How to Write a Critique of a Novel
When a book raises your spirit,
and inspires you
with noble and courageous feelings,
seek for no other rule
to judge the work by;
it is good, and made by a good workman.
- Bruyere
This is a multi-paragraph essay (minimum five (5) paragraphs).
Begin an introduction, then a new paragraph each time you change from one topic to another and last write the conclusion.
Introductory Statement
- Did you enjoy reading this novel?
- Briefly explain why reading this book was, or was not, a good experience for you.
Body of the Critique
Topics to consider in your critique . . .
(You should pick three of the following four questions and develop each of these selected topics into a paragraph with complete sentences.)
- Characters - Were they interesting and believable? Did you have a favorite? Why was this character special to you? Did the author do a good job of creating the characters in this novel?
- Was the author able to hold your interest throughout the entire novel? How did he or she manage to do this?
- Which were your favorite scenes in this novel? Explain why you enjoyed them.
- What changes, if any, would you have made in this novel?
Conclusion
In you concluding paragraph, discuss any of the following topics:
- What did you learn from reading this novel? Did you gain anything from the experience of reading this book?
- Is this a book you would recommend to your friends? Why or why not?
- Is this a novel I should continue to use with students in the future?
Be as careful of the books you read
as of the company you keep,
for your
habits and character will be as
much influenced by the former as the latter.
-Paxton Hood
Student
Critique of
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