Sample Guidelines For Critical Book Review (Page 2 of 3) in pdf

Example:

Rainer argues that evangelistic churches should focus on reaching youth (20). Indeed, he

writes, “Many churches fail to recognize that adolescence is a critical time of receptivity to the

gospel” (21).

If the thesis is poorly developed or if the examples are inadequate to support the assertions of

the author, the reviewer will point this out as well. Most critical book reviews will contain both

praise and criticism, carefully weighed and balanced against one another.

Remember the purpose of a critical book review is not to provide a summary of the book. You

may assume that the professor and the grader know the contents of the book.

Questions the reviewer will seek to answer in this section might include:

• Is there an adequate, consistent development of the author's stated thesis? Why or why

not?

• What is the author’s purpose, i.e., what does he/she hope to accomplish through this

book? Does the author accomplish the purpose? If so, how does he/she do so? If not,

why not?

• Does the author approach the subject with any biases, i.e., do the author’s

theological, experiential, philosophical, denominational, or cultural perspectives

influence his/her conclusions?

• Does the author properly support his/her thesis? Does the author adequately consider

and refute opposing viewpoints? Is the book limited in application to specific types of

churches? Is the book relevant to contemporary culture?

• Does the author have to resort to suppression of contrary evidence in order to make the

thesis credible (slanting)? If so, what additional evidence would weaken the case?

• Is the thesis sound but marred by a flawed procedure?

• Is the author's case proved, or would another thesis have been more appropriately

chosen?

E. Finally, a summary section should be attached. How does this book differ from other

treatments of the same subject matter? What is unique and valuable about this approach as

opposed to the others? Would the reviewer recommend this book above others? Why or why

not?

This final summary should include the major strengths and weaknesses of the book and

evaluate its value for readers who may be interested in that particular field of inquiry. Your

primary purpose in this section is to respond both positively and negatively to the book’s

contents and presentation. Needless to say, this response should be more in-depth than, “This

book is a good book that should be recommended reading for everyone.” On the other hand,

“This book is a lousy book not worth reading” is also inadequate. Central to this is the basic

question of whether or not the author has achieved the book's stated purpose.

Answer questions such as:

• What are the strengths of the book, i.e., what contributions does the book make?

• Why should a person read this book?

Sample Guidelines For Critical Book Review Page 2