• Give you a usable record of the many books you will find and be exposed to in the course
• Give you the skills to analyze a book in a clear and concise manner so that you can readily recall the essence of the book and use it in your classroom
• Give me a method to assess how well you are meeting the requirements of the weekly assignments, your selection and description of award-winning books and how well you understand literary elements

Summary:  Give a 3-4 complete sentence analysis of the plot, main characters, and main events, trying to describe what is unique about the book. Either type or computer generate your reviews. Describe the theme? The theme is not the same as the subject of the book (ex. The subject of the "Three Little Pigs" is house building/escaping from the big bad wolf. The theme of that story is resourcefulness and quick thinking in the face of danger.) Themes are the "moral" of the story and are stated in global statements like, "No matter what happens, family love can pull you through," or mood created, if applicable. In other words, what is the author's message? What is she/he trying to say?--required for novels, traditional tales and stories but not for non-fiction and biography.

Illustrations:  Describe the media used, mood created, and the ways the pictures enhanced or detracted from the story line.

Describe how you would use this book in the classroom, if you would, and why not if not. Would you use it as a thematic unit, a cross-curriculum lesson, a resource for the learning center, etc. Give your ideas.

Would you read this book to children? Would you recommend this book to children to read? If you would read this book to children, why? If not, why not?

Personal reaction-Rate the book from 1 to 10 and explain why-Be specific about what you thought about this book. Why you did or did not like it. This section should reflect your thoughts about the book. Personal opinions are neither right nor wrong but be professional in expressing your opinions.

To view an example of how you might arrange your review, click here.  

Thank you to Dr. Linda Marley and Dr. Holland for all their help.