movie book report

13 Free Book Report Templates (Easy Copy & Paste)

Book reports are an essential part of the educational process, helping students develop critical thinking and writing skills.

To make this task easier, we’ve created 13 unique and highly useful book report templates that you can download or copy and paste. Each template is designed to cater to different needs and situations, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your assignment.

Template 1: Basic Summary Book Report

Table of Contents

Introduction This template is perfect for beginners or younger students who need to summarize the key elements of a book.

Title : Author : Genre : Publication Date :

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the book’s main events. Focus on the beginning, middle, and end.

Main Characters : List the main characters and provide a short description of each.

Themes : Identify the central themes of the book.

Personal Opinion : Share your thoughts about the book. What did you like or dislike?

Conclusion : Summarize your overall impressions of the book.

Template 2: Character Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template is designed for a deeper dive into the characters of a book, ideal for middle school and high school students.

Character Overview : List the main characters.

Character Analysis :

• Description :
• Role in the Story :
• Development :
• Personal Thoughts :

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot focusing on how it relates to the character analysis.

Themes : Discuss how the themes are reflected through the characters.

Conclusion : Wrap up your analysis with your final thoughts on the characters and their roles.

Template 3: Theme Analysis Book Report

Introduction This template focuses on analyzing the themes of a book, suitable for high school and university students.

Plot Summary : Briefly summarize the plot.

Themes Analysis :

• Examples from the Book :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters contribute to these themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how these themes impacted you.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and final thoughts.

Template 4: Comparative Book Report

Introduction Perfect for advanced students, this template compares two books, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Book 1 Title : Book 1 Author : Book 2 Title : Book 2 Author :

Plot Summary :

• Summary of main events.

Characters Comparison :

• Book 1 Description:
• Book 2 Description:

Themes Comparison :

Personal Reflection : Discuss your thoughts on the similarities and differences.

Conclusion : Summarize your comparative analysis and final thoughts.

Template 5: Plot Analysis Book Report

Introduction Focuses on analyzing the plot structure, ideal for detailed plot discussions.

Plot Overview : Brief summary of the main plot.

Plot Analysis :

• Exposition :
• Rising Action :
• Falling Action :
• Resolution :

Character Involvement : Discuss how the characters influence the plot.

Themes : Identify the main themes revealed through the plot.

Conclusion : Summarize your analysis and overall thoughts.

Template 6: Symbolism Book Report

Introduction Designed for analyzing symbols within the book, this template is perfect for high school and college students.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the book’s plot.

Symbolism Analysis :

• Significance in the Story :

Themes : Discuss how the symbols relate to the themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on the symbolism and its impact on your understanding of the book.

Template 7: Creative Book Report

Introduction Encourages creativity by allowing students to express their understanding in unique ways.

Plot Summary : Provide a brief overview of the plot.

Creative Expression : Choose one of the following:

• Write a diary entry from a character’s perspective.
• Create a comic strip summarizing the story.
• Design a new book cover with a summary.

Character Insights : Discuss your creative choices and what they reveal about the characters.

Themes : Identify the main themes expressed through your creative work.

Conclusion : Reflect on your creative process and overall understanding of the book.

Template 8: Historical Context Book Report

Introduction Focuses on the historical context of the book, ideal for historical fiction or non-fiction.

Plot Summary : Brief overview of the plot.

Historical Context :

• Time Period :
• Key Historical Events :
• Impact on the Story :

Character Analysis : Discuss how historical context influences the characters.

Themes : Identify themes related to the historical setting.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on how understanding the history enhanced your reading experience.

Conclusion : Summarize your insights and overall thoughts.

Template 9: Genre Analysis Book Report

Introduction Analyzes the book within the context of its genre, perfect for exploring genre-specific elements.

Genre Characteristics :

• Typical Elements of the Genre :
• How the Book Fits or Deviates :

Character Analysis : Discuss how the characters embody genre traits.

Themes : Identify genre-specific themes.

Personal Reflection : Reflect on your understanding of the genre through the book.

Conclusion : Summarize your genre analysis and final thoughts.

Template 10: Book Report for a Movie Adaptation

Introduction Compares the book to its movie adaptation, great for understanding different media interpretations.

Book Title : Author : Movie Title : Director : Release Date :

Character Comparison :

• Book Description:
• Movie Description:

Themes Comparison : Discuss how themes are presented differently in the book and movie.

Personal Reflection : Share your thoughts on the adaptation. Which did you prefer and why?

Conclusion : Summarize your comparison and final thoughts.

Mad-Libs Style Book Report Templates

Mad-Libs style templates can make writing a book report fun and easy, guiding you through each step while allowing room for your personal touch.

Here are three templates to help you create a comprehensive and original book report.

Mad-Libs Style Template 1: Basic Summary Report

Title : __________ Author : __________ Genre : __________ Publication Date : __________

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is about __________ (main character) who lives in __________ (setting). The story begins when __________ (main event). As the plot progresses, __________ (main character) encounters __________ (challenge or conflict). In the end, __________ (resolution).

Main Characters :

• [Main Character] : __________ (description of character)
• [Supporting Character] : __________ (description of character)
• [Antagonist] : __________ (description of character)

Themes : The central themes of [Title] are __________ (theme 1) and __________ (theme 2). These themes are illustrated through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Opinion : I thought [Title] was __________ (adjective). My favorite part was __________ (favorite part) because __________ (reason). I would/would not recommend this book because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In summary, [Title] is a book about __________ (brief summary of themes and story). Overall, it left me feeling __________ (emotion).

Mad-Libs Style Template 2: Character Analysis Report

Plot Summary : In the book [Title] , the story revolves around __________ (main character) who __________ (brief plot overview). The plot thickens when __________ (major event), leading to __________ (consequences).

• Description : __________ (physical and personality traits)
• Role in the Story : __________ (main character’s role)
• Development : __________ (how the character changes)
• Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (main character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).
• Role in the Story : __________ (supporting character’s role)
• Personal Thoughts : I think __________ (supporting character) is __________ (adjective) because __________ (reason).

Themes : One of the main themes in [Title] is __________ (theme). This is shown through __________ (example from the book).

Personal Reflection : My favorite character was __________ (character) because __________ (reason). This book made me think about __________ (personal reflection).

Conclusion : The book [Title] offers deep insights into __________ (theme) and __________ (theme). It is a great read for anyone interested in __________ (topic).

Mad-Libs Style Template 3: Theme Analysis Report

Plot Summary : The book [Title] is set in __________ (setting) and follows __________ (main character) as they __________ (brief plot overview). The story takes a turn when __________ (major event).

• Description : One of the central themes is __________ (theme). This theme is evident when __________ (example from the book).
• Significance : This theme is important because __________ (reason).
• Description : Another significant theme is __________ (theme). It is portrayed through __________ (example from the book).
• Significance : This theme matters because __________ (reason).

Character Involvement : The characters help develop these themes, especially __________ (main character) who __________ (character’s actions related to the theme).

Personal Reflection : Reading [Title] made me realize __________ (personal insight). The theme of __________ (theme) particularly resonated with me because __________ (reason).

Conclusion : In conclusion, [Title] explores themes of __________ (theme) and __________ (theme) through its characters and plot. This book is __________ (adjective) and leaves a lasting impression because __________ (reason).

50 Best Words to Use in a Book Report

• Protagonist
• Development
• Perspective
• Foreshadowing
• Juxtaposition
• Interpretation

50 Best Phrases to Use in a Book Report

• “The protagonist of the story is…”
• “The central conflict revolves around…”
• “The theme of the novel is…”
• “This character’s development is evident when…”
• “The author uses symbolism to…”
• “A significant motif in the book is…”
• “From the perspective of the narrator…”
• “The plot takes a turn when…”
• “The resolution of the story is…”
• “The climax of the novel occurs when…”
• “Foreshadowing is used to hint at…”
• “The setting plays a crucial role in…”
• “Dialogue between characters reveals…”
• “The tone of the book is established by…”
• “The mood created by the author is…”
• “This work can be seen as an allegory for…”
• “In the context of the story…”
• “Juxtaposition of these elements highlights…”
• “Through flashbacks, we learn…”
• “The character’s motivation is driven by…”
• “An archetype presented in the book is…”
• “The synopsis provides an overview of…”
• “The depiction of this scene is…”
• “Intrigue is built through…”
• “Readers empathize with the character because…”
• “The integrity of the character is shown by…”
• “The complexity of the plot is revealed in…”
• “Transitions between scenes are marked by…”
• “The conclusion of the story leaves readers…”
• “Evocative language is used to…”
• “The ambiguity of the ending suggests…”
• “This interpretation of the text shows…”
• “Realism is portrayed through…”
• “The narrative structure includes…”
• “Exposition in the story provides…”
• “My reaction to the book is…”
• “The evaluation of this work suggests…”
• “Insightful commentary is provided by…”
• “Emphasis is placed on…”
• “A critical point in the book is…”
• “The reflection on these themes shows…”
• “Character interactions demonstrate…”
• “A pivotal moment in the story is when…”
• “The author’s use of metaphor illustrates…”
• “Irony is present in the scene where…”
• “The vivid imagery captures…”
• “The tone shifts when…”
• “Mood changes are evident in…”
• “This allegory reflects…”
• “Overall, the book emphasizes…”

Now that you have your book report templates, watch this video to learn the basics of how to write your book report:

Final Thoughts: Book Report Templates

Book reports don’t have to be boring or difficult. With these templates, you’re all set to tackle any book report assignment with ease and creativity. Download, customize, and impress!

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How to Write an Effective Movie Report: A Step-by-Step Guide

• backlinkworks
• Writing Articles & Reviews
• October 1, 2023

Introduction

Watching movies is a popular pastime for many people, and with the advent of streaming services, IT has become easier than ever to access a wide range of films. Whether you are a student or a movie enthusiast, writing a movie report can be a great way to analyze and critically evaluate a film. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of writing an effective movie report. By following these steps, you can craft a well-structured report that not only impresses your readers but also highlights your understanding of the film.

Step 1: Watch the Movie

The first step in writing a movie report is to watch the film attentively. Take notes while watching the movie to ensure that you don’t miss any important details. Pay attention to the plot, character development, cinematography, sound design, and other elements that contribute to the overall viewing experience. By actively engaging with the film, you will have a solid foundation for crafting an insightful report.

Step 2: Do Background Research

Before writing your report, IT is essential to conduct background research on the film and its director. This research will provide you with valuable context and help you understand the film within a broader context. Look for interviews, articles, or academic papers that discuss the movie and its themes. Understanding the filmmaker’s intentions and the film’s reception can provide valuable insights that enhance your analysis.

Step 3: Analyze the Structure

An important aspect of writing a movie report is analyzing the film’s structure. Look for key narrative elements such as the exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution. Identify the main characters, their motivations, and character arcs. Consider how the story is presented visually, paying attention to the use of camera angles, editing techniques, and visual symbolism. Analyzing the structure will help you identify the film’s main themes and how they are developed throughout the story.

Step 4: Evaluate the Technical Aspects

Movies are a visual medium, and analyzing the technical aspects is crucial in writing a comprehensive movie report. Evaluate the cinematography, paying attention to lighting, framing, and camera movements. Consider the film’s editing and how IT contributes to the overall pacing and narrative flow. Assess the sound design, including the use of music, sound effects, and dialogue. The technical elements of a film greatly impact the viewer’s experience, so IT is important to analyze and evaluate them in your report.

Step 5: Interpret the Themes and Messages

One of the most rewarding aspects of writing a movie report is interpreting the film’s themes and messages. Look for underlying meanings and symbolism within the film. Consider the social, political, or cultural contexts that the film addresses. Analyze the characters’ actions and dialogues to understand what the filmmakers are trying to convey. By interpreting the themes and messages, you can showcase your critical thinking skills and add depth to your movie report.

Step 6: Provide Examples and Evidence

When writing your movie report, IT is important to support your analysis with examples and evidence from the film. Quote dialogues, describe specific scenes, or reference particular shots that support your arguments. By providing concrete examples, you demonstrate a thorough understanding of the film and its various elements.

Step 7: Write the Report

Now that you have gathered all the necessary information and analyzed the film, IT ‘s time to write your movie report. Start with an introduction that provides a brief overview of the film and its director. Then, proceed to discuss the film’s plot, characters, themes, and technical aspects in separate paragraphs. Use clear and concise language, and support your analysis with evidence from the film. Finally, conclude your report by summarizing your main points and offering your overall evaluation of the movie.

writing an effective movie report requires careful planning, attentive viewing, and critical analysis. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can write a well-structured report that showcases your understanding of the film. Remember to engage with the movie, conduct background research, analyze its structure and technical aspects, interpret the themes, and provide examples and evidence to support your analysis. With these tips in mind, you are well-equipped to write an impressive movie report that impresses your readers and highlights your analytical skills.

1. What is the purpose of a movie report?

A movie report aims to analyze and evaluate a film’s various aspects, including its plot, characters, themes, and technical elements. IT provides an opportunity to critically engage with a movie and showcase one’s understanding and interpretation of the film.

2. How long should a movie report be?

The length of a movie report may vary depending on the requirements set by your instructor or the purpose of the report. Generally, a movie report can range from two to five pages, but IT ‘s best to check the guidelines provided to ensure you meet the required length.

3. Can I include personal opinions in a movie report?

While IT is important to present your analysis objectively, IT is also acceptable to include personal opinions in a movie report, as long as they are supported by evidence from the film. However, IT is essential to strike a balance between personal interpretation and objective analysis.

4. Should I watch the movie more than once?

While watching the movie once is usually sufficient for writing a movie report, watching IT multiple times provides a deeper understanding of its nuances and allows for more in-depth analysis. Repeat viewings can uncover subtle details that may have been missed initially, enhancing the quality of your report.

5. How important is IT to do background research on the film?

Background research on the film and its director provides valuable context and insights that can enrich your analysis. Understanding the filmmaker’s intentions, the film’s production, and its reception can contribute to a well-informed report. However, if time constraints prevent extensive research, focusing on the film itself and its immediate context can still result in a well-written report.

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How To Make A Movie Poster: A Template For Students

The benefit of creating movie posters in the classroom is that they require the students to concisely ‘capture’ a film in order to persuade others.

How To Make A Movie Poster (For Students)

by TeachThought Staff

Are you planning a book trailer for your students? Have them create and produce their own documentary or short film and share it on YouTube?

How about a kind of ‘writer’s antithesis’ assignment where students take an existing movie poster and create its tonal or thematic opposite? 

However you plan on using it in the classroom, it doesn’t have to be complicated–and the simpler you make the logistics and design, the more students can focus on critical thinking about the movie or text.

What Is A Movie Poster?

A movie poster is a poster designed to attract potential moviegoers to see a movie.

Movieposters generally offer basic information like the title, the names of actors, actresses, directors, and producers while offering a visual of some kind that represents the movie and a ‘tagline’ or teaser used to further entice would-be movie patrons. That’s really it. 

While there are different approaches and templates useful to advertise and market a particular movie, for teachers and students the primary draw for movie posters is that they require the movie poster creator to concisely ‘capture’ a film with the express purpose of convincing a certain audience to go see that film.

This isn’t unlike persuasive writing assignments or even a debate where students need to convince an audience to accept a premise or conclusion. In the case of the movie poster, the task is simple enough: Communicate key information about a movie in a way that persuades readers who otherwise may not be interested.

A second benefit of creating movie posters in the classroom is the ability to treat books as movies. Much like students creating ‘movie trailers’ for books, they can also create ‘movie posters’ for books as well. This not only demands the above elements of design and persuasion but it also can generate enthusiasm for reading by ‘framing’ a book as the seemingly-more-popular mediums of video and film.

In short, movie posters are useful ways to to generate thinking about and interest in books–or movies, for that matter. So how do you create one?

How To Create A Movie Poster In The Classroom

There are different approaches to creating a movie poster–especially in the classroom, where the focus is likely on the book and film and thinking about the book and film rather than increasing ticket sales and making a theater money.

Above, we’ve shown the most basic template/version used universally then added ‘how to’ steps below for actually ‘filling in’ that template. Obviously, you can create an infinite number of variations to this basic design. This template above is a good starting point for students to work from and see how easy creating a movie poster really is.

1. Watch the movie !

First things first: Watch the movie (or read the book)–and do so carefully and closely enough to know its ‘essence’ (see #3 below). This steps seems pretty obvious but–well, you just never know.

2 . Identify key information.

At the most basic, this would be the movie title, the names of actors and actresses, the director’s name, and some kind of summarizing visual.

3. Decide (for yourself) what the ‘essence’ of the film is

This is the most important part of the movie poster: Capturing the film (or book) for what it ‘is’ and doing so in a way that doesn’t mislead viewers but makes it all look interesting enough to be worthy of their time.

Part of capturing the essence of the film is being able to identify the setting, context, theme, tone, and mood–and doing so in relation to potential moviegoers today. This would mean ‘capturing’ Shakespeare for a modern audience, for example–or at least distilling it for unfamilair viewers who don’t know what they’re missing.

For example, what is ‘Animal Farm” Is it a book about politics or a book about truth and propoganda? Is “The Hobbit” about good vs evil or the hidden potential in all of us? That good things come in small packages?

Being able to distill a story–to clarify what is really is at its core–requires close viewing or reading. It demands critical thinking about that story and all of its elements, and then the ability to succintly clarify them for a specific audience.

4. Decide on a size

Wikipedia has a list of various official movie posters sizes and also clarifies the differences between movie posters, lobby cards, teaser posters, and other kinds of movie posters typically used around the world. This may or may not be important, depending on how you’re using it with students.

5. Choose a movie poster template or design one from existing examples

You also need to decide if you’re going to draw one by hand or create it digitally.

6. Use the key information identified above to ‘fill in’ the template or create the poster from scratch

Top: The names of actors and actresses

Middle Top: Movie title

Middle Bottom: Teaser sentence or movie tagline (the aforementioned ‘essence’ can be useful here)

Very bottom: The fine print where you add the names of anyone who had anything to do with the creation of the film. You can also add legal disclaimers, clarify publishing rights, and itemize dates, countries, and other relevant info.

7. Publish the poster

Now it’s time to publish or share the movie poster–either for feedback to improve it, or to actually ‘market’ books to other readers. If no one ever sees the poster, what’s the point of making one?

Making a movie poster in the classroom; How To Make A Movie Poster: A Template For Students

TeachThought is an organization dedicated to innovation in education through the growth of outstanding teachers.

• 1. Book Report Projects
• 2. Projects For Novels & Picture Books
• 3. Seasons & Holidays
• 4. Powerpoint
• 6. Sticker Charts

Movie Camera Book Report Project

Assembled Project Size:   Width = 17 inches   Height = 15 inches

Your students will be anxious to be directors and shout "ACTION!" as they direct films about their books.

They will enjoy choosing set locations, costumes, props, and actors for their movies.

You can read more detailed information about this resource by clicking ==>  HERE .

A Note About Your Purchase:  You will be emailed a download link for the resource(s) that you purchase so that you can download, save, print, and use the resource(s)  today!

A very DETAILED description about this resource set is provided below.

Movie camera book report project templates, what's included.

This movie camera shaped reading response project will provide you with all of the teaching resources that you need for your students to write about adaptations that they have to make to their books in order to make a film version of the novel. They have to think about the plot of their book when they write about their movie's film location, special effects, stunts, props, costumes, lead actor or actress, and the supporting cast.

Traditionally, requiring students to write about the main character and the plot of a book is a task most students find quite boring.

By using this uniquely shaped movie camera book report that contains graphic organizers that are worded in movie terminology, your students will be enthusiastic and engaged as they pretend that they are directors and have to create movies based on the books that they read.

These finished book report projects will make a dynamic bulletin board display of your students' work. Everything that you need to complete these projects is included in this set. All that you will need is scissors, glue, tape, and coloring pencils.

There are 16 worksheet and template pages in this set, as well as a 5 page color bulletin board display banner . There are 8 pages of a bulletin board accent pieces in the shape of a director's board for you to use to help you decorate your bulletin board display.

Note :  Due to spelling differences in English (Examples: color/colour and favorite/favourite), there are two separate sets of  worksheets and templates included in this set of teaching resources.

You can select the version ( U.S. or U.K. spelling rules) that contains the spelling that is used in the country where you live. 

The worksheets and templates that are shown on this page use  U.S. spelling rules .

Assembling Directions:

This set includes assembly directions on how to prepare and assemble this project. Below is a sample of the assembly directions page.

Grading Rubric:

I believe that it is important for students to evaluate their own work, so my grading rubric contains both a student assessment and a teacher assessment component. When the students grade their work, they color in the faces. When the teacher grades the work, the teacher circles the small numbers in each box beside the faces. I often find that my students are harsher on themselves than I am, and that the grade that I give them is higher than they have scored themselves.

Below is an example of my movie camera book report grading rubric:

First Draft Worksheets:

For this reason, my students never begin their book report projects by writing on their final draft templates, instead they write on first draft worksheets. Then, they edit and revise their work on their own, with a partner, or in individual writing conferences with me.

On the first draft worksheets, there are examples from the book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that will give students an example of what they should write about for each section for this movie camera book report.

This movie camera book report set is divided into 8 writing sections:

• Adaptations That I Would Make to the Book as the Director: movie camera left main template
• Film Location, Special Effects, and Stunts: movie camera right main template
• Film Title and Lead Actor/Actress: movie camera left main template small box #1
• Supporting Cast: movie camera left main template small box #2
• Props: movie camera right main template small box #1
• Costumes: movie camera right main template small box #2
• Camera Stand: Favorite Part of the Book and Favorite Part of the Movie that the student created.
• Camera Stand: Title of Book, Author, Genre, and Student Name

Normally to save space and time (graphics opening on each web page), I show a small graphical image of the first draft worksheets in my book report sets. I thought that it would help you to have large images of these first draft worksheets to view, as this would give you an idea of the directions and the examples that are provided on these worksheets to help guide your students in writing their first draft responses.

First Draft Worksheet #1: Students write the title, author and genre of the book. Then, they write their favorite part of the book and their favorite part of their movie. This title information and the two short written responses are written in the movie camera stand template.

First Draft Worksheet #2: Students write the adaptations that they would make to the book as the director of their movie. Students write this section in the left movie template, in the larger writing space.

First Draft Worksheet #3: Students write about their movie's film location, special effects, and stunts. Students write this section in the right movie template, in the larger writing space.

First Draft Worksheet #4: Students write their movie's title, lead actor/actress, and the supporting cast. Students write these two sections in the left movie template, in the smaller writing boxes.

First Draft Worksheet #5: Students write their movie's props and costumes. Students write these two sections in the right movie template, in the smaller writing boxes.

Black and White Movie Camera Templates:

This set includes 5 worksheets with templates that assemble into the shape of a movie camera. The finished movie camera book report project measures 15 inches in height and 17 inches in width.

Below are the two main writing templates that are glued together to form the large body of the movie camera.

Below is the movie camera stand template. Students write the title, author, genre, and their name on this template. In the left and right stand posts, students write their favorite part of the book and their favorite part of their movie.

Below are the film reels and camera lens templates. Students draw a picture about their movie inside the camera lens. Students can color the film reels, and I have also had some students draw small pictures inside each section of the film reels.

Color Movie Camera Templates:

My students enjoy seeing my video camera project first. They also enjoy hearing about the book that I chose to do my book report on, and this gives me a great chance to promote a book that I would like to encourage my students to read.

To save you time in coloring your example that you show your students, I have included color movie camera templates of this project for you to use.

Free 5 Page Bulletin Board Display Banner:

This time is valuable and better spent on developing your classroom curriculum and grading papers, so I have designed a matching 5 page display banner for your bulletin board. If you have access to a laminating machine, you can laminate your banner so that it is durable and you can use it year after year for your bulletin board display of these movie camera book report projects.

Free Bulletin Board Display Accent Pieces:

I have designed 8 (one page) director's boards that contain words related to this movie camera book report project:

• Movie Camera Book Reports
• We are Creative Directors!
• Meet the Stars of Our Movies!
• Film Location
• Supporting Cast
• Props and Costumes
• Special Effects
• Dangerous Stunts

I hope that these EXTRA GOODIES that are included in this movie camera book report set help save you time in decorating your bulletin board display.

These movie related graphic organizers are a unique and fun way to get your students excited about completing a writing assignment about the books that they have read.

The writing responses that are required of your students will make them think and write about their books in a challenging and engaging way. In addition, this book report set includes movie themed accent pieces to help you in decorating your bulletin board display.

I hope that your students will enjoy sitting in the director's chair and putting on their thinking caps as they create movies based on their books.

Purchase this book report project below:

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1.  Reading

• Book Report Projects   - Make Reading Fun With These Unique Templates!
• Projects For Favorite Books  - EXTRA LARGE Group & Student Projects For Novels and Read Aloud Books
• Value Pack   - 27 Book Report Projects
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Engage Your Students in Fun Reading Activities This Year More Than 25 Creative Book Report Projects to Choose From!

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

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42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

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

1. Concrete Found Poem

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

2. Graphic Novel

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

3. Book Snaps

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

4. Diary Entry

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

5. Pizza Box Book Report

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

6. Book Jacket

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

7. Mint Tin Book Report

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

8. Fictional Yearbook Entries

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

9. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. Learn more about book tastings .

10. Current Events Comparison

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

11. Sandwich Book Report

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

12. Book Alphabet

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

13. Peekaboo Book Report

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

14. Act the Part

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

15. T-shirt Book Report

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

16. Bookmark

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

17. Rays of Sunshine Book Report

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

18. Reading Lists for Characters

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

19. Character To-Do List

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

20. Collage

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

21. Book Reports in a Bag

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

22. Timeline

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

23. File Folder Book Report

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

24. Public Service Announcement

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

25. Triorama Book Report

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but you can also try an accordion-folded book report, a quadrama, or an info-sphere.

26. Character Cards

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

27. Book Report Mobile

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

28. Fact Sheet

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

29. Dodecahedron Book Report

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

30. Be a Character Therapist

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

31. Charm Bracelet Book Report

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

32. Mind Maps

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

33. Book Report Booklets

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

34. Letter to the Author

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

35. Cardboard Box TV

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

36. Board games

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

37. Foldables

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

38. Timeline

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

39. Comic Strips

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

40. Movie Version

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

41. Wanted Poster

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

42. Wheaties Box Book Report

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report to look like an old-fashioned Wheaties box that features sports heroes. Include a main image on the front side of the box. Decorate the sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

Come share your own creative book report ideas in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, dont’ miss 100 famous children’s books every kid should read (plus free printable).

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Free and Useful Editable Movie Report For Homeschool

November 27, 2020 | Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy .

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I’m so excited to share this free printable editable movie report to compliment the 7 Step DIY Homeschool Planner and other learning forms I have here.

Table of Contents

Editable Movie Report for Homeschool

Although I feel we need to teach our kids how to write a book report or two, some of the same learning concepts can be done assigning a movie report.

Don’t misunderstand me, I didn’t assign a lot of books reports.

However, a required book report or two helped my kids to prepare for literary analysis in high school. The same can be done with an oral report. It’s great to have choices is my point.

So I think you’ll love adding this free editable movie report to your language arts curriculum.

Look at how I created it:

• There are two versions of the same copy. One version has color and if you need to preserve your ink, one version is grayscale .
• Both versions are editable. If you want your kids to practice his beautiful penmanship, just print without using the editable fields.
• If your child prefers to use the editable form, type to fill in and then print.
• Also, I created more of a book-ish type of report meaning I encourage writers through my form to think deeper than what is happening on the screen. That is how we want to sneak in a bit of critical thinking through the fun of watching a movie.

Movie Review Form

Movie reports are not only fun, but have a way of reviving a love lost in writing or analyzing.

Too, if a child has special needs, he may not able to read without great difficulty or write well. Still, he certainly can be encouraged to express himself in beautiful language.

An editable movie report form can help him to jot down fascinating facts and still think about the elements of literature.

Through a movie, his thoughts can be formed in a visual way instead of reading the pages of a book.

In addition, on the last page I have a place for a writer to draw his or her favorite scene/s. This page is unnumbered so that your writer can decide if he wants to illustrate more than one scene and print the same page multiple times.

On the other hand, he can divide the last page into 4 squares using his pencil and illustrate more than one scene on the one page.

Your writer decides if he wants to illustrate one scene per page or various scenes on one page, or print one page per scene. I love options while teaching and I know you do too.

Also, adding the unnumbered last page in this download allows you the freedom of including your youngest learner. He may be at the drawing pictures stage right now. This way your youngest learner is part of language arts instruction for the day.

Another important component I added to the form to help with older learners is a comparison between the movie and the book.

Because this section simply asks the child to compare the two, you decide which literary elements of the book and which movie parts you want your child to compare.

Lastly, the movie report shares some of the same literary elements or the elements of fiction included in a book report like:

• setting; and
• characters.

Another important distinction I made in this form because my kids had a hard time with it too is making the distinction between the plot and t he theme.

Teach with Movies

So I have both a Main Idea (more like the theme) section and Plot so that your kids can learn the difference too. It helps them to think critically when filling out these parts.

Some kids do understand the difference between plot and theme until the teens years which I find is normal.

And filling out the section about what is advertised as the main idea about the movie, versus what are the plot and theme (Main Idea on form) can lead to many interesting observations about the movie.

Analyzing literature is something I’ve tried to make fun in our house; analyzing movies is another way to bring fun to language arts.

I hope you’ll love this form. Do you see other ways you can use this form?

How to Download this Freebie. It’s a Subscriber Only Gift.

From time to time, I do Subscriber Freebies only. This is a subscriber freebie. I do this to show my appreciation and because I want you to follow me and give me a chance to make a difference in your homeschool.

Too, when you join my email list , you get access to my Subscriber’s Only Exclusive Library of Freebies.

This is how you get access to this form quickly. 1) Sign up on my list . 2) Confirm your email. 3) Look for the automatic reply giving you the password to the private subscriber’s area. You should have it soon.

IF you are already a follower/subscriber , PLEASE do NOT email me asking how to find it. You may not want to wait on me replying since I get bombarded with emails.

IF you’ll find the MOST RECENT email from me, the password and link to the Subscribers Area are ALWAYS at the bottom of every email . Look for the most current email since I change the password frequently.

You’ll love these other tips and posts:

• 10 Fun Amazon Prime Movies for the Youngest Homeschoolers
• 7 Educational Movies for Kids About Westward Expansion
• Homeschool History Teaching Ancient Civilizations Using Netflix
• How to Choose the Best Middle School Literature And Favorite Resources
• How to Choose the BEST Homeschool Middle and High School Language Arts Curriculum & Options
• What Homeschool Subjects to Teach and When to Teach Them

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How to Write a Movie Review

Last Updated: August 11, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Marissa Levis . Marissa Levis is an English Teacher in the Morris County Vocational School District. She previously worked as an English director at a tutoring center that caters to students in elementary and middle school. She is an expert in creating a curriculum that helps students advance their skills in secondary-level English, focusing on MLA formatting, reading comprehension, writing skills, editing and proofreading, literary analysis, standardized test preparation, and journalism topics. Marissa received her Master of Arts in Teaching from Fairleigh Dickinson University. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,651,541 times.

Whether a movie is a rotten tomato or a brilliant work of art, if people are watching it, it's worth critiquing. A decent movie review should entertain, persuade and inform, providing an original opinion without giving away too much of the plot. A great movie review can be a work of art in its own right. Read on to learn how to analyze a movie like a professional film critic, come up with an interesting thesis, and write a review as entertaining as your source material.

Sample Movie Reviews

Writing an Intro for a Movie Review

• Comparison to Relevant Event or Movie: "Every day, our leaders, politicians, and pundits call for "revenge"– against terrorist groups, against international rivals, against other political parties. But few of them understand the cold, destructive, and ultimately hollow thrill of revenge as well as the characters of Blue Ruin. "
• Review in a nutshell: "Despite a compelling lead performance by Tom Hanks and a great soundtrack, Forrest Gump never gets out of the shadow of its weak plot and questionable premise."
• Context or Background Information: " Boyhood might be the first movie made where knowing how it was produced–slowly, over 12 years, with the same actors–is just as crucial as the movie itself."

• Using stars, a score out of 10 or 100, or the simple thumbs-up and thumbs-down is a quick way to give your thoughts. You then write about why you chose that rating.
• Great Movie: ABC is the rare movie that succeeds on almost every level, where each character, scene, costume, and joke firing on all cylinders to make a film worth repeated viewings."
• Bad Movie: "It doesn't matter how much you enjoy kung-fu and karate films: with 47 Ronin, you're better off saving your money, your popcorn, and time."
• Okay Movie: "I loved the wildly uneven Interstellar far more than I should have, but that doesn't mean it is perfect. Ultimately, the utter awe and spectacle of space swept me through the admittedly heavy-handed plotting and dialogue."

• Great: "Michael B. Jordan and Octavia Spencer's chemistry would carry Fruitvale Station even if the script wasn't as good. The mid-movie prison scene in particular, where the camera never leaves their faces, shows how much they can convey with nothing but their eyelids, the flashing tension of neck muscles, and a barely cracking voice."
• Bad: " Jurassic World's biggest flaw, a complete lack of relatable female characters, is only further underscored by a laughably unrealistic shot of our heroine running away from a dinosaur – in heels."
• Okay: "At the end of the day, Snowpiercer can't decide what kind of movie it wants to be. The attention to detail in fight scenes, where every weapon, lightbulb, and slick patch of ground is accounted for, doesn't translate to an ending that seems powerful but ultimately says little of substance."

• Does the film reflect on a current event or contemporary issue? It could be the director's way of engaging in a bigger conversation. Look for ways to relate the content of the film to the "real" world.
• Does the film seem to have a message, or does it attempt to elicit a specific response or emotion from the audience? You could discuss whether or not it achieves its own goals.
• Does the film connect with you on a personal level? You could write a review stemming from your own feelings and weave in some personal stories to make it interesting for your readers.

Composing Your Review

• When you name characters in your plot summary, list the actors' names directly afterward in parenthesis.
• Find a place to mention the director's name and the full movie title.
• If you feel you must discuss information that might "spoil" things for readers, warn them first.

• Cinematography: " Her is a world drenched in color, using bright, soft reds and oranges alongside calming whites and grays that both build, and slowly strip away, the feelings of love between the protagonists. Every frame feels like a painting worth sitting in."
• Tone: "Despite the insane loneliness and high stakes of being stuck alone on Mars, The Martian's witty script keeps humor and excitement alive in every scene. Space may be dangerous and scary, but the joy of scientific discovery is intoxicating."
• Music and Sound: " No Country For Old Men's bold decision to skip music entirely pays off in spades. The eerie silence of the desert, punctuated by the brief spells of violent, up-close-and-personal sound effects of hunter and hunted, keeps you constantly on the edge of your seat."
• Acting: "While he's fantastic whenever he's on the move, using his cool stoicism to counteract the rampaging bus, Keanu Reeves can't quite match his costar in the quiet moments of Speed, which falter under his expressionless gaze."

• Keep your writing clear and easy to understand. Don't use too much technical filmmaking jargon, and make your language crisp and accessible.
• Present both the facts and your opinion. For example, you might state something such as, "The Baroque background music was a jarring contrast to the 20th century setting." This is a lot more informative then simply saying, "The music was a strange choice for the movie."

• Great: "In the end, even the characters of Blue Ruin know how pointless their feud is. But revenge, much like every taut minute of this thriller, is far too addictive to give up until the bitter end.""
• Bad: "Much like the oft-mentioned "box of chocolates", Forest Gump has a couple of good little morsels. But most of the scenes, too sweet by half, should have been in the trash long before this movie was put out."
• Okay: "Without the novel, even revolutionary concept, Boyhood may not be a great movie. It might not even be "good.” But the power the film finds in the beauty of passing time and little, inconsequential moments – moments that could only be captured over 12 years of shooting – make Linklater's latest an essential film for anyone interested in the art of film."

Polishing Your Piece

• Ask yourself whether your review stayed true to your thesis. Did your conclusion tie back in with the initial ideas you proposed?
• Decide whether your review contains enough details about the movie. You may need to go back and add more description here and there to give readers a better sense of what the movie's about.
• Decide whether your review is interesting enough as a stand-alone piece of writing. Did you contribute something original to this discussion? What will readers gain from reading your review that they couldn't from simply watching the movie?

Studying Your Source Material

• The title of the film, and the year it came out.
• The director's name.
• The names of the lead actors.

• Make a note every time something sticks out to you, whether it's good or bad. This could be costuming, makeup, set design, music, etc. Think about how this detail relates to the rest of the movie and what it means in the context of your review.
• Take note of patterns you begin to notice as the movie unfolds.
• Use the pause button frequently so you make sure not to miss anything, and rewind as necessary.

• Direction: Consider the director and how he or she choose to portray/explain the events in the story. If the movie was slow, or didn't include things you thought were necessary, you can attribute this to the director. If you've seen other movies directed by the same person, compare them and determine which you like the most.
• Cinematography: What techniques were used to film the movie? What setting and background elements helped to create a certain tone?
• Writing: Evaluate the script, including dialogue and characterization. Did you feel like the plot was inventive and unpredictable or boring and weak? Did the characters' words seem credible to you?
• Editing: Was the movie choppy or did it flow smoothly from scene to scene? Did they incorporate a montage to help build the story? And was this obstructive to the narrative or did it help it? Did they use long cuts to help accentuate an actor's acting ability or many reaction shots to show a group's reaction to an event or dialogue? If visual effects were used were the plates well-chosen and were the composited effects part of a seamless experience? (Whether the effects looked realistic or not is not the jurisdiction of an editor, however, they do choose the footage to be sent off to the compositors, so this could still affect the film.)
• Costume design: Did the clothing choices fit the style of the movie? Did they contribute to the overall tone, rather than digressing from it?
• Set design: Consider how the setting of the film influenced its other elements. Did it add or subtract from the experience for you? If the movie was filmed in a real place, was this location well-chosen?
• Score or soundtrack: Did it work with the scenes? Was it over/under-used? Was it suspenseful? Amusing? Irritating? A soundtrack can make or break a movie, especially if the songs have a particular message or meaning to them.

Expert Q&A

• If you don't like the movie, don't be abusive and mean. If possible, avoid watching the movies that you would surely hate. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Understand that just because the movie isn't to your taste, that doesn't mean you should give it a bad review. A good reviewer helps people find movie's they will like. Since you don't have the same taste in movies as everyone else, you need to be able to tell people if they will enjoy the movie, even if you didn't. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Structure is very important; try categorizing the different parts of the film and commenting on each of those individually. Deciding how good each thing is will help you come to a more accurate conclusion. For example, things like acting, special effects, cinematography, think about how good each of those are. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about writing, check out our in-depth interview with Marissa Levis .

• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/terminology_and_starting_prompts.html
• ↑ https://www.spiritofbaraka.com/how-write-a-movie-review
• ↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/9-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/writing-help/top-tips-for-writing-a-review
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/summary-using-it-wisely/
• ↑ https://twp.duke.edu/sites/twp.duke.edu/files/file-attachments/film-review-1.original.pdf
• ↑ https://www.dailywritingtips.com/7-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/writing_in_literature/writing_about_film/film_writing_sample_analysis.html
• ↑ https://learning.hccs.edu/faculty/onnyx.bei/dual-credit/movie-review-writing-guide
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-a-movie-review/
• ↑ https://gustavus.edu/writingcenter/handoutdocs/editing_proofreading.php
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/
• ↑ https://edusson.com/blog/how-to-write-movie-review

About This Article

To write a movie review, start with a compelling fact or opinion to hook your readers, like "Despite a great performance by Tom Hanks, Forrest Gump never overcomes its weak plot." Then, elaborate on your opinion of the movie right off the bat so readers know where you stand. Once your opinion is clear, provide examples from the movie that prove your point, like specific scenes, dialogue, songs, or camera shots. To learn how to study a film closely before you write a review, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Book Report

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Book Report Fundamentals

Preparing to write, an overview of the book report format, how to write the main body of a book report, how to write a conclusion to a book report, reading comprehension and book reports, book report resources for teachers .

Book reports remain a key educational assessment tool from elementary school through college. Sitting down to close read and critique texts for their content and form is a lifelong skill, one that benefits all of us well beyond our school years. With the help of this guide, you’ll develop your reading comprehension and note-taking skills. You’ll also find resources to guide you through the process of writing a book report, step-by-step, from choosing a book and reading actively to revising your work. Resources for teachers are also included, from creative assignment ideas to sample rubrics.

Book reports follow general rules for composition, yet are distinct from other types of writing assignments. Central to book reports are plot summaries, analyses of characters and themes, and concluding opinions. This format differs from an argumentative essay or critical research paper, in which impartiality and objectivity is encouraged. Differences also exist between book reports and book reviews, who do not share the same intent and audience. Here, you’ll learn the basics of what a book report is and is not.

What Is a Book Report?

"Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

This article, written by a professor emeritus of rhetoric and English, describes the defining characteristics of book reports and offers observations on how they are composed.

"Writing a Book Report" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab outlines the steps in writing a book report, from keeping track of major characters as you read to providing adequate summary material.

"How to Write a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

This article provides another helpful guide to writing a book report, offering suggestions on taking notes and writing an outline before drafting. 

"How to Write a Successful Book Report" ( ThoughtCo )

Another post from ThoughtCo., this article highlights the ten steps for book report success. It was written by an academic advisor and college enrollment counselor.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and an Essay?

"Differences Between a Book Report & Essay Writing" ( Classroom)

In this article from the education resource Classroom,  you'll learn the differences and similarities between book reports and essay writing.

"Differences Between a Book Report and Essay Writing" (SeattlePi.com)

In this post from a Seattle newspaper's website, memoirist Christopher Cascio highlights how book report and essay writing differ.

"The Difference Between Essays and Reports" (Solent Online Learning)

This PDF from Southampton Solent University includes a chart demonstrating the differences between essays and reports. Though it is geared toward university students, it will help students of all levels understand the differing purposes of reports and analytical essays.

What’s the Difference Between a Book Report and a Book Review?

"How to Write a Book Review and a Book Report" (Concordia Univ.)

The library at Concordia University offers this helpful guide to writing book report and book reviews. It defines differences between the two, then presents components that both forms share.

"Book Reviews" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s writing guide shows the step-by-step process of writing book reviews, offering a contrast to the composition of book reports.

Active reading and thoughtful preparation before you begin your book report are necessary components of crafting a successful piece of writing. Here, you’ll find tips and resources to help you learn how to select the right book, decide which format is best for your report, and outline your main points.

Selecting and Finding a Book

"30 Best Books for Elementary Readers" (Education.com)

This article from Education.com lists 30 engaging books for students from kindergarten through fifth grade. It was written by Esme Raji Codell, a teacher, author, and children's literature specialist.

"How to Choose a Good Book for a Report (Middle School)" (WikiHow)

This WikiHow article offers suggestions for middle schoolers on how to choose the right book for a report, from getting started early on the search process to making sure you understand the assignment's requirements.

"Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers" (Common Sense Media)

Common Sense Media has compiled this list of 25 of the best books for middle school book reports. For younger students, the article suggests you check out the site's "50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12."

"50 Books to Read in High School" (Lexington Public Library)

The Lexington, Kentucky Public Library has prepared this list to inspire high school students to choose the right book. It includes both classics and more modern favorites.

The Online Computer Library Center's catalogue helps you locate books in libraries near you, having itemized the collections of 72,000 libraries in 170 countries.

Formats of Book Reports

"Format for Writing a Book Report" ( Your Dictionary )

Here, Your Dictionary supplies guidelines for the basic book report format. It describes what you'll want to include in the heading, and what information to include in the introductory paragraph. Be sure to check these guidelines against your teacher's requirements.

"The Good Old Book Report" (Scholastic)

Nancy Barile’s blog post for Scholastic lists the questions students from middle through high school should address in their book reports.

How to Write an Outline

"Writer’s Web: Creating Outlines" (Univ. of Richmond)

The University of Richmond’s Writing Center shows how you can make use of micro and macro outlines to organize your argument.

"Why and How to Create a Useful Outline" (Purdue OWL)

Purdue’s Online Writing Lab demonstrates how outlines can help you organize your report, then teaches you how to create outlines.

"Creating an Outline" (EasyBib)

EasyBib, a website that generates bibliographies, offers sample outlines and tips for creating your own. The article encourages you to think about transitions and grouping your notes.

"How to Write an Outline: 4 Ways to Organize Your Thoughts" (Grammarly)

This blog post from a professional writer explains the advantages of using an outline, and presents different ways to gather your thoughts before writing.

In this section, you’ll find resources that offer an overview of how to write a book report, including first steps in preparing the introduction. A good book report's introduction hooks the reader with strong opening sentences and provides a preview of where the report is going.

"Step-by-Step Outline for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This article from Classroom furnishes students with a guide to the stages of writing a book report, from writing the rough draft to revising.

"Your Roadmap to a Better Book Report" ( Time4Writing )

Time4Writing offers tips for outlining your book report, and describes all of the information that the introduction, body, and conclusion should include.

"How to Start a Book Report" ( ThoughtCo)

This ThoughtCo. post, another by academic advisor and college enrollment counselor Grace Fleming, demonstrates how to write a pithy introduction to your book report.

"How to Write an Introduction for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief but helpful post from Classroom  details what makes a good book report introduction, down to the level of individual sentences.

The body paragraphs of your book report accomplish several goals: they describe the plot, delve more deeply into the characters and themes that make the book unique, and include quotations and examples from the book. Below are some resources to help you succeed in summarizing and analyzing your chosen text.

Plot Summary and Description

"How Do You Write a Plot Summary?" ( Reference )

This short article presents the goals of writing a plot summary, and suggests a word limit. It emphasizes that you should stick to the main points and avoid including too many specific details, such as what a particular character wears.

"How to Write a Plot for a Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

In this article from a resource website for writers, Patricia Harrelson outlines what information to include in a plot summary for a book report. 

"How to Write a Book Summary" (WikiHow)

Using Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone as an example, this WikiHow article demonstrates how to write a plot summary one step at a time.

Analyzing Characters and Themes

"How to Write a Character Analysis Book Report" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kristine Tucker shows how to write a book report focusing on character. You can take her suggestions as they are, or consider  incorporating them into the more traditional book report format.

"How to Write a Character Analysis" (YouTube)

The SixMinuteScholar Channel utilizes analysis of the film  Finding Nemo to show you how to delve deeply into character, prioritizing inference over judgment.

"How to Define Theme" ( The Editor's Blog )

Fiction editor Beth Hill contributes an extended definition of theme. She also provides examples of common themes, such as "life is fragile."

"How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story" ( ThoughtCo )

This blog post from ThoughtCo. clarifies the definition of theme in relation to symbolism, plot, and moral. It also offers examples of themes in literature, such as love, death, and good vs. evil.

Selecting and Integrating Quotations

"How to Choose and Use Quotations" (Santa Barbara City College)

This guide from a college writing center will help you choose which quotations to use in your book report, and how to blend quotations with your own words.

"Guidelines for Incorporating Quotes" (Ashford Univ.)

This PDF from Ashford University's Writing Center introduces the ICE method for incorporating quotations: introduce, cite, explain.

"Quote Integration" (YouTube)

This video from The Write Way YouTube channel illustrates how to integrate quotations into writing, and also explains how to cite those quotations.

"Using Literary Quotations" (Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison)

This guide from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Writing Center helps you emphasize your analysis of a quotation, and explains how to incorporate quotations into your text.

Conclusions to any type of paper are notoriously tricky to write. Here, you’ll learn some creative ways to tie up loose ends in your report and express your own opinion of the book you read. This open space for sharing opinions that are not grounded in critical research is an element that often distinguishes book reports from other types of writing.

"How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report" ( Classroom )

This brief article from the education resource  Classroom illustrates the essential points you should make in a book report conclusion.

"Conclusions" (Univ. of North Carolina)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Writing Center lays out strategies for writing effective conclusions. Though the article is geared toward analytical essay conclusions, the tips offered here will also help you write a strong book report.

"Ending the Essay: Conclusions" (Harvard College Writing Center)

Pat Bellanca’s article for Harvard University’s Writing Center presents ways to conclude essays, along with tips. Again, these are suggestions for concluding analytical essays that can also be used to tie up a book report's loose ends.

Reading closely and in an engaged manner is the strong foundation upon which all good book reports are built. The resources below will give you a picture of what active reading looks like, and offer strategies to assess and improve your reading comprehension. Further, you’ll learn how to take notes—or “annotate” your text—making it easier to find important information as you write.

How to Be an Active Reader

"Active Reading Strategies: Remember and Analyze What You Read" (Princeton Univ.)

Princeton University’s McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning recommends ten strategies for active reading, and includes sample diagrams.

"Active Reading" (Open Univ.)

The Open University offers these techniques for reading actively alongside video examples. The author emphasizes that you should read for comprehension—not simply to finish the book as quickly as possible.

"7 Active Reading Strategies for Students" ( ThoughtCo )

In this post, Grace Fleming outlines seven methods for active reading. Her suggestions include identifying unfamiliar words and finding the main idea. 

"5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments" (YouTube)

Thomas Frank’s seven-minute video demonstrates how you can retain the most important information from long and dense reading material.

Assessing Your Reading Comprehension

"Macmillan Readers Level Test" (MacMillan)

Take this online, interactive test from a publishing company to find out your reading level. You'll be asked a number of questions related to grammar and vocabulary.

"Reading Comprehension Practice Test" (ACCUPLACER)

ACCUPLACER is a placement test from The College Board. This 20-question practice test will help you see what information you retain after reading short passages.

"Reading Comprehension" ( English Maven )

The English Maven site has aggregated exercises and tests at various reading levels so you can quiz your reading comprehension skills.

How to Improve Your Reading Comprehension

"5 Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension" ( ThoughtCo )

ThoughtCo. recommends five tips to increase your reading comprehension ability, including reading with tools such as highlighters, and developing new vocabulary.

"How to Improve Reading Comprehension: 8 Expert Tips" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar provides ideas for improving your reading comprehension, from expanding your vocabulary to discussing texts with friends.

CrashCourse video: "Reading Assignments" (YouTube)

This CrashCourse video equips you with tools to read more effectively. It will help you determine how much material you need to read, and what strategies you can use to absorb what you read.

"Improving Reading Comprehension" ( Education Corner )

From a pre-reading survey through post-reading review, Education Corner  walks you through steps to improve reading comprehension.

Methods of In-text Annotation

"The Writing Process: Annotating a Text" (Hunter College)

This article from Hunter College’s Rockowitz Writing Center outlines how to take notes on a text and provides samples of annotation.

"How To Annotate Text While Reading" (YouTube)

This video from the SchoolHabits YouTube channel presents eleven annotation techniques you can use for better reading comprehension.

"5 Ways To Annotate Your Books" ( Book Riot )

This article from the Book Riot  blog highlights five efficient annotation methods that will save you time and protect your books from becoming cluttered with unnecessary markings.

"How Do You Annotate Your Books?" ( Epic Reads )

This post from Epic Reads highlights how different annotation methods work for different people, and showcases classic methods from sticky notes to keeping a reading notebook.

Students at every grade level can benefit from writing book reports, which sharpen critical reading skills. Here, we've aggregated sources to help you plan book report assignments and develop rubrics for written and oral book reports. You’ll also find alternative book report assessment ideas that move beyond the traditional formats.

Teaching Elementary School Students How to Write Book Reports

"Book Reports" ( Unique Teaching Resources )

These reading templates courtesy of Unique Teaching Resources make great visual aids for elementary school students writing their first book reports.

"Elementary Level Book Report Template" ( Teach Beside Me )

This   printable book report template from a teacher-turned-homeschooler is simple, classic, and effective. It asks basic questions, such as "who are the main characters?" and "how did you feel about the main characters?"

"Book Reports" ( ABC Teach )

ABC Teach ’s resource directory includes printables for book reports on various subjects at different grade levels, such as a middle school biography book report form and a "retelling a story" elementary book report template.

"Reading Worksheets" ( Busy Teacher's Cafe )

This page from Busy Teachers’ Cafe contains book report templates alongside reading comprehension and other language arts worksheets.

Teaching Middle School and High School Students How to Write Book Reports

"How to Write a Book Report: Middle and High School Level" ( Fact Monster)

Fact Monster ’s Homework Center discusses each section of a book report, and explains how to evaluate and analyze books based on genre for students in middle and high school.

"Middle School Outline Template for Book Report" (Trinity Catholic School)

This PDF outline template breaks the book report down into manageable sections for seventh and eighth graders by asking for specific information in each paragraph.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( Classroom )

In this article for Classroom,  Elizabeth Thomas describes what content high schoolers should focus on when writing their book reports.

"Forms for Writing a Book Report for High School" ( The Pen & The Pad )

Kori Morgan outlines techniques for adapting the book report assignment to the high school level in this post for The Pen & The Pad .

"High School Book Lists and Report Guidelines" (Highland Hall Waldorf School)

These sample report formats, grading paradigms, and tips are collected by Highland Hall Waldorf School. Attached are book lists by high school grade level.

Sample Rubrics

"Book Review Rubric Editable" (Teachers Pay Teachers)

This free resource from Teachers Pay Teachers allows you to edit your book report rubric to the specifications of your assignment and the grade level you teach.

"Book Review Rubric" (Winton Woods)

This PDF rubric from a city school district includes directions to take the assignment long-term, with follow-up exercises through school quarters.

"Multimedia Book Report Rubric" ( Midlink Magazine )

Perfect for oral book reports, this PDF rubric from North Carolina State University's Midlink Magazine  will help you evaluate your students’ spoken presentations.

Creative Book Report Assignments

"25 Book Report Alternatives" (Scholastic)

This article from the Scholastic website lists creative alternatives to the standard book report for pre-kindergarteners through high schoolers.

"Fresh Ideas for Creative Book Reports" ( Education World )

Education World offers nearly 50 alternative book report ideas in this article, from a book report sandwich to a character trait diagram.

"A Dozen Ways to Make Amazingly Creative Book Reports" ( We Are Teachers )

This post from We Are Teachers puts the spotlight on integrating visual arts into literary study through multimedia book report ideas.

"More Ideas Than You’ll Ever Use for Book Reports" (Teachnet.com)

This list from Teachnet.com includes over 300 ideas for book report assignments, from "interviewing" a character to preparing a travel brochure to the location in which the book is set.

"Fifty Alternatives to the Book Report" (National Council of Teachers of English)

In this PDF resource from the NCTE's  English Journal,  Diana Mitchell offers assignment ideas ranging from character astrology signs to a character alphabet.

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The Best Book-Report Books for Middle Schoolers

No need to dread a book report! When kids find titles that are engaging, interesting, and thought-provoking, they're hooked. If it's fiction, students can dissect plot, theme, and characters. If it's nonfiction, they can plunge into a subject that fascinates them or learn a lot about something they've never heard of before. Here's a list of surefire selections for students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. For even more ideas, check out 50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12 .

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl

Inspiring wartime journal reveals teen's inner life.

The Apothecary, Book 1

Cold War kids use magic to save world in brilliant novel.

Everything Sad Is Untrue: (A True Story)

Young refugee's story is told in memories, myths, fables.

Goodbye Stranger

Bittersweet, lovely story of friendship and social media.

Genesis Begins Again

Teen learns to love herself in uplifting tale of misfits.

Hold on tight for an intense tale of survival.

A Long Walk to Water

Touching take on Lost Boys of Sudan, based on true story.

One Crazy Summer

A gem, with strong girl characters, '60s black history.

Poverty, being unhoused explored in hopeful tale.

The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights

Little-known disaster gets overdue, in-depth treatment.

The Red Badge of Courage

Compelling Civil War novel questions morality of battle.

Uglies: Uglies Quartet, Book 1

Thoughtful sci-fi about the price of beauty.

Interned girl, Native boy find common ground in moving tale.

All-American Muslim Girl

Captivating coming-of-age tale explores identity, racism.

American Ace

Moving, fast-paced novel-in-verse; great for teen boys.

Bomb: The Race to Build -- and Steal -- the World's Most Dangerous Weapon

Complex, suspenseful story of developing The Bomb.

The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club

Thrilling true story of teenagers who stood up to the Nazis.

Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings

Poignant memoir-in-verse recalls Cuban American's childhood.

Long Way Down

Gripping, unnerving story of teen boy contemplating revenge.

My Name Is Not Easy

Fascinating story of Alaskan kids growing up in the 1960s.

Other great lists from our editors

• Coming-of-Age Books
• Books to Help Your Kid Survive Middle School
• How to Raise a Reader
• Help Your Kids Find Books with Diverse Characters
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How to Write a Film Report

High School Book Project Ideas

When you are in a film class, you will often have to write film reports. Students sometimes confuse the concept of a film report with a film review, but they aren't the same. In a film review, students will assess the overall quality of the film they are watching, determining whether or not it's a piece of art they would want to recommend to others. They may follow certain criteria to establish their review. A film report, on the other hand, requires the critic -- or the student -- to thoroughly evaluate a film, looking at everything from personal reactions to techniques used to make it. A film report will certainly take more time to write than a film review, but if you follow some basic steps, you'll have a great piece written in no time!

The first thing you need to do before writing a film report is to take notes on what film it is you're watching. Pay attention to themes, things that stand out -- such as certain characters -- colors or music. Take note of things you admire, things that you wish were done differently and emotions you felt. Observe different techniques used and plan to research them more in-depth if necessary. It may also be a good idea to pause at certain points, rewind back to a specific scene or start the whole movie over again in order to take some solid notes on what you're seeing.

Go over your notes and try to see how those things are connected. For example, if you happened to note that you were quite interested in the character of Michael Corleone in "The Godfather," you would try to think about the clothes he wears, how he speaks and the way others speak to him.

After making some notes on a character, try to understand the context of that character. In "The Godfather," Corleone had just returned from being a war hero in World War II. Ask yourself: What was going on in America at that time? What does his character represent compared to the other men in the film? What is the time period from beginning to end? What are some symbolic scenes or images in the film?

Develop your thesis statement. A thesis statement for your film report is essentially a one sentence evaluation that can be threaded through the whole piece. Your purpose should be strong enough that readers will agree with your evaluation of the film. It will look something like this: "In Coppola's film 'The Godfather,' the character of Michael Corleone represents the dashed hopes of America."

Back up your thesis statement using three or four reasons to support your arguments. In the example from "The Godfather," you might state: "The journey of Michael's character from hero full of hope to cold-blooded murderer and businessman could be seen as an allegory of America's journey as a country." You might then compare some historical facts to incidents in the film.

Circle back to your thesis statement for your closing. Show how the film fits society and makes us understand ourselves better.

• Watch the film at least once, preferably two or three times.
• If you get stuck, think of a film report as you would a book report. Think of film as a type of text, since many themes of literature apply to film.

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• Duke.edu: Thompson Writing Program Film Review
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• Cineaste Magazine

Veronica Scott is currently a graduate student at Ohio University, studying film. She holds a BS in Film Studies with a minor in Creative Writing and Art History from the University of Idaho. She has been published in the film magazine Cineaste as well as the McNair Journal.

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A fun and rewarding summer reading program developed to encourage young children to read during the summer months, Bookworm Wednesdays entitles kids to free movie admission to a select children's film when they present a book report at a participating Cinema de Lux, Showcase, or Multiplex Cinemas box office. 

Compare and Contrast Movie and Book Template (Free Printable)

When it comes to storytelling, books and movies are two powerful mediums that often tell the same tale in vastly different ways. Using a compare and contrast movie and book template can help students analyze these differences and similarities effectively.

Exploring the best books for kids that have been adapted into movies can be particularly engaging and educational.

For students, crafting a compare and contrast essay on this topic can be both fun and educational. Let’s dive into how to approach such an essay with a clear and engaging structure.

**There may be affiliate links in this post. You can read my full disclosure at the bottom of the page.**

Table of Contents

The Basics of a Compare and Contrast Essay

A compare and contrast essay examines the similarities and differences between two subjects. In this case, you’ll be comparing a book and its movie adaptation.

The key to a successful essay lies in the thesis statement, which clearly states what you are comparing and why.

For instance, a thesis statement might be: “While the ‘ Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ‘ book and movie share a magical storyline, the book offers deeper character development, whereas the movie provides visual and emotional immediacy.”

Structuring Your Essay

Introductory paragraph.

Start with a hook to grab your reader’s attention. Introduce the book and movie you are comparing, and end with your thesis statement.

Example: “Few stories have captivated audiences like ‘ Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone .’ Whether through the pages of J.K. Rowling’s novel or the frames of the movie adaptation, this magical tale has enchanted millions. However, the depth of the book contrasts with the visual splendor of the film.”

Body Paragraphs

Use the Venn-diagram method to brainstorm similarities and differences.

Organize your body paragraphs either by subject (discussing all aspects of the book first and then the movie) or by points of comparison (discussing specific elements such as characters, plot, and themes in both mediums side-by-side).

Point-by-Point Structure:

• Characters: “In the book, Harry’s internal thoughts provide a rich layer to his character that the movie can only hint at through Daniel Radcliffe’s performance. For example, the book details Harry’s internal struggles and his evolving friendships, which are only touched upon visually in the film.”
• Plot and Pacing: “The book’s plot unfolds gradually, allowing for subplots and character backstories that enrich the main story. Conversely, the movie streamlines the narrative to fit a two-hour runtime, which can lead to the omission of certain details and characters, such as Peeves the Poltergeist.”
• Setting and Imagery: “While the book paints vivid pictures with words, the movie brings Hogwarts to life with stunning visual effects and set designs, providing a tangible sense of place that readers can only imagine.”

Comparative Analysis

Discuss the overall impact of these differences and similarities. How do they affect the audience’s experience? Use transitional words to smoothly move from one point to another, ensuring clarity and cohesion.

Concluding Paragraph

Restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented. Summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, and reflect on the broader implications of these differences.

Example: “Ultimately, both the book and movie of ‘ Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ‘ offer unique and valuable experiences. The book’s detailed narrative provides depth and insight, while the movie’s visual spectacle brings the magic to life in a different way. Together, they enrich our understanding and enjoyment of the story.”

Additional Tips for Writing a Good Compare and Contrast Essay

• Brainstorming: Use graphic organizers like Venn diagrams to visually map out the similarities and differences between the book and the movie. This can help in structuring your essay logically.
• Thesis Statement: Craft a clear thesis statement that guides your essay. It should highlight the main points of comparison and contrast you will discuss.
• Transitions: Use transitional words and phrases to link your ideas and ensure your essay flows smoothly. Words like “similarly,” “in contrast,” “however,” and “on the other hand” can help clarify your comparisons.
• Examples: Use specific examples from the book and the movie to support your points. This makes your analysis more concrete and persuasive.
• Revision: After writing your essay, revise it to ensure clarity and coherence. Check for grammatical errors, awkward sentences, and ensure that your argument is logically structured.

Book vs. Movie: A Comparison Template

• Book/Movie Title:
• Any Differences in the Plot?
• Differences in Themes:
• How Was the Setting Different?
• What Did You Notice That Was Different About the Characters?
• Differences in Conflict:
• Conclusions (Which Did You Prefer & Why?):

This template is a great starting point for organizing your thoughts and ensuring that your essay is comprehensive and well-structured.

By comparing and contrasting books and their movie adaptations, students can develop critical thinking and analytical skills. This type of essay encourages them to see beyond the surface and understand the nuances of storytelling across different mediums.

Mastering the compare and contrast essay format will serve students well in various academic and real-world scenarios. So grab a book, watch its movie, and start analyzing the fascinating interplay between written and visual storytelling.

Use our free middle school book report template too!

Book-to-Movie Adaptations for Students to Study

There are countless books made into a movie , offering a rich field for comparison and contrast.

While almost every film students watch may have a literary counterpart, some adaptations stand out for their educational value and engaging narratives.

Here are our top five picks that provide excellent material for study, and a perfect excuse to cuddle up with a good film!

• Harry Potter
• Lord of the Rings
• Oliver Twist
• David Walliams’ Collection

Exploring these adaptations can deepen students’ understanding of storytelling and enhance their analytical skills.

Download the Free Book vs Movie Compare and Contrast PDF

To help you get started on your essay, we’ve provided a free printable movie book comparison template.

This resource is designed to guide you through the process of analyzing the book and movie, focusing on key areas such as plot differences, theme variations, setting contrasts, character depictions, and conflict resolutions.

To get your free printables for kids , simply add your name and email address to the form below.

Additional Reading Resources

• how to encourage reading habits
• reading log printable
• 3rd grade book report template

What are your kid’s favorite books that have been turned into films? Let me know in the comments below.

Last Updated on 13 August 2024 by Clare Brown

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How Minority Report Differs From The Book

Having celebrated its 20th anniversary, "Minority Report"  has officially become a blast from the past, despite being set in 2054. Stylish and sleek, it predicted a lot of modern trends in surveillance and incessantly intrusive advertising, even if we're not quite at the point of predicting future crimes yet. It also sits comfortably among the top of the list in terms of director Steven Spielberg's best-ranked movies , as well as movies in which Tom Cruise runs a lot (and other Tom Cruise things happen ).

But how does "Minority Report" hold up to its own past, when compared to the short story of the same name by sci fi maestro Philip K. Dick? A titan of the genre also famous for the mind-bending stories that became "Blade Runner," "Total Recall," and "A Scanner Darkly," Dick's 43-page story tells a much more compact version of a future with a Precrime division, with a much different version of Cruise's hero John Anderton also falsely accused at the center of it. Both versions dance around deep questions of fate, morality, and the nature of time itself, but the differences are wide-ranging and illuminating. Here's how "Minority Report" differs from the book.

A hard knock precog life

In both Philip K. Dick's original story and the screenplay for "Minority Report" adapted by Scott Frank and Jon Cohen, the entire premise of predicting future crimes is driven by the existence of "precogs," humans with rare genetic mutations that give them precognition, hence the name. In both versions, they live a thankless and terrifying life as basically humans forced to be computer banks, constantly spouting out data about potential crimes, but Dick's is far worse in its particulars. He writes the precogs as severely physically deformed and brain-damaged by the mutations, spending all day spouting gibberish words that computers analyze to predict the future. The characters quite callously refer to the room they're held in as "the monkey house," and no one questions or criticizes their confinement or exploitation.

In the movie, it's still very unsettling that the precogs are forced to live in vats of goo that enhance their abilities, but they're able to recover to semi-normal human lives of self-aware contentment when released at the story's end. The movie tacitly admits how horrible their lives are when our ostensible hero John Anderton says, "It helps if you don't think of them as human," and a tour group of school-children is fed a pack of lies about how the precogs all have plenty of relaxation time and nice apartments to live in. But even though the movie gets a little more into humanizing them — especially Agatha, with her mother's attempt to get her out of the program — the plight of the precogs isn't really a rallying cry in either the movie or the original story.

John Anderton, a murderer after all

The main character of both the book and film "Minority Report" is John Anderton. In Philip K. Dick's story, Anderton is the middle-aged head of the Precrime division, a paranoid and morose man who's worried about his new second-in-command conspiring to take his job. He's married to a much younger woman named Lisa, and he also comes to suspect her of plotting against him, especially when the system predicts that he himself will commit murder. Ultimately, Anderton ends up committing cold-blooded murder on purpose to preserve the integrity of precrime after a sequence of paradoxes that we'll get into later. He's a career bureaucrat, and believes in the order that the system maintains.

Movie John Anderton is wildly different, mostly as a result of being played by likeable movie star Tom Cruise . He's much younger, divorced from a woman named Lara (Kathryn Morris), and is motivated less by a belief in precrime than by throwing himself into his work to avoid grieving his missing son. He's not the head of Precrime, because the movie has invented the character of Lamar Burgess ( Max von Sydow ), who turns out to be the one who committed murder to preserve the system. Essentially, as part of adding many new elements to expand a 43-page story into a feature film, the movie has divided the book's John Anderton into these two characters, and given all the heroic and derring-do elements to the one played by Tom Cruise. Movie John Anderton, as the clear hero, obviously never chooses to commit murder on purpose.

Three minority reports vs. zero minority reports

Philip K. Dick's story and the movie handle the implementation of the titular "minority report" concept in completely different ways. Each version has three precogs that predict the future, and the title refers to when one of the three disagrees with the other two on the path of future events. Dick's story involves John Anderton reading the minority report of his own predicted murder. One of the precogs has seen a version of events where, since he's informed of the prediction, he successfully avoids killing anyone and the timeline is altered. Ultimately, the third and final prediction is him committing the murder in a completely different way, so in the book Anderton basically has three different "minority" reports, since none are the same.

Movie John Anderton, somewhat ironically, spends most of the runtime of the film chasing down a minority report that doesn't exist: all three precogs had the same vision of his shooting of Leo Crow. Agatha's recurring vision of her mother's death turns out to be a staged recreation of a vision, so it's actually not related to the concept, either. "Minority Report," the movie, doesn't actually show any minority reports, although Anderton makes an off-hand reference to seeing several of them in the archives.

The U.S. Government vs. Precrime

If there were a police division with the ability to predict the future, it's obvious the federal government would take quite an interest. In both the original story and the film, they're attempting to meddle with precrime from the outside. The villain in Philip K. Dick's version is a retired general named Leopold Kaplan, who's listed as John Anderton's intended victim even though they've never met. He turns out to be the head of a shadowy military conspiracy to expose precrime as inaccurate when Anderton doesn't kill anyone, and then to take over the country in essentially a military coup.

In the movie, it's the Department of Justice that arrives to meddle, not the military, in the form of Danny Witwer ( Colin Farrell ). The screenplay has precrime at the end of a six-year trail run, instead of being an established national force like in the short story, and the DoJ is there to expose any flaws before a vote to take the program national. As Witwer points out, nobody the Precrime division has arrested has actually committed a crime, making it difficult to grapple with the legality and ethics of the entire experiment.

Precrime: What is it good for?

Neither version of "Minority Report" devotes much time to questioning the morality of arresting people for crimes they haven't yet committed. Even if you take it as a certainty, wouldn't this be a unique opportunity for some kind of therapy or restorative justice for these people instead of just sending them to camps (in the book) or halo-ing them in a cell (in the movie)? Philip K. Dick's characters in the Precrime division are true believers in the cause, as Anderton shoots a man in public to protect the system, and is exiled to a harsh off-world colony at the story's conclusion.

Movie John Anderton comes to question precrime and ultimately plays a role in its shutdown, but only after being targeted by the system himself in an elaborate set up. A lot of dialogue is devoted to the idea of Anderton (and later Lamar Burgess) having a choice in their actions now that they know they've been predicted to commit murder, but no one suggests that they apply this to any of the other accused murderers who have been locked up by the Precrime division. 

Witwer, we hardly knew ye

Philip K. Dick's "The Minority Report" and Steven Spielberg's movie "Minority Report" both have a smarmy, obnoxious character named Witwer who seems determined to undermine John Anderton, but who actually turns out to have good intentions. That's where the similarities end, however. The short story's Ed Witwer is a second-in-command who's been forced on the older Anderton with an eye toward taking over his job. He ultimately helps Anderton uncover the plot against him, and ends up taking his job after all when Anderton commits murder and is exiled. But he lives to head the Precrime division and keep the system spinning.

The movie's Danny Witwer is an even slimier operator, a representative from the Department of Justice who snoops into Anderton's private life and is always annoying chewing gum and making snide comments. Colin Farrell plays him as such a sniveling bully that's it a legitimate surprise when he starts asking the right questions and uncovers the murder of Anne Lively, only to be shot in the chest abruptly by Lamar Burgess for his trouble. Even though he doesn't live to see it, the Precrime division is exposed as flawed and shut-down, as he was clearly hoping at the beginning of the movie.

Tension in the Anderton family

In both versions of the story, John Anderton has to balance being potentially framed for murder with a messy personal life, although with very different stakes. Philip K. Dick's Anderton is middle-aged and sour, and suspects his much younger wife Lisa of turning against him the instant that his name comes up as a future murderer. Their marriage is put to the test when she attempts to bring him back to the Precrime precinct to be arrested for his allegedly murderous intent, but he saves her life from a shadowy conspirator who had been hiding on their aircraft, and they reconcile. Eventually she joins him in off-world exile, which is nice of her.

The movie has a much younger John Anderton estranged from his ex-wife Lara, both of them dealing with profound grief over the loss of their son. Sean Anderton went missing while John was underwater at a public pool, and is presumed long dead after six years have passed. After the events of the film, during which John is forced to confront his grief when he briefly thinks he's found their son's killer, they reconcile and Lara is pregnant with another child. So both bleak stories end with a silver lining of regained love, at least.

You still have a choice

On both page and screen, the idea of predetermination and free will are important themes in "Minority Report." Does knowledge of your own future mean that you're unable to change it? The book John Anderton is steadfastly resolved at every instance to either defy or live out the future the precogs predict for him. At first, he tries to get out of town for long enough that the date of his supposed crime passes to prove that he's being framed, until he realizes that it will just prove that precrime doesn't work in the eyes of the public. He then reads a final prediction of how he'll murder Leopold Kaplan, and carries it out in that exact way to prove that it does. It's presented as a choice, but murkily so.

The movie makes this idea central to its climatic moment. After Anderton has exposed Lamar Burgess' misdeeds, a "red ball" predicting Burgess shooting Anderton appears at precrime HQ. But Anderton tells Burgess that he can still choose another outcome, which the older man does by shooting himself instead. "Minority Report" the film eschews philosophy for the dramatic exercise of free will in key moments (Anderton also chooses to arrest Leo Crow instead of shoot him as predicted), while the original story takes a more mechanical path through the concept as each prediction changes Anderton's mind in turn.

The world of tomorrow

The most vast difference between the stories lies in the details of the futuristic world that they predict. Since the short story was written in 1956, it has many small things that are extrapolations of 1956 technology — projections from a time when computers as we know them barely existed. The precog system relies on printed cards and huge computer banks to analyze data, and Anderton has to open up bulky terminals and make snippets of tape reels to get the information specific to his case that he's looking for.

The movie updates Precrime HQ to include elaborate video screens that show visualizations of what's happening in the precogs' minds directly— a small but arbitrary change is that the murder victims' and perpetrators' names are etched onto shiny wooden balls instead of printed out. The movie also has a lot more narrative time (and a big movie budget) to populate the future with moving digital newspaper images, robotic identity-scanning spiders, and needlessly elaborate police technology like jetpacks and shockwave weapons, which the short story didn't really get into. 

The nature of time

Philip K. Dick's short story has a seemingly more nuanced and thorough understanding of how the flow of time functions in its universe. An early passage explicitly states that "minority reports," which happen when the precogs slightly disagree on the details of the future, are somewhat common and actually integral to the idea of precrime itself. If the future couldn't be changed at all, there would be no possibility of stopping future crimes in the first place. So the idea that the future has variations makes perfect sense, given that there's an entire arm of law enforcement dedicated to changing the timeline.

"Minority Report" the movie takes a more binary understanding: there's the future where a murder happens, and the future where the Precrime division gets there in time and stops it, and seemingly no in-between. So the very existence of minority reports is covered up, and the system is designed to delete them immediately. It's not as clean of a thought process, and the movie sidesteps this by never dealing with any actual minority report-related discrepancies.

All's well that ends well

"Minority Report" the movie has as happy an ending as it can muster, as befits a mass-audience PG-13 blockbuster. The precrime division is disbanded — which is good, because Anderton's framing proves it isn't a perfect system and Burgess had to commit murder to set it up in the first place. No one really gets into how poorly the precogs were treated, but they do get to live in a cabin and read books, so they seem happy. Anderton and his wife reunite, and the credits roll without causing us to ask too many more questions.

Philip K. Dick's short story isn't particularly meant to comfort the reader. Precrime itself is a national concern, one that's presumably sent thousands of people to camps for crimes they didn't yet commit. Book John Anderton stops the shadowy military cabal from instituting martial law and overthrowing the country, but doesn't precrime itself mean the country already lives in a police state? Everyone's future intentions are patrolled constantly by an unknown number of poor, exploited precogs, and the head of the division had to kill someone to keep it going. 

The right to privacy

"Minority Report" the movie has proven eerily accurate, as it predicted how constant, targeted advertising would become a bigger part of our lives than ever in the years that followed its 2002 release. Granted, billboards and subway ads don't literally say our names aloud after scanning our retinas, but most of us carry a small device in our pockets that tracks our habits and shares our data with advertisers (and often law enforcement) in a very similar way. 

Philip K. Dick didn't build the world of his story out into as complex a whole, but the nature of precrime in his version carries similar concerns about privacy. In the story, the precrime division has a national purview and covers all felony-level crimes and upward, implying that precrime police come knocking for much more than just murder. Both stories sketch out the fear and paranoia that would result from living in a vast surveillance state, whether it's your thoughts or your movements that are constantly patrolled and analyzed.

‘Terry McMillan Presents: Forever’ free online: How to watch Lifetime’s new original movie

• Updated: Aug. 24, 2024, 3:07 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 24, 2024, 3:07 p.m.

• Mike Rose, cleveland.com

“ Terry McMillan Presents: Forever ” premiers tonight, Saturday, August 24, at 8 p.m. Eastern on Lifetime. It stars Taye Diggs and Meagan Good.

You can watch the movie live on Lifetime for free on multiple streaming services including Philo , Frndly and DirecTV Stream . Each offers a free trial to new subscribers. Also, Sling has promotional offers for new customers.

Diggs plays Johnnie, a military vet who returns home to divorce papers. After getting pulled over by a local police officer, played by Good, falling in love is the last thing on Johnnie’s mind. But after falling head over heels for Carlie, he must first convince her three daughters that he can be the family man they’ve always wanted.

What streaming services carry Lifetime?

You can watch Lifetime on Philo, DirecTV Stream, Sling and Frndly.

If you don’t cancel before your free trials end, Philo offers over 70 channels for $28/month. DirecTV Stream is $79.99/month and offers more than 75 channels of news, entertainment and sports. You can also watch Lifetime via Sling (promotional offer of 50% off first month). Frndly offers more than 40 channels with both live and on-demand service for $6.99 per month. All services with trial subscriptions can be cancelled before they end to avoid a charge.

Cable Guide: What channel is Lifetime on?

You can find which channel Lifetime is on by using the channel finders here: Cox , Verizon Fios , AT&T U-verse , Comcast Xfinity , Spectrum/Charter , Optimum/Altice , DIRECTV and Dish .

Watch other recent Lifetime premieres

• How to watch ‘Deadly DILF’ and stream Lifetime free online
• How to watch ‘Bonds Will Be Broken’ online: Free streaming options
• How to watch ‘Trapped in the Rocky Mountains’ and stream Lifetime free online

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