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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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Book Jacket Poster Templates

Customize book jacket poster templates.

If you're assigning this to your students, copy the poster to your account and save. When creating an assignment, just select it as a template!

What is a Book Jacket?

It is a creative and captivating way to introduce a novel to readers. It's the eye-catching book jacket project template design that wraps around the book, providing a glimpse into its contents and enticing readers to explore further. A book jacket cover showcases essential elements of the story, such as title, author, and often include artwork that reflects the theme or mood of the story. These designs are a window into the world within the pages, inviting readers to embark on a literary journey.

How to Use Book Jacket Templates

A template is your blank canvas to sparking creativity and engagement in the classroom. These captivating cover designs are more than just art and aesthetics; they're tools that bring literature to life. Here's how to harness the power of custom book cover templates for your classroom projects:

• Elevate Visual Appeal: A well-designed cover can instantly grab attention. Whether it's for a class novel or a student's own story, using a cover template adds an eye-catching element that draws a reader in.
• Enrich Book Reports: Take reports to the next level by incorporating aesthetic covers. Students can creatively summarize the story's essence on the cover, giving a preview of what awaits inside.
• Ignite Imagination: For creative writing projects, have students create their own jackets design for their own stories. This exercise encourages them to visually represent their narrative, adding a layer of excitement to their writing process.
• Promote Visual Literacy: Analyzing the components of book covers helps students develop visual literacy skills. They learn to decipher symbols, colors, and typography choices, understanding how these elements contribute to the overall message.
• Showcase Book Jackets: Organize a book jacket gallery where students complete all or part of a jacket and present their designs to their peers. This collaborative activity fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment while celebrating each student's creativity.
• Tailor to Any Subject: Book jackets aren't limited to literature classes. Extend book jacket for school project across subjects. Whether depicting historical figures' "biographies," scientific concepts, or math principles, templates serve as versatile tools for creative expression.
• Reflect on Themes: Have students create jackets that symbolize the themes of the novel. This activity encourages thoughtful consideration of the story's deeper messages.

With a wide array of book jacket templates available, Storyboard That offers a versatile resource for educators; you are bound to find the perfect book jacket template free that suits everyone's needs. These templates are the canvas upon which your students' creativity and understanding of literature can flourish. Elevate your classroom projects with captivating pictures and art designs that ignite imaginations and enrich learning experiences.

Designing Engaging Book Covers with Our Book Jacket Maker

Crafting a compelling cover design becomes effortless and enjoyable with our book jacket maker. Whether you're a teacher on the lookout for captivating classroom materials or an aspiring author with a new novel, our tool empowers you to create custom covers that resonate. Here's how to harness its potential:

• Personalize Your Vision: Start by selecting a template that resonates with your vision. Whether it's for a class project or a personal endeavor, you can tailor the design to match your style. Draw inspiration from our curated collection of book jacket examples to help you start.
• Explore Diverse Styles: Explore an array of styles and themes within the book jacket maker. From whimsical to formal, you'll find the perfect match that encapsulates the essence of your book.
• Save Time and Effort: Our book jacket maker streamlines the design experience. You don't need to have design experience; simply add your details, customize size, add illustrations, and watch your cover come to life.
• Share Your Creations: Once your template design is ready, easily download it in high resolution. This allows for seamless printing, whether you're using it for a project poster or as a real cover.

With our book jacket maker and jacket ideas, you're equipped with a versatile tool to design appealing and engaging covers. Whether it's for a project, a class assignment, or a personal endeavor, let your creativity flourish as you design covers that capture the essence of your work. Explore our library of printable templates and bring your literary visions to life!

In addition to our posters, you can also explore other exciting resources that Storyboard That offers. Whether you're diving into recommendations with our book recommendation template , creating immersive narratives with our graphic novel template , documenting memories with our scrapbook templates , or giving your journals a unique touch with our journal cover template , our platform provides a range of tools to enhance your creative and educational projects. Let your imagination roam free as you discover the endless possibilities waiting for you!

How to Make a Book Jacket Poster

Choose one of the premade templates.

We have lots of amazing templates to choose from. Take a look at our colorful example for inspiration!

Click on "Copy Template"

Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.

Give Your Poster a Name!

Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.

Edit Your Poster

This is where you will include details, text, images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!

Click "Save and Exit"

When you are finished with your poster, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.

From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!

Happy Creating!

Frequently Asked Questions About Book Jacket Posters

How can i use book jacket for school project.

A book jacket, also known as a dust jacket, is a cover design that wraps around a book, introducing its contents and engaging readers. A book jacket template is an excellent tool to access for school projects where you can visually represent the essence of a story, summarize its key elements, and entice your audience to explore further.

How can I find the right book cover temp

Storyboard That offers a diverse collection of templates, and you are bound to find a book jacket template that suits various themes and styles. We offer a variety of fonts, images, backgrounds, and characters and are suitable for any device. Not to worry, our book cover templates are easy to edit and make a custom size, and will make any student feel like a proud publisher! Browse through the options to find the template that aligns with your project's vision and captures the mood of your story.

Is there a book jacket creator tool to customize designs?

Yes, Storyboard That's book jacket maker allows you to customize posters with ease. You can personalize text, choose illustrations, and experiment with different styles to create a unique book cover that suits your project's requirements. You can even add your own image or photo to your book cover templates!

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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 .

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Instructions for a Book Jacket Book Report

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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.

How to Design a Book Cover

Making Book Jackets for School Projects

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A common assignment given to middle and elementary school students is to design a summarizing book cover. Why? Many teachers are partial to this literature assignment because it contains elements of crafting, allowing more room for creativity, and provides students with a new way to summarize the plot and theme of a book.

Elements of this type of book jacket usually include:

• an image that hints at a book’s contents
• a summary of the story
• a review of the book
• a biography of the author
• publication information

When designing a thoughtful book cover for a novel, you must know a lot about its author and story. This is because creating a book cover is a lot like creating an advanced  book report without giving away too much of the story. You cannot be successful in designing an appropriate cover for a book with which you are unfamiliar.

Designing the Whole Jacket

ThoughtCo / Grace Fleming

To ensure that your cover or jacket will have room for each element you wish to include, you'll first want to plan a basic layout. This should show where each piece of your project will go and how much space you can devote to them. For example, you might want to put the author’s biography on the back cover or the back flap and you know you will need at least half a page for it, wherever it goes.

Play around with a few different formats until you settle on one you like and use a rubric to make sure you don't leave anything out. Start with the arrangement in the image above if you don't know where to begin.

Preparing an Image

Fabio Principe / EyeEm / Getty Images

Your book jacket should contain an image that intrigues potential readers by giving them a taste of what's to come without spoiling the whole plot. Just as publishers do when designing real book covers, you should devote a good deal of time and energy to creating the perfect visual representation.

One of the first considerations for your image should be the  genre  and theme of your book. Your cover should reflect this genre and symbolize this theme. For example, if your book is a scary mystery that takes place in a haunted house, you could sketch an image of a spider in the corner of a dusty doorway. If your book is a funny tale about a clumsy girl, you could sketch an image of shoes with the shoestrings tied together.

If you are not comfortable sketching your own image, you can use text (be creative and colorful!) and/or public domain images. Ask your teacher for advice if you intend to use an image created by someone else to avoid copyright infringement.

Writing Your Book Summary

Maskot / Getty Images 

The next piece to start working on is the book summary, which is usually found on the inside flap of book jackets. Because the intention is still to capture your readers' attention, this summary should sound a little different from a book report summary and give less of the plot away. You need to “tease” the reader with hints and examples, never telling them the climax. Instead, make them wonder what will happen.

In the haunted house mystery example, you could suggest that the house seems to have a life of its own. You could go on to explain that the house's inhabitants are having strange experiences within the house and end on the open-ended question or cliffhanger: “What is behind the odd noises Betty hears when she wakes each night at 2:00 a.m.?” The goal should be for readers to want to read to find out.

Writing the Author’s Biography

alvarez / Getty Images

The average author's bio is fairly short, so yours should be too. Limit the biography to only the most relevant information. When researching, ask yourself: What events in the author's life are connected to the topic of this book? What makes this author particularly qualified to write a book like this.

Optional pieces of information include the author’s place of birth, number of siblings, level of education, writing awards, and previous publications. Use these only as needed. Unless otherwise instructed, keep your biography to two or three paragraphs long. These are usually found on the back cover.

Putting It All Together

chudakov2 / Getty Images

You're finally ready to put it all together. To make sure that the dimensions of your jacket are perfect, you'll need to first measure the size of your book’s face from bottom to top to find its length then spine to edge to find its width. Cut a strip of paper six inches longer than the height and fold it over each side, trimming until you are happy with the size. Measure this new length. Repeat for the width.

Now, multiply your book's updated dimensions by two (you may need to multiply its width by more than this depending on the thickness of your book). You can start cutting and pasting elements onto the cover once the jacket is fitted and secured. Use the template you made earlier to organize these pieces and remember not to glue anything down until the placement is just right.

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

6. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. This teacher blogger describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

7. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

8. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. See the sandwich and pizza options above and check out this blog for more delicious ideas.

9. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

10. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc. A fun adaptation of this project is the book report cheeseburger.

11. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

12. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over the report.

13. T-Shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint. Get step-by-step directions .

14. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

15. Watercolor Rainbow Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

16. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

17. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

18. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

19. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

20. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

21. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

22. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

23. Book Report Triorama

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but Elisha Ann provides a lesson to show students how to glue four triangles together to make a 4D model.

24. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8 x 11 sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

25. Clothes Hanger Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

26. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then give them a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

27. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels , and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

28. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

29. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

30. Letter to the Author

Write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

31. Book Report Charm Bracelet

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

33. Cereal Box TV Book Report

This book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut-out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

34. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

35. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

36. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach , this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

37. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment. For more, here are step-by-step directions .

38. Comic strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strips. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

39. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

40. Cereal Box

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report Wheaties-style. Decorate all sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a “wanted” poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

What creative book report ideas did we miss? Come share in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most popular kids’ books in every grade..

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Book Jacket Book Report

For this book report, you will create a book jacket that tells about the book you have just read. Follow the directions below to complete the jacket and present it to the class by the first day of school: Monday, August 16th. Take pride in your work. Use your best penmanship, add color and pictures, edit for spelling and grammar errors, and pay particular attention to your word choice. Neatness counts!

CONSTRUCTING THE BOOK JACKET:

You will need a two foot long piece of poster paper which you can get inexpensively at any craft store or teacher supply store.

1. From the left side, measure in 4 inches, then 11 inches, then 13 inches, and then 20 inches. 2. Lightly draw vertical lines at each spot you measured. Then the paper can be folded inward along the lines. Check with the diagram below.

#1 #2 #3 #4 #5

7 2 77” 4”4 11” 4”4 7” 2

24” 3. On the front, number each panel, beginning at the left with one and proceed across to five. See the diagram above. 4. Turn the paper over and continue numbering from the left with six and end with 10. See the diagram below.

#6 #7 #8 #9 #10

4” 7” 2 7” 4” 11”

24” 5. Follow the directions on the back of this page for the information to put on each panel. What Goes Where? Putting It All Together!

Front Cover/Panel 4: This is the front cover. In this section you need the title, author’s name, your name, the date and an interesting picture that you think “fits” the story of the book.

Summary/Panels 5 & 6: This is the front flap. Write a two or three paragraph summary of the book that highlights the beginning, middle, and end of the book. Remember, the summary states the facts, not what you thought about the book.

Main Ideas/Panel 7: This is the inside front. Write a short, complete sentence describing the main idea for each chapter of the book. There are a lot of chapters, but I know you can do it!

Main Character/Panel 8: This is the inside spine. Use creative lettering to write the name of the main character, Salamanca Tree Hiddle. Use a thesaurus to find five adjectives that describe her. These adjectives should be words that you do not use in your everyday vocabulary. For example, don’t use words like nice, happy, or pretty to describe the character.

Problems and Solutions/Panel 9: This is the inside back. Use this panel to illustrate, comic book style, three problems the characters faced in the story. Give each picture a one-sentence caption.

Vocabulary/Panel 10: This is the inside back flap. As you read your book, look up words you don’t know. List ten new words alphabetically and their definitions. Make sure you use a definition that makes sense to you.

Author’s Notes/Panel 1: This is the back flap. On this flap, write a short biography about yourself. Yes, about you! Include a self-portrait or a snapshot of you.

Back Cover/Panel 2: This is the back cover. You should write a response to the book here. It will be your review of the book. It should include your rating of the book and why. Use a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the highest score.

Spine/Panel 3: This is the outer spine of the book cover . Use creative lettering for the title with publisher’s name at the bottom. Egads! How Will Ms. Sutton Grade My Project? I’m Glad You Asked! Book Jacket Report Rubric: 100 Points

English 6 Your Name: 10 8 6 4 2 The cover of your book jacket includes your name, the author’s name, and the book’s title. The illustration is creatively designed and relates to the book’s theme. The spine of your book jacket includes the title of the novel and the publisher. The title is written in creative lettering. Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are correct. The name of the main character is written in nice lettering and five vivid words describe the main character. Five new words are listed alphabetically and defined. You have included a complete sentence for each chapter, describing the main idea of that chapter in a well-written summary sentence. The summary includes two or three complete paragraphs that highlight the beginning, middle, and end of the story. You include only the facts from the story. You do not include your personal opinion. Your personal response to the story is written in a well-developed paragraph. You tell why you liked or disliked the book, and you support your response with examples from the book. Your response focuses on the main character, or the setting, or the plot. The author’s notes include either a photo of yourself or a self-portrait. Your biography is written in a complete, well-developed paragraph. The overall presentation is creative and well organized. You have written neatly in cursive, using your best handwriting.

Book Report Alternative: Creating a New Book Cover

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

The proverb says, “You can't judge a book by its cover.” In this lesson plan, students are not judging what is inside the book, but what is on the cover itself. What does it include? Why? What is left off? Why do you think that is? After examining many book covers and dust jackets, students recreate a cover or dust jacket for a selected book; then, they share their creations with their classmates and explain the changes they made or what they chose to keep. Students use a checklist to make sure they have all of the needed components, and the teacher can use the checklist as an assessment piece.

Featured Resources

Book Cover Guide : This online guide provides information about the components of a book cover. Book Cover Creator : This online tool allows students to design and prints covers for books.

From Theory to Practice

In her English Journal article "Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report," Diana Mitchell explains "Students tire of responding to novels in the same ways. They want new ways to think about a piece of literature and new ways to dig into it" (92). Mitchell's observation is supported by Jim Cope's survey of 272 high school seniors in five Georgia high schools. In the article reporting his findings, Cope states, "Book reports were listed as the third most negative school reading experience, and can be considered a subset of students' general disdain for assigned reading" (21). Like Mitchell, Cope suggests that teachers "move away from the traditional book report and consider more exciting activities" in order to raise students' interest and engagement in reading. The end result of book report alternatives, such as the one explored in this lesson plan, is that the activities "whet the interest of students in exploring new directions and in responding with greater depth to the books they read" (Mitchell 92). Further Reading

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, sentence structure, context, graphics).
• 4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.
• 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.
• 6. Students apply knowledge of language structure, language conventions (e.g., spelling and punctuation), media techniques, figurative language, and genre to create, critique, and discuss print and nonprint texts.
• 8. Students use a variety of technological and information resources (e.g., libraries, databases, computer networks, video) to gather and synthesize information and to create and communicate knowledge.
• 11. Students participate as knowledgeable, reflective, creative, and critical members of a variety of literacy communities.
• 12. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Materials and Technology

Selected texts for students to examine

• Examining Book Covers and Dust Jackets
• Book Cover Components checklist
• Dust Jacket Components checklist
• Book Cover Rubric

Preparation

• Gather books for the students to examine that have different and interesting book covers or dust jackets. You can also choose images of book covers online at Amazon.com , Barnes and Noble , or another online book seller.
• Make appropriate copies of the Examining Book Covers and Dust Jackets , Book Cover Components , and Dust Jacket Components .
• Make copies of the rubric so each student has a copy.
• Test the Book Cover Guide and Book Cover Creator on your computers to familiarize yourself with the tools and ensure that you have the Flash plug-in installed. You can download the plug-in from the technical support page.

Student Objectives

Students will

• examine the components of a book cover or dust jacket.
• design a new cover for a book or a dust jacket based on their comprehension of the story.
• share and explain their new book covers or dust jackets.

Session One

• Explain that the class will be looking at numerous book covers and dust jackets so they can see what information is found there.
• Discuss the difference between a book cover (the front of a book) and a dust jacket (paper covering found on a hardback book that is usually illustrated and includes front and back flaps, that protects the binding of the book from scratches).
• Show students the books that you have gathered for this activity. Hold them up, and let the students see the book covers and dust jackets.
• Have students share their initial reactions to the different book covers and dust jackets. You may also want to show the students examples of older book covers online: Publishers' Bindings Online: 1815–1930 and Dust Jackets from American and European Books, 1926–1947 from the New York Public Library Digital Gallery .
• Provide time for students (individually, in pairs, or groups) to examine the book covers and dust jackets.
• While they are examining the book cover and dust jackets, ask students to identify the information contained on most book covers. Depending on the level of the students, you may want to provide them with a handout that provides prompts as they look at the books.
• As students explore and examine the different book covers and dust jackets, observe their book-handling skills and the comments they are making about what they see.
• At the end of the session, allow time for the students to share some of what they observed.

Session Two

• Begin this session by asking students to share the attributes of book covers and dust jackets. Record this information on the board or on chart paper.
• To make sure that students see all of the different components, share the Book Cover Guide .
• Invite the students to share the book cover or dust jacket that was their favorite. Students should state reasons why that cover or jacket was their favorite. Record this information as well.
• Using the known attributes of book covers and dust jackets, and what makes the covers or dust jackets attractive or pleasing, invite students to recreate a book cover or dust jacket for a book that they have already read or listened to as a read aloud.
• Pass out and review the Book Cover Components checklist or the Dust Jacket Components checklist so that students know the information required on their book covers or dust jackets. Also pass out or display the rubric so they know how their project will be assessed.
• Demonstrate the Book Cover Creator to students in the computer lab or using an LCD projector. Show the students how the tool works and create an example using a text that all students have read or are familiar with.
• Answer any questions the students may have.

Session Three

• Allow this entire session for students to recreate the cover or dust jacket of a book that they have read or listened to as part of a read aloud using the Book Cover Creator .
• Monitor students as they work, and provide feedback and support as needed. This is also a good time to take anecdotal notes and/or interview the students about their knowledge of the books and the components of a book cover or dust jacket.
• Remind them to revisit the Book Cover Components checklist or Dust Jacket Components checklist so they include all of the required parts.
• Continue working until all students have completed their projects and have printed them out.

Session Four

• When all of the students have completed their projects, allow time for the students to share their new book covers or dust jackets. Prompt students to explain what they changed from the original cover and why.
• If possible, have the students share the original book cover or dust jacket when they share their recreations.
• As students are sharing, assess their work using the rubric .
• Ask students to consider how the potential readers of a book might influence the choices for the book cover. A book from the Harry Potter series can provide a useful example. Have students discuss how the cover might be designed differently based on whether the readers are their own age, teenagers, or adults.
• Share books that have more than one cover. Books that have been dramatized as movies often have a second version of the book cover that features a character or scene from the movie. Books such as The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , and Because of Winn-Dixie would work for this discussion. Ask the class to discuss the differences between the two versions. If desired, use the Venn Diagram to organize the information on the two covers. Ask students to review the differences and discuss the reasons that the new version was created—who will the new version appeal to? why was a new version necessary? if you had your choice, which version do you prefer?

Student Assessment / Reflections

• Focus on observation and anecdotal note taking as students work on their projects to provide ongoing assessment of their progress.
• Use the rubric to assess students’ book covers or dust jackets.
• Compare the students’ checklists to their final projects to make sure that all of the needed components are present.
• Lesson Plans
• Professional Library
• Student Interactives

In this article, Versaci details the many merits of using comics and graphic novels in the classroom, suggests how they can be integrated into historical and social issues units, and recommends several titles.

The Book Cover Creator is designed to allow users to type and illustrate front book covers, front and back covers, and full dust jackets. Students can use the tool to create new covers for books that they read as well as to create covers for books they write individually or as a class.

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• Kindergarten K

Book Jacket Book Report

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Grade 5, 6, 7, 8

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About This Product

This is an engaging Book Jacket Book Report for your middle school students!

This book report can be genre-specific or it can be assigned to any book your students might choose to read.  (For example, if you assign a genre-specific book, such as mystery or fantasy, this book report lends itself. But if you allow kids to choose any genre they are interested in, this book report works for that as well.)

You can use the Book Jacket Book Report as a summative assessment after you’ve taught students about character, the elements of fiction, and how to write a summary and a short book review.

I give my students 4-5 weeks to complete the project. 

Included in this packet are the following:

--objectives and learning targets that are aligned with the Common Core Standards

--detailed lesson plans

--clear student-friendly directions

--templates

--an opportunity for students to reflect on their project and what they have learned about themselves as readers and as creators of the project

--a grading sheet for teachers.

Although you could easily modify this project digitally, students enjoy reading each other's book jackets (which is part of the lesson plan), and they make a great bulletin board.

I have produced a number of book reports that you might be interested in.

Check out my store A Great Good Place for Teachers

Character Analysis Essay, Gift for a Character Book Report, and Oral Presentation

Book into Movie Project: Comparing and Contrasting

Poetry Book Report

Mini-Reviews Book Report

Mystery, Thriller, Horror, and Suspense Book Report

Historical Fiction Book Report

Historical Fiction Literature Circle Project

You can email me at [email protected] if you have any questions.

What's Included

15-page editable Word doc includes:

Lesson Plans

Book Browse

Project Directions

Templates for the front, back and inside flaps of the book jacket

Self-Evaluation

Grading Sheet

Resource Tags

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Book Jacket Book Report

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The paper bag "jacket" for this book report came home in the Orange Homework Folder on Monday, Feb. 22, along with the directions. I showed the class some examples of previous year's jackets. Check the grading rubric before you turn it in to be sure you have included all the required items.

Some students were assigned the extra credit assignment to go along with the Book Jacket.

If you would like to complete the extra credit, but did not have it assigned, I encourage you to write a character study about the main character in your  book and turn it in.