level of study.

If you want to know how to format a book report, here are tips on writing examples of book reports at different levels.

At this young stage, students can write a basic book report which is easy and straightforward. Below are guidelines on how to write a book report elementary school level:

• Include the book title and author
• Mention the various characters
• Summarize the plot
• Include a personal opinion

If you are wondering what to put in a book report, here are tips on how to write a book report in primary school:

• Include details such as title, author, genre, and the number of pages.
• Write the book summary.
• Describe the main character
• Your opinion

Check the following guidelines on how to write a middle school book report:

• Add the title and the author
• Write an introduction with the book title, author, and context.
• Write the plot summary
• Add your personal recommendation.

If you’re looking for the format of a written book report, don’t worry. The following are tips on how to write a book report college level :

• Learn your teacher’s requirements
• Read the book and take notes
• Follow the college book report format given by your tutor
• Include an introduction with the book’s bibliographical information
• Write the summary
• Write a conclusion with personal thoughts

Follow these tips on how to write a high school book report paper:

• Read the book keenly and jot down the main ideas
• Create an outline
• Include the title and author in the introduction
• Analyze the key characters
• Summarize the key events, themes, and symbols
• Conclude with your thoughts

Below are tips on how to write a book report university level:

• Know the instructions.
• Read the carefully while taking notes.
• Write an informative introduction with the book’s bibliographical information.
• Write the summary while synthesizing ideas.
• Write a conclusion with personal thoughts.

If you feel overwhelmed by homework, get help with book report at Studybay. We have experienced experts who can deliver high-quality book reports for all academic levels. Contact us now and ask for cheap book report help. We got you covered.

The title of the book, the name(s) of the author(s), an introduction, the context, a character description, a narrative summary, and a personal opinion should all be included in a report on a book.

Keep in mind that a good book report example should always include the five elements: the title, the introduction, the setting, a summary of the tale, and the conclusion.

A conclusion is the last section of a report on a book, and it should contain a personal judgment about it as well as the key ideas of the storyline.

A report on a book gives information about the author, the book, and its subject as well as the theme. In contrast to a review, which concentrates on giving an opinion about the book, a book report essay format involves writing a book’s summary.

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After going through the article, I can now create a book report without actually reading the book. I will focus more on the quotes, important words, and theme analysis. This will help put me in the right direction when writing the report.

When writing a college level book report, it is important to do an excellent job so as to get an excellent grade. The article explained how to review the character in the book to deliver a great report.

From the article, I know that character analysis is a crucial aspect of every high school book report. It defines the different characters and plot summary. The post makes writing a book report even easier than I actually imagined.

When writing a book report, students can choose any of these three types of the introductory paragraph, including descriptive, narrative, and expository paragraphs. Also, if you provide a brief summary of the author's arguments and opinions, it will make reading your book report more interesting.

Before reading this article, I never really understood the importance of body paragraphs and theme analysis in my college papers. Now, I know that this is where I define the purpose and plot of my research.

From the post, I understand that the starter paragraph of my book report must establish a foundation for all important thesis statements. I will gather more resources for my paper and deliver exactly what my teachers expect.

Thanks to this informative post, I now know the procedure for writing the thesis statement for my character analysis book report. I will focus more on the content, paragraphs, and grammar.

The article helped simplify the process of writing a book report. I now understand how to present good arguments and how to write page references. Students at the secondary level, college level, or another grade level can also adhere to the instructions in the post when writing their book report.

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Good book report questions

Writing a book report is a common activity students are required to go through today. Reading is one thing but the ability to summarize and analyze information is totally different. One can read a lot of books but still be unable to develop a good book report due to the lack of knowledge of what it should look like. Therefore, students often seek book report help in order to understand how to write one. In this article we are going to provide some good book report questions that will provide guidance as to which direction to go when choosing a format of a book report. Even if you have never faced the challenge of writing one, it is most likely that you will soon receive such assignment. And it is always better to face it prepared knowing what to do. So keep reading to get to know more about how to develop a good one. Even if you have written one or many reports by now, you can still find out more to polish up your writing skills. Questions for a book report provided below will serve a good foundation for every student.

❓ How to Write a Good Book Report

There is a difference between a book report and a book review which everybody should know prior to writing any of these. They are not the same although there are some similarities. A lot of students mix them up turning in reports when reviews are requested and vice versa. Book reports are all about explaining topical details and the storyline of the book. Those writing this type of assignment are to present biographical information about the author of the book (year of birth, marital status, his/her education and worldview, etc.). After the biographical information, there should go a brief summary of the book content – the main characters and the development of the plot.

Now a book review is different as it requires an in-depth analysis in addition to the things mentioned in a book report. The bio of the author along with the summary of the story also belongs in the review but the attention paid to these things should not be so significant. In other words, these things are not central in writing a book review . Instead, they are all considered a background information upon which one may analyze and evaluate the book in general. A book review is then more about analysis and evaluation where students are required to identify the author’s main message and ideas as well as to understand the meaning of symbolic elements present in the text. Now as we have managed to draw the line of separation between a book report and a book review, we can move on to how to write a book report.

Book reports can be of different types and formats. Most common forms of book reports are plot summaries, theme and character analysis. This type of assignment will help you practice expressing your own opinion about different aspects of the text and eventually expressing your thoughts on pretty much any subject in future. But no matter what type of book report you are about to write, there are some common things you have to include into your paper:

• Specify the kind of book report
• Include the title of the book
• Put the name of the author
• Indicate the time when the story takes place
• Mention the location of the events taking place in the book
• List the names of the characters briefly describing each one of them (at least those you will be discussing in the report)
• Add quotations in order to back up your opinions

📄 Plot Summaries

This type of book report assumes one has to explain own opinions about the plot and why he/she believes so. Your purpose should be to describe and characterize the plot and back up your opinions by some examples from the book.

🖋 Character Analysis

Here you can explore the traits of the main characters and how they affect the development of the plot in the book. There are many things you can pay attention to when analyzing the characters, such as clothing, moral flaws, dialogues, actions, etc.

📗 Theme Analysis

This form of book reports allows exploring the themes and big ideas that are interwoven within the entire story. You can simply choose a theme that seems to be the most important or the one you like the most and try to bring some of your thoughts to highlight the topic.

📚 Book Report Questions

What can help you write book reports efficiently is the list of questions to direct your thinking and writing. You can google phrases like “book report questions for high school” or “book report questions for middle school” depending on what your level of writing is. But in order to save some time for you, we have decided to come up with our own list of questions that should help develop a good book report. Therefore, there is no need to type something like “write my book report” in a google search tab in hopes to find someone who will do it all for you. Instead, you may consider the questions to ask for a book report and try to write it on your own. Here is the list:

• What genre does your book belong to? Fiction, non-fiction, etc.
• Do you like the book? Why so? If yes, would you recommend it to your friends?
• Can you come up with another title?
• What is the setting/background information?
• Who are the main characters?
• Are the names of the characters in any way descriptive?
• How does the story start? Why do you think the author chose to start his book this way?
• How does the story develop?
• Did you have any associations coming to your mind when you were reading the story?
• Did you find anything funny in the story?
• What’s your favorite part?
• Is there a problem in the story? What is this problem?
• Do you think that the author could have come up with a better solution (if there is one)?
• Is there the main idea that you can identify?
• Can you identify the purpose of the book?
• What are the lessons the book teaches (if any)?
• Is the topic of the book important? Why?
• Did any of the characters in the book do something you did not quite like?
• Can you identify the main purpose of writing the book?
• Did the book help you generate new ideas?

✅ Final Remarks

Now that you know what book reports are all about, we recommend you to try and write one. But when we say “write one”, we don’t necessarily mean that the very first thing you have to do in order to produce a good book report is to take a pen and start writing something. There are other things one should do before writing. We suggest you jot down the information you would want to take special note of when reading the book. Keep this piece of paper next to you when you read a book. As you read, take notes of the plot, characters and the main idea. Then you can go through the questions listed above – they should help you understand the book better. When you are done with the questions, organize your thoughts into an outline and draft the book report. From there you have to only edit and revise the draft to produce a perfect paper.

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7 things bridgerton still needs to do for eloise's book story.

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I Really Like How Bridgerton Has Set Up Season 7 (Yes, Seven!)

New netflix data gives a lot of confidence for bridgerton season 8... in 2034, bridgerton still needs to honor one part of francesca's story despite massive book change.

Spoiler alert: The following article contains spoilers from the Bridgerton books.

• Eloise must still do some soul-searching before she's ready to find love, and that starts with her travels in Scotland and pursuits to change the world in Bridgerton.
• Eloise has to return to London before embarking on her love journey.
• Marina and Phillip Crane must return in order to tell Eloise's story fully.

Eloise's book story could be coming very soon in Bridgerton , but the Netflix television show still needs several more developments before it can be told. The historical romance series, created by Chris Van Dusen, is based on Julia Quinn's book series of the same name, which chronicles the love lives of the Bridgerton family. Led by their mother Violet, the eight Bridgerton siblings come of age and seek love (some more willing to find a life partner than others). Every season of Bridgerton follows one of the eight characters, just as each installment in the novel series depicts one love story.

The first three Bridgerton seasons covered Daphne's torrid love affair with Simon Basset, Anthony's tumultuous romance with Kate Sharma, and the slow-burn relationship between Colin and Penelope Featherington. So, the only characters remaining who have yet to have their tales told on the screen are Benedict, Eloise, Francesca, Hyacinth, and Gregory. Hyacinth and Gregory's respective romances will undoubtedly be saved for the final two seasons (if Netflix keeps renewing the show) as they are still very young. So, Bridgerton season 4 will likely follow Benedict, Eloise, or Francesca . However, Bridgerton hasn't laid all the groundwork for Eloise's book story yet.

7 Eloise Undergoes Personal Development

Claudia jessie's character still has a lot of self-exploration to do in bridgerton.

Eloise, played by Claudia Jessie, still has much growing to do before embarking on her romantic journey from the Bridgerton books . When the Netflix historical romance series first premiered, the second-oldest Bridgerton sister was only 17 years old, and after a few years, Eloise is still trying to find her place in the world. It seemed like Eloise was on the right path when she experienced a lot of self-discovery during season 2 as she befriended Theo Sharpe and began attending events regarding women's rights. However, all that progress came crashing down once Lady Whistledown exposed Eloise's scandalous political pursuits.

Bridgerton showrunner Jess Brownell predicts that season 4 will premiere two years after season 3's release.

Eloise tried to assimilate into society during Bridgerton season 3 after learning Penelope's Lady Whistledown secret. She befriended Cressida Cowper and attended various balls. However, it's always been clear that Eloise is unlike any other lady in the ton. So, by the end of Bridgerton season 3 , Eloise decided she needed to get away from London to explore the world (or, at least, a different country) and find herself in the process. Unless season 4 has a time jump, the upcoming episodes must continue Eloise's personal growth journey, and Eloise must come to terms with who she is before finding love.

Following the release of Bridgerton season 3, it has become clear how the writers are already laying the groundwork for future seasons.

6 Eloise Must Move Back To London After Bridgerton Season 3's Ending

Eloise moved with francesca & john stirling to scotland.

One of the most important things that needs to happen before Eloise's love story can unfold in Bridgerton is for her to return to London. Eloise decided to join Francesca, her new husband John Stirling, and John's cousin Michaela Stirling on their move to Scotland, where John's family estate resides. As mentioned above, Eloise must still do some soul-searching before she's ready to find love, and that starts with her travels in Scotland and pursuits to change the world. However, once Eloise finds what she's looking for, she has to come home to London.

If Bridgerton season 4 is Benedict's story , it might begin with Eloise still in Scotland. However, if it focuses on Eloise and adapts her book, To Sir Phillip, With Love (the fifth novel in Julia Quinn's series), the upcoming episodes could start with a time jump to get Eloise back to London faster. Whatever the case, Eloise must move back home before the Netflix series throws itself fully into her romantic journey.

5 Eloise Changes Her Mind On Romance

Eloise has been firmly against marriage since bridgerton season 1.

Out of all the members of the Bridgerton family , Eloise is the one most adverse to romance. Since the Netflix historical romance show's first season, Eloise has always been the most stubborn of all the Bridgerton siblings and has been opposed to finding love. Eloise was even more against the concept after she made her debut to society in season 2. She had no interest in courting anyone, and as of the Bridgerton season 3 finale, that hasn't changed.

[Eloise and Theo's] falling out towards the end of the second season might have made Eloise stray even further from the idea of romance.

The closest Eloise has ever gotten to being open to love is during her friendship with Theo Sharpe in Bridgerton season 2 . However, their falling out towards the end of the second season might have made Eloise stray even further from the idea of romance. Nevertheless, Eloise needs to change her mind on love and finding a life partner in order for her love story in the Bridgerton books to work in the Netflix television series.

4 Marina Needs To Return

Marina's death serves as the catalyst for eloise's love story.

As those who have read the Bridgerton books know, Marina Crane (née Thompson), played by Ruby Barker in the series, is an integral part of Eloise's love story. Marina was last seen in Bridgerton season 2 when Colin visited her and her new husband, Phillip Crane. Marina and Phillip's marriage is one of convenience and perceived necessity since Marina was pregnant with Phillip's dead brother's twins, Oliver and Amanda. The two don't actually love one another, but it seemingly works for them. While Marina wasn't in Bridgerton season 3 , she must return to the show for Eloise's sake.

Ruby Barker is unlikely to reprise her role as Marina in future seasons of Bridgerton after publicly calling out the show and Netflix for not supporting her after she suffered from two psychotic breaks.

In Julia Quinn's book series, Marina falls into a deep depression. One day, Phillip sees her venturing into a lake and drags her out before she can drown herself. While Marina survives, she catches a fever that kills her a few days later. Marina's story in the Bridgerton novels is tragic from beginning to end. However, her death serves as the catalyst for Eloise and Phillip's romance, meaning that Marina has to come back to Netflix's Bridgerton for Eloise's story.

3 Give Bridgerton Viewers An Update On Phillip Crane

Phillip is eloise's main love interest.

Phillip Crane, currently married to Marina, is Eloise's central love interest in the Bridgerton books , and their story unravels during the fifth novel, To Sir Phillip, With Love. Eloise connects with Phillip after Marina's death, and their romance takes off from there. But Phillip has been a rather small character in the Netflix historical romance show so far, with his last appearance coming in season 2. Phillip's scenes are always brief, and it's quite easy to forget that he exists. Consequently, the upcoming Bridgerton episodes have to remind viewers that Phillip exists to sell his and Eloise's future relationship.

2 Eloise & Phillip Start Exchanging Letters

Eloise & phillip's correspondence is the start of their relationship.

Eloise and Phillip first come in contact with one another in Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series when she writes him a letter of condolence after Marina's death. Eloise is Marina's cousin in the novels, meaning it makes sense why she writes to him. However, Netflix's Bridgerton changed this book detail in season 1 when the producers made Marina a cousin of the Featheringtons instead. So, if the writers of the historical romance series still want to follow Eloise's book story, they'll have to find a better explanation as to why she and Phillip begin exchanging letters.

The Bridgerton writers must (at the very least) tease Eloise and Phillip's relationship before her season comes around so as not to make their love story seem so sudden.

Regardless, Eloise must start writing to Phillip to lay the groundwork for their future romance in Bridgerton . After season 3's conclusion, the two have yet to come in contact with one another, and casual viewers likely have no idea that Eloise and Phillip are supposed to end up together. As a result, the Bridgerton writers must (at the very least) tease Eloise and Phillip's relationship before her season comes around so as not to make their love story seem so sudden.

New Netflix data gives a lot of confidence for Bridgerton season 8. However, at the show's current pace, it would not premiere until 2034.

1 Eloise Needs Closure In Her Relationship With Theo After Bridgerton Season 2

Theo was eloise's first love interest.

Some are still holding out hope that the Bridgerton writers will completely ignore the Eloise and Phillip connection from the books in favor of bringing Theo Sharpe back as Eloise's main love interest in future episodes. However, even if Eloise and Phillip are destined to be together in the show just like in the books, Theo still needs to return so that Eloise can finally have closure in their relationship. Eloise and Theo's friendship ended rather abruptly during Bridgerton season 2's ending . They haven't seen one another ever since.

Eloise wanted to protect Theo after Penelope (falsely) informed her that people were discussing their meetings. Since Eloise comes from the upper class and Theo is a part of the lower class, their rendezvous could have been regarded as scandalous. But Theo assumed that Eloise desired to end their connection to protect herself, and the last time Eloise saw Theo, he was upset with her and she was heartbroken. Eloise and Theo's relationship never got proper closure, and before she can dive into her love story from the Bridgerton books, she must reconcile with Theo.

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From Shondaland and creator Chris Van Dusen, Netflix’s Bridgerton is based on the romance novels of the same name by author Julia Quinn. The series follows the eight Bridgerton siblings, Anthony, Benedict, Colin, Daphne, Eloise, Francesca, Gregory, and Hyacinth, as they search for love during the social season and navigate life in Regency-era England.

Money blog: US fast food chain to open 60 restaurants in UK - with dish you have to sign waiver to eat

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment or your Money Problem/consumer dispute (don't forget to leave a contact number/email) in the box below.

Tuesday 9 July 2024 13:25, UK

• Which is cheapest supermarket once you include Clubcard and Nectar?
• US fast food chain to open 60 restaurants in UK - with dish you have to sign waiver to eat
• Dyson to cut 1,000 UK jobs following global workforce review
• Price of a cuppa could rise as tea leaves cost up 20% in a week

Money blog essential reads

• Basically... What are the different ways of paying for a car?
• Women in Business : From blackouts to CEO - how burnout helped create UK's biggest venue booking platform
• Best deals on school uniform ahead of new academic year
• Further reading: Ian King answers your questions on what Labour government means for your personal finances

Ask a question or make a comment

Move out the way Chick-fil-A, another viral American fast food chain is about to launch in the UK. 

Dave's Hot Chicken has announced it will open restaurants in 60 locations across the UK and Ireland, with the first coming early next year. 

The social media sensation is known for its jumbo chicken sliders, sliders and bites. 

They can each be ordered in seven different spice levels from no spice to reaper, which is so hot you have to sign a waiver to eat it. 

"We know there is an opportunity to make Dave's Hot Chicken one of the iconic restaurant brands, and we do that by partnering with incredible operators, like Azzurri Group," said Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave's Hot Chicken.

"The flavour of Dave's Hot Chicken resonates across borders, and we're looking forward to the first UK store getting open soon." 

The chain is coming to the UK after it signed an agreement with Azzurri Group - one of the country's biggest hospitality investment platforms.

The group already operates Italian restaurants Zizzi, Ask Italian, and Coco di Mama as well as the fast casual Mexican restaurant Boojum. 

Dave's Hot Chicken was originally founded by three friends Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan and Tommy Rubenyan, who spent $900 to launch in a car park in 2017. 

Since then, it has grown rapidly with more than 200 restaurants now open across the US. 

It has also garnered the attention of famous investors like singers Drake and Usher, and actor Samuel L Jackson. 

The move to the UK comes after a recent expansion by Popeyes and an upcoming launch by Chick-fil-A. 

Crisis-hit Thames Water has warned its cash remains on track to run dry by the end of May next year due to a lack of new investment, forcing it to prepare a plan for its lenders.

The country's biggest water company, which serves almost a quarter of the population, previously said it had £2.4bn of liquidity as of the end of March.

The company said on Tuesday that the sum had fallen to £1.8bn by the end of June.

Cash-strapped Thames Water has been struggling to secure fresh funds from existing shareholders after they withdrew promised investment of £500m amid a funding row with the industry regulator.

Read more from our business news reporter James Sillars below... 

The UK's largest hotel brand has had to change its marketing after a complaint to the advertising regulator - removing claims which said buying early means getting the best price.

The complaint against Premier Inn was "informally resolved" by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), meaning the hotel chain agreed to amend the communication and details of the issue were not made public.

No formal ruling was published but the ASA told Sky News a complaint had challenged Premier Inn's claim that booking early gave the best deals on the basis the statement was misleading and could not be substantiated.

The ad in question said: "Book early to secure your choice of hotel and dates for the best price!"

Read more from our business news reporter Sarah Taafe-Maguire here... 

Card spending fell last month for the first time in more than three years, according to Barclays.

It's the first time there's been a drop in card spending values since February 2021, the bank's June data showed.

The figures cover nearly 40% of the nation's credit and debit card transactions and combine it with consumer research.

It's due to a combination of prices rising less than before, as inflation weakened, and wet weather dampening clothes, pub and garden centre sales early in the month.

Read more...

Dyson has revealed plans for 1,000 job losses in the UK.

The manufacturer of innovative vacuum cleaners and other products said the cuts, which amount to more than a quarter of its UK workforce, followed a review of its global workforce needs.

It is understood that the redundancies are not linked to the general election as the process had begun beforehand.

The company's founder Sir James Dyson had previously been  critical of the Conservative government 's approach to economic growth and science.

Follow this breaking story here ...

Is it an infringement of hygiene regulations, or just a drop in the ocean?

Well, those who are caught relieving themselves in the sea in Marbella could seemingly be fined a hefty €750 (£634).

In new plans to help clean up the Costa del Sol, fines could be levied on beach-goers who are found guilty of "physiological evacuation in the sea and on the beach".

The wording of the by-law has given rise to ridicule in Spain, with many questioning just how it would be policed.

A spokesperson for the city council has since moved to clarify the proposals, saying they referred to the fact people might urinate into the sea from the shore.

"The by-law does not impose a sanction for peeing in the sea," they said in an  email to The Guardian . 

"It will not be applicable. The by-law regulates possible antisocial infractions on the beach, just as any such acts are regulated in any public space such as on the city's streets."

The rules have been approved by Malaga's council but need to pass a public consultation before becoming law.

Taking in 25 different beaches in the Malaga municipality, the rules aim to bring a halt to a practice dubbed "an infringement of hygiene and sanitary regulations".

Under the rules, repeat offenders caught more than once in the space of a year could face a fine of up to €1,500 (£1,270).

Things have just started looking up, inflation is under control, an interest rate cut could come next month, but tea leaf production in India is about to throw a spanner in the works. 

The price of a cuppa could be about to rise after harvests in places across the country were drastically reduced by extreme weather events - including floods and heatwaves. 

As a result, it's predicted average tea prices this year could be 16% to 20% higher than in 2023.

In the last week of June, the typical price of Indian tea leaves rose to more than £2 per kg - a near 20% increase, according to the Tea Board. 

A government ban on 20 pesticides has also had an impact. 

More than half of India's total tea production is plucked during July to October.

"Extreme weather events are hurting tea production. Excessive heat in May, followed by ongoing flooding in Assam, are reducing output," said Prabhat Bezboruah, a senior tea planter and former chairman of India's Tea Board.

The country produced a record 1.394 billion kg of tea in 2023, but in 2024 production could fall by around 100 million kg, he warned.

India's tea production in May plunged more than 30% from a year earlier to 90.92 million kg - its lowest for that month in more than a decade. 

In June, production improved slightly thanks to good rainfall, but flooding in July limited plucking in many districts of Assam. 

The region accounts for more than half the country's tea output, and the UK is India's top export destination. 

And, we are a nation of tea drinkers - consuming around 100 million cups a day. 

The average price of a packet of 80 tea bags costs £2.64 - up from £2.38 last year, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Of course, the extent of the price increases depends on a variety of factors, including how much manufacturers and retailers will absorb and if tea supply contracts are due to expire. 

By James Sillars , business news reporter

The FTSE 100 is in positive territory on Tuesday morning despite a hefty drag from BP.

The index was trading 0.2% higher at 8,212, with miners among the sectors leading the way.

BP was down by more than 2% after it warned of a hit to second quarter profits due to weaker refining margins and oil trading.

Among wider fallers in London was Indivior.

Its shares plunged by more than a third. The drugmaker revealed at 7am that it had lowered its annual profit forecast, not aided by the fact it would discontinue the sale of its schizophrenia drug Perseris.

Global share performance today may well depend on remarks in Washington DC.

Investors are eagerly awaiting evidence to a Senate committee by chair of the Federal Reserve Jay Powell this afternoon.

Any hint that the central bank has moved closer to a US interest rate cut will be seen positively.

Just 18% of companies in the UK are led by women, and while data suggests female entrepreneurs are on the rise, men still receive more funding and are entrusted with higher average loans to get them started.

In an eight-part series every Tuesday, Money blog reporter  Jess Sharp  speaks to women who are bossing it in their respective fields - hearing their stories, struggles and advice for those who want to follow in their footsteps by starting a business.

This week, she has spoken to Rebecca Kelly, the co-founder and CEO of VenueScanner...

Rebecca Kelly was hospitalised for weeks after falling down the stairs.

Suffering with blackouts, dizzy spells, muscle failure and panic attacks, she was taken to hospital twice more before the root of her health problems were uncovered. 

"I started to genuinely lose some of the physical competency of my body. I was quite headstrong... it was very much like 'This is in my body versus this is in my mind,'" she said. 

The cause of all her symptoms? Burnout. 

She was working a full-time job in digital marketing and setting up her company as a "side hustle" at the time, but after more than a year and a half of working 24/7, her health was suffering.

It was a crisis that forced her to take the leap and 100% commit to pursuing her business venture. 

"When you're sort of young and in your 20s you're pushing yourself very hard to do the next thing, you think you're quite invincible. It's easy to forget that energy is a finite resource, and you have to pick and choose where you use it," she said.  

"I really just suffered quite badly from burnout at that point, and it was like, 'I have to make a choice for my own health.' 

"That was probably the real thing that pushed me into it." 

This was seven years ago - and the now 34-year-old first-time mum has gone on to create the UK's biggest online venue booking platform, with at least 250,000 listings across more than 20 cities worldwide. 

Where did the idea come from?  

Rebecca's idea first came to her while she was working for M&S. Part of her role was organising events, like fashion shows, and she found the process of finding spaces to rent was "incredibly difficult". 

"We always ended up in this super boring conference centre, which had no natural light, underground, very expensive, and I was like, it's ridiculous how hard it is to find and book a venue when there is so much amazing space in London," she said. 

"I just identified quite a lot of opportunities there." 

At the time, the world was seeing a rise in online companies delivering a similar service but for different sectors. 

Rebecca noted Booking.com for hotels, Open Table for restaurants and Skyscanner for flights as just some examples. 

"Nothing really existed in that same space for event spaces and venues," she added.

A chance encounter with someone who knows someone   else

Initially, she ran the company with a co-founder, who ended up leaving the business in 2019, and as a pair they started building and designing their site. 

Once they had an idea, Rebecca reached out to an old boss and asked if she could run it past him for some feedback. 

He ended up putting a panel of people involved in asset management and the finance industry together for Rebecca to pitch to. 

"We had the worst pitch that you've eve seen, sort of scrambled together on a piece of paper," she recalled. 

"It turned out that someone in the room knew the person who had founded Skyscanner and he was like, 'Oh, let me introduce you to him.' We ended up getting some learnings from him and the idea sort of evolved over time." 

Fundraising and a lucky LinkedIn message

After that it was work during the day, work in the evenings and work at the weekend to get VenueScanner off the ground. 

"We very much bootstrapped it right at the beginning just using our savings," Rebecca said. 

"I actually sold my car and did various other things, very basic, to just do pretty much everything ourselves." 

With some money behind her, she hired a designer and a developer based in Poland to build the platform before holding a friends and family investment round which raised around £150,000. 

More money was needed, and Rebecca said she was just "shooting off lots of cold emails" every day in the hope of attracting investors. 

"I sent a LinkedIn message to the founder of Booking.com thinking he would be amazing to talk to, and I ended up 48 hours later on a flight to Amsterdam to meet him," she said.

"It's something I often use now as a reference point because people in the early days are very nervous about disrupting people or reaching out to people, but actually almost all of our investors have come through me sending them 10 or 15 emails over a two year period and finally getting a conversation." 

To date, she has raised around £3.5m and has plans over the next few years to "properly globalise" the business. 

The challenges

Away from her struggles with burnout, Rebecca said there was "extra pressure" to achieve her goals because she was a woman. 

"I think there's always been an innate feeling of 'I need to go faster, I need to achieve things soon,'" she said. 

"Whether we like to talk about it or not, there is a biological clock if you want to have children and it's just not the same for women and men - it does take time to build a family. 

"I think there is an extra pressure, especially for young women who want to do that as well."

Gathering funding was also a challenge, despite her success, with Rebecca saying for every yes she received, there were "thousands" of noes. 

"That's the biggest learning curve that it takes time to develop. I don't think anyone goes through the process of founding and building a business without deep resilience building," she said. 

Rebecca's advice   

If you are just getting started, Rebecca said don't try to have the "perfect plan" in your mind before you dive in, just take the very first step and go from there. 

"Whatever plan or strategy you have will change the minute you will start learning from customers and the market," she said. 

"Taking that first step is really the hardest thing. Make it as easy and small as possible so that you can take it.  Once you've taken that, everything will come." 

Getting a mentor, and socialising with people already doing what you want to do, can also be "transformational", she said. 

"It's a great place to start... try not to wait until you've made it to be part of those [groups], just go to meet people and learn." 

Practically, she advised trying to generate revenue before you head for investment - which is something she didn't do herself. 

"One of the things we did was default to investment first and actually we probably could have started making money much earlier," she said 

If raising funds is what you are trying to do, Rebecca said LinkedIn was a "great resource" and was filled with investors. 

"Literally just direct message and connect with as many people as you can and just ask, 'Oh I'm thinking of starting a business and would love your advice or would you be interested in investing?'" she added. 

"Think of your dream investor and just message them and see what happens." 

We've known for some time that Aldi is the cheapest supermarket - with the German giant dominating price survey after price survey. 

But those surveys rarely take loyalty schemes into account.

So does having Clubcard or a Nectar card discounts help bring Tesco and Sainsbury's in line with the likes of Aldi and Lidl? 

The below bar chart, made using data compiled by consumer magazine Which?, shows how an average shop of 65 items compared over the course of last month... 

Aldi was the cheapest overall - costing £118.41 on average, beating rival discounter Lidl by £2.90.

At Tesco (with a Clubcard), you would get that shopping list cheaper (£130.90) than if you shopped at Asda (£131.42).

Shopping with a Sainsbury's Nectar card was slightly more expensive (£132.90) than Asda.

Waitrose was the priciest supermarket in June, averaging £151.01 - a whopping £32.60 (28%) more than Aldi for the same items.

While Which? found that having loyalty cards would save you 2.5% at Tesco and 3.4% at Sainsbury's for those 65 items, Aldi still wins out overall.

Basically, car finance allows customers to purchase cars over a longer period of time, if they don't have the cash to buy outright in one lump sum. 

It's by far the most popular way to buy cars, with 93% of new cars paid for via monthly instalments.

There are several options open to you to finance used or new cars, with the main differences centring on how much you pay, for how long, and when (if at all) you own the car itself. 

Let's take you through the four most common ways to finance a car... 

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) 

A Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) allows you to pay low monthly payments to effectively hire a car for a fixed term (typically 24-36 months) - at the end of which you're offered the chance to make a "balloon" payment to purchase it outright. 

Often you'll need a deposit (somewhere around 10%), but that, alongside a mileage limit, can be negotiated between yourself and the dealer. 

The amount you'll borrow is determined by the finance company's prediction of how much the value of the car will drop over the term of the deal minus the deposit and with added interest. 

It's a good option if you're not able to pay a large lump sum in cash to buy a car in one go, but you will be paying interest on your monthly payments. 

The "balloon" payment is typically half the value of the car at the start of the agreement, although this varies. 

If you don't make the balloon payment, you'll return the car to the dealer, paying for any damage beyond reasonable wear and tear and for any miles over the mileage agreement. 

You'll need certain information, documents and proof of ID for your PCP application to be assessed.

A good credit history is preferred, but not essential. 

Personal Contract Hire (PCH) 

The Personal Contract Hire (PCH) is remarkably similar to the PCP, but there's no option to own the car outright at any stage.

If you go for the PCH option, you're effectively renting a car over an extended period of time. 

Instead of a deposit, you'll pay an "initial rental fee", before paying monthly instalments with interest. 

At the end of the term, you simply return the vehicle, paying for any damage or over-mileage as with the PCP deal. 

There are a couple of problems with the PCH - namely that, as you don't have the option to own the car at any stage, you aren't covered by consumer law. 

That can make contract agreements quite inflexible.

You may also find the monthly payments for the same car with a PCP agreement may be cheaper - so it's worth comparing quotes. 

But it's ideal if you want to drive a new car every few years, with relatively low monthly payments and no worries about the vehicle's resale value.

Once again, a good credit history is preferred, but not essential. 

Hire Purchase (HP) 

A Hire Purchase (or HP) is much more like your traditional loan - a deposit followed by monthly instalments.

Once you've finished making the payments, you'll own the car.

This one's even suitable for those with a bad credit score, as you can secure the car itself against the loan. 

It goes without saying that if you don't think you'll be able to make repayments, you absolutely should not be taking out any kind of loan. 

You'll be paying interest on your loan and a down payment of around 10% of the car's value is standard, although there is a bit of room for negotiation. 

PCP agreements typically have a fixed APR of between 5% and 10%, while HP agreements typically have higher rates – usually between 10% and 15%.

If you're unsure what APR is, one of our previous Basically... features covers it here...

0% Finance 

This option does what it says on the tin - it lets you buy a car with monthly instalments without any interest added on top.

Ideal for anyone who's happy to pay higher monthly rates over shorter periods, but crucially only wanting to pay the value of the car and not a penny more. 

For this, you'll need an excellent credit score.  

To make things slightly more complicated, you can also have a PCP or PCH with  0% finance applied - meaning you'd pay no interest on those monthly repayments. 

Car subscriptions and personal loans

You can, of course, take out a personal loan to own the car outright from the get go, but that comes with its own set of risks - including potentially seeing the vehicle's value depreciating heavily by the time you've fully paid off the loan.

There's also the relatively new "car subscription" model offering a new car for monthly payments without a fixed-term lease agreement. 

This means you'll be able to access the latest cars, but it can also work out to be very expensive compared with other options.

Read other entries in our Basically series...

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Biden meets with Democratic governors as White House works to shore up support

By Nancy Cordes , Ed O'Keefe

Updated on: July 4, 2024 / 4:57 PM EDT / CBS News

Washington —  President Biden met with 20 Democratic governors Wednesday night as the White House and his reelection campaign work to shore up support for him after last week's shaky debate performance . 

The governors at the meeting included Tim Walz of Minnesota, the chair of the Democratic Governors Association; Gavin Newsom of California; J.B. Pritzker of Illinois; Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan; Kathy Hochul of New York; Wes Moore of Maryland; John Carney of Delaware; Maura Healey of Massachusetts; Dan McKee of Rhode Island; and Andy Beshear of Kentucky. Others attended virtually.

"Yes, he's fit for office," Walz told reporters outside the White House following the meeting. "None of us are denying Thursday night was a bad performance. It was a bad hit, if you will, on that, but it doesn't impact what I believe, that he's delivering." 

Moore was more tempered with his remarks, saying that the governors "were honest" with Mr. Biden "about the feedback" they are receiving regarding the debate.

"We were honest about the concerns that we were hearing from people," Moore said. "And we were also honest about the fact that, as the president continued to tell us and show us that he was all in, that we said we would stand with him."

Hochul said that Mr. Biden is "in it to win it," adding that "all of us" in the meeting "pledged our support to him, because the stakes could not be higher." 

"I feel very confident in his abilities, we talked about the plan, and how he's going to be very focused on issues that matter to Americans. And I felt very confident coming out of this meeting as well," Hochul said.  

In a separate statement released through his office, Newsom said that he "heard three words from the President — he's all in. And so am I. Joe Biden's had our back. Now it's time to have his."

In the meeting, three governors expressed "pointed," but "not harsh" criticism of Mr. Biden's electoral chances in the wake of his debate last Thursday and openly questioned his ability to win their states.

Two people familiar with the sit-down told CBS News that Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, Maine Gov. Janet Mills and New Mexico Gov. Michelle Luján Grisham expressed concerns with the president's performance and fretted openly it could spoil his chances of winning their states.

Spokespeople for all three governors didn't reply to requests for comment late Wednesday and early Thursday.

"The basic gist was, 'You're too old and it won't fly in our states,'" one of the people familiar with the meeting said.

The president had no notable response to the criticism, the people said, as he reiterated his plans to keep running despite a tough debate performance affected by what he described as a need for more sleep and a cold.

Mr. Biden told governors he needs to get more sleep and curtail public events and meetings that begin after 8 p.m., according to meeting participants.

It's a stark admission for a commander in chief who is regularly kept out past that hour for state dinners and other appearances and is known to take some work home with him to continue working late into the night. The admission could also draw campaign attacks from Republicans who might question whether the 81-year old would be able to carry out presidential duties late at night or during overnight hours if the need arises.

Biden under pressure

The meeting came as the White House and Biden campaign work to keep Democratic governors and other elected Democrats in the fold after his rocky debate . Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first Democratic lawmaker to call on Mr. Biden to drop out of the presidential race on Tuesday, a suggestion the campaign quickly dismissed.

In an all-staff campaign call earlier Wednesday, Mr. Biden said he will remain in the race , sources familiar with the call told CBS News. 

"Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can and as simply and straightforward as I can: I am running. I'm the nominee of the Democratic Party. No one's pushing me out. I'm not leaving," the president said, according to one source.  

The meeting with governors is notable because up until this point, it's mostly been Mr. Biden's top aides and advisers who have been reaching out to elected Democrats to reassure them after his debate performance. Members of the Democratic Governors' Association held a call Monday to discuss the ongoing response to last week's debate and a widespread concern among the state chief executives that Mr. Biden has done little outreach to governors, specifically over the course of the campaign year, according to two people familiar with arrangements for the call.

The Biden campaign had been trying to arrange time for Vice President Harris to speak with governors, but the governors decided Monday they wanted to hear directly from the president.

"They'd like to hear from him directly before going and sticking out their necks for him again," said one of the people familiar with the plan, granted anonymity to speak frankly about them.

Prior to the meeting, Hochul and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy — who hosted one of the fundraisers the president and first lady attended over the weekend in the New York area — were the only two governors known to have spoken directly to Mr. Biden since the debate.

Beshear told reporters Monday that "the debate performance was rough," but that he will continue to support Mr. Biden "so long as he continues to be in the race." Beshear added that Mr. Biden is the candidate, and "only he can make decisions about his candidacy." 

Beshear, Pritzker and Whitmer — all governors who have been floated to replace the president if he were to step down as the presumptive Democratic nominee — co-headlined a fundraiser in Los Angeles for Mr. Biden last Thursday evening. The event was a multi-million dollar affair that put potential future presidential aspirants in a room full of donors who could bankroll their future campaigns.

On " Face the Nation " Sunday, Moore was emphatic about his continued support for the president, insisting that "Joe Biden is our nominee. Joe Biden is our leader."

Hunter Woodall contributed to this report.

Nancy Cordes is CBS News' chief White House correspondent based in Washington, D.C. Cordes has won numerous awards for her reporting, including multiple Emmys, Edward R. Murrow awards, and an Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award.

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What is Project 2025? The Presidential Transition Project explained.

The detailed plan to dismantle and reconstruct the government laid out by  conservative groups  known as the 2025 Presidential Transition Project has critics up in arms over its " apocalyptic " and " authoritarian " nature.

The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank in Washington, D.C., led an effort to create the more than 900-page  "Mandate for Leadership,"  published in April 2023, reimagining the executive branch and presented a plan to overhaul several federal government agencies, including the FBI, for the country's next conservative president to follow.

More: Project 2025 head says 'second American Revolution' will be 'bloodless if the left allows'

According to the Project's website, the playbook provides a governing agenda and a lineup of people ready to implement it to "rescue the country from the grip of the radical Left." It includes a domestic and  foreign policy  agenda, a list of personnel, training, and a 180-day playbook.

"It is not enough for conservatives to win elections," Project 2025  said on its website . "With the right conservative policy recommendations and properly vetted and trained personnel to implement them, we will take back our government."

Project 2025's Director is  Paul Dans , who served as the U.S. Office of Personnel Management chief of staff in former President Donald Trump's administration. Although it mentions Trump by name, the handbook does not directly assume the Republican party's presumptive nominee will be the one to carry out its agenda.

What is in Project 2025?

The mandate attacks several policies that former President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden instituted, including  student loan forgiveness  and  Obamacare . It simultaneously calls for expanded executive power for the commander-in-chief while criticizing what Project 2025 members perceive as overreaches by the Biden administration.

"Presidents should not issue mask or vaccine mandates, arbitrarily transfer student loan debt, or issue monarchical mandates of any sort," the plan reads. "Legislatures make the laws in a republic, not executives."

The playbook calls for the reinstatement of a  Trump executive order  augmenting a president's power to hire and fire federal officials by replacing civil servants with political appointees throughout government.

It also seeks to repeal aspects of the  Affordable Care Act , urge the Food and Drug Administration to reverse the  approval of abortion pills , and further empower Immigration and Customs Enforcement to  deport undocumented immigrants .

The plan also specifically addresses LGBTQ+ issues and attacks "radical gender ideology." In addition to calling for an end to the Department of Education, it suggests legislation that would forbid educators from using transgender students' names or pronouns without written permission from their guardians. It also appears to oppose same-sex marriage and gay couples adopting children by seeking to "maintain a biblically based, social science-reinforced definition of marriage and family."

Project 2025 generates concern

Project 2025 has received substantial criticism from Democrats, including  Representative Jasmine Crockett , D-Texas, who called out the controversial plan during a congressional hearing last month.

"I don't know why or how anybody can support Project 2025," Crockett said. "In the United States of America, dictatorships are never funny, and Project 2025 is giving the playbook for authoritarianism as well as the next dictator to come in."

Progressive Democrat U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts called it a "far-right manifesto" in a  post on TikTok . The Biden campaign captioned a video detailing Project 2025, stating it "needs more attention."

Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, as @rachelbarber_

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Most Men Will Experience Erectile Dysfunction. Here’s What to Do About It.

Today, there are more treatments than ever.

By David Dodge

Erectile dysfunction is more common than one might think. More than half of men over 40 will experience some kind of erectile problem, and the prevalence increases with age (though men in their 20s and 30s can be affected, too).

The experience can have a devastating effect on a man’s well-being. Yet a shocking number of men don’t seek help. One industry survey suggests that just 51 percent of men with erectile dysfunction had discussed the issue with their doctor, and even fewer had spoken to their own partners about it.

There is “not a medical condition that I’m aware of that affects more men’s lives,” said Dr. Mohit Khera, a urologist and the president of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America.

But there are effective treatments, he added, beyond well-known medications like Viagra. These can include vacuum pumps, injections, implants, lifestyle modifications, testosterone-replacement therapy and sex therapy. Some combination of these options, experts said, almost always improve erections, even in the most severe cases.

However, before men go anywhere near a pill or pump (or the “natural” male supplements commonly sold at gas stations), they should get a health exam to understand the causes of the dysfunction, which might point to a more serious health issue.

“The penis can be seen as a barometer for the whole health of the person,” said Dr. Rachel Rubin, a urologist and sex medicine specialist in Maryland.

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How to Make a “Good” Presentation “Great”

• Guy Kawasaki

Remember: Less is more.

A strong presentation is so much more than information pasted onto a series of slides with fancy backgrounds. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others. Here are some unique elements that make a presentation stand out.

• Fonts: Sans Serif fonts such as Helvetica or Arial are preferred for their clean lines, which make them easy to digest at various sizes and distances. Limit the number of font styles to two: one for headings and another for body text, to avoid visual confusion or distractions.
• Colors: Colors can evoke emotions and highlight critical points, but their overuse can lead to a cluttered and confusing presentation. A limited palette of two to three main colors, complemented by a simple background, can help you draw attention to key elements without overwhelming the audience.
• Pictures: Pictures can communicate complex ideas quickly and memorably but choosing the right images is key. Images or pictures should be big (perhaps 20-25% of the page), bold, and have a clear purpose that complements the slide’s text.
• Layout: Don’t overcrowd your slides with too much information. When in doubt, adhere to the principle of simplicity, and aim for a clean and uncluttered layout with plenty of white space around text and images. Think phrases and bullets, not sentences.

As an intern or early career professional, chances are that you’ll be tasked with making or giving a presentation in the near future. Whether you’re pitching an idea, reporting market research, or sharing something else, a great presentation can give you a competitive advantage, and be a powerful tool when aiming to persuade, educate, or inspire others.

• Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist at Canva and was the former chief evangelist at Apple. Guy is the author of 16 books including Think Remarkable : 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference.

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