book review application

• Member Login
• Library Patron Login

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR

FREE NEWSLETTERS

Search: Title Author Article Search String:

Becoming a Reviewer for BookBrowse

Reviewer application form.

Support BookBrowse

Join our inner reading circle, go ad-free and get way more!

Find out more

BookBrowse Book Club

Members Recommend

The House on Biscayne Bay by Chanel Cleeton

As death stalks a gothic mansion in Miami, the lives of two women intertwine as the past and present collide.

The Stone Home by Crystal Hana Kim

A moving family drama and coming-of-age story revealing a dark corner of South Korean history.

Win This Book

The Funeral Cryer by Wenyan Lu

Debut novelist Wenyan Lu brings us this witty yet profound story about one woman's midlife reawakening in contemporary rural China.

Solve this clue:

and be entered to win..

Your guide to exceptional           books

BookBrowse seeks out and recommends the best in contemporary fiction and nonfiction—books that not only engage and entertain but also deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Subscribe to receive some of our best reviews, "beyond the book" articles, book club info and giveaways by email.

About this app

Data safety.

Ratings and reviews

• Flag inappropriate

• Show review history

What's new

App support, similar apps.

Breaking up with Goodreads: The best book-logging apps for 2024

Fed up with the amazon-owned book app check out these alternatives..

When Karen Ben-Moshe, a 43-year-old public health program manager in San Francisco, learned that Amazon owns Goodreads — the app she used to log her reading habits — she started hunting for an alternative.

“I just don’t love the monopoly Amazon has on our lives and our spending,” Ben-Moshe said.

Goodreads, which was acquired by Amazon in 2013, is one of the most popular book review apps. (Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post.) But as the app faces criticism for its buggy, outdated tech and poor content moderation, other options are rising in the ranks.

Some don’t like that Amazon uses Goodreads data to inform its book-selling business, while authors allege the app doesn’t do enough to combat bad-faith “review-bombing” and author harassment. Goodreads vice president of marketing and editorial Suzanne Skyvara said the company has expanded its customer service team and added a feature that pauses review submissions during “unusual activity” such as review-bombing.

If you want a less contentious or more privacy-friendly home for your to-be-read list, here are our CliffsNotes on four of our favorite book-logging apps for Goodreads defectors. (Keep in mind that any time you search a linked database — such as Google, Apple Books or Amazon — inside one of these apps, that company will receive information about your query.)

Port over your Goodreads lists

Ben-Moshe ended up switching to StoryGraph, a Goodreads-like app that doesn’t share data with Amazon.

Compared to Goodreads, StoryGraph, which has versions for iOS and Android, puts less emphasis on social reviews and more on personal metrics and automated recommendations. After I filled out its (quite detailed) recommendation questionnaire, the app generated a spot-on list on suggested reads. (First up is “Parakeet” by Marie-Helene Bertino.) Its “stats” tab generates monthly or yearly analyses of your reading habits, with fun breakdowns like mood and genre. And its colorful graphs are more shareable than Goodreads’ annual snapshots.

If you use book apps primarily to connect with other readers , StoryGraph may not be for you. However, the app does have user profiles, and you can invite friends to “buddy read” (go to a book’s page, tap the three dots and select “start a buddy read”). Or, visit the “community” tab to view active “readalongs.”

StoryGraph is free, but you can pay $4.99 a month or $49.99 a year for advanced features. To upload your Goodreads data, visit StoryGraph on the web. Go to your profile icon at top right, choose “Manage account,” then “Goodreads import.” Upload your .CSV file and select “Import my Goodreads library.”

LibraryThing

If you want to log music and movies alongside your books, check out LibraryThing.

LibraryThing has bare-bones apps for iOS and Android, but it works best on the web. Search for past and future reads to add them to your personal library, or pull titles from Amazon, Overcat or the Library of Congress. You can also add movies and music from Amazon’s database.

LibraryThing, which is free to use, says it has about 3 million users. Detailed book pages include links to relevant discussion threads, as well as crowdsourced suggestions for similar reads. If you share your location on your profile, the site will connect you with local friends, bookstores and libraries.

Reading List

Looking for a book-logging tool with no social component? Try Reading List, available on iOS. You can add books and leave reviews for your eyes only.

This app is no-frills, but still includes some sought-after features like month-by-month statistics and the option to “pause” a book without messing up your metrics.

The “buy online” link on Reading List allows you to buy from independent booksellers through Bookshop.org.

Reading List works without an internet connection, but you’ll need one to add new books from the Google-powered search bar. A selling point for privacy buffs: The app’s developer says he doesn’t store or share user data. Reading List is free, and you can pay $2 a month, $14 a year or $34 a lifetime for additional features.

Easy wins, good habits, better living.

Unlike other book-loggers, BookWyrm is decentralized, meaning it’s owned by its users rather than one entity. (The social media platform Mastodon is probably the most popular example of a decentralized online network .)

BookWyrm is a collection of communities , but the largest is bookwyrm.social with about 15,000 users. Making an account is simple, so you can start tracking and reviewing books right away.

One unique BookWyrm feature is the “books” tab — a feed that shows activity from other users if they’re engaging with a book on your shelf.

BookWyrm is free and web-only. It’s clunkier than other options, but perfect for readers who want a homegrown online hangout.

Help Desk: Making tech work for you

Help Desk is a destination built for readers looking to better understand and take control of the technology used in everyday life.

Take control: Sign up for The Tech Friend newsletter to get straight talk and advice on how to make your tech a force for good.

Tech tips to make your life easier: 10 tips and tricks to customize iOS 16 | 5 tips to make your gadget batteries last longer | How to get back control of a hacked social media account | How to avoid falling for and spreading misinformation online

Data and Privacy: A guide to every privacy setting you should change now . We have gone through the settings for the most popular (and problematic) services to give you recommendations. Google | Amazon | Facebook | Venmo | Apple | Android

Ask a question: Send the Help Desk your personal technology questions .

• What’s with all the black-and-white logos for apps? April 16, 2024 What’s with all the black-and-white logos for apps? April 16, 2024
• Which colors look best on you? These tech tools claim to know. April 13, 2024 Which colors look best on you? These tech tools claim to know. April 13, 2024
• Internet service has ‘nutrition labels’ now. Here’s how to use them. April 12, 2024 Internet service has ‘nutrition labels’ now. Here’s how to use them. April 12, 2024

How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to write a book review- a step by step guide.

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Since knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could improve? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair:Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with an additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

Timely Deliveries

No Plagiarism & AI

100% Refund

Try Our Free Paper Writing Service

Related blogs.

Connections with Writers and support

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

Average Quality Score

8 Book Recommendation Apps to Find Your Next Read

Clare Barnett

Clare Barnett lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and daughter. She delves into all genres but has a soft spot for fantasy, mystery, and memoir. When she’s not working her way through her to-read list, she’s reading and writing about bookish things. Twitter: @clarebar. Inquiries: [email protected].

View All posts by Clare Barnett

Just like books themselves, there are book recommendation apps and services for every reader style. Prefer the old-fashioned hand-sell? We have our very own TBR for that. Looking for an algorithm to turn to your literary tastes into data points? There’s the StoryGraph. Or how about book recs based on reader personality? Bookfinity might be just what you need. Here are eight book recommendation apps and services to help you find that perfect book you didn’t know you needed. Happy hunting!

Book Riot’s TBR

Ok, TBR is not an app. It is however, a fast and easy way to connect with a professional bibliophile who will handpick books for you based on your tastes and favorite authors. Vast bookish knowledge plus an element of surprise equals book bliss. You’re welcome. 

One of the newer services, Tertulia culls news, Twitter and podcasts for recent book mentions. Users can link their Twitter profiles to see what books people they follow have been tweeting about, or just see what cultural critics, famous writers, and journalists recommend. The interface is slick and the app is an interesting way to track the latest book buzz.

The StoryGraph

StoryGraph gets that the perfect next read is more of a vibe. It asks “What are you in the mood for?” and recommends books based on however many moods you tagged, based on the pace, length and genre of book you select. Mysterious and reflective? StoryGraph has recommendations for that!

BookyCall is a fun app that gives each book a dating app–esque profile that answers questions like “Who should swipe right on me?” and “What are my most attractive traits?” For example, Outlawed by Anna North describes itself as “I attract the courageous and determined type. I want to spend time with someone who isn’t afraid to fight for their beliefs, someone who isn’t afraid to get down and dirty.” If you do swipe right, the book will message you with links to buy at places like Bookshop, Amazon and Libro.fm.

The Amazon-backed juggernaut does it all. It can recommend your next read based on books you’ve shelved under “to read” “raves” or “tea and crumpets” (yes, that’s a shelf of mine). Goodreads also links books “readers also enjoyed” on every book’s page so you can find books in a similar vein. For a personal touch, you can also recommend books you’ve loved to your friends.

Likewise builds off the books you like to create a taste profile. Pick ten books that you loved and it’ll offer suggestions for similar books you may enjoy in a swipe-style spread. Users can also ask the community for very specific recommendations like “Enemies to lovers set in bakeries.” If you’re a fan of the platform, you can also use it to get recs for television and movies. 

 Created by book distributor Ingram, this is only a website for now. It offers book recommendations based on a user’s “reading personality.” Based on a quick quiz, I’m categorized as a “Time traveler,” with a little bit of “Serial Reader” thrown in. If those results mean I like historical fiction and crime, then correct. Bookfinity also makes recs based on mood, so users can search for books that users tag as “inspired” or “scared.”

Libby is the go to app for accessing ebooks and audiobooks through your public library. However, it also has hundreds of librarian-curated lists, like “You turn my pages: Romance featuring diverse characters and authors,” or “Found family” books. As a bonus, you can check them out straight from the list.

For more bookish apps to enhance your reading life, check out 15 Amazing Free Reading Apps to Take Your Books Everywhere.

You Might Also Like

Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Assignments

• Annotated Bibliography
• Analyzing a Scholarly Journal Article
• Group Presentations
• Dealing with Nervousness
• Using Visual Aids
• Grading Someone Else's Paper
• Types of Structured Group Activities
• Group Project Survival Skills
• Leading a Class Discussion
• Multiple Book Review Essay
• Reviewing Collected Works
• Writing a Case Analysis Paper
• Writing a Case Study
• About Informed Consent
• Writing Field Notes
• Writing a Policy Memo
• Writing a Reflective Paper
• Writing a Research Proposal
• Generative AI and Writing
• Acknowledgments

A book review is a thorough description, critical analysis, and/or evaluation of the quality, meaning, and significance of a book, often written in relation to prior research on the topic. Reviews generally range from 500-2000 words, but may be longer or shorter depends on several factors: the length and complexity of the book being reviewed, the overall purpose of the review, and whether the review examines two or more books that focus on the same topic. Professors assign book reviews as practice in carefully analyzing complex scholarly texts and to assess your ability to effectively synthesize research so that you reach an informed perspective about the topic being covered.

There are two general approaches to reviewing a book:

• Descriptive review: Presents the content and structure of a book as objectively as possible, describing essential information about a book's purpose and authority. This is done by stating the perceived aims and purposes of the study, often incorporating passages quoted from the text that highlight key elements of the work. Additionally, there may be some indication of the reading level and anticipated audience.
• Critical review: Describes and evaluates the book in relation to accepted literary and historical standards and supports this evaluation with evidence from the text and, in most cases, in contrast to and in comparison with the research of others. It should include a statement about what the author has tried to do, evaluates how well you believe the author has succeeded in meeting the objectives of the study, and presents evidence to support this assessment. For most course assignments, your professor will want you to write this type of review.

Book Reviews. Writing Center. University of New Hampshire; Book Reviews: How to Write a Book Review. Writing and Style Guides. Libraries. Dalhousie University; Kindle, Peter A. "Teaching Students to Write Book Reviews." Contemporary Rural Social Work 7 (2015): 135-141; Erwin, R. W. “Reviewing Books for Scholarly Journals.” In Writing and Publishing for Academic Authors . Joseph M. Moxley and Todd Taylor. 2 nd edition. (Lanham, MD: Rowan and Littlefield, 1997), pp. 83-90.

How to Approach Writing Your Review

NOTE:   Since most course assignments require that you write a critical rather than descriptive book review, the following information about preparing to write and developing the structure and style of reviews focuses on this approach.

I.  Common Features

While book reviews vary in tone, subject, and style, they share some common features. These include:

• A review gives the reader a concise summary of the content . This includes a description of the research topic and scope of analysis as well as an overview of the book's overall perspective, argument, and purpose.
• A review offers a critical assessment of the content in relation to other studies on the same topic . This involves documenting your reactions to the work under review--what strikes you as noteworthy or important, whether or not the arguments made by the author(s) were effective or persuasive, and how the work enhanced your understanding of the research problem under investigation.
• In addition to analyzing a book's strengths and weaknesses, a scholarly review often recommends whether or not readers would value the work for its authenticity and overall quality . This measure of quality includes both the author's ideas and arguments and covers practical issues, such as, readability and language, organization and layout, indexing, and, if needed, the use of non-textual elements .

To maintain your focus, always keep in mind that most assignments ask you to discuss a book's treatment of its topic, not the topic itself . Your key sentences should say, "This book shows...,” "The study demonstrates...," or “The author argues...," rather than "This happened...” or “This is the case....”

II.  Developing a Critical Assessment Strategy

There is no definitive methodological approach to writing a book review in the social sciences, although it is necessary that you think critically about the research problem under investigation before you begin to write. Therefore, writing a book review is a three-step process: 1) carefully taking notes as you read the text; 2) developing an argument about the value of the work under consideration; and, 3) clearly articulating that argument as you write an organized and well-supported assessment of the work.

A useful strategy in preparing to write a review is to list a set of questions that should be answered as you read the book [remember to note the page numbers so you can refer back to the text!]. The specific questions to ask yourself will depend upon the type of book you are reviewing. For example, a book that is presenting original research about a topic may require a different set of questions to ask yourself than a work where the author is offering a personal critique of an existing policy or issue.

Here are some sample questions that can help you think critically about the book:

• Thesis or Argument . What is the central thesis—or main argument—of the book? If the author wanted you to get one main idea from the book, what would it be? How does it compare or contrast to the world that you know or have experienced? What has the book accomplished? Is the argument clearly stated and does the research support this?
• Topic . What exactly is the subject or topic of the book? Is it clearly articulated? Does the author cover the subject adequately? Does the author cover all aspects of the subject in a balanced fashion? Can you detect any biases? What type of approach has the author adopted to explore the research problem [e.g., topical, analytical, chronological, descriptive]?
• Evidence . How does the author support their argument? What evidence does the author use to prove their point? Is the evidence based on an appropriate application of the method chosen to gather information? Do you find that evidence convincing? Why or why not? Does any of the author's information [or conclusions] conflict with other books you've read, courses you've taken, or just previous assumptions you had about the research problem?
• Structure . How does the author structure their argument? Does it follow a logical order of analysis? What are the parts that make up the whole? Does the argument make sense to you? Does it persuade you? Why or why not?
• Take-aways . How has this book helped you understand the research problem? Would you recommend the book to others? Why or why not?

Beyond the content of the book, you may also consider some information about the author and the general presentation of information. Question to ask may include:

• The Author: Who is the author? The nationality, political persuasion, education, intellectual interests, personal history, and historical context may provide crucial details about how a work takes shape. Does it matter, for example, that the author is affiliated with a particular organization? What difference would it make if the author participated in the events they wrote about? What other topics has the author written about? Does this work build on prior research or does it represent a new or unique area of research?
• The Presentation: What is the book's genre? Out of what discipline does it emerge? Does it conform to or depart from the conventions of its genre? These questions can provide a historical or other contextual standard upon which to base your evaluations. If you are reviewing the first book ever written on the subject, it will be important for your readers to know this. Keep in mind, though, that declarative statements about being the “first,” the "best," or the "only" book of its kind can be a risky unless you're absolutely certain because your professor [presumably] has a much better understanding of the overall research literature.

NOTE: Most critical book reviews examine a topic in relation to prior research. A good strategy for identifying this prior research is to examine sources the author(s) cited in the chapters introducing the research problem and, of course, any review of the literature. However, you should not assume that the author's references to prior research is authoritative or complete. If any works related to the topic have been excluded, your assessment of the book should note this . Be sure to consult with a librarian to ensure that any additional studies are located beyond what has been cited by the author(s).

Book Reviews. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Book Reviews. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Hartley, James. "Reading and Writing Book Reviews Across the Disciplines." Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology 57 (July 2006): 1194–1207;   Motta-Roth, D. “Discourse Analysis and Academic Book Reviews: A Study of Text and Disciplinary Cultures.”  In Genre Studies in English for Academic Purposes . Fortanet Gómez, Inmaculada  et  al., editors. (Castellò de la Plana: Publicacions de la Universitat Jaume I, 1998), pp. 29-45. Writing a Book Review. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing Book Reviews. Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University; Suárez, Lorena and Ana I. Moreno. “The Rhetorical Structure of Academic Journal Book Reviews: A Cross-linguistic and Cross-disciplinary Approach .” In Asociación Europea de Lenguas para Fines Específicos, María del Carmen Pérez Llantada Auría, Ramón Plo Alastrué, and Claus Peter Neumann. Actas del V Congreso Internacional AELFE/Proceedings of the 5th International AELFE Conference . Zaragoza: Universidad de Zaragoza, 2006.

Structure and Writing Style

I.  Bibliographic Information

Bibliographic information refers to the essential elements of a work if you were to cite it in a paper [i.e., author, title, date of publication, etc.]. Provide the essential information about the book using the writing style [e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago] preferred by your professor or used by the discipline of your major . Depending on how your professor wants you to organize your review, the bibliographic information represents the heading of your review. In general, it would look like this:

[Complete title of book. Author or authors. Place of publication. Publisher. Date of publication. Number of pages before first chapter, often in Roman numerals. Total number of pages]. The Whites of Their Eyes: The Tea Party's Revolution and the Battle over American History . By Jill Lepore. (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 2010. xii, 207 pp.)

Reviewed by [your full name].

II.  Scope/Purpose/Content

Begin your review by telling the reader not only the overarching concern of the book in its entirety [the subject area] but also what the author's particular point of view is on that subject [the thesis statement]. If you cannot find an adequate statement in the author's own words or if you find that the thesis statement is not well-developed, then you will have to compose your own introductory thesis statement that does cover all the material. This statement should be no more than one paragraph and must be succinctly stated, accurate, and unbiased.

If you find it difficult to discern the overall aims and objectives of the book [and, be sure to point this out in your review if you determine that this is a deficiency], you may arrive at an understanding of the book's overall purpose by assessing the following:

• Scan the table of contents because it can help you understand how the book was organized and will aid in determining the author's main ideas and how they were developed [e.g., chronologically, topically, historically, etc.].
• Why did the author write on this subject rather than on some other subject?
• From what point of view is the work written?
• Was the author trying to give information, to explain something technical, or to convince the reader of a belief’s validity by dramatizing it in action?
• What is the general field or genre, and how does the book fit into it? If necessary, review related literature from other books and journal articles to familiarize yourself with the field.
• Who is the intended audience?
• What is the author's style? Is it formal or informal? You can evaluate the quality of the writing style by noting some of the following standards: coherence, clarity, originality, forcefulness, accurate use of technical words, conciseness, fullness of development, and fluidity [i.e., quality of the narrative flow].
• How did the book affect you? Were there any prior assumptions you had about the subject that were changed, abandoned, or reinforced after reading the book? How is the book related to your own personal beliefs or assumptions? What personal experiences have you had related to the subject that affirm or challenge underlying assumptions?
• How well has the book achieved the goal(s) set forth in the preface, introduction, and/or foreword?
• Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

III.  Note the Method

Support your remarks with specific references to text and quotations that help to illustrate the literary method used to state the research problem, describe the research design, and analyze the findings. In general, authors tend to use the following literary methods, exclusively or in combination.

• Description : The author depicts scenes and events by giving specific details that appeal to the five senses, or to the reader’s imagination. The description presents background and setting. Its primary purpose is to help the reader realize, through as many details as possible, the way persons, places, and things are situated within the phenomenon being described.
• Narration : The author tells the story of a series of events, usually thematically or in chronological order. In general, the emphasis in scholarly books is on narration of the events. Narration tells what has happened and, in some cases, using this method to forecast what could happen in the future. Its primary purpose is to draw the reader into a story and create a contextual framework for understanding the research problem.
• Exposition : The author uses explanation and analysis to present a subject or to clarify an idea. Exposition presents the facts about a subject or an issue clearly and as impartially as possible. Its primary purpose is to describe and explain, to document for the historical record an event or phenomenon.
• Argument : The author uses techniques of persuasion to establish understanding of a particular truth, often in the form of addressing a research question, or to convince the reader of its falsity. The overall aim is to persuade the reader to believe something and perhaps to act on that belief. Argument takes sides on an issue and aims to convince the reader that the author's position is valid, logical, and/or reasonable.

IV.  Critically Evaluate the Contents

Critical comments should form the bulk of your book review . State whether or not you feel the author's treatment of the subject matter is appropriate for the intended audience. Ask yourself:

• Has the purpose of the book been achieved?
• What contributions does the book make to the field?
• Is the treatment of the subject matter objective or at least balanced in describing all sides of a debate?
• Are there facts and evidence that have been omitted?
• What kinds of data, if any, are used to support the author's thesis statement?
• Can the same data be interpreted to explain alternate outcomes?
• Is the writing style clear and effective?
• Does the book raise important or provocative issues or topics for discussion?
• Does the book bring attention to the need for further research?
• What has been left out?

Support your evaluation with evidence from the text and, when possible, state the book's quality in relation to other scholarly sources. If relevant, note of the book's format, such as, layout, binding, typography, etc. Are there tables, charts, maps, illustrations, text boxes, photographs, or other non-textual elements? Do they aid in understanding the text? Describing this is particularly important in books that contain a lot of non-textual elements.

NOTE:   It is important to carefully distinguish your views from those of the author so as not to confuse your reader. Be clear when you are describing an author's point of view versus expressing your own.

V.  Examine the Front Matter and Back Matter

Front matter refers to any content before the first chapter of the book. Back matter refers to any information included after the final chapter of the book . Front matter is most often numbered separately from the rest of the text in lower case Roman numerals [i.e. i - xi ]. Critical commentary about front or back matter is generally only necessary if you believe there is something that diminishes the overall quality of the work [e.g., the indexing is poor] or there is something that is particularly helpful in understanding the book's contents [e.g., foreword places the book in an important context].

Front matter that may be considered for evaluation when reviewing its overall quality:

• Table of contents -- is it clear? Is it detailed or general? Does it reflect the true contents of the book? Does it help in understanding a logical sequence of content?
• Author biography -- also found as back matter, the biography of author(s) can be useful in determining the authority of the writer and whether the book builds on prior research or represents new research. In scholarly reviews, noting the author's affiliation and prior publications can be a factor in helping the reader determine the overall validity of the work [i.e., are they associated with a research center devoted to studying the problem under investigation].
• Foreword -- the purpose of a foreword is to introduce the reader to the author and the content of the book, and to help establish credibility for both. A foreword may not contribute any additional information about the book's subject matter, but rather, serves as a means of validating the book's existence. In these cases, the foreword is often written by a leading scholar or expert who endorses the book's contributions to advancing research about the topic. Later editions of a book sometimes have a new foreword prepended [appearing before an older foreword, if there was one], which may be included to explain how the latest edition differs from previous editions. These are most often written by the author.
• Acknowledgements -- scholarly studies in the social sciences often take many years to write, so authors frequently acknowledge the help and support of others in getting their research published. This can be as innocuous as acknowledging the author's family or the publisher. However, an author may acknowledge prominent scholars or subject experts, staff at key research centers, people who curate important archival collections, or organizations that funded the research. In these particular cases, it may be worth noting these sources of support in your review, particularly if the funding organization is biased or its mission is to promote a particular agenda.
• Preface -- generally describes the genesis, purpose, limitations, and scope of the book and may include acknowledgments of indebtedness to people who have helped the author complete the study. Is the preface helpful in understanding the study? Does it provide an effective framework for understanding what's to follow?
• Chronology -- also may be found as back matter, a chronology is generally included to highlight key events related to the subject of the book. Do the entries contribute to the overall work? Is it detailed or very general?
• List of non-textual elements -- a book that contains numerous charts, photographs, maps, tables, etc. will often list these items after the table of contents in the order that they appear in the text. Is this useful?

Back matter that may be considered for evaluation when reviewing its overall quality:

• Afterword -- this is a short, reflective piece written by the author that takes the form of a concluding section, final commentary, or closing statement. It is worth mentioning in a review if it contributes information about the purpose of the book, gives a call to action, summarizes key recommendations or next steps, or asks the reader to consider key points made in the book.
• Appendix -- is the supplementary material in the appendix or appendices well organized? Do they relate to the contents or appear superfluous? Does it contain any essential information that would have been more appropriately integrated into the text?
• Index -- are there separate indexes for names and subjects or one integrated index. Is the indexing thorough and accurate? Are elements used, such as, bold or italic fonts to help identify specific places in the book? Does the index include "see also" references to direct you to related topics?
• Glossary of Terms -- are the definitions clearly written? Is the glossary comprehensive or are there key terms missing? Are any terms or concepts mentioned in the text not included that should have been?
• Endnotes -- examine any endnotes as you read from chapter to chapter. Do they provide important additional information? Do they clarify or extend points made in the body of the text? Should any notes have been better integrated into the text rather than separated? Do the same if the author uses footnotes.
• Bibliography/References/Further Readings -- review any bibliography, list of references to sources, and/or further readings the author may have included. What kinds of sources appear [e.g., primary or secondary, recent or old, scholarly or popular, etc.]? How does the author make use of them? Be sure to note important omissions of sources that you believe should have been utilized, including important digital resources or archival collections.

VI.  Summarize and Comment

State your general conclusions briefly and succinctly. Pay particular attention to the author's concluding chapter and/or afterword. Is the summary convincing? List the principal topics, and briefly summarize the author’s ideas about these topics, main points, and conclusions. If appropriate and to help clarify your overall evaluation, use specific references to text and quotations to support your statements. If your thesis has been well argued, the conclusion should follow naturally. It can include a final assessment or simply restate your thesis. Do not introduce new information in the conclusion. If you've compared the book to any other works or used other sources in writing the review, be sure to cite them at the end of your book review in the same writing style as your bibliographic heading of the book.

Book Reviews. Writing@CSU. Colorado State University; Book Reviews. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Gastel, Barbara. "Special Books Section: A Strategy for Reviewing Books for Journals." BioScience 41 (October 1991): 635-637; Hartley, James. "Reading and Writing Book Reviews Across the Disciplines." Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology 57 (July 2006): 1194–1207; Lee, Alexander D., Bart N. Green, Claire D. Johnson, and Julie Nyquist. "How to Write a Scholarly Book Review for Publication in a Peer-reviewed Journal: A Review of the Literature." Journal of Chiropractic Education 24 (2010): 57-69; Nicolaisen, Jeppe. "The Scholarliness of Published Peer Reviews: A Bibliometric Study of Book Reviews in Selected Social Science Fields." Research Evaluation 11 (2002): 129-140;.Procter, Margaret. The Book Review or Article Critique. The Lab Report. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Reading a Book to Review It. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Scarnecchia, David L. "Writing Book Reviews for the Journal Of Range Management and Rangelands." Rangeland Ecology and Management 57 (2004): 418-421; Simon, Linda. "The Pleasures of Book Reviewing." Journal of Scholarly Publishing 27 (1996): 240-241; Writing a Book Review. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Writing Book Reviews. Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University.

Writing Tip

Always Read the Foreword and/or the Preface

If they are included in the front matter, a good place for understanding a book's overall purpose, organization, contributions to further understanding of the research problem, and relationship to other studies is to read the preface and the foreword. The foreword may be written by someone other than the author or editor and can be a person who is famous or who has name recognition within the discipline. A foreword is often included to add credibility to the work.

The preface is usually an introductory essay written by the author or editor. It is intended to describe the book's overall purpose, arrangement, scope, and overall contributions to the literature. When reviewing the book, it can be useful to critically evaluate whether the goals set forth in the foreword and/or preface were actually achieved. At the very least, they can establish a foundation for understanding a study's scope and purpose as well as its significance in contributing new knowledge.

Distinguishing between a Foreword, a Preface, and an Introduction . Book Creation Learning Center. Greenleaf Book Group, 2019.

Locating Book Reviews

There are several databases the USC Libraries subscribes to that include the full-text or citations to book reviews. Short, descriptive reviews can also be found at book-related online sites such as Amazon , although it's not always obvious who has written them and may actually be created by the publisher. The following databases provide comprehensive access to scholarly, full-text book reviews:

• ProQuest [1983-present]
• Book Review Digest Retrospective [1905-1982]

Some Language for Evaluating Texts

It can be challenging to find the proper vocabulary from which to discuss and evaluate a book. Here is a list of some active verbs for referring to texts and ideas that you might find useful:

• account for
• demonstrate
• distinguish
• investigate

Examples of usage

• "The evidence indicates that..."
• "This work assesses the effect of..."
• "The author identifies three key reasons for..."
• "This book questions the view that..."
• "This work challenges assumptions about...."

Paquot, Magali. Academic Keyword List. Centre for English Corpus Linguistics. Université Catholique de Louvain.

• << Previous: Leading a Class Discussion
• Next: Multiple Book Review Essay >>
• Last Updated: Mar 6, 2024 1:00 PM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/assignments

Goodreads: Book Reviews 12+

Kindle, audible, amazon & more.

• #12 in Books
• 4.7 • 13.9K Ratings

Screenshots

Description.

Discover stories that matter to you, from readers like you. Goodreads is the world's largest community of readers. Find new and interesting books by browsing personalized recommendations based on books you've read and your favorite genres. See what your friends are reading, write book reviews, and keep track of what you want to read. Goodreads is a free service for book tracking, recommendations and reviews. Use our barcode scanner the next time you are in a bookstore. Add the book in your hands to your "Want To Read" shelf and browse reviews before buying. Features: • Get personalized recommendations and discover new books based on your tastes. • Goodreads Choice Awards: vote for your favorite books of the year and see the winners! • Participate in the Reading Challenge! • Book cover and barcode scanner! • Keep a want-to-read list. • See book reviews and updates from your friends. • Discover new books and explore popular book lists. • Rate and review books you read. • Share notes and progress updates as you read. • Recommend books to friends. • Join online book clubs and connect with other readers. By using this app, you agree to Goodreads’s Terms of Use (https://www.goodreads.com/about/terms) and Privacy Policy (https://www.goodreads.com/about/privacy).

Version 4.15.0

This release contains several bug fixes and improvements.

Ratings and Reviews

13.9K Ratings

Life changing

So I am not a regular reader as I have tried and failed terribly as I either picked a wrong book or did not find enough motivation to continue with the book. But things changed when I installed the app as it gives you insight about books from the reads perspective, gives you suggestion based on your preferred genre. You can join different reading groups in the app as well one thing which I live the most in the app that’s the reading challenge. The reading challenge let’s you keep track of how much percentage of your book you have finished by just entering the page number where you are currently in the book. And how far are you from your target. You can even share your challenge. For someone who is trying to catch up with your reading you can definitely give the app a try and I’m sure you will not be disappointed.

Best Book Website but the mobile app is not User friendly

I would give 5 stars to Goodreads website but due to its functionality as a mobile application, I would reduce that to 4 stars. You can find almost every book on goodreads. Best book website so far. It also allows you to add books to different shelves. And the best thing is that it shows you your progress as in the number of pages read across multiple books. You can participate in challenges and vote your best books in the end of the year. You can discuss various topics in different groups with a vast majority of readers which is incredible. You can read reviews of people and judge the book (though I prefer trusting your own judgement). It also allows readers to see the progress of their friends and authors they follow. But it has some problems with its mobile app. I had been using this app for many years but I just feel it is not user friendly. You have to type the exact name of book for it to search (no spelling mistakes), you cannot search people, you cannot exceed your friend limit, I still don’t know how to make groups using mobile app (in website it is quite simple though), let’s be honest, the UI is not the most attractive and the profile is uninteresting. It lacks feature where you can add that I have read a particular book in a particular year. Likes and comments are really outdated. But despite all these, I still use this app as it is best in the market.

This is an awesome app that allows you to track which books you are currently reading, which books you already read and which books you want to read. You can also make your own shelves so that you can categorize the books according your wish. Goodreads app has helped me a lot. I’m a bookworm who tends to forget which book I’ve already read and which book I need to buy. Goodreads also allows you to check the review of the books given by other readers and also you too can leave a review on the books you read Goodreads also recommends books that you might like based on your previous reading history. You can also track which is the most famous book or which is most reviewed.

App Privacy

The developer, Goodreads , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• User Content
• Search History
• Identifiers
• Sensitive Info
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary based on, for example, the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

You Might Also Like

StoryGraph: Reading Tracker

Fable: Your Book Community

TBR - Bookshelf

Bookmory - book tracker & TBR

Reading List: Book Tracker

Bookly: Book tracker manager

Best ebooks apps in 2021

The best ebooks apps for smartphones will help you find something good to read

Forget about dedicated e-readers — the best ebooks apps let you read everything from books to articles to comics directly on your smartphone or tablet. Apple's Books and Google Play Books already do a great job as stock apps, but specialist reading apps bring additional features to the fix — highly configurable settings, support for odd formats and read-all-you-can subscriptions just to name a few.

Check out more than a dozen of the best ebooks apps, from convenient, all-in-one marketplace-reader combinations to feature-packed and customizable standalone readers, as well as subscription-based unlimited reading services.

• Best Kindles : Get a top e-reader
• These are the best audiobook apps
• Where to get free ebooks

The best ebooks apps to download today

1. kindle (android, ios: free).

Amazon's Kindle app is a multi-platform e-book juggernaut, featuring marketplace, reader and library management features. More than 1 million titles are available in the Kindle store, from the latest bestsellers to free classics. 

A customizable display lets you set font size, brightness and other settings. Also, Kindle syncs your last page read, bookmarks, highlights and notes between devices and platforms. 

One of the best things about the Kindle app is Kindle Unlimited program. Through that program, Kindle users are able to access to thousands of audiobooks and e-books for a monthly fee. Overall, Kindle provides an excellent mix of usability, legibility, value and variety to feed your reading habits.

Download Kindle: Android , iOS

2. Realm (Android, iOS: Free)

It used to be known as Serial Box, but a name change to Realm hasn't changed the app's approach to getting a good story. You don't have to shell out for a complete audiobook, with Realm instead offering shorter, episodic content in bite-sized chunks of novels. If you've resumed commuting, Realm's installments are just about the perfect length.

You can pick from a range of genres — drama, fantasy, sci-fi and more. The first episode is usually free, with subsequent installments costing $1.99. You get both text and audio versions of a story, and discounts on the full version are available with a season pass. 

With offerings such as “The Witch Who Came In From The Cold”, “Bookburners” and “Tremontaine” and a highly configurable reader and audiobook player mode, Realm is an interesting take on digital books.

Download Realm: Android , iOS

3. Scribd (Android, iOS: $8.99/month)

While Amazon boasts of its Unlimited program, it wasn't first off the bat in providing an unlimited access program for books. Scribd offers an unlimited access program for ebooks, which was compared to a "Netflix for books." 

Scribd features a library of more than 500,000 books from 900-plus publishers across a variety of genres. The app features a customizable display as well as curated editorial collections, personalized recommendations based on your reading history and the ability to download books for offline reading.

Download Scribd: Android , iOS

4. tiReader (iOS: Free)

Think of tiReader as an all-in-one iOS ebook reader option for consuming your DRM-free ebooks, audiobooks, and digital comics. The app supports a broad selection of formats, such as epubs, PDFs, cbrs and cbzs, as well as photos, archives, and more. 

A customizable reader includes bookmarks, annotation tools, day and night modes, library management and search filters, as well as cross-device syncing. tiReader also includes cloud support for ebooks that you store online, as well as OPDS support for publicly available ebook libraries and public domain content. 

The free version of this top ebooks app lets you try things out with a five-document maximum in the library (you can keep deleting files if you want to add new books). The $4.99 in-app purchase upgrades you to the unlimited version of tiReader.

Download tiReader: iOS

5. Libby by Overdrive (Android, iOS: Free)

Why spend a ton of money on ebooks if your local library already has a digital media lending system? Libby takes Overdrive's popular digital media management system and lets users to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from participating libraries. 

Simply sign in with your library card and then you can browse your library's digital media collection, allowing you to search for titles, set holds, borrow ebooks and audiobooks with a tap, and return or extend a lend just as easily. 

You can preview books from the app, downloading borrowed titles or streaming them to your phone or tablet if you prefer to save space.

Download Libby: Android , iOS

6. FullReader (Android: Free)

FullReader is an all-in-one Android ebook reader, supporting numerous formats, such as epub, PDF, CBR and CBZ, as well as office files like RTF, .doc, .docx and even MP3s (great for audiobooks). Users can sort their files into collections or simply use the built-in file explorer, and the app also includes cloud storage support as well as OPDS compatibility for exploring libraries of free online content. 

The reader itself is clear and easy to navigate, with access to bookmarks, the table of contents, text-to-speech, and the ability to make notes and annotations. The app is free and ad-supported, with an in-app purchase disabling advertising.

Download FullReader: Android

7. Madefire Comics & Motion Books (Android, iOS: Free)

Like other comic readers, Madefire gives you access to enough comic books to choke Galactus. But some of them also move, along with adding lashings of atmosphere with 3D elements and audio.

These aren’t cartoons — you get traditional panel layouts. But parts of the image transition in a manner that draws your eye to certain elements. Your reading pace is slowed, helping you take everything in. And the action is joined by rumbles and dark music in the likes of Hellboy, or iconic transformation sounds in Transformers.

This may be a gimmick — and it’s unlikely to tear you from your comic reader of choice. But as a glimpse into a different way of presenting comic stories, Madefire’s well worth a look.

Download Madefire: Android , iOS

8. KyBook 3 (iOS: $14.99/year)

KyBook 3 is one of the best ebooks apps because this all-in-one e-reader supports DRM-free formats like epub, RTF, DJVU, PDF, CBR and CBZ. Whether you're looking to read poetry or prose, comic books or RPG rules, KyBook's likely to do a solid job. 

You can configure the viewer's fonts (including supplying your own font files), themes, and other layout settings like margins and line spacing. Readers can upload files through iTunes, or access their ebooks in supported cloud services like iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, and Yandex Disk. There's even support for OPDS catalogs, allowing you to access tons of free and public domain content online. 

A premium subscription — $14.99 for a year, though three-month options are available — allows you to sync your ebook metadata and files across devices.

Download KyBook: iOS

9. Comixology (Android, iOS: Free)

Comixology is one of the most popular digital comic platforms online, featuring titles from major comics publishers such as Marvel , DC and Image. Readers can buy their favorite issues and series from the Comixology website and read them in the app, which in addition to being a top ebooks option is also one of the best comic book readers . 

Of particular note Comixology's the Guided View mode, which is great for reading on a small screen. US customers benefit from an Unlimited mode that works as a "read-all-you-can" subscription. On the downside, you can't import in an existing comics collection or make in-app purchases on iOS.

Download: Comixology: Android , iOS

10. Chunky (iOS: Free)

If you already have a collection of DRM-free comics, you may want to check out Chunky instead of Comixology. Chunky is a free and feature-packed comics option for the iPad . 

On the technical side, Chunky supports CBR, CBZ and PDF comics, as well as metadata tags from ComicRack and ComicBookLover. A smart upscaling mode renders even low-res files as crisply as possible, while multiple view modes let you read however you like. There's even an auto-contrast/tint fix to adjust for faded comic scans. 

The app can download comics from your cloud storage services, such as Dropbox and Google Drive, straight into the app's self-organizing library. Plus, a parental lock allows you to flag and hide titles behind password protection. It's a fantastic free package whose only fault is a lack of iPhone support. For the cost of a $3.99 pro upgrade, the app can connect to Mac or Windows shared folders, FTP or SFTP servers, ComicStreamer, Calibre or Ubooquity libraries for sharing files in and out.

Download Chunky: iOS

11. Comicat (Android: $2.99)

For DRM-free comic reading on Android, check out Comicat, another app that blends a comic book reader with the best ebooks apps have to offer. This premium Android comic book reader gives you a ton of features and customizability for less than the price of a single comic issue. 

The app auto-scans your mobile device (or selected library folders) for comics in supported formats (such as CBR, CBZ, and PDF). It then automatically sorts them into series in a nice bookshelf view which you can manually organize. Once you're in the reader view, the interface is unobtrusive, with long press or slide controls bringing out options and settings. 

Comicat supports cloud storage folders, password protection, manga-style right to left displays, image enhancement to correct contrast, brightness, and saturation among other tweaks.

Download Comicat: Android

12. Moon+ Reader (Android: Free)

Moon+ Reader is a nifty Android e-book reader app known for its highly customizable interface. While it may not come with a dedicated marketplace, Moon+'s UI makes it stand out from the pack. You can set font styles and sizes, backgrounds, spacing, paging modes, autoscroll, multiple view modes and more. 

The app is free, but a $6.99 pro version is also available to remove ads and add PDF support, as well as other extra features. If you already have a sizable e-book collection and are just looking for an Android app to read with, then consider Moon+ for your e-book reading needs.

Download Moon+: Android

13. FBReader (Android, iOS: Free)

FBReader supports EPUB, RTF, DOC, HTML, MOBI and other formats on both Android and iPhones. While it doesn't feature an attached store like some other best ebooks apps, FB Reader makes up for it with its highly customizable nature. 

Users can tweak text fonts, size, hyphenation, text colors and backgrounds, margins, page animations and more. External dictionary support, a browser/downloader for finding books online, language localizations and plugin support for PDFs and library syncing round out an impressive free package.

There is a pro version of FBReader that sheds some of the limitations of the free version — you can store more than 10 books and the translation feature is enabled. That costs $6.99 of Android users and $4.99 on the iPhone.

Download FBReader: Android , iOS

14. Aldiko (Android, iOS: Free)

Aldiko is a neat e-book reader app that supports EPUB, PDF, and Adobe DRM encrypted e-books. A clean and customizable interface includes settings for text size, margins, page layouts, brightness, fonts, colors and more. 

A library management system allows you to easily sort your material by tags and collections. The core reader is free, but a Premium version includes the ability to add notes, highlights, notes and an ad-free experience.

Download Aldiko: Android , iOS

15. Kobo Books (Android, iOS: Free)

While not as well known in the US, Kobo is especially popular in Canada and France. Featuring a library of more than 5 million ebooks and publications, Kobo lets you access content from its online store while also letting you import your own content. 

The app supports numerous formats, such as EPUB, PDF, CBZ and CBR. Obligatory view and text customizations let you get comfortable, and the app syncs across devices and platforms.

Download Kobo Books: Android , iOS

16. Marvin 3 (iOS: Free)

Marvin is a feature-packed and extremely configurable iOS reader app for DRM-free EPUB files; it also supports CBZ and CBR comics. 

As a reader, Marvin boasts several great reading features, from a variety of fonts (including a specialty font for dyslexic readers), a night mode and customizable themes, highlighting, annotation and dictionary tools. You'll also find numerous format tweaks ranging from text justification, to paragraph indentation and spacing. 

In addition, you'll find a solid set of organizing tools, allowing you to sort into collections, choose from list or cover views, collection sorting and more. The app also supports iOS features like Split View on the iPad. There are also premium features require a $4.99 in-app purchase.

Download Marvin: iOS

• Best iPhone apps
• Best Android apps

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Craig Grannell has been writing about tech for longer than he cares to remember, and spends his days surrounded by black rectangles, cables, and countless devices going DING when a notification comes in. He’s written for a bunch of magazines and websites including Tom's Guide, TechRadar, Wired, Stuff and many others, and specializes in Apple, apps, games, design and retro. At some point, he’s hoping someone will pay him a full-time wage to write about Robotron: 2084 and Bubble Bobble all day.

Instagram Blend could surface reels for you and a friend

Apple Arcade April launches just revealed — including two Vision Pro games

Padres vs Dodgers live stream 2024: How to watch MLB baseball online, start time, TV channel, schedule

Most Popular

• 2 Apple Vision Pro owners complaining of black eyes, neck pain and more
• 3 First iPhone console emulators arrive on App Store
• 4 Windows 11 is getting more ads in the latest preview
• 5 Prime Video’s ‘Fallout’ series got me back into ‘Fallout 3’ on PS3, and it’s like I never left

• Great Tech Gifts for Any Occasion
• The Best Gadgets for The Beach or Pool

The 9 Best Book Reading Apps of 2024

E-readers are great, but don't count your phone out. These apps make reading on your phone a breeze

• Western Sydney University
• Payment Services

Book lovers no longer lack choices regarding quality ebook and audiobook apps. Here are some of the best book reader apps for Android, iOS , and Windows devices.

Best Free Book Reading App: Media365 Book Reader

Massive library of popular and niche ebooks that can be read for free.

Ability to import your own ebook files for reading in the app.

Offline reading requires a $1.99 upgrade.

Only for Android.

Media365 is a free reading app for Android that lets you read any of the books in its library in exchange for the occasional fullscreen advertisement. Authors can self-publish on the Media 365 platform, which is why so many niche and indie titles are available. Many mainstream books are also available, like the entire Harry Potter book series.

The Media 365 library stores eBooks in 15 languages, while font size can be adjusted simply by doing a two-finger pinch on the screen. There’s also a text-to-speech function, which lets the app read books to you. You can also upload your ebooks with supported EPUB, PDF, AZW3, CBC, CBR, CBZ, CHM, FB2, LIT, MOBI, TCR, AI, and PUB formats.

Download For:

Best eBook Reader App for Amazon Prime Members: Kindle

Massive library of ebooks to choose from.

Apps are updated on a very regular basis.

The Kindle app for Windows is more for traditional computers than touchscreens.

Can’t buy ebooks within the iOS or Android Kindle app.

The official Kindle apps on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows are Amazon’s way of letting their customers consume their Kindle ebooks without having to buy a Kindle.

Any Kindle-branded ebook on the Amazon website can be read within the Kindle app. A variety of features set this app experience apart from its rivals, including the built-in dictionary, the ability to skip ahead without losing your place, and Amazon’s X-Ray tech, which reveals extra information on a book’s characters and world while you’re reading.

The Amazon Kindle apps aren’t perfect, though. The Windows Kindle app is designed more for traditional desktop computers than modern devices with touchscreens, and the iOS and Android versions don’t support ebook purchases. However, Kindle eBooks can still be purchased on the Amazon website and will sync to the Kindle app almost immediately.

Most-Available Reading App: Rakuten Kobo

Loads of options to customize the reading experience.

There’s an official Kobo app for most phones in existence.

The Windows app is incredibly outdated, and the Facebook login doesn’t work.

Audiobooks are only available on the iOS and Android apps.

Rakuten’s Kobo is a major competitor to Amazon, with millions of ebooks and a growing number of audiobooks on its platform. The iOS and Android Kobo apps are clearly where the company puts most of its attention, with each app offering an impressive variety of font sizes, styles, and color options to make the reading experience more personal and comfortable for individual users.

The Kobo app is also available for Windows 10 in the Microsoft Store app store. Windows users will want to download the separate desktop version of the app, though, which is updated regularly and offers more features. The desktop app also works on Macs.

Best Reading App for Kids: Epic!

Lots of in-app gamification that encourages kids to read more.

Great selection of classic and modern children’s books.

App requires a monthly subscription to use, though a 30-day free trial is available.

Changing settings is a bit of a convoluted process.

Epic! is like a Netflix for kids, but instead of TV shows and movies, it supplies the user with a massive library of ebooks and audiobooks . Parents can make unique profiles for each of their children, who can customize their profiles based on their tastes.

While many classic children’s books are available to download, there are also many modern releases, such as one series of books covering famous pop culture icons. Children can also choose from family-friendly comic books like Snoopy and The Smurfs and numerous short video clips created by DreamWorksTV.

Best iPhone eBook Reader App: Yomu EBook Reader

Supports EPUB, MOBI, PRC, AZW, AZW3, KF8, CBZ, CBR, and PDF files.

eBooks can be saved to the Yomu app from any iOS web browser.

Settings menu is very hard to find after adding books.

Download links should be in the main menu, not in the tutorial.

The Yomu EBook Reader is a fantastic app for iPhone and iPad users who download their ebooks in various file formats and want to bring them all together for a cohesive reading experience.

Yomu, Japanese for “to read,” supports all of the popular ebook file formats and those supported by Amazon Kindle. Files can be imported to the app via a cloud service like iCloud , Dropbox, Google Drive , or OneDrive , and once the app is installed, Yomu will appear as a source when saving ebook files from any iOS web browser app.

PDF eBook Reading App: Foxit PDF Reader

PDF files can be shared directly to the app on iOS.

Reflow options makes all files readable on small screens.

Ability to create a new PDF file requires a $14.99 monthly subscription on iOS and Android.

Lack of a back button on app screens makes navigation very confusing.

Foxit PDF Reader Mobile is one of the better PDF apps and is an ideal solution for those who prefer to consume ebooks in the PDF file format . Unlike many similar apps that display a PDF as is and require you to pinch and zoom to read its content, Foxit features a reflow setting that resizes and reorganizes the text on a page to fit perfectly on a mobile phone’s screen.

PDF files can be transferred to the Foxit app via Wi-Fi , iCloud, or Foxit’s own Foxit Drive service. Those using an iOS device can import downloaded files directly from the share feature while using other apps. A monthly subscription is needed to take advantage of many advanced settings, but those looking for an app to simply read their PDF ebooks will be fine with the free functionality.

Best eBook Reader For Android Phones And Tablets: AIReader

Supports a lot of Android devices with the minimum OS requirement being Android 2.3.

Multiple profiles can be used for different app settings. 

No support for PDF files.

Scrolling can be very jittery on lower-end Android tablets.

AIReader is a popular reading app on Android due to its support for older Android smartphones and tablets running operating systems as out-of-date as Android 2.3. It should be mentioned that many of the scrolling and related animations aren’t as smooth as they should be on older devices, but the ebook reading experience is still solid. Most major file types will work no matter which Android device you’re on.

Best Reading App on Nintendo Switch: Inky Pen

Large selection of free comics from lots of popular franchises.

Comics look great on the Nintendo Switch.

$7.99 a month will be a bit expensive for some people.

No Marvel or DC Comics series.

Most would think the Nintendo Switch is just for playing games, but its library of non-game apps has been slowly growing since its launch. One of these apps, Inky Pen, is a full-fledged comic book reading app that lets anyone read full digital issues from popular comic book series on their Switch.

Inky Pen does charge a monthly fee of $7.99 for unlimited access to its entire library, but there are an impressive amount of free issues available that will keep most comic fans entertained during long car trips or lazy weekends. What’s cool is the app works when the Nintendo Switch is docked so that a group can read comics on a TV.

Best Reading App for Google Addicts: Google Play Books

Very smooth reading experience with a page turn animation looks fantastic.

Runs really well on cheap, low-end Android tablets.

App needs to switch to the Google Play app every time you want to read more about a book.

Has a much smaller selection than Amazon.

Google Play Books, as its title suggests, is Google’s first-party app for reading ebooks and listening to audiobooks bought within the Google Play Store . The book selection isn’t as extensive as Amazon’s, but it’s still large enough to please the casual reader. Those who enjoy reading at least one book a day may want more.

The good thing is that Google Play Books doesn’t need a subscription service. It can be used to enjoy a purchased ebook or audiobook one weekend, then ignored for a week without feeling financial guilt for not taking advantage of some monthly fee.

It’s a very solid reading experience for when you want to use it, is incredibly stable and easy to use, and has some of the best page-turn animations out of all the book-reading apps.

Google Play Books is an excellent reading app, especially for those immersed in the Google ecosystem.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

• The 17 Best Android Tablet Apps of 2024
• The 6 Best Speed Reading Apps of 2024
• 22 Best Places to Get Free Kindle Books in 2024
• Is Kindle Unlimited Worth It? 4 Reasons Why You Should Get a Membership
• 17 Best Sites to Download Free Books in 2024
• The 9 Best Summer Apps of 2024
• 18 Best Places to Download Free Audiobooks in 2024
• Is Buying a Kindle Worth It? 4 Reasons to Buy One
• 10 Best eBook Readers for Android
• The Top 10 Internet Browsers for 2024
• How to Get Free eBooks
• 14 Best Ways to Get Free Books
• The 8 Best Parental Control Apps and Services of 2024
• Amazon Fire Tablet vs. iPad: Which Is Right for You?
• The 4 Best Nintendo Switch Apps of 2024
• The 13 Best Android Auto Apps of 2024

• Company Profile
• Infrastructure
• Life @ Octal
• Partnership
• Testimonials
• Our Portfolio
• Career @ Octal
• Get a Quote

Projects Completed

Expert members, happy clients, running project, mobility solutions.

• Mobile App Development
• Enterprise Mobility
• iOS App Development
• Android App Development
• Software Testing
• Mobile Web Design

Web Solutions

• Web Development
• UI/UX Development
• PHP Development
• CakePHP Development
• CodeIgniter Development
• ASP.Net Development
• Java Development
• Joomla Development
• Laravel Development
• Magento Development
• MEANStack Development
• MERNStack Development

On-Demand Solutions

• Ewallet App Development
• eLearning App Development
• Fantasy Sports App
• Grocery Delivery App
• Handyman App Development
• Instant Messaging App
• Medicine Delivery App
• Taxi Booking App
• Video Streaming App
• Dating App Development
• Parking Finder App
• Table Booking App
• Stock Trading App
• Startup App Development
• Travel Planner App
• Tutor App Development
• Ride Sharing App
• House Cleaning App

Technologies

• AI Chatbot Development
• Big Data Solutions
• Blockchain App Development
• Cloud Computing Solutions
• Database Management Solutions
• ERP Software Development
• Food & Restaurant
• Education/eLearning
• Banking & Finance
• Healthcare & Medical
• Real Estate & Housing
• Transportation & Automobile
• Food Portal
• B2B & B2C Portal
• Dating Portal
• Marketplace Portal
• Price Comparison Portal

Dedicated Resources

• Hire Dedicated Developers
• Hire Mobile App Developers
• Hire iOS Developers
• Hire Game Developers
• Hire Android Developers
• Hire Flutter Developers
• Hire CodeIgniter Developers
• Hire Laravel Developers
• Hire ASP.Net Developers
• Hire Python Developers
• Hire Django Developers
• Hire Drupal Developers
• Hire Magento Developers
• Hire NodeJS Developers
• Hire RoR Developers
• Hire Symfony Developers
• Hire Tensorflow Developers
• Hire WordPress Developers

Book Review & Recommendation App Development – Cost and Key Features

Here, we are discussing book review app development, its market stats, required features, and the cost involved in the book recommendation app.

“Books are good company, in sad times and happy times, for books are people – people who have managed to stay alive by hiding between the covers of a book.” – E.B. White

Which reader on Earth doesn’t have this habit of recommending their latest read to their friends?  Well, everyone does. If you read a lot or anyone from your circle is into this, then you know that urge to always share the latest read.  

In a world where everyone is too occupied with their lives, friends who recommend some good reads and amazing quotes are saviors. They do not just save your time but help you grow so much. 

Sadly, not all are so blessed! (**SAD**)

How amazing would it be if you have an application that can be your friend when in need? A book reading and recommendation application can make things easier for you. 

See, technology can even get you a friend without requiring you to talk to real people. All you need here is to build a solution that can understand user interest and suggest the most read books similar to the interests. 

That sounds like an idea, isn’t it? Simply, develop book review app that can help you mark a strong presence in the market. 

If you are looking forward to entering the market with a solution that can help readers find the right books and track their latest read then, there are just a few things you need to consider. 

You may also like: How to Develop an Attractive Best-Selling Reading App?

The market .

Yes, before you develop the application a quick idea of who would be using it. Well, as discussed. It is everyone who wants to read but can’t make enough time for the same. We are not only working on an app idea, we are talking about a solution here that would help so many people reform their lives and spend some time doing what they love no matter how occupied they are. 

It is not that we are building something out of the world, but yes with some interesting and engaging elements, we are bringing on the stage a solution that would stand out. 

Before we further talk about the book recommendation app development , here are a few samples that we can consider. 

Most Popular Book Review and Recommendation Apps 

When talking about the solutions that are interesting and engaging, we make sure that the features and functions are picked from the best in the market. Some of the applications that are developers rely on are: 

You can get tailored recommendations based on your preferred genres and previously read books with the Goodreads app. When seeing a recommendation, you can rate it or add it to your “Want to Read” list if you haven’t previously read it.

If you’re in a physical bookstore, the app also has a cover scanner, which is useful. If you see a book you like, skim the cover to see if there are any reviews on Goodreads for it.

On the Discover tab of Goodreads, you’ll find several lists to help you locate books. The app also includes reading challenges and giveaways, as well as the ability to invite friends or join groups to engage with other readers.

The application sends the user a selection of books to read each day, which can either be marked as read or save to read later. Under the Save section, one can see their stored books and, if there are already a few books on the to-read list, one can create new lists.

Not just this there is a Community option where you may browse or participate in discussions, ask for recommendations, and join groups in your favorite genres. 

Then there’s the Discover page, where you can spend hours browsing popular books and lists. Choose what you want to read and how interesting it is. You can even check the reviews to make sure that you are picking the book you love. 

The recommendations aren’t limited to books and this is one feature that our book suggestion app development team loves. You can also find some interesting movies, web series that people with similar tastes may suggest. 

Inkitt is an excellent tool for aspiring authors who have recently published a book or are presently working on one and are looking for feedback. On this app, you’ll find nearly every genre imaginable, so there’s something for everyone.

When you tell the app your preferred genres, it will automatically suggest one or two novels that it believes you’ll enjoy. After you’ve finished reading a tale, you can leave a comment, like, or a full review.

You can also read and access books offline while you’re away from home by downloading them for free.

Overall, this app is fantastic for discovering niche options from smaller authors you might not have heard of before. The book review app development team does take care of the application when they are building their database. 

BookSloth 

BookSloth allows you to browse through curated lists and receive customized suggestions based on your preferences. Then you can keep track of all the books you’ve read or wish to read in the future, write reviews for them when you’re finished, and even work toward exciting in-app achievements.

You may also build a profile on the app and connect with people who appreciate similar genres and authors to you. If you don’t want to friend anyone, you can still engage with the community by participating in book discussions or joining book clubs.

Bookshelf won’t provide you with tailored recommendations, but its Explore page has a lot to look through. You can search for books by category to find a wide range of selections, such as Crime & Thriller, Food & Drink, Romance, Sport, and more. Then, once you’ve decided on a category, you may narrow down your possibilities even more by choosing a subsection.

Each category would feature around 60 of the best-selling books in that genre at any given time. Although you won’t be able to read reviews for each book, you will be able to see the overall rating.

While you won’t be able to read reviews for each book, you will be able to see the number of reviews and star ratings for each of the 60 books in a category.

Your virtual bookshelf is one of the coolest features of this mobile application. You may add all of the books you’ve read and keep track of how much you enjoyed them using a five-star rating system, tags, and notes.

When you are looking forward to entering the market with a solution that can make things easier for you, all you need to do is think of a few points that would create a difference.

Related Post: How to Develop an Online Book Shopping Mobile App?  

Interesting aspects of a book review and recommendation application .

Well, there are a lot of things that we plan on adding to your application. These interesting aspects are determined only to make the customer journey interesting and engaging. We understand making time to read a book is tough, but engaging with an application that can help you read is even tougher. 

(Reading Hard Copies Is Always a Preference)

Let’s talk about a few elements that would make your application stand out from the ones we have talked about. We would integrate all of them or some of them as per your need with our solutions. 

Want to Read Button 

This would be the basic feature of your application that would have to appear along with the screen as a sticky note when the user is browsing the list. We aren’t working here on creating a wishlist for your user to read in the future, instead we are here to help them read. Thus our mobile app developers integrate push notification alternatives that would remind the users of the books in the wishlist. 

Already Read

The application would not only be all suggestions and recommendations. It could be your personal space to keep a track of the books you’ve read so you can recall them quickly. Not just this, how amazing would it be if you could virtually invite your friends into your living room to debate the books on your shelves–all without leaving the comfort of your own warm fireplace.

Add Status to Your Book

When talking about reading, there are only three choices, you have either read the book, you are reading the book or you want to read the book in the near future. Well, this is only for the general public. A real bibliophile knows there are so many integral mid-stages like  “Abandoned,” “Did Not Finish,” or “Currently Listening” (for audiobooks).

Thus, there are a lot of alternatives that you can make a shelf for. The best part is you can add just one book at once, thus, till the status of book 1 on a particular shelf doesn’t change, there is no space to add another. 

Thus, you can not be listening to two books at once. At least on the application. This is only to encourage your readers to finish their read before they take something new. 

Set Goals and Track Progress

If you are a person who is very focused on your goals, then what better way to motivate yourself than to set up a reading goal and track progress? 

This would be an amazing way to keep the readers engaged and inspire them to read daily. Reading is a habit that is to be developed slowly and steadily. 

Enjoy Reading Challenges

A reading challenge with your friend would be fun. We make sure that the book reading and recommendation application brings to the screen a solution that can help you enjoy yourself with your friends. You can set up annual challenges and a number of books that you would read. 

Challenge your friends and let reading be contagious!

Link Amazon Account to Track Kindle 

How great would it be if your application can easily track what you are reading on Kindle? Well, Goodreads does that and we affirm integrating a similar feature with your application. This would make it easier for the Kindle readers to connect with your application. Also, do not forget to help the tribe know more about the book with honest and genuine reviews on Amazon and the application. 

See, tracking your Kindle reads becomes so easy! 

Make Tags to Keep Track of the Books 

The one who loves to read how dearly they treat their possessions. If you are looking forward to building an application where your audience can easily define the books they love, let them make cute tags. Also, it would be amazing if you can simply mark the books you can read to your kids, the ones they can act on, the ones you wish to re-read. There is a lot that you can do and these tags can make things really easy for you. Let one create tags for the books they are reading and the ones they are listening to. Shelves are exclusive by definition–books cannot be on more than one shelf at the same time. Shelves are labeled. Tags can have multiple books and mostly not labeled anything big. 

This would make it really easy for your readers to connect with the application and help them be in their best game always!

Share Your Highlights and Comments

Every person who reads has this habit of reading and has this quirky habit of noting down everything they like. They read a sentence they love that has to be noted down. Sometimes it could be a paragraph and at times the whole page. If you are looking forward to making the journey easier and more convenient for your readers, why not simply let them have a space where they can write and note down everything they love. Simple highlights and notes can make things really easy for the readers in a click. 

Make a Book Recommendation to a Buddy

Let your book reading and recommendation application be much more than a method to browse your friends’ bookshelves electronically. Our book reading and review app developers let you save and share your friends’ recommendations, so you’ll never be stuck for something to read next (think of the Want to Read shelf as your virtual TBR pile). Every book in the app and on the website has easy-to-find share symbols and buttons. If you want to ensure that a friend reads a book, simply recommend it to them through the app. They’re not going to lose the recommendation easily. And ideally, they’ll return the favor by reading one of your favorite books. 

Personalized Suggestions as per Your Genre 

Wouldn’t it be amazing if your reader gets a suggestion based on the previous reads? Well, our review and recommendation app development team would use readers’ ratings and shelves to provide book suggestions that are nearly as accurate as text messages from their best reading buddy advising you what book they should read next. 

Scan Book Covers and Barcodes 

By scanning book covers or barcodes, the book review and recommendation app allows you to add the books to your shelves in seconds. It would let you keep track of your reading progress, see what your friends are reading, and much more. You can reach the next solution that would make things easier to take them to the next level.

Have a Shelf Comparison with a Friend

When a book lover enters another friend’s home, they are immediately drawn to the bookshelves. Let the sleeves roll up and allow your readers to see what their friends are reading. We affirm that the solutions that are deployed help the reading community grow and have a solution to the smallest issues they have. 

(You can even compare your ratings in a compatibility test to see how closely your tastes match!)

Use Browser Extensions to Quickly Add Titles

It’s easy to become overwhelmed while reading a blog article or browsing a new booklist full of titles you want to research. To the rescue, browser extensions! To find a book on your application, right-click any highlighted text. If you’re buying on Amazon and want to keep the social side of the application, you can check ratings for each book as you explore. Additionally, while exploring Amazon, you can add any title to Goodreads instantly.

Related Post: Book Lending App Development – Cost and Key Features

Keep track of your reading statistics.

Tracking the reading log is a clear cheat for the readers if they’ve previously kept a paper booklog because it’s so simple. Even if you still keep a reading notebook or record your books in a bullet journal, you’ll be won over when you see the page count information it can show you off your reading habits. 

You can surely enjoy the pictorial reflection of the books and the tasks that you have accomplished. 

Social Media Integration

With a Social Media button integrated with your application, it becomes easier for you to share the book quoted in the paragraph the challenge with your friends. You can build a strong profile by even adding people to the platform and interacting with them as and when you want. 

These are some of the features that we think must be integrated with your book review and recommendation application that can help you stand out from the crowd. 

Another important aspect to talk about here is the cost of the development of such an application. 

Cost of Book Review and Recommendation App Development 

When talking about the cost of book review and recommendation app development, there are a lot of things that you need to focus on. If you are looking forward to developing a solution that has simple features and can be accessed on limited devices, then the cost of development would be around $15k to $35k. 

If you are looking forward to building a solution that is ladened with advanced features and can help you be at the top of your business, then the cost of development would be around $55k to $65k. 

We understand the cost of development is a big talk, but affirm that Octal IT Solution offers you the best in the market price with some interesting perks and discounts. 

Wrapping It All!

So, if you have decided to build a solution that is interesting and engaging and can help you stand the test of time then all you need is a team that can help you with a book review and recommendation app development.

We help you build solutions with advanced technology and interesting features. We understand that this isn’t the first of its kind but with our out-of-box ideas, we make sure that the solution that would be offered to you would stand out from the crowd. 

So, just put up your thinking hats and catch up with our team over some coffee to discuss your app idea today!

Kamal Kishor is a digital marketing enthusiast and a seasoned writer with a passion for exploring the dynamic world of technology. With a background in computer engineering, Kamal brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creative storytelling to his tech blog.

Related Stories

• Salon Booking Mobile App Development [Cost & Features] 2024
• Wi-Fi Smart Plug App Development Cost and Key Features
• How to Start a Pickup and Delivery Service Business
• Key Features and Cost of Developing Food Delivery Apps like Doordash

Octal In The News

Octal IT Solution Has Been Featured By Reputed Publishers Globally

Let’s build something great together!

Connect with us and discover new possibilities.

Mail to our Sales Department [email protected]

Our Skype ID skype:octal.software

Gain More With Your Field Service

We’re always keeping our finger on the pulse of the industry. Browse our resources and learn more.

© 2024 Octal. All rights reserved.

Refund Policy | Privacy Policy

By clicking "Accept" or continuing to use our site, you agree to our Website's Privacy Policy .

Request a Call Back

How to Become a Paid Book Reviewer

D o you love to read books? Is one of your favorite sections of the Sunday paper the book reviews? Would you yourself like to get paid to write book reviews?

Well, here is a list of online work at home companies who are willing to pay you to write book reviews. And while there are tons of different freelance writing niches you could potentially specialize in, writing book reviews may be more fun for you if you like reading!

Which Companies Do Pay Their Book Reviewers Cash?

Let me just say here, while there are many companies proposing that they do hire and pay their book reviewers, not all of them pay cash . Some companies only compensate the reader with a free copy of the book.

There are also numerous scams out there where companies claim to hire book reviewers only to find out that they keep the review and use it to their advantage. Sadly these scammers never pay the reviewer for his/her time.

Some of the companies that I have found (and I am sure I don’t have 110% of them) are listed below.

Kirkus  is probably the best known for hiring book reviewers. Book reviews must be submitted within two weeks of agreeing to do them, and the review must be about 350 words. The pay will vary based on your experience.

Payment is made by check and mailed 60 days after the review is written and submitted. While the work is enjoyable for most, the work is not dependable and should not be considered a main source of income.

You can read our review of Kirkus to learn more.

2 – Online Book Club

Online Book Club  claims to pay and give free books to its book reviewers. You can earn $5 to $60 per review depending upon the book being reviewed. This will be paid to you as well as you will receive a copy of the book for you to keep.

3 – The US Review of Books

The US Review of Books regularly needs freelancers to review books for their publication. You'll need to send a resume, sample work, and at least two professional references in order to be considered as a reviewer. The pay amount for reviews you write is not listed on the website, but it does say you'll get paid monthly with a mailed check.

4 – Reedsy Discovery

Reedsy Discovery is always looking for new book reviewers. The pay for this one is not much — the authors are able to tip you for your time. Most tips are in the amounts of $1, $3, or $5. Looking at the application page, it also appears you may need to have a blog in order to be accepted.

5 – Booklist Publications

Booklist Publications pays $15 for well-written book reviews. They do not accept unsolicited reviews or contributions and will instead assign reviews to be completed. Before sending them a query, they ask that you familiarize yourself with their publications and writing style by signing up to their site and receiving their newsletter. Once you are ready to get in touch, you can email the editor for the types of books you're interested in reviewing (their contact information is on the submissions page linked above).

There is also a large list of book review websites here , although these do not appear to be advertising for new reviewers. Still, you may be able to get in touch with the owners of these websites to see if they need new reviewers.

Contena – This is a job board for freelance writers where you can occasionally find book review gigs that pay fairly. This is not a free job board to access, but they often do offer discounts on monthly memberships. You can use coupon code “ways2earn” at checkout to get 10% off any membership.

In Conclusion

While this may seem like a discouraging list, it really does not need to be. There are opportunities out there if you are willing to look for and pursue them. While book reviewers do not make a lot of money, they do make money while doing something most of them enjoy.

Many times authors will seek out book reviewers for future testimonials, which can lead to greater exposure for the book and future work for the book reviewers.

Another avenue that you might want to pursue as a book reviewer is to offer book review writing as a paid service in your freelance writing or virtual assistant business . You could charge by the length of the review or by the number of pages in the book.

Again, if you really love to read, what do you have to lose? Maybe a little sleep, but most avid book readers have been missing that for years!

Good luck to all who pursue any of these opportunities.

Leisa Good has worked in the corporate world as well as side hustled and operated a virtual assistant business full-time since 2006 . . She wrote the eBook on that one! She is also a PFYP certified career coach and the owner of the blog,  Powerfully Purposed For Success . She empowers folks 50-ish to find fun, flexible, and financially rewarding work both now and into retirement. However, this time it will be work/life on their terms.

The post How to Become a Paid Book Reviewer appeared first on Real Ways to Earn .

• Book Reviews
• Product Reviews

Best Book Summary Apps 2024 – Tested and Reviewed

I love reading books.

Yet I finish most of my days with the regret I was not able to carve out enough time for reading. Between blogs, podcasts, and chatting with friends, nowadays I’m getting so many recommendations for nonfiction books that my Kindle library grows way faster than what I can read.

I have another problem. Business books usually fall into three categories:

• Great ones: full of interesting ideas and enjoyable to read (like The Unicorn Project or Lost and founder )
• Boring ones: a lot of good ideas written in an extremely boring way
• Bad ones: few ideas lost in a plethora of useless and boring pages

I love books in the first category, and they are usually the ones I review here in my blog. Unluckily, I hate the others.

It usually takes me forever to get to the end of boring nonfiction books.

I give up within the first couple of chapters when I read a bad one. And that sucks because sometimes they still have some interesting concepts I’d like to absorb.

That’s why over the weekend I came up with a new strategy: reading the entire book when it’s great. Fallback to book summaries for categories n. 2 and n. 3.

So, I’ve spent the last couple of days testing out the 4 best book summary apps to see which one is worth subscribing to. And now, I’ve decided to share my findings with you to save you some time should you be facing the same question.

The book summaries apps and websites I’ve tested are:

• getAbstract
• Mentorist (2022 update)
• Headway (2024 update)

But before I declare the best book summary app in 2024…

Is it worth reading a book summary?

Yes and no.

But before we dive deeper, a quick premise. I’m considering only nonfiction books. It would be crazy to read the summary of a novel in my opinion. This also seems to be a consolidated trend in the industry. All the book summary apps I’ve reviewed focus on nonfiction books.

Now, back to your question.

If I had enough time, I’d probably avoid reading book summaries… it feels a bit like cheating.

But I have to admit it’s an effective way to learn the key concepts of an entire book, usually in less than 30 minutes. The big question mark is… will they stick?

The value of reading a full book is that you usually get a lot of examples and repetition of the key concepts. This is useful to make it stick and to convince yourself it’s a good idea you should put into practice.

Reading the summary you get to the core concepts immediately, but you lose a lot of contexts. It feels like eating meal replacement powders: you likely get all the nutrients. But you lose all the taste .

This problem can be big or small depending on the kind of book you’re reading.

If it’s a book about “HR best practices”, it’s likely fine to read the key ideas in 30 minutes.

If you’re reading personal development books or self-improvement books … well, my personal take here is that the key ideas are almost the same on all of these books. And you probably already know them. You’re lacking the motivation to implement them.

In this scenario, reading the original book could be better. The way the author communicates the message. The motivation examples he uses to reinforce it are what really matter and they’re likely gonna be missing in the summaries.

So, if you are the kind of person that could benefit from nonfiction book summaries, let’s find out what’s the best app for you.

My criteria to pick the best book summary apps in 2024

Before I started the free trial of all these book summary apps, I’ve defined some personal criteria to pick which one I would subscribe to and which will be canceled.

I defined four main categories to rank the apps:

• Book catalog : How many book summaries do they have? Do they have the books I want to read? This is a big one and a deal-breaker for me.
• Summary quality : Another critical factor. Is the summary good? Did they capture the core ideas? Is the quality consistent across multiple books?
• Original content : Do they also have their own original content on top of book summaries? Are they any good?
• Features : do they have a mobile app? Is the website or app easy to use? Do they have any interesting unique features?

As you can see I’ve not added price as a relevant category. That’s because, no matter what’s the cost, if I’ll read summaries in a consistent way, I’ll save a lot of money compared to buying each individual book.

I actually added the last two categories after I started testing the various apps. Seems like all of them are moving beyond just book summaries and are starting to produce their own original content. Often curated summaries of multiple books on a specific topic.

On the features side, most of them nowadays also do audio summaries of most books (but machine-generated audio). I also find the usability of the app a very important factor given I’ll be using it every day.

Finally, if you’re curious to know how I tested the catalog section, here’s the list of 12 books I’ve been looking for:

• Why we sleep
• Atomic Habits
• No Rules Rule
• The subtle art of not giving a f**k
• AI Superpowers
• Lost and Founder
• The revenue marketing book
• The unicorn project
• How to lie with statistics
• Traffic secrets
• The making of a manager

Ok, time to start reading some book summaries and pick a winner!

Blinkist is probably the most known summary app in the market and the one that really started this industry. It’s reasonably priced, starting at $14.99 per month or $89.99 per year and it works like a charm.

They divide book summaries into what they call blinks. It’s usually a good mapping to the book chapters or main ideas. Each Blink usually takes no more than 5 minutes to read (or listen). At the end of the book summary, there is always a final part that recaps all the core ideas of the book.

Being the oldest book summary service the quality and catalog are usually very good.

Catalog – Vote 8

In Blinkist I was able to find 8 out of the 12 titles I used for the test. Good but not crazy good. I was actually expecting something better from their 4,500+ book summaries catalog.

Clearly, they’re focusing more and more on their original productions. If a title is a bestseller, it’s 99% sure you’ll find it in Blinkist. When you look for more niche books, there’s a 50-50 chance of not finding them.

Quality – Vote 7

The good thing about Blinkist is their consistency. You can expect all the book summaries to have quite good quality. They summarize a lot. Sometimes I would have preferred some more info on specific details.

The average summary takes 15 minutes to read. I would have preferred to go up to 30 minutes and get more details.

Still, they did a pretty good job in identifying all the core concepts of each book and expressing it in a very compelling way.

Original Content – Vote 7

Most of their original content is in form of Shortcasts. You can think of them as mini podcasts where every episode is usually 10 minutes long. There’s also a written summary for each episode.

They are of good quality and with a good selection of authors. However, I’m not a super fan of the audio format so I ended up not consuming them a lot.

Features – Vote 7

Blinkist has a very good offer. You can read on a desktop through a browser, on mobile, and on tablets.

The quality is very good with very high readability of the book summaries.

The thing I didn’t like was the inconsistency of the user experience across devices.

I LOVE the fact that you can highlight text and save it for later. Going back through my highlights of a book is something I do often. Yet I was not able to understand how to do it on my iPad. And the sync between browser and iPad is odd.

On the browser, the main dashboard is focused on the books you’re reading. On iPad on the discovery of new content. Overall, their book summary app is good but not yet great.

One very nice feature that is worth mentioning is the capability to sync your highlights with Evernote and book summaries with Kindle to read them over there and keep under the same umbrella summaries and full books.

Update May 8th 2023: Blinkist has just been acquired by EdTech startup Go1 . While this will likely have no impact in the short term, things often tend to get messy post-acquisition and we’ll need to check if they’ll keep up with their current mission or align more with Go1 needs.

Update Jan 25th 2024: Luckily, the acquisition doesn’t seem to have impacted Blinkist. So far, they have kept releasing new book summaries at the same pace, and the quality has been consistent since the acquisition.

Shortform was relatively new to the game when I first wrote this blog post, but it’s now one of the market leaders. Their catalog, once relatively small is now almost on par with Blinkist and they keep adding new books consistently with a weekly cadence.

They charge $24 per month or $197 for the annual subscription. They offer a 5 days free trial where you can explore the catalog for free.

Overall they have the best book summaries of all the apps reviewed here, and three years later since I originally wrote this post, I’m still subscribed to their service, and it’s the only book summary app I use nowadays .

The catalog is smaller than Blinkist as you can expect from a newcomer in the market. They claim 1000+ book summaries and, as you can guess, most of them are bestsellers.

I was able to find only 5 of the 12 books used for the tests. I was hoping for something more, to be honest. Most of the marketing books were missing, and even in the bestsellers, there were some gaps.

The upside is that they seem to be adding new titles at a good pace.

( 2022 Update ) The catalog keeps growing slowly but consistently. They have recently launched a Video Summary series which is free on Youtube. They are also publishing super-short summaries on Instagram .

(2023 Update) Since they keep adding books at a great pace, with around 3 to 5 new titles published every week, I’ve rechecked my list, and now 7 out of 12 books are present, absolutely in line with the other top players. I’ve increased the score in this category to a solid 8.

(2024 Update) I’m really impressed by the work Shortform is doing to improve its catalog. I’m now (Jan. 2024) reading “Feel Good Productivity” which I bought from Amazon the day it was released assuming it would take forever to get a summary. Well turns out that after just a month, Shortform has already released the summary! Great job!

Quality – Vote 8.5

The quality of their summaries is the real strength of ShortForm. I love how they structure summaries and the level of depth.

Shortform has the only summaries that can really replace reading the whole book, in my opinion .

All the other apps are only useful to understand if you might like a book before buying it or absorbing a few quotes to sound smart with your friends.

They have a generous 1-page summary to get started with. It’s really high quality, and for a quick read, you could stop there.

But if you want to go more in-depth they also offer a more detailed summary chapter by chapter. When it makes sense, they also have exercises at the end of some chapters.

Another incredible strength of ShortForm is how they make connections outside the specific book to really help you understand the topic. They often mention other books covering the same topic to add value to the summary and give you more context / different points of view.

ShortForm has the best book summaries of the apps reviewed here. Period!

Original Content – Vote 6

They don’t offer original content, but they feature summaries of top articles from the US press. The selection is still fairly limited, with around 500 articles in the catalog. Nothing to go crazy for.

There’s an audio version for all the summaries, but it’s not human-narrated, it’s actually an AI voice, which I would not listen to for 30 minutes.

Features – Vote 8

Good web and mobile versions, so avid readers will enjoy their summaries everywhere.

The experience is consistent across devices and there’s full support for highlighting text or adding notes which, unlike Blinkist, works very well also on mobile.

A nice touch is the support for dark mode in the reader to enjoy your summaries also at night.

The mobile app improved a lot over the last year and it’s now very fast and responsive. Overall it’s a very pleasing experience.

A big one for Shortform is the possibility to download a book summary as a PDF . Way more flexible than the Kindle integration found in Blinkist.

Another feature that I love is their support for ReadWise syncing. ReadWise is my app of choice to gather together all the highlights from books and articles I’ve read and check them daily to brainstorm. It’s great to have my ShortForm highlights imported there.

Update 8/8/2022: Shortform has just released another great feature that saves me money and makes my life easier. They now integrate and sync notes with Notion!

Overall, it’s a great book summary app from a software standpoint, and they keep improving it at a good pace.

The cherry on the pie is a useful summarization Chrome extension that can help you summarize in one click any webpage you’re reading, even youtube videos. It works extremely well, and I’ve been using it more and more to extract key information from posts I was reading. Since we were talking about Notion, I also use it in my daily note-taking workflow to attach some notes to the URLs I’m storing in my second brain.

GetAbstract

GetAbstract has a very unique approach. They’ve been in the book summary apps space forever with a strong focus on enterprise offerings.

Looking at their website, it’s clear that their main focus is selling to companies to give multiuser access to their employees. Still, they also have subscription plans for private users with a $29.90 monthly price tag. It goes up to $290 for yearly subscriptions.

Oddly enough, if you connect from Europe, there’s also a cheaper plan that gives you access to a more limited catalog.

Their approach is different from all the other players. While everyone is playing in a grey area from a copyright standpoint, GetAbstract acquires the rights from the publisher before writing a book summary.

Catalog – Vote 4

Even tho’ they have the largest catalog with 20,000+ book summaries, they also have the worst catalog.

Since they try to acquire rights to summarize books, you’ll find a lot of niche books but very few best sellers. I found none of the 12 books I was looking for, which was shocking.

For some of them, a review was available. For others, they said they had selected the book as interesting and were trying to secure rights. For many nothing could be found.

Clearly, the focus of this book summary service is different from the others. If you’re looking for random books to read or some very niche stuff it could be a fit. Otherwise, I’d stay away.

Quality – Vote 6

Given their unique approach, I was expecting really high-quality summaries. I was disappointed.

Don’t get me wrong, they are good. But not mind-blowing. They are also quite short, in a way comparable to Blinkist. Audio summaries are available for most books and are usually 8-12 minutes long.

Unique Content – Vote 0

They don’t seem to have any unique content added to their offer. It’s not a big issue for me, as I’m mainly looking for book summaries.

My take here is that other players recognize there’s a copyright threat to their core offer. So, they started differentiating with more and more unique content. GetAbstract secured legal rights before writing a review so they didn’t feel the need to diversify their offer.

Features – Vote 6

Everything works smoothly both on the website and the mobile app.

They support highlighting, and they have the concept of channels where you can create (or consume) curated collections of books.

I don’t like the reading experience on browsers. A lot of distracting elements in the interface and small fonts make them look more like regular blog posts than the interface of an ebook reader. The experience is way better on the iPad app.

On the bright side, you can download a PDF version of all their summaries. Overall, it’s not among my favorite book summary apps.

Another consolidated player in the book summary apps space. Instaread ‘s unique take on book summary apps is to produce a lot of high-quality, unique content on top of summaries.

Pricing is relatively cheap; they start at $8.99 per month or $89 if you go yearly. They also have a nice lifetime deal where you can get unlimited access forever at $299. It’s not bad at all if you are planning to read book summaries as a life habit.

The free trial lasts 7 days.

Catalog – Vote 5.5

Instaread has 1,000+ book summaries like Shortform but in my selection of 12 books, I was able to find only 4 of them, the big hits. None of the more niche books I was looking for were available.

This may also be due to the fact that within the 1,000-plus books, they also list a lot of fiction.

When it comes to the quality of the content… It’s okay but not my favorite one. It’s basically a collection of chapter summaries with the key takeaways of each chapter.

Everything is very condensed and schematic with a bullet-point approach. I don’t love it, but that’s a matter of personal taste. I have to admit it’s well done.

I missed the one-pager introduction that ShortForm has.

An audio version is available for every book. Like the other apps, it’s not human read, but it’s a generated voice.

Unique Content – Vote 8

Instaread clearly bets heavily on original content.

First of all (even tho’ it’s not unique), they have a large collection of article summaries from top publishers they’ve partnered with. This includes articles from The New York Times, Harvard Business Reviews, and many others.

On top of this, they have a lot of Instaread Originals. Short-form books on almost any subject. A strong area of attention seems to be biographies. They cover anyone from Kamala Harris to Jack Dorsey. They are usually well-done and insightful. Reading time for their originals averages on the 15 minutes mark.

Features – 6

They support both web and mobile with a pretty good app.

The reading experience is ok, even though moving from one chapter summary to the next could be better.

A unique feature of the mobile app is the Cards section, where you can read through cards, each containing a key takeaway from the book.

It’s not possible to save highlights from the summaries… this, for me, is a real deal-breaker.

Headway is a newcomer to this list, added in 2024. It’s becoming really popular and has an impressive growth.

Pricing starts at $14.99 per month, but, full disclosure: they were nice enough to give me a free account for this review.

I just discovered that as of January 2024, it’s being listed on AppSumo to purchase as a lifetime deal for $59. A true bargain if you end up liking the app. This is great news but also a bit scary… I’m often a bit skeptical of mature companies running lifetime deals… they are great when you get started as a marketing opportunity, but in the long run, they are not economically sustainable.

Headway has a very unique positioning within the book summary apps space. While competitors focus a lot on the core idea of book summaries, Headway wants to position itself as a personal growth tool with a lot of emphasis on self-assessment tests and reading lists based on which area you want to improve.

This approach is somehow refreshing, especially for users who are not book nerds with a long list of titles they want to read but rather have an objective they want to achieve.

Now, let’s see how it compares to the other tools in my four categories!

Catalog – 8

The catalog is large, even though it’s slightly skewed towards personal growth books. However, I found 7 out of the 12 books in my test list. It’s worth noting that 3 to 4 books in the list are very niche, and it’s not surprising that they’re not here.

Anyway, they keep adding new books quickly, and I found many relatively new books. It’s worth noting, however, that in the last few months, they appear to have reduced the pace of publishing.

Overall, I think it’s almost comparable to Blinkist and maybe larger than Shortform.

Quality – 6

This is probably the most disappointing part of Headway… it’s also very personal so you should decide by yourself: I don’t like too much their summaries.

The idea is good; for every book, they highlight some key concepts and you can read through each one of them to go more in-depth. Each point, on average, is longer than alternatives like Blinkist, but is nowhere near the depth and quality of Shortform.

Very often, it seems more like a collection of quotes and sentences taken from the book rather than a straight-to-the-point summary. 

The idea of having one or more key concepts within each chapter that you can easily save and then access later in the form of a flash card is very nice. And effective when well executed. It’s not always the case.

As an example on a page from “AI Superpowers” about the AI revolution and how it will eliminate manual laborers, the key takeaway that you can save is: 

“The internet connects the world easily and quickly, creating an environment where ideas can be exchanged and discussed.”

This is completely off-point and obvious… thank you for reminding me what the internet is!

The quality varies a lot from book to book, and it’s often inconsistent.

Original Content – 4

Headway doesn’t produce original content, but I’m feeling generous, and I’ll consider as original content their effort in content curation.

They do have many guided “challenges” to learn something new. Each challenge has a duration of days, and each day it’ll recommend reading a specific book from a curated list to learn a new skill. It’s nice and well-curated.

They also produced some “Visual stories” for bestsellers. Think of them as Instagram stories for book summaries. There are few of them, and honestly, they are pointless. Here’s an example:

Can you see the problem? it looks half-baked. The text is small for the amount of space available but most of all… the illustration is nice but completely useless to help you better understand the concept.

I think this is a big missed opportunity. Some people need visuals to learn new concepts. And an Infographic-like approach could have helped a lot differentiate Headway from competitors. These illustrations are nice but don’t add anything in terms of value.

Features – 5

The app is overall okay but doesn’t shine.

It has a nice UI in category pages, but I don’t love the reading interface… it’s too minimal and with little control over fonts.

One key feature that is missing is a web version; I get it… their approach is so unique it needs to be mobile first. On the other hand, now and then, I find it useful to access book summaries from the web browser too. Especially for copying and pasting to take notes.

Notes are the other issue I have with the App. While Headway lets you highlight and store text, everything remains within the app. As of now, there’s no integration with ReadWise or Notion.

Mentorist is a new entry I’ve discovered in January 2023.

It has a unique twist. Their focus is not only on summarizing books but more on helping you execute what you learn.

I can relate to the core value proposition of this app. Way too many people use the number of books they read in a year as their key metric rather than focusing on really understanding the book and taking action.

That’s what intrigued me the most about this app. Let’s see if it lived up to its promises.

Catalog – 5

The catalog here is very limited. Out of the 12 books in my basket, I was only able to find 3, the most popular ones, and focused on self-growth. Quite surprisingly, they didn’t even have “No rules rule” which is very popular.

A back of the napkins calculation based on their books page as of March 2022, shows only 182 books in their catalog.

Somehow this was expected, Metorist launched later compared to its competitors in the book summary space, and clearly, it still has to build its catalog.

The good note is that since I’ve signed up to the service, they’ve been adding 2 to 4 books every week and the browsing of the catalog is very pleasant with a lot of curated collections.

What can I say… it’s acceptable but not great. The summaries are very short, divided into short pages. Most books range from 10 to 20 pages, and there’s a bit of inconsistency among the length of the pages from one book to another.

What I did like about Mentorist is the audio summary. It’s usually in the 20-minute range, and finally, it’s not recorded by a robotic voice but read by a human being. Overall listening to the summaries has been quite a pleasant experience.

Personally, I think I’d use it to understand if I want to buy and read the full version of a book or to read something I’m not really interested in. For something that I care about, the summaries are too short.

Unique Content – 0

Right now Mentorist doesn’t have any unique content and they’re only focusing on summarizing popular books.

It’s a choice that somehow makes sense given they’ve chosen the app dynamics as a differentiator while other players in the space all have the same kind of app and are trying to diversify themselves more based on the catalog and their unique content catalog.

Features – 8

Feature-wise, Mentorist built a pretty good App to consume summarized books. As you can see it support dark mode and overall it’s always pretty fast and responsive.

The thing that I like the least is the reading experience. Instead of a full-page reader, it opens the summary in a relatively small window.

Highlights work very well with a dedicated page to check them and the capability to set reminders to read them again and set aside some time to brainstorm.

Finally, at the end of each book’s summary page, there’s an actionable takeaway that you can add to your list. It only takes one click and comes with some quick steps to execute it.

Once added you’ll be asked what’s the objective you want to achieve with that specific takeaway and you’ll receive reminders.

You can also log your progress and add notes.

Overall it’s a very good app with a strong idea behind it.

Good enough to forget about the small catalog and the mid-quality summaries? Not for me. I don’t think a “todo-list” tied to a book summary will make much of a difference for me. But if they improve the quality and the catalog they might be on the right path to have real differentiation in this market.

Other Book Summary Websites

There are a lot of other players in the space. I’ve tried a bunch of them, like 12min , Perlego , and ReadinGraphics for visual learners.

All of these websites offer their own take in the “app that summarizes books” space. I don’t think it’s worth mentioning them in this comparison because of their catalog size.

It’s gonna be interesting to revisit them in a year (yes, I promise I’ll keep this updated at least yearly) and see which one increased its catalog the most to become more appealing.

What’s gonna happen to the book summaries space?

My personal take is that this space is too crowded with very little differentiation between players.

Adding more books, of course, is the best way to get more customers. On the other side once all the best-sellers are covered, scaling up the number of summaries for niche books might be too expensive compared to the number of potential customers they could bring in.

This might also open opportunities for smaller players that focus on a specific niche. As an example, I’d be 100% happy to signup even at a premium price to a service specialized in marketing books.

The other question mark is legal. I’m not a lawyer, so I don’t know if book summaries are legal or not. For sure, things are changing. A few years ago, all the services were using original covers of the books. Nowadays, no one does.

For sure, there’s a level of risk involved in this business, and should the space become big enough, publishers could partner with these apps or go hard against them and keep all the pie for themselves.

Finally, another potential disruption to this industry could be AI and, specifically GPT-3. This new system has already proven to be able to write books… it’s gonna be relatively simple to use it to write book summaries at scale and with good consistency.

The Best Book Summary App in 2024

Guess it’s time to declare a winner.

Let’s go by exclusion!

getAbstract … sorry not my cup of tea. I loved the fact that you were the only ones not forcing me to insert the credit card to join the trial… but your catalog is just not a good fit for my interests.

Mentorist … The idea behind it it’s nice, helping you put into practice what you learn. But the catalog and the summary length are not where they should be right now.

Headway… It’s a missed opportunity. They have the unique concept of focusing more on a personal-growth path rather than just book reviews. It remains an idea poorly executed.

Instaread … well played with original contents and article summaries, but you didn’t excel in the catalog or the summary quality so I don’t see a reason to sign up; I’m canceling my trial, but you could be a good fit for many.

Blinkist …size does matter. And when it comes to the books that I care about, they have the largest database. However, quality matters the most for me, that’s why in the 2022 update, I’ve moved Blinkist to the second spot. Their summaries are just too short for me. They don’t have the best mobile App. Overall, the quality is consistent, and it’s reasonably priced.

ShortForm … It’s my winner for the 2024 edition of this post. The catalog is not yet where I’d love it to be, but it keeps growing, the app is great. They let me download PDF versions of the summaries, and the quality of the summaries is just great. By far the only ones that can really replace reading the full book and passing enough information to make it actionable. It’s more expensive, but it’s a price I’m more than happy to pay for the value I’m getting.

Taking everything into account, ShortForm is the winner of my roundup of the best book summary websites in 2024.

Conclusions

That’s it for this year. It was a tight Blinkist vs Short Form battle, but in the end, to call a winner, I just went with the one I keep using way more often. If you want to pick just one app go for ShortForm , you won’t regret it. If you can afford to spend a bit more, add Blinkist to the mix to get a quick overview on a broader number of books.

I hope I have helped you save some time and money by picking the best tool among all the book summary sites.

Now, it’s up to you to decide if reading book summaries is good enough for you. I still have mixed feelings about it and wish I had more time to read the full-length books. Unluckily, I don’t, and I found these summaries to be useful when there’s something I know I would not love to read, but would still be valuable for my personal growth.

Did I forget some Apps in this roundup? If there’s any service worth testing that I didn’t mention, just let me know in the comments below and I’ll be happy to add it.

Bonus Tip: Book Summary Apps coupon code

Nah, I’m just kidding. I don’t have any coupon code. BUT…

I have a couple of tips to save some money when subscribing to most of these apps.

First of all, wait for the full length of your trial. Some of them might send you a 10% discount if you upgrade to a paid plan earlier.

Second, signup through their websites, not the mobile app. This is for a couple of reasons:

• Some websites have popups that offer a 10% discount if you sign up for a trial
• Some Apps actually have different pricing if you subscribe on the browser or on mobile. Mobile is usually expensive (because of % they have to pay Apple and Google)

Finally, even if you should not do it, if you live in Europe with the current crazy EUR/USD exchange rate, you might want to use a VPN and sign up in $ masking your connection as a US resident. I use TunnelBear for this usually.

Massimo Chieruzzi

I'm Massimo and I run this blog. I'm a jack of all trades, master of none, juggling between startups, marketing, and product. You might know me as the co-founder of AdEspresso and Breadcrumbs. This blog is my playground where I build stupid tools to solve everyday marketing problems and experiment with the latest marketing tactics!

Related Posts

Book Review: CA$HVERTISING

Lost and Founder by Rand Fishkin: Review & Personal Thoughts

The Revenue Marketing Book – Review

23 comments.

July 26, 2022

Hey Massimo! First of all, congrats on the excellent post! Strict to the point, you reviewed what really matters. I want to ask you if you have ever heard/tried Accel5, from EBSCO? Their content seems niched for me, but I've found some engaging titles there and also liked the quality of the first summary I got. Have a nice week Best, Thiago

July 27, 2022

Thanks for pointing that out Thiago, I had never heard of them but the catalog looks interesting enough, I'll try to check them out in the near future!

August 13, 2022

I really love your breakdown here. For me Shortform is also the clear winner. One thing to keep in mind which is a bit unfortunate is that in recent months shortform decided to stick to publishing new summaries exclusively as 1-page summaries. In the past the 1-page summary was the brief introduction and you could read the whole deep dive afterwards. Now there is no deep dive anymore which unfortunately brings it down to the level of blinkist because I feel like I'm missing out on the detailed analysis...

September 5, 2022

Hey Timon, Yeah, that's an unfortunate choice even tho' I get the rationale behind it from an economic standpoint :( I'll reach out to them to get more insights and update the post. I'm also afraid the decision was based on monitoring users' behavior and realizing that most users were stopping at the 1 pager. Still, I find their one-pager way more in depth and well done than Blinkist. Ciao! Max

August 16, 2022

Why isn’t summary.com listed in this comparison?

Hey Ryan, Good catch, I had never heard of it, I'll check it out and update the post! Max

October 29, 2022

Nice! I'd like to publish a translation of this article in my site. I think my readers will enjoy what you have to say. Is it possible? :)

Yes as long as you give credit and link the original article on top of your translated one :)

I really really loves reading this blog post. Very insightful abd thank you for the time you took to put this together. I never wrote s feedback on a blog before but here you go, this one is just wow. Loved it. I'll sign up to one of these apps.

November 7, 2022

November 17, 2022

Would love to hear your thoughts on Headway - I'm about to end my trial and enjoyed the summary I read but obviously I want the best app possible.

December 5, 2022

I'll try to add Headway in my next review of this post for 2023 :)

January 24, 2023

Thanks for a very thorough write up. Is there anyway to find out if a specific book is covered PRIOR to signing up for Blink or Shortform.? Do they have a public index?

January 25, 2023

Hey Neil, It's a bit tricky but you can. For Shortform, here you'll find a list of books by genre. Those with the button "Read full summary" are in their library. For Blinkist just use their top navigation under Explore :)

April 15, 2023

I'm so excited to read this one. It's wonderful!!

Book summaries

May 17, 2023

May 18, 2023

No sorry, I'm planning to go multi-language at some point, also your blog seems to be in english :)

September 28, 2023

Thank you so much for this excellent source of info on summary apps. I am now 70 yo and just do not want to waste my time and funds at this point. You have helped me!

November 30, 2023

Glad to hear that Paula!!

February 4, 2024

where is the summary of this page? kidding..thanks for great review. usually such comparison reviews have a comparison table at the bottom with a full view across all apps and ratings. helps to see a bigger picture?

ahahhaha that's a great point thanks! I'll try to add it asap, over time this review has become huge :)

March 5, 2024

This post was AMAZING!!! I wish you had a review on literally everything! Thank you for taking the time to update this annually. This space is growing and being able to come to a trusted source for the best option saved me much appreciated time and money! Your thorough, helpful, and reliable all key qualities that seem difficult to find these days🤍

March 8, 2024

Wow, this was incredibly thorough and helpful. I also subscribe to shortform but was wondering if there was anything out there with comparable summary quality and a lower price. Now, I'm happy to stay with them :)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Gov. DeSantis signs book review, charter school changes

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (NSF) — After more than 1,200 objections were filed to school-library books and other materials last school year, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday signed a bill that will limit challenges by some people.

The wide-ranging bill (HB 1285) also includes making changes designed to ease the process of charter schools taking over operations at traditional public schools that lag in performance.

RELATED: Gov. DeSantis to pave way for more public-to-charter school conversions in Florida

The part of the measure dealing with book challenges came after the Republican-controlled Legislature and DeSantis in the past two years approved measures that ramped up scrutiny of library books and classroom materials. It also came after highly publicized disputes about removing books.

More than half of the 1,218 book objections during the 2022-2023 school year occurred in two counties, Clay and Escambia, according to a Senate staff analysis. The objections resulted in the removal of 186 books in the two counties.

The bill will require that any “resident of the county who is not the parent or guardian of a student with access to school district materials may not object to more than one material per month.”

TRENDING: Alachua County elementary teacher named presidential math, science award finalist

During a media event Monday, DeSantis said that some people who filed mass objections to books made a “mockery” of the process.

“The idea that someone can use the parents’ rights and the curriculum transparency to start objecting to every single book, to try to make a mockery of this, is wrong. And you had examples where books were put under review that are just normal books that have been in education for many many years,” DeSantis said.

Using the example of Escambia County, DeSantis said the county “had a lot of books that should not have been under review” and said instances of mass book objections came “from all ends of the political spectrum.”

“There’s some people that really think all these books that have been in school are inappropriate. There’s other people that know that they’re appropriate, but are trying to act like Florida does not want these books in,” DeSantis said.

Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. said Monday that the new limit on book challenges will help school districts in reviewing objections.

“That will make the process easier for the district to get through, because you can actually review the book in a timely manner,” Diaz said.

RELATED: Parents vote on Newberry public-to-charter schools proposal

Meanwhile, parts of the bill related to underperforming public schools would “add some oomph” to the state’s process of allowing charter schools to take over operations, DeSantis said.

Under state law, if a school receives consecutive D or F grades based on various performance criteria, the school is given two years to improve to a C grade under what’s known as a “turnaround plan.” If the school’s grade doesn’t make such an improvement, one option is for the school to close and reopen as a charter school.

The bill signed Tuesday will speed up the process of converting traditional public schools to charter schools under such circumstances, in part by giving districts a deadline to execute charter contracts. For schools reopening as charters, districts would have to execute contracts by Oct. 1 of the following school year, and charter organizations would assume “full operational control” by July.

Speaking Monday at a Pensacola school that was taken over by a charter operator after lagging in performance, DeSantis said the transition “took forever.”

“That’s not what we want to be happening, where this stuff takes forever and a day. I mean, if you have a school that is getting F grades, we need to remediate very quickly. If you drag your feet for three or four years, those are three or four years of students that are not getting the type of education that they should be getting,” DeSantis said at Warrington Preparatory Academy.

Changes in the bill also include requiring charter operators that take over traditional public schools to serve the same grade levels as the traditional schools did, “at its current enrollment or higher,” but also give charters the option to offer additional grade levels.

RELATED: Alachua County Public Schools board members scheduled to vote on year-round schools

The law also will direct state education officials to create a “classical education teaching certificate.” The certificates would only be valid at classical schools, and to obtain them applicants would have to meet most — but not all — requirements that traditional public-school teachers would have to meet.

Applicants for classical education certificates would be exempt from meeting requirements that they “demonstrate mastery of general knowledge,” “demonstrate mastery of subject area knowledge,” or demonstrate “mastery of professional preparation” and education competence.

The state has 18 classical charter schools in nine districts, according to the bill analysis.

“We have such a growth in the classical space, and those classical teachers have to be different,” Diaz said. “And so, we want to be able to have certification for those teachers that are going into a classical model where the most important piece is, yes, they have a license, but what is the professional development attached to that?”

Speaking at a classical school in Jacksonville where DeSantis signed the bill Tuesday, Diaz added that education officials did not want classical certificates to carry the same requirements as school districts, “because classical schools do it very differently.”

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

Copyright 2024 WCJB. All rights reserved.

Celebration Pointe files for bankruptcy

Solar eclipse to pass over North Central Florida

Chef stabbed during kitchen brawl at Japanese restaurant in Gainesville

Deputies identify slain Newberry High School student

Marion County woman sentenced to life in prison for mistaken identity murder

Latest news.

Dixie County deputy named as defendant in non-profit embezzlement case

P.K. Yonge parents frustrated after UF Board of Trustees propose change to admissions

Alachua County School Board members send year-round plans back to state

YouTube Kids Series ‘Tab Time’ Debuts New App, Children’s Book Series and Online Store (EXCLUSIVE)

By Sharareh Drury

Sharareh Drury

• YouTube Kids Series ‘Tab Time’ Debuts New App, Children’s Book Series and Online Store (EXCLUSIVE) 5 days ago
• Palestinian Directors Farah Nabulsi, Darin J. Sallam on Difficulties Telling Palestinian Stories, Hopes to ‘Preserve Our History’ Through Film 3 weeks ago
• ‘Dune 2’ Criticized for Lack of Middle Eastern and North African Inclusion and Influences: ‘A Missed Opportunity’ 3 weeks ago

YouTube’s popular “ Tab Time ” series, starring “America’s mom” and Emmy-winning host Tabitha Brown, just got bigger.

Brown and creative studio Kids at Play have announced the launch of the “Tab Time World” app plus an all-new children’s book series and online shop as an expansion of the Emmy-winning young children’s series “Tab Time,” co-created by Brown and Kids at Play founder Jason Berger.

The eBooks and App, developed in partnership with Google Kids Space, will be available for free exclusively on Google Kids Space and Google Play for a limited time. Additionally, the books will be available in the “Tab Time World” app and everywhere eBooks are sold. “‘Tab Time’ is special to so many of us and expanding keeps our hearts and minds open for love to grow! Parents and kids love smart devices and to give them self-love and learning tools from ‘Tab Time’ in books and apps was in perfect alignment,” Brown says of the new offerings. “I’m excited for families to get to experience it all together! The more we gather with learning and love, the better the world will be! That’s what ‘Tab Time’ is all about and that makes me so excited.”

Popular on Variety

Brown narrates the new interactive comic picture series, which was written by “Tab Time” showrunner Sean Presant and illustrated by “Tab Time” animator Michael Scanlon. The first two books in the series are “Avi to the Rescue” and “Lenny and the Truck-Driving Dinosaurs,” each based on characters from the hybrid live-action/animated series.

Brown notes that upcoming stories in the book series will follow episodes from the YouTube series.

“The stories will piggyback off the episodes. Like when we feel afraid, or when we make a mistake, that’s really an oops-ortunity. We’re helping kids give themselves space and time to grow, learn, respect and love themselves and others,” she says.

Additionally, the show has launched an official store on  shop.tabtime.tv , featuring “Tab Time” themed backpacks, shirts, hoodies, hats, bibs, onesies, sippy cups, blankets, bags and more.

“The shop is really a response to demand. When we first launched ‘Tab Time,’ parents and kids were creating their own amazing  DIY-style costumes and such. So, with the shop, we are providing an official source with quality materials and fun artwork for parents and kids who want to bring the digital world of ‘Tab Time’ to their physical reality,” Berger says.

Tabitha Brown is represented by CAA and Brecheen, Feldman, Breimer, Silver & Thompson, LLP. Jason Berger is represented by UTA, Artists First and Rothenberg, Mohr and Binder, LLP. Sean Presant is repped by Nick Terry at World Builder Entertainment. “Tab Time World” was developed by Kids at Play and Space Inch.

Watch a visual tour about the new “Tab Time World” app below.

More From Our Brands

Kid cudi added to coachella 2024 weekend two lineup, robb report’s napa valley wine club has 3 stellar new reds on the way, caitlin clark smashes another tv record as wnba draft draws 2.45m, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, christina applegate: i was asked to join real housewives of beverly hills but ‘i would be the worst housewife’, verify it's you, please log in.

Globe Life Insurance Review

Globe life controversy, globe life insurance plans available, how much does globe life insurance cost, how to file a claims with globe life insurance, globe life insurance faqs.

• Why You Should Trust Us

Globe Life Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Planning for the future is the foundation that continues to draw customers to life insurance companies like Globe Life. Since 1900, Globe Life has helped individuals to face the unexpected and ensure a secure financial future for loved ones.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing on whole and term life insurance products
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all states except Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Whole life insurance death benefits are limited
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No options for investment or accelerated death benefits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No claims filing options online

Life insurance is more diverse than ever before. Its foundation remains supporting families after the passing of a loved one. Globe Life issues 16.8 million policies, more than any of the nation's leading life insurance companies. But volume is only part of the picture.

Globe Life's zero-risk, money-back guarantee makes its policies an excellent fit for middle-income individuals looking to purchase directly from the company with no medical exam and short wait times. In addition, with benefits topping out at just $100,000, life insurance coverage from Globe Life is a good choice for individuals looking to supplement existing or employer-provided life insurance and those seeking coverage for additional family members.

However, even the best no medical exam life insurance doesn't always mean guaranteed acceptance. Buyers should expect medical questions, and the company may request medical records. Its underwriting decisions, especially for more comprehensive policies, will factor in this medical data.

Globe Life's forte is low-cost funeral plans, and customer reviews indicate it delivers on its promises. Kathy of Londonderry, OH, left a review on ConsumerAffairs after losing her 19-year-old grandson, saying, "I am so thankful to Globe Life. We could not have taken care of him without the policy. The funeral cost were paid very quickly with no stress of me handling anything and I could stay focused on what needed done."

Globe Life has been under pressure due to a series of investigations and lawsuits alleging a toxic work environment, deceptive consumer practices, and fraud. Its stock plunged about 50% in mid-April 2024 after a short-seller issued a scathing report describing, among other things, a work culture, "permissive of sexual assault, rape, racism, and widespread illicit drug activity" within American Income Life, a subsidiary of Globe Life. Globe Life denied the allegations, saying in a statement  that the short-seller "mischaracterizes facts and uses unsubstantiated claims and conjecture to present an overall picture of Globe Life that is deliberately false, misleading, and defamatory."

In March 2024, the Department of Justice subpoenaed AIL and Globe Life for documents related to Arias Organization, an affiliate insurance agency. The DOJ investigation, as well as two open investigations conducted by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, appear to be ongoing. 

Globe Term Life Insurance

Globe Life offers term life insurance coverage ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Policies are purchased directly from the company with no medical exam and quick underwriting. Once your application is approved, Globe Life benefits and monthly premiums remain fixed when policyholders make payments on time.

Like any other term policy, Globe Life's policies expire after the set term. Globe Life mentions converting term policies to whole life insurance policies to make coverage permanent. But the website is light on details, focusing on extremely low premiums for specific customers. Globe Life's term life policies are available for adults and children. All applications are subject to underwriting approval. So the pricing listed online (and your acceptance) may vary when you secure the policy.

Globe Whole Life Insurance

Globe Life offers whole life policies with benefits from $5,000 to $50,000. You can purchase policies directly from the company with no medical exam and no long wait times. Rates remain constant for life, as does coverage (when premiums are paid on time), which means you can rest assured in your chosen coverage.

Remember, Globe Life's underwriting will not approve every application, especially with higher limits. No medical exam does not translate into no medical information required. Buyers will need to answer some medical questions, and the company can pull electronic medical records to make its decision. No medical policies are typically sold to select groups like seniors looking for funeral policies or young, healthy buyers willing to pay higher premiums for lower coverage to avoid a medical exam.

Globe Children's Life Insurance

Whole life insurance for kids (or grandkids) is available from Globe Life in numbers ranging from $5,000-$30,000. Full coverage and benefits begin on day one. Available with no medical exam and zero waiting, a hassle-free policy from Globe Life might be the easiest part of welcoming a new member to your family. Benefits remain constant for life, despite age, health status, or occupation when premiums are paid on time.

As with its adult policies, Globe Life offers children whole and term life insurance options. Applicants who get approval for children's policies can also buy more comprehensive policies as adults. However, these smaller policies offer a gateway into life insurance and its financial benefits early in life. Children's life insurance can be a wealth-building tool, particularly with its whole life policies. It's never too early for financial planning.

It's easy to find comparable adult policies through other companies. However, Globe Life's life insurance for children faces less competition overall.

Globe Final Expense Life Insurance

Many of Globe Life's policies could be considered "final expense" policies. By this, we mean the limits are low and only meant to cover funeral costs and a small amount of debt. However, it provides a specific product for seniors comfortable with lower coverage amounts. As a result, approval is often more straightforward.

This policy type comes with obvious limits (the death benefit). However, buyers should also be aware of other limitations, like the inability to build cash value over time. So no matter how long you live, the value will remain the same.

Additional Coverage Options Offered by Globe Life

Accidental Benefits Insurance

You can prepare for the unexpected and the financial strain that can accompany it with an extra layer of protection. Accidental death insurance from Globe Life provides up to $250,000 worth of coverage in the case of accidental death for just $1 to start. In addition, acceptance is guaranteed regardless of health for individuals aged 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage for myriad issues from inflation and education to dismemberment and paralysis.

Accidental death coverage only pays out if you're killed in an accident. Causes could include travel-related accidents, trips and falls, poisonings, etc. It would not cover terminal illnesses, extended injuries after an accident, or dying from old age. Globe life also has a supplemental accidental insurance product. Accidental death coverage helps buyers with ambulance riders, ICU stays, and other medical costs of accidents that don't result in death.

Mortgage Protection Insurance

You can protect your family's biggest asset and a potential source of stress in the event of your accidental death. For just a fraction of your monthly mortgage payment, this type of accidental death and dismemberment policy provides between $50,000-$350,000 to pay off your home mortgage. If the payout doesn't pay off your mortgage, loved ones could then look into options to refinance the smaller debt to lower monthly payments.

Rates start at just $5.50 per month, and acceptance is guaranteed for individuals ages 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage in the case of a common disaster or commercially scheduled airline accident, among others.

One important thing to note is this is an accidental death and dismemberment policy. In short, it's not a comprehensive plan for every cause of death. Benefits would only apply after a covered accident. The limits are part of what makes this policy so cheap. It's excellent for a policyholder's prime working years but may not be as beneficial for retirees.

Globe Life's advertised rates are affordable, with types of life insurance  for adults and children starting at $1 for the first month, after which the rate is based on the individual's current age and guaranteed for the policy terms. Unlike some competitors, Globe Life also offers a limited money-back guarantee. If unsatisfied, return your policy within 30 days for a full refund.

Globe Life offers many cheap plans with low payouts. These are great for buyers on a tight budget or those seeking easy approval for a funeral cost plan. However, buyers looking for large plans for retirement or other financial planning would find better products with other companies.

Anyone can file a claim with Globe Life, including a spouse, child, another beneficiary, or a family spokesperson (including a representative from a funeral home). Providing the following information will expedite the claims process:

• Life insurance policy number
• Contact info for the beneficiary
• Official death certificate
• Copy of obituary
• Coroner's and/or police report (in the case of accident, homicide, or suicide)

Once gathered, mail all documents to the following:

Globe Life Inc.

PO Box 8076

Attn: Life Claims Department

McKinney, TX 75070

On average, it takes Globe Life 10-15 days to receive, log and process the information included in the above documents. Please bear in mind processing times can vary. Globe Life representatives will notify you should additional information be needed.

It only takes a few minutes to complete its easy online application. Once approved, Globe Life will send a copy of your policy via mail.

Obtaining additional life insurance coverage for family members is easy with Globe Life's e-ServiceCenter. New applications for adults and children are accessible with your current login information if you have an existing plan. New customers can also apply online or over the phone.

Once you've begun the claims process, Globe Life offers phone and online-based customer service. Call Customer Service at 1-888-650-4081 or visit the company's eServiceCenter to check the status of a claim you've filed.

Globe Life Insurance Competitors

Learn more about Globe Life Insurance and whether it is the right life insurance company for you.

Globe Life vs. State Farm Life Insurance

Globe Life prides itself on simple, standard coverage delivering death benefits topping out at $100,000 compared to more robust options from State Farm . Globe Life focuses mainly on small funeral policies or accident coverage. State Farm offers larger payouts and options like its Survivorship Universal Life Insurance, which covers two individuals. So, for example, a husband and wife could buy a policy, and the value would be based on the couple's combined lifespan and qualifications.

Globe Life scored 798 on the latest JD Power US Individual Life Insurance Study. In short, the company earns consistently high marks from customers. Still, State Farm outranks Globe Life with a score of 843. With State Farm, applicants may have to submit to a medical exam. But the company offers more comprehensive policies to pay out in more flexible circumstances. It also has more permanent life insurance options to meet diverse needs. Most importantly, buyers can bundle State Farm life insurance with homeowners, auto, and other State Farm plans.

As you might expect from its JD Power rankings, State Farm customers have a lot to say about the package it provides. Mb of Palm Springs, CA, left a review on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "State Farm may or may not be the cheapest. However, their customer service is outstanding. They proactively contact me to review my insurance once a year. They always answer my questions quickly and clearly. If they don't know immediately, they are willing to admit they don't know and always follow-up ASAP."

State Farm Life Insurance Review

Globe Life vs. Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life has become known for its quick and flexible whole and term life policies. Especially with its accidental death policies, Globe Life offers no medical exam options with fast approvals. Mutual of Omaha is not quite as cheap. Term Life Express is the company's only option for life insurance with no medical exam. But it comes with significantly higher limits than any of Globe Life's policies for all causes of death (not just approved accidents) up to $300,000. The company's strong financial backing means building cash value is easy, as evidenced by options including Universal Life Insurance (boasting coverage over $1 million) and Indexed Universal Life Insurance (a flexible albeit risky way to build cash value).

Both companies have whole life policies. Again, Mutual of Omaha offers a diverse range of policies with higher benefits. Mutual of Omaha customers can enjoy accelerated death benefits in the event of a terminal disease and other riders. Its underwriting may take longer than Globe Life's, but the higher benefits will pay off in the long run for approved customers. At this time, both companies enjoy high customer satisfaction rankings with JD Power.

Most importantly, Mutual of Omaha will likely never offer the bargain policies Globe Life does. But customers still find pricing reasonable. Wendy of Enola, PA, reviewed Mutual of Omaha on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "I have a practical and effective insurance policy with great and affordable rates. Company has an excellent and easy to use website."

Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life vs. SBLI 

SBLI offers Cherish Life final expense insurance up to $35,000 in coverage with two significant benefits. SBLI customers can apply until age 80, and beneficiaries can use benefits to pay for any of the insured's expenses. Globe Life has a cut-off age of 75 to apply. Both companies offer whole and term life insurance policies. Both companies also have no medical exam life insurance options.

At this time, Globe Life's listed policy limits are low. Most policies cover funeral costs. Plans with higher benefits are mostly accident policies (it only pays out if you die due to a covered accident). SBLI doesn't list its limits on its site. However, it focuses on whole and term life insurance for any cause of death.

The customer reviews tell a great story about SBLI. Trustpilot reviewer Matthew says, "SBLI has always been a notch above all others in the insurance industry. We have had policies with them for about 8 years, and have never experienced anything but great service, honest and candid feedback, and they deliver exactly what they communicate!"

SBLI Review

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Globe Life Insurance

Life insurance companies are compared based on product quality, insurance riders, net performance scores, pricing, and customer service. A diverse array of life insurance products is used to compare death benefit plans with life insurance designed for long-term financial planning. Opinions expressed here are wholly based on facts gathered.

Ratings are not decided based solely on marketing or single online reviews. Instead, we gather a broad mix of information to rank all insurance products consistently and fairly. Therefore, the best way to ensure you find the right policy is to utilize a qualified agent when shopping for life insurance.

You can read more about our rating system here .

What Does "No Medical Exam" Mean With Globe Life?

None of the life insurance products at Globe Life require a medical or physical exam. Instead, the insurer uses a series of health-related questions (part of the company's online application) to determine eligibility. Full transparency, especially with preexisting conditions, is essential. Dishonesty of any kind puts the insured at risk of policy cancellation or unpaid death benefits. You may be eligible for a small funeral costs policy even if you're denied a more comprehensive life insurance policy.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

Chemical Society Reviews

Mechanistic studies on single-electron transfer in frustrated lewis pairs and its application to main-group chemistry †.

* Corresponding authors

a Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, PO box 94157, 1090 GD Amsterdam, The Netherlands E-mail: [email protected]

Advances in the field of frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry have led to the discovery of radical pairs, obtained by a single-electron transfer (SET) from the Lewis base to the Lewis acid. Radical pairs are intriguing for their potential to enable cooperative activation of challenging substrates ( e.g. , CH 4 , N 2 ) in a homolytic fashion, as well as the exploration of novel radical reactions. In this review, we will cover the two known mechanisms of SET in FLPs—thermal and photoinduced—along with methods ( i.e. , CV, DFT, UV-vis) to predict the mechanism and to characterise the involved electron donors and acceptors. Furthermore, the available techniques ( i.e. , EPR, UV-vis, transient absorption spectroscopy) for studying the corresponding radical pairs will be discussed. Initially, two model systems (PMes 3 /CPh 3 + and PMes 3 /B(C 6 F 5 ) 3 ) will be reviewed to highlight the difference between a thermal and a photoinduced SET mechanism. Additionally, three cases are analysed to provide further tools and insights into characterizing electron donors and acceptors, and the associated radical pairs. Firstly, a thermal SET process between LiHMDS and [TEMPO][BF 4 ] is discussed. Next, the influence of Lewis acid complexation on the electron acceptor will be highlighted to facilitate a SET between ( p BrPh) 3 N and TCNQ. Finally, an analysis of sulfonium salts as electron acceptors will demonstrate how to manage systems with rapidly decomposing radical species. This framework equips the reader with an expanded array of tools for both predicting and characterizing SET events within FLP chemistry, thereby enabling its extension and application to the broader domain of main-group (photo)redox chemistry.

• This article is part of the themed collection: Applications of Main Group Chemistry in Synthesis, Catalysis, and Biomedical and Materials Research

Supplementary files

• Supplementary information PDF (2044K)

Article information

Download Citation

Permissions.

Mechanistic studies on single-electron transfer in frustrated Lewis pairs and its application to main-group chemistry

L. J. C. van der Zee, J. Hofman, J. M. van Gaalen and J. C. Slootweg, Chem. Soc. Rev. , 2024, Advance Article , DOI: 10.1039/D4CS00185K

This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licence . You can use material from this article in other publications without requesting further permissions from the RSC, provided that the correct acknowledgement is given.

Read more about how to correctly acknowledge RSC content .

Social activity

Search articles by author.

This article has not yet been cited.

Advertisements

Join Discovery, the new community for book lovers

Trust book recommendations from real people, not robots 🤓

Blog – Posted on Friday, Mar 29

17 book review examples to help you write the perfect review.

It’s an exciting time to be a book reviewer. Once confined to print newspapers and journals, reviews now dot many corridors of the Internet — forever helping others discover their next great read. That said, every book reviewer will face a familiar panic: how can you do justice to a great book in just a thousand words?

As you know, the best way to learn how to do something is by immersing yourself in it. Luckily, the Internet (i.e. Goodreads and other review sites , in particular) has made book reviews more accessible than ever — which means that there are a lot of book reviews examples out there for you to view!

In this post, we compiled 17 prototypical book review examples in multiple genres to help you figure out how to write the perfect review . If you want to jump straight to the examples, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, let’s first check out what makes up a good review.

Are you interested in becoming a book reviewer? We recommend you check out Reedsy Discovery , where you can earn money for writing reviews — and are guaranteed people will read your reviews! To register as a book reviewer, sign up here.

Pro-tip : But wait! How are you sure if you should become a book reviewer in the first place? If you're on the fence, or curious about your match with a book reviewing career, take our quick quiz:

Should you become a book reviewer?

Find out the answer. Takes 30 seconds!

What must a book review contain?

Like all works of art, no two book reviews will be identical. But fear not: there are a few guidelines for any aspiring book reviewer to follow. Most book reviews, for instance, are less than 1,500 words long, with the sweet spot hitting somewhere around the 1,000-word mark. (However, this may vary depending on the platform on which you’re writing, as we’ll see later.)

In addition, all reviews share some universal elements, as shown in our book review templates . These include:

• A review will offer a concise plot summary of the book. 
• A book review will offer an evaluation of the work. 
• A book review will offer a recommendation for the audience. 

If these are the basic ingredients that make up a book review, it’s the tone and style with which the book reviewer writes that brings the extra panache. This will differ from platform to platform, of course. A book review on Goodreads, for instance, will be much more informal and personal than a book review on Kirkus Reviews, as it is catering to a different audience. However, at the end of the day, the goal of all book reviews is to give the audience the tools to determine whether or not they’d like to read the book themselves.

Keeping that in mind, let’s proceed to some book review examples to put all of this in action.

How much of a book nerd are you, really?

Find out here, once and for all. Takes 30 seconds!

Book review examples for fiction books

Since story is king in the world of fiction, it probably won’t come as any surprise to learn that a book review for a novel will concentrate on how well the story was told .

That said, book reviews in all genres follow the same basic formula that we discussed earlier. In these examples, you’ll be able to see how book reviewers on different platforms expertly intertwine the plot summary and their personal opinions of the book to produce a clear, informative, and concise review.

Note: Some of the book review examples run very long. If a book review is truncated in this post, we’ve indicated by including a […] at the end, but you can always read the entire review if you click on the link provided.

Examples of literary fiction book reviews

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ralph Ellison’s The Invisible Man :

An extremely powerful story of a young Southern Negro, from his late high school days through three years of college to his life in Harlem.

His early training prepared him for a life of humility before white men, but through injustices- large and small, he came to realize that he was an "invisible man". People saw in him only a reflection of their preconceived ideas of what he was, denied his individuality, and ultimately did not see him at all. This theme, which has implications far beyond the obvious racial parallel, is skillfully handled. The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing. The boy's dismissal from college because of an innocent mistake, his shocked reaction to the anonymity of the North and to Harlem, his nightmare experiences on a one-day job in a paint factory and in the hospital, his lightning success as the Harlem leader of a communistic organization known as the Brotherhood, his involvement in black versus white and black versus black clashes and his disillusion and understanding of his invisibility- all climax naturally in scenes of violence and riot, followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative. Parts of this experience may have been told before, but never with such freshness, intensity and power.

This is Ellison's first novel, but he has complete control of his story and his style. Watch it.

Lyndsey reviews George Orwell’s 1984 on Goodreads:

YOU. ARE. THE. DEAD. Oh my God. I got the chills so many times toward the end of this book. It completely blew my mind. It managed to surpass my high expectations AND be nothing at all like I expected. Or in Newspeak "Double Plus Good." Let me preface this with an apology. If I sound stunningly inarticulate at times in this review, I can't help it. My mind is completely fried.

This book is like the dystopian Lord of the Rings, with its richly developed culture and economics, not to mention a fully developed language called Newspeak, or rather more of the anti-language, whose purpose is to limit speech and understanding instead of to enhance and expand it. The world-building is so fully fleshed out and spine-tinglingly terrifying that it's almost as if George travelled to such a place, escaped from it, and then just wrote it all down.

I read Fahrenheit 451 over ten years ago in my early teens. At the time, I remember really wanting to read 1984, although I never managed to get my hands on it. I'm almost glad I didn't. Though I would not have admitted it at the time, it would have gone over my head. Or at the very least, I wouldn't have been able to appreciate it fully. […]

The New York Times reviews Lisa Halliday’s Asymmetry :

Three-quarters of the way through Lisa Halliday’s debut novel, “Asymmetry,” a British foreign correspondent named Alistair is spending Christmas on a compound outside of Baghdad. His fellow revelers include cameramen, defense contractors, United Nations employees and aid workers. Someone’s mother has FedExed a HoneyBaked ham from Maine; people are smoking by the swimming pool. It is 2003, just days after Saddam Hussein’s capture, and though the mood is optimistic, Alistair is worrying aloud about the ethics of his chosen profession, wondering if reporting on violence doesn’t indirectly abet violence and questioning why he’d rather be in a combat zone than reading a picture book to his son. But every time he returns to London, he begins to “spin out.” He can’t go home. “You observe what people do with their freedom — what they don’t do — and it’s impossible not to judge them for it,” he says.

The line, embedded unceremoniously in the middle of a page-long paragraph, doubles, like so many others in “Asymmetry,” as literary criticism. Halliday’s novel is so strange and startlingly smart that its mere existence seems like commentary on the state of fiction. One finishes “Asymmetry” for the first or second (or like this reader, third) time and is left wondering what other writers are not doing with their freedom — and, like Alistair, judging them for it.

Despite its title, “Asymmetry” comprises two seemingly unrelated sections of equal length, appended by a slim and quietly shocking coda. Halliday’s prose is clean and lean, almost reportorial in the style of W. G. Sebald, and like the murmurings of a shy person at a cocktail party, often comic only in single clauses. It’s a first novel that reads like the work of an author who has published many books over many years. […]

Emily W. Thompson reviews Michael Doane's The Crossing on Reedsy Discovery :

In Doane’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results.

An unnamed protagonist (The Narrator) is dealing with heartbreak. His love, determined to see the world, sets out for Portland, Oregon. But he’s a small-town boy who hasn’t traveled much. So, the Narrator mourns her loss and hides from life, throwing himself into rehabbing an old motorcycle. Until one day, he takes a leap; he packs his bike and a few belongings and heads out to find the Girl.

Following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and William Least Heat-Moon, Doane offers a coming of age story about a man finding himself on the backroads of America. Doane’s a gifted writer with fluid prose and insightful observations, using The Narrator’s personal interactions to illuminate the diversity of the United States.

The Narrator initially sticks to the highways, trying to make it to the West Coast as quickly as possible. But a hitchhiker named Duke convinces him to get off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. “There’s not a place that’s like any other,” [39] Dukes contends, and The Narrator realizes he’s right. Suddenly, the trip is about the journey, not just the destination. The Narrator ditches his truck and traverses the deserts and mountains on his bike. He destroys his phone, cutting off ties with his past and living only in the moment.

As he crosses the country, The Narrator connects with several unique personalities whose experiences and views deeply impact his own. Duke, the complicated cowboy and drifter, who opens The Narrator’s eyes to a larger world. Zooey, the waitress in Colorado who opens his heart and reminds him that love can be found in this big world. And Rosie, The Narrator’s sweet landlady in Portland, who helps piece him back together both physically and emotionally.

This supporting cast of characters is excellent. Duke, in particular, is wonderfully nuanced and complicated. He’s a throwback to another time, a man without a cell phone who reads Sartre and sleeps under the stars. Yet he’s also a grifter with a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude that harms those around him. It’s fascinating to watch The Narrator wrestle with Duke’s behavior, trying to determine which to model and which to discard.

Doane creates a relatable protagonist in The Narrator, whose personal growth doesn’t erase his faults. His willingness to hit the road with few resources is admirable, and he’s prescient enough to recognize the jealousy of those who cannot or will not take the leap. His encounters with new foods, places, and people broaden his horizons. Yet his immaturity and selfishness persist. He tells Rosie she’s been a good mother to him but chooses to ignore the continuing concern from his own parents as he effectively disappears from his old life.

Despite his flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany The Narrator on his physical and emotional journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable road trip.

The Book Smugglers review Anissa Gray’s The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls :

I am still dipping my toes into the literally fiction pool, finding what works for me and what doesn’t. Books like The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray are definitely my cup of tea.

Althea and Proctor Cochran had been pillars of their economically disadvantaged community for years – with their local restaurant/small market and their charity drives. Until they are found guilty of fraud for stealing and keeping most of the money they raised and sent to jail. Now disgraced, their entire family is suffering the consequences, specially their twin teenage daughters Baby Vi and Kim.  To complicate matters even more: Kim was actually the one to call the police on her parents after yet another fight with her mother. […]

Examples of children’s and YA fiction book reviews

The Book Hookup reviews Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give :

♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the voice of a movement like Black Lives Matter, but I do know that Thomas did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. With an unapologetically realistic delivery packed with emotion, The Hate U Give is a crucially important portrayal of the difficulties minorities face in our country every single day. I have no doubt that this book will be met with resistance by some (possibly many) and slapped with a “controversial” label, but if you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk in a POC’s shoes, then I feel like this is an unflinchingly honest place to start.

In Angie Thomas’s debut novel, Starr Carter bursts on to the YA scene with both heart-wrecking and heartwarming sincerity. This author is definitely one to watch.

♥ Review: The hype around this book has been unquestionable and, admittedly, that made me both eager to get my hands on it and terrified to read it. I mean, what if I was to be the one person that didn’t love it as much as others? (That seems silly now because of how truly mesmerizing THUG was in the most heartbreakingly realistic way.) However, with the relevancy of its summary in regards to the unjust predicaments POC currently face in the US, I knew this one was a must-read, so I was ready to set my fears aside and dive in. That said, I had an altogether more personal, ulterior motive for wanting to read this book. […]

The New York Times reviews Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood :

Alice Crewe (a last name she’s chosen for herself) is a fairy tale legacy: the granddaughter of Althea Proserpine, author of a collection of dark-as-night fairy tales called “Tales From the Hinterland.” The book has a cult following, and though Alice has never met her grandmother, she’s learned a little about her through internet research. She hasn’t read the stories, because her mother, Ella Proserpine, forbids it.

Alice and Ella have moved from place to place in an attempt to avoid the “bad luck” that seems to follow them. Weird things have happened. As a child, Alice was kidnapped by a man who took her on a road trip to find her grandmother; he was stopped by the police before they did so. When at 17 she sees that man again, unchanged despite the years, Alice panics. Then Ella goes missing, and Alice turns to Ellery Finch, a schoolmate who’s an Althea Proserpine superfan, for help in tracking down her mother. Not only has Finch read every fairy tale in the collection, but handily, he remembers them, sharing them with Alice as they journey to the mysterious Hazel Wood, the estate of her now-dead grandmother, where they hope to find Ella.

“The Hazel Wood” starts out strange and gets stranger, in the best way possible. (The fairy stories Finch relays, which Albert includes as their own chapters, are as creepy and evocative as you’d hope.) Albert seamlessly combines contemporary realism with fantasy, blurring the edges in a way that highlights that place where stories and real life convene, where magic contains truth and the world as it appears is false, where just about anything can happen, particularly in the pages of a very good book. It’s a captivating debut. […]

James reviews Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight, Moon on Goodreads:

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is one of the books that followers of my blog voted as a must-read for our Children's Book August 2018 Readathon. Come check it out and join the next few weeks!

This picture book was such a delight. I hadn't remembered reading it when I was a child, but it might have been read to me... either way, it was like a whole new experience! It's always so difficult to convince a child to fall asleep at night. I don't have kids, but I do have a 5-month-old puppy who whines for 5 minutes every night when he goes in his cage/crate (hopefully he'll be fully housebroken soon so he can roam around when he wants). I can only imagine! I babysat a lot as a teenager and I have tons of younger cousins, nieces, and nephews, so I've been through it before, too. This was a believable experience, and it really helps show kids how to relax and just let go when it's time to sleep.

The bunny's are adorable. The rhymes are exquisite. I found it pretty fun, but possibly a little dated given many of those things aren't normal routines anymore. But the lessons to take from it are still powerful. Loved it! I want to sample some more books by this fine author and her illustrators.

Publishers Weekly reviews Elizabeth Lilly’s Geraldine :

This funny, thoroughly accomplished debut opens with two words: “I’m moving.” They’re spoken by the title character while she swoons across her family’s ottoman, and because Geraldine is a giraffe, her full-on melancholy mode is quite a spectacle. But while Geraldine may be a drama queen (even her mother says so), it won’t take readers long to warm up to her. The move takes Geraldine from Giraffe City, where everyone is like her, to a new school, where everyone else is human. Suddenly, the former extrovert becomes “That Giraffe Girl,” and all she wants to do is hide, which is pretty much impossible. “Even my voice tries to hide,” she says, in the book’s most poignant moment. “It’s gotten quiet and whispery.” Then she meets Cassie, who, though human, is also an outlier (“I’m that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food”), and things begin to look up.

Lilly’s watercolor-and-ink drawings are as vividly comic and emotionally astute as her writing; just when readers think there are no more ways for Geraldine to contort her long neck, this highly promising talent comes up with something new.

Examples of genre fiction book reviews

Karlyn P reviews Nora Roberts’ Dark Witch , a paranormal romance novel , on Goodreads:

4 stars. Great world-building, weak romance, but still worth the read.

I hesitate to describe this book as a 'romance' novel simply because the book spent little time actually exploring the romance between Iona and Boyle. Sure, there IS a romance in this novel. Sprinkled throughout the book are a few scenes where Iona and Boyle meet, chat, wink at each, flirt some more, sleep together, have a misunderstanding, make up, and then profess their undying love. Very formulaic stuff, and all woven around the more important parts of this book.

The meat of this book is far more focused on the story of the Dark witch and her magically-gifted descendants living in Ireland. Despite being weak on the romance, I really enjoyed it. I think the book is probably better for it, because the romance itself was pretty lackluster stuff.

I absolutely plan to stick with this series as I enjoyed the world building, loved the Ireland setting, and was intrigued by all of the secondary characters. However, If you read Nora Roberts strictly for the romance scenes, this one might disappoint. But if you enjoy a solid background story with some dark magic and prophesies, you might enjoy it as much as I did.

I listened to this one on audio, and felt the narration was excellent.

Emily May reviews R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy Wars , an epic fantasy novel , on Goodreads:

“But I warn you, little warrior. The price of power is pain.”

Holy hell, what did I just read??

➽ A fantasy military school

➽ A rich world based on modern Chinese history

➽ Shamans and gods

➽ Detailed characterization leading to unforgettable characters

➽ Adorable, opium-smoking mentors

That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. I know 100% that The Poppy War will be one of my best reads of 2018.

Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every horrific, nail-biting moment of it? This is one of those books for me. And I must issue a serious content warning: this book explores some very dark themes. Proceed with caution (or not at all) if you are particularly sensitive to scenes of war, drug use and addiction, genocide, racism, sexism, ableism, self-harm, torture, and rape (off-page but extremely horrific).

Because, despite the fairly innocuous first 200 pages, the title speaks the truth: this is a book about war. All of its horrors and atrocities. It is not sugar-coated, and it is often graphic. The "poppy" aspect refers to opium, which is a big part of this book. It is a fantasy, but the book draws inspiration from the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Rape of Nanking.

Crime Fiction Lover reviews Jessica Barry’s Freefall , a crime novel:

In some crime novels, the wrongdoing hits you between the eyes from page one. With others it’s a more subtle process, and that’s OK too. So where does Freefall fit into the sliding scale?

In truth, it’s not clear. This is a novel with a thrilling concept at its core. A woman survives plane crash, then runs for her life. However, it is the subtleties at play that will draw you in like a spider beckoning to an unwitting fly.

Like the heroine in Sharon Bolton’s Dead Woman Walking, Allison is lucky to be alive. She was the only passenger in a private plane, belonging to her fiancé, Ben, who was piloting the expensive aircraft, when it came down in woodlands in the Colorado Rockies. Ally is also the only survivor, but rather than sitting back and waiting for rescue, she is soon pulling together items that may help her survive a little longer – first aid kit, energy bars, warm clothes, trainers – before fleeing the scene. If you’re hearing the faint sound of alarm bells ringing, get used to it. There’s much, much more to learn about Ally before this tale is over.

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One , a science-fiction novel :

Video-game players embrace the quest of a lifetime in a virtual world; screenwriter Cline’s first novel is old wine in new bottles.

The real world, in 2045, is the usual dystopian horror story. So who can blame Wade, our narrator, if he spends most of his time in a virtual world? The 18-year-old, orphaned at 11, has no friends in his vertical trailer park in Oklahoma City, while the OASIS has captivating bells and whistles, and it’s free. Its creator, the legendary billionaire James Halliday, left a curious will. He had devised an elaborate online game, a hunt for a hidden Easter egg. The finder would inherit his estate. Old-fashioned riddles lead to three keys and three gates. Wade, or rather his avatar Parzival, is the first gunter (egg-hunter) to win the Copper Key, first of three.

Halliday was obsessed with the pop culture of the 1980s, primarily the arcade games, so the novel is as much retro as futurist. Parzival’s great strength is that he has absorbed all Halliday’s obsessions; he knows by heart three essential movies, crossing the line from geek to freak. His most formidable competitors are the Sixers, contract gunters working for the evil conglomerate IOI, whose goal is to acquire the OASIS. Cline’s narrative is straightforward but loaded with exposition. It takes a while to reach a scene that crackles with excitement: the meeting between Parzival (now world famous as the lead contender) and Sorrento, the head of IOI. The latter tries to recruit Parzival; when he fails, he issues and executes a death threat. Wade’s trailer is demolished, his relatives killed; luckily Wade was not at home. Too bad this is the dramatic high point. Parzival threads his way between more ’80s games and movies to gain the other keys; it’s clever but not exciting. Even a romance with another avatar and the ultimate “epic throwdown” fail to stir the blood.

Too much puzzle-solving, not enough suspense.

Book review examples for non-fiction books

Nonfiction books are generally written to inform readers about a certain topic. As such, the focus of a nonfiction book review will be on the clarity and effectiveness of this communication . In carrying this out, a book review may analyze the author’s source materials and assess the thesis in order to determine whether or not the book meets expectations.

Again, we’ve included abbreviated versions of long reviews here, so feel free to click on the link to read the entire piece!

The Washington Post reviews David Grann’s Killers of the Flower Moon :

The arc of David Grann’s career reminds one of a software whiz-kid or a latest-thing talk-show host — certainly not an investigative reporter, even if he is one of the best in the business. The newly released movie of his first book, “The Lost City of Z,” is generating all kinds of Oscar talk, and now comes the release of his second book, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI,” the film rights to which have already been sold for $5 million in what one industry journal called the “biggest and wildest book rights auction in memory.”

Grann deserves the attention. He’s canny about the stories he chases, he’s willing to go anywhere to chase them, and he’s a maestro in his ability to parcel out information at just the right clip: a hint here, a shading of meaning there, a smartly paced buildup of multiple possibilities followed by an inevitable reversal of readerly expectations or, in some cases, by a thrilling and dislocating pull of the entire narrative rug.

All of these strengths are on display in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Around the turn of the 20th century, oil was discovered underneath Osage lands in the Oklahoma Territory, lands that were soon to become part of the state of Oklahoma. Through foresight and legal maneuvering, the Osage found a way to permanently attach that oil to themselves and shield it from the prying hands of white interlopers; this mechanism was known as “headrights,” which forbade the outright sale of oil rights and granted each full member of the tribe — and, supposedly, no one else — a share in the proceeds from any lease arrangement. For a while, the fail-safes did their job, and the Osage got rich — diamond-ring and chauffeured-car and imported-French-fashion rich — following which quite a large group of white men started to work like devils to separate the Osage from their money. And soon enough, and predictably enough, this work involved murder. Here in Jazz Age America’s most isolated of locales, dozens or even hundreds of Osage in possession of great fortunes — and of the potential for even greater fortunes in the future — were dispatched by poison, by gunshot and by dynamite. […]

Stacked Books reviews Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers :

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Malcolm Gladwell’s writing. Friends and co-workers tell me that his subjects are interesting and his writing style is easy to follow without talking down to the reader. I wasn’t disappointed with Outliers. In it, Gladwell tackles the subject of success – how people obtain it and what contributes to extraordinary success as opposed to everyday success.

The thesis – that our success depends much more on circumstances out of our control than any effort we put forth – isn’t exactly revolutionary. Most of us know it to be true. However, I don’t think I’m lying when I say that most of us also believe that we if we just try that much harder and develop our talent that much further, it will be enough to become wildly successful, despite bad or just mediocre beginnings. Not so, says Gladwell.

Most of the evidence Gladwell gives us is anecdotal, which is my favorite kind to read. I can’t really speak to how scientifically valid it is, but it sure makes for engrossing listening. For example, did you know that successful hockey players are almost all born in January, February, or March? Kids born during these months are older than the others kids when they start playing in the youth leagues, which means they’re already better at the game (because they’re bigger). Thus, they get more play time, which means their skill increases at a faster rate, and it compounds as time goes by. Within a few years, they’re much, much better than the kids born just a few months later in the year. Basically, these kids’ birthdates are a huge factor in their success as adults – and it’s nothing they can do anything about. If anyone could make hockey interesting to a Texan who only grudgingly admits the sport even exists, it’s Gladwell. […]

Quill and Quire reviews Rick Prashaw’s Soar, Adam, Soar :

Ten years ago, I read a book called Almost Perfect. The young-adult novel by Brian Katcher won some awards and was held up as a powerful, nuanced portrayal of a young trans person. But the reality did not live up to the book’s billing. Instead, it turned out to be a one-dimensional and highly fetishized portrait of a trans person’s life, one that was nevertheless repeatedly dubbed “realistic” and “affecting” by non-transgender readers possessing only a vague, mass-market understanding of trans experiences.

In the intervening decade, trans narratives have emerged further into the literary spotlight, but those authored by trans people ourselves – and by trans men in particular – have seemed to fall under the shadow of cisgender sensationalized imaginings. Two current Canadian releases – Soar, Adam, Soar and This One Looks Like a Boy – provide a pointed object lesson into why trans-authored work about transgender experiences remains critical.

To be fair, Soar, Adam, Soar isn’t just a story about a trans man. It’s also a story about epilepsy, the medical establishment, and coming of age as seen through a grieving father’s eyes. Adam, Prashaw’s trans son, died unexpectedly at age 22. Woven through the elder Prashaw’s narrative are excerpts from Adam’s social media posts, giving us glimpses into the young man’s interior life as he traverses his late teens and early 20s. […]

Book Geeks reviews Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love :

WRITING STYLE: 3.5/5

SUBJECT: 4/5

CANDIDNESS: 4.5/5

RELEVANCE: 3.5/5

ENTERTAINMENT QUOTIENT: 3.5/5

“Eat Pray Love” is so popular that it is almost impossible to not read it. Having felt ashamed many times on my not having read this book, I quietly ordered the book (before I saw the movie) from amazon.in and sat down to read it. I don’t remember what I expected it to be – maybe more like a chick lit thing but it turned out quite different. The book is a real story and is a short journal from the time when its writer went travelling to three different countries in pursuit of three different things – Italy (Pleasure), India (Spirituality), Bali (Balance) and this is what corresponds to the book’s name – EAT (in Italy), PRAY (in India) and LOVE (in Bali, Indonesia). These are also the three Is – ITALY, INDIA, INDONESIA.

Though she had everything a middle-aged American woman can aspire for – MONEY, CAREER, FRIENDS, HUSBAND; Elizabeth was not happy in her life, she wasn’t happy in her marriage. Having suffered a terrible divorce and terrible breakup soon after, Elizabeth was shattered. She didn’t know where to go and what to do – all she knew was that she wanted to run away. So she set out on a weird adventure – she will go to three countries in a year and see if she can find out what she was looking for in life. This book is about that life changing journey that she takes for one whole year. […]

Emily May reviews Michelle Obama’s Becoming on Goodreads:

Look, I'm not a happy crier. I might cry at songs about leaving and missing someone; I might cry at books where things don't work out; I might cry at movies where someone dies. I've just never really understood why people get all choked up over happy, inspirational things. But Michelle Obama's kindness and empathy changed that. This book had me in tears for all the right reasons.

This is not really a book about politics, though political experiences obviously do come into it. It's a shame that some will dismiss this book because of a difference in political opinion, when it is really about a woman's life. About growing up poor and black on the South Side of Chicago; about getting married and struggling to maintain that marriage; about motherhood; about being thrown into an amazing and terrifying position.

I hate words like "inspirational" because they've become so overdone and cheesy, but I just have to say it-- Michelle Obama is an inspiration. I had the privilege of seeing her speak at The Forum in Inglewood, and she is one of the warmest, funniest, smartest, down-to-earth people I have ever seen in this world.

And yes, I know we present what we want the world to see, but I truly do think it's genuine. I think she is someone who really cares about people - especially kids - and wants to give them better lives and opportunities.

She's obviously intelligent, but she also doesn't gussy up her words. She talks straight, with an openness and honesty rarely seen. She's been one of the most powerful women in the world, she's been a graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School, she's had her own successful career, and yet she has remained throughout that same girl - Michelle Robinson - from a working class family in Chicago.

I don't think there's anyone who wouldn't benefit from reading this book.

Hopefully, this post has given you a better idea of how to write a book review. You might be wondering how to put all of this knowledge into action now! Many book reviewers start out by setting up a book blog. If you don’t have time to research the intricacies of HTML, check out Reedsy Discovery — where you can read indie books for free and review them without going through the hassle of creating a blog. To register as a book reviewer , go here .

And if you’d like to see even more book review examples, simply go to this directory of book review blogs and click on any one of them to see a wealth of good book reviews. Beyond that, it's up to you to pick up a book and pen — and start reviewing!

Continue reading

More posts from across the blog.

The 45 Best Fantasy Audiobooks

Reading a fantasy novel can transport you to a world of wonder and danger, as different from mundane reality as a dragon from a mouse. And

The 21 Best Novels of the 21st Century

When you think of the best novels of the 21st century, what are the first titles that come to mind? Jonathan Safran Foer’s Extremely Loud &amp; Incredibly Close? Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides? Perhaps The Corrections, or The Road,...

How to Read the Witcher Books in Order (2024 Update)

Since the release of Netflix’s 2019 adaptation of The Witcher, everyone's been buzzing with the same age-old question: are the books better? We're biased towards books ourselves, of course. But we'll let you decide for yourself —...

Heard about Reedsy Discovery?

Trust real people, not robots, to give you book recommendations.

Or sign up with an

Or sign up with your social account

• Submit your book
• Reviewer directory

Want to be a book reviewer?

Review new books and start building your portfolio.