Book Review
The book review is one of the most common assignments a science writer
performs; as a reviewer of scientific work, a writer can often influence
the general public's perception of the research and influence sales
of a book as well. It is crucial, therefore, to write as accurate and
as fair a review as possible.
- First, choose a recent book about science from the list given by
your instructor. If you prefer to choose a book not on the list, be
sure to get clearance as soon as possible.
- Read the book through once to get an overall idea. Record your impressions.
- Read the book again, more thoroughly this time, noting in the margins
anything that you think is worthy of mention.
- Be thinking about what your audience will be interested in--this
may be somewhat different from your own interests. Be sure to include
both what interests you the most and what you think others may be
intrigued by.
- Take note of any seeming inconsistencies in the logic or conclusions
of the writer. Identify any obvious bias the writer exhibits and decide
whether or not that "ruins" the book for you. You must be
aware of the writer's (or writers') perspectives in order to write
a good review.
- Based on the models of other book reviews we will read in class,
write a five-page review, including quotations and references to other
writers, that would be suitable for publication. For information on
CBE Documentation Style, use the material provided by the instructor
or visit these sites:
Bedford St. Martin's
Online Style Guide (use name-year system) : http://www.bedfordstmartins.com/online/cite8.html
UW-Madison Writing
Center: http://www.wisc.edu/writing/Handbook/Documentation.html
Guide to CBE Style
for Electronic Resources: http://lib.colstate.edu/info/ecbe.shtml
Let fairness and honesty guide your appraisal.
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