There is no right way to write a book review. Book reviews can reflect the opinions of the reviewer, but it would be fairer to try to be more objective. A review can be as short as 50 words, or as long as 1000 words, depending on the book in question.

Non-fiction book reviews introduce the book to a reader who most likely wishes to learn something about the subject. Think of what other people would want to know about that book and introduce the purpose of the book as early as possible.

Fiction book reviews introduce the book to a reader who wants to be entertained, analyzing the important aspects of the book, offering opinions on likes and dislikes and describing the general plot and characters.

Read the book with attention once or twice; non-fiction books even more often. It is amazing how many people write reviews on the basis of reading the inside cover only! Employ your senses consciously to get a real good feel for the book. That will enable you to write in a way that will give the best service to the reader of the review and will positively contribute to his/her purchase decision.

It may be helpful to employ a general template as not to omit any important information, i.e.

• Genre:
• Title of book:
• Author:
• Publication date:
• ISBN:
• Intended audience:
• How many pages:
• Special features (maps, pictures, URLs):
• Short introduction to the plot:
• Information on the setting:
• How many main characters:
• Important highlights:
• Any weak passages:
• Gripping, entertaining etc.:
• A personal rating:
• Include tips, references, URLs:
• Price:

Now summarize, analyze and comment on the book’s content.

• Use quotes, but don´t tell the tale.
• Be critical, but not offensive.
• Are there elements of mystery, suspense or a good cliff hanger?
• Style of writing: Consider simplicity, clarity, humor, wit, satire, harmony, rhythm, symbolism, parody, allegory.
• How effective are the dialogues?
• Did the book describe or teach the subject clearly and in depth?
• Write about how the book affected you. Did you need to revise any previous notions you had on the subject? Gladly or reluctantly?
• How well has the book achieved its goal?
• Would you recommend this book to others? Why?

This goes for everything you've written. It´s amazing how many people write, but don´t ever send their writings off to be published and get paid for the work they've done. How much and in which form? That is for you to decide. Writing is a serious business, especially good writing and you can consider even alternative ways of getting paid as now offered by many internet businesses. Remember, if you don´t value your writing, why should other people value it. Need an ego booster for this nagging little voice inside: "Ohhh, that is never good enough. Nobody will want it!" You´ll be surprised what happens when you get rid of this little voice and keep writing and publishing. On appearance of the first payment for your writing, this little, nagging voice will have vanished!

Good luck!