1. Introduction (1 paragraph)
Write a brief introduction to the book. In one or two sentences, state the purpose of the book (what
Buechner intended to do). State whether or not you found the author successful in his purpose. The review
that follows should support your initial evaluation.
2. Biographical Statement (1 paragraph)
Give a brief statement about the author. This section should have 3-6 sentences. Do not give a running list
of the other books he has written or the awards he’s earned. Biographical and academic data are usually
included on the book jacket or you may find such information on the internet. This data along with the
author’s ideas and more personal background can be found in interviews. It may be useful to describe what
you learned about his life or his responses in interviews about writing or faith or family that you find
fascinating or compelling as you read his work. It may be useful to describe the author’s academic training
and to note how the author’s work and experience have prepared him to write this book.
3. Content Summary and Overview (1/2 page)
Explain the content of the book and comment on its organization. Do not list or restate chapter titles. This
technique is seldom helpful and creates drudgery for a reader. Briefly summarize the content and how the