book review examples in afrikaans

Book Review – Afrikaans Sonder Grense Gr5

Every chapter is divided into short lessons that include writing exercises (language as well as longer text, e.g. paragraph writing, diary entry, invitation card etc.), some songs and jokes, revision exercises, stories and comprehension questions, and dictionary exercises – all this is accompanied by colourful pictures to associate with the new words/terms learned.

Although this book is written for classroom teaching, it can be used for home education. It is also written for group settings, but it can be adapted to even an only-child setting (Mom or Dad can also jump in as part of the “group” when roleplay is learned!). Kids who get to do with Afrikaans speaking people regularly will obviously find the exercises easier, but all the instructions are in Afrikaans, so I wouldn’t recommend it as a self-study guide for lower grade children (even up to grade 4).

The Learner’s Book (Leerderboek) ensures, according to the authors, bettering the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills of the learner. Children learn the basic structure of Afrikaans, expand their vocabulary and learn to apply it in context.

I created an “extras” book to record new terms learned. View my article and download *my original creation* for free here.

The Afrikaans Sonder Grense Onderwysersgids (Teacher’s Guide) accompanies the Learners Book. It includes a CD with pre-recorded songs and information texts, and I don’t know if it is standard, but mine was accompanied by a workbook with remedial and enrichment exercises (photocopy-able worksheets and answers).

I must be honest when I say I don’t like the school approach for home education. I think it is rather boring to have an exercise book with lots of scribbles and a picture or two. I tend to let my son rather create a Notebooking Page with the information he learns in these books, and collect them in a file where he can easily access them for review. They are much more visual. Below are some examples:

View other books we used for Grade 5        

krazykrayon

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The Afrikaners: a concise history by Hermann Giliomee: a book review

The Afrikaners: a concise history Hermann Giliomee Publisher: Tafelberg, 2020 ISBN: 978-0-624-08989-6  

Many readers will no doubt be acquainted with Hermann Giliomee’s earlier Afrikaans–Anglo magnum opus, The Afrikaners: biography of a people (2003); Die Afrikaners: ’n biografie (2004). At over 700 pages, that magisterial volume was a Groot Trek in ink, a reading marathon that set out to answer everything which its author considered readers might want to know about the historical story of Afrikaner people. It was – as Professor Giliomee wryly acknowledges – "a thick book". Now running to just over 200 pages, and wearing his immense learning much more lightly, the author’s new Concise history is more of a tapas-trek through the topic than his original pièce de résistance. It has all the classic virtues of narrative history: it is exceptionally well-informed and very well-written, it provides a human drama with a large and varied cast of characters, and it contains material of interest on virtually every page.

Now running to just over 200 pages, and wearing his immense learning much more lightly, the author’s new Concise history is more of a tapas-trek through the topic than his original pièce de résistance.  

............

Given Giliomee’s scholarly stature, it’s no great loss to the Concise menu that this easily digestible meal dispenses with the usual pile of footnotes and provides only a succinct selected bibliography. But it is a pity that space could not be found for what ought to be a non-fiction essential: an index. On the other hand, there is a richly entertaining illustrations section. These depict not only several of the usual suspects like Van Riebeeck, Smuts, Verwoerd and De Klerk. Among the less predictable images is a photograph of the author, looking appropriately studious and pensive at the Franschhoek Huguenot monument – the abiding emblem of the faux Frenchness of that Western Cape winelands dorpie . It is also a reminder – surely hardly needed – that A concise history emerges from the recent kykNET Afrikaans television documentary series which Hermann Giliomee himself presented. If you’ve enjoyed all eighteen episodes of that production, you can now savour the book. Or, if you missed watching the story on TV, you can still read the book.   

In some ways, A concise history has sufficient stories for a dozen longer volumes. Here, Giliomee does a first-rate job of boiling everything down to the basics, while still finding some space for minor surprises and fascinating observations across the centuries. For instance, in the view of a seventeenth-century French observer, due to the notable egalitarianism of Roman-Dutch law, "Dutch servants enjoyed so many privileges that their masters could not even hit them". Perhaps that’s what the Dutch and British empires had in common – reserving charity for subjects at home while exporting gratuitous violence for use against colonial subjects overseas.

The distressing consequences of violence pop up again in another little tit-bit close to the end of the story, where discussion of the Angola and Namibia border-war touches on the impact of traumatic experience where the extremes of the bush war left some troops bosbefok or "bush crazy". If the Anglo-Boer War can be described as having been Britain’s Vietnam, in some respects the smaller bush war was perhaps apartheid South Africa’s Vietnam.

If the Anglo-Boer War can be described as having been Britain’s Vietnam, in some respects the smaller bush war was perhaps apartheid South Africa’s Vietnam.

These two historical moments top and tail an evocative account of the Afrikaners, how they climbed into history and made themselves – where they emerged, where they went, and where they have ended up: a resilient pale majority of a pale minority in an African country. Taking us into the very-near present, A concise history is a portrait of survival in a country in which they no longer hold the dominant power they once had to choose the political circumstances of their existence. That survival – whether as under- or as top-dog – has been sustained through successive cycles of making and re-making themselves, employing agility and adaptation, especially when up against the odds.  

Giliomee’s guide to this people’s history unfolds across twenty chapters, some with snappy titles, like "Colonists and Republicans", "Inventing a White Land", and "The risk of not taking risks". It begins at the predictable beginning, with the arrival at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652 of "some 90 Europeans under the leadership of Jan van Riebeeck’. In this early Cape colonial period it took time for a ’strong sense of colour-consciousness" to dictate conduct and define human relations. For several decades, boundaries in the Dutch East India Company Cape were porous, resembling the English East India Company’s India where, as William Dalrymple points out in his White Mughals (2002), in the eighteenth-century one in three British men were married to Indian women.

In both heavily male places, it took the eventual arrival of white women to provide the nutrient of a distinctive white community, branded at birth by a Christian pedigree. In charting its growth, Giliomee notes that it was only towards the end of the eighteenth-century that the term "Afrikaner" became commonly attached to people who were "predominantly of European descent".

Previously, it had been used occasionally for the offspring of slaves and free blacks. Afrikaans as a medium of communication also developed through interplay and interpenetration, with the author recognising its creole origins as "the collective creation of slaves, burghers, Khoikhoi and San".

The familiar seventeenth, eighteenth, nineteenth and earlier nineteenth-century landscapes which are crossed, excavated, and thoughtfully examined make up about four-fifths or what’s probably the richest and most instructive portion of A Concise History . Giliomee’s approach combines a loose chronological narrative – coastal colony, interior Boer republics, Union and republican states, and the advent of black majority rule - with a cluster of influential themes.

In these, he steers us through the volk’s shaping experiences such as the impact of slavery, the start of troubles with the British, inland migration, the influence of Boer women, anti-British nationalist sentiments, language, literature and religion, racial attitudes and segregation, the complexities of class relations, and the push from Afrikaner capitalism for greater elbow room.

Numerous small observations and thoughtful insights keep it all highly readable and help to make a good deal of what would otherwise be familiar historical territory interesting again. The author’s concluding judgements are also invariably cool-headed. Thus, while the 1899-1902 Anglo-Boer cataclysm was a "hard war", the British "never went as far as waging total war". All the same, the assertion that this was "the first war that targeted the civilian population in a massive way" may come as a surprise to other peoples conquered in the nineteenth century, like the Algerians, Tunisians and Cubans or – for that matter – to the Southerners of Georgia in the American Civil War.

One over-arching element which Giliomee conveys well is a restlessness – of both mind and body – as Afrikaners lurched through a series of formative experiences across the twentieth century, creating instruments and securing agencies in their own image to eventually come into their own.

One over-arching element which Giliomee conveys well is a restlessness – of both mind and body – as Afrikaners lurched through a series of formative experiences across the twentieth century, creating instruments and securing agencies in their own image to eventually come into their own. At times, the molecular advance of a constellation of ambitions – for status, acquisitions, security and power – brings to mind something uttered by the famous Welsh statesman David Lloyd George, in the early years of the last century. It was about the impact of ’the little five-foot-five nations of the world’. What matters, of course, is when they stop being modest and start to develop a six-foot reach.

That "reach" looked to have been not merely attained but consolidated by the 1970s when, as Giliomee underlines, "all political power was concentrated in Afrikaner hands". The old smugness had been wiped from the faces of English-speaking whites and most were falling into line. Those who were not part of the Afrikaner-led white nation were expected to do most of the sweaty work, to stay in their prescribed place, and to keep quiet. A dominant nationalist volk was like the cat that had got the cream.    

 The last quarter of A concise history provides both a micro- and macro-account of the rooting, flowering, and withering of apartheid . Chapter sixteen’s sub-title points to the terminal weakness of the apartheid order: "The Afrikaners have never experienced the luxury of safety in numbers." Ultimately, there were never enough of them and there were never enough shoulders to the wheel to keep the great juggernaut on the road indefinitely. As the author observes: by the later-1970s there was a growing awareness of demographic realities among those who could see that the apartheid road was running into sand. For the shadowy high priests of the Afrikaner Broederbond, "the weight of black numbers forced a fundamental rethink about apartheid as the solution to Afrikaner survival".

Although this final part of the story covers very familiar terrain, what really stands out is how much Hermann Giliomee loves getting his teeth into the intricate game of high-level politics. The hawkish zealots of Afrikaner nationalism are weighed up astutely, and the sage critics of its extremism – such  as gifted writers DJ Opperman and NP van Wyk Louw – get their fair due. In a similar vein, A concise history studiously avoids popular sensationalism and rhetoric in its dissection of the twists-and-turns of the apartheid order through til its eclipse by majority rule after an elbow-wrestling transition. Readers are reminded that the loss of political power did not leave its beneficiaries completely stranded, for "there was also much that the Afrikaners had retained".

While almost bloodless in tone, the author’s measured dissection of the apartheid era doesn’t skip over the most gangrenous racial obsessiveness of Nationalist mania, such as the Kafkaesque consequence of the 1950 Population Registration Act. Its grotesque imposition of a "racial grid" classification of South African society meant that for some people, "fingernails were examined or combs pulled through their hair". Some of the more speculative interpretations of other topics, such as what counted most in the 1948 Nationalist election victory or the workings of Bantu Education, run counter to prevailing assumptions. That ought to spark some debate.       

After all that, and much more besides, it’s a little odd to find Giliomee concluding that the National Party had been unable "to transform apartheid into a system that incorporated people from all racial groups". Faintly rueful, it’s a quixotic conclusion to this admirable volume. In a sense, it brings to mind the biblical story of Jonah and the Whale, except that here it imagines the whale being swallowed by Jonah.  

In their place in the historical imagination and in mythology, what is the significance of their place on the fringe of the African and European pasts?

Giliomee’s history tails off, ending abruptly in the 1990s – it’s a pity that there isn’t an epilogue from one of the most eminent of "people’s remembrancer" historians. I, for one, would have enjoyed some broad retrospective reflections on the Afrikaners and their dogged march through – but assuredly not out of – history. In their place in the historical imagination and in mythology, what is the significance of their place on the fringe of the African and European pasts? If we put aside the racial nationalist tyranny of 1948-1994, can the Afrikaners be best understood, perhaps, as another version of those restive five-foot-five nations, such as the Irish or the Welsh, Canada’s Quebecois or Spain’s Catalans and Basques?

 While more prim and steely in its tone, Giliomee’s A concise history has its comparative counterparts in the distinctly exuberant, noisy histories of Mark Kurlansky, The Basque History of the World (2001) and Gwyn A Williams, When Was Wales? A History of the Welsh (1985). Like these peoples, the Afrikaners have possibly shown more relish than most for a trinity of plain-speaking politics, linguistic versatility and a rich literary culture. To which, in their case, we would surely also have to add Pinotage. And a supple language that has more than twice as many vowel sounds as Catalan and Welsh put together!

The Afrikanners, A Concise History. Do you ship to the UK?

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Book review: School Afrikaans study guides

Lees en Kyk Met Begrip

Various authors, review: lauren o’connor-may.

My children’s usual modus operandi for completing Afrikaans homework involves a lot of phonetic memorisation and Google translations.

As a result, they have little comprehension of this, their weakest subject. They therefore found these study guides, which are aimed at Grades 7 to 9, very helpful.

My eldest daughter said she liked that the guides used worksheets that she was familiar with since it is the same format used in the school curriculum and that the reading texts gave bracketed English translations for difficult Afrikaans words.

Her only complaint was that there was no answer key at the back but I found that Best Books have downloadable answer sheets freely available on their website.

The books are aligned to the CAPS curriculum with visual texts and reading extracts including articles, advertisements, comic strips and summaries. They are designed to help pupils with not only reading comprehension but also visual literacy and summaries and include practice questions for test preparations.

It would make a good text book companion for senior-phase pupils who have difficulty with Afrikaans.

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The Triumph of Afrikaans Fiction

I ’m reading one of the great novels of our time. I’m doing so slowly because it’s in Afrikaans, and although I learned the language for many years in South African schools, that was a very long time ago. The novel is Agaat , its title both a proper name (Agatha) and the Afrikaans word for “agate”; the author, Marlene van Niekerk, is a leading Afrikaans poet as well as novelist and short-story writer. 1 Luckily, I have at hand the superb translation by Michiel Heyns, the version in which I first encountered the novel. 2 A film of Agaat is said to be in preproduction, but however successful it turns out to be, it will be able to convey only a glimmer of Van Niekerk’s achievement.

The origins of Afrikaans lie in the contact at the Cape of Good Hope among Dutch settlers, slaves from the Dutch territories in the East, and indigenous peoples, a creolization process that began in the late 17th century. A standard version of Afrikaans was established during the last third of the 19th century, partly in opposition to the dominance of English, and in 1925 it displaced Dutch as one of South Africa’s two official languages. With the triumph of the National Party in 1948, it became the language of government and thus of apartheid, a stigma that still attaches to it in many minds.

The current health of Afrikaans fiction can be judged by the appearance in 2017 alone of several highly original and ambitious novels. Two of these track across the world as protagonists uncover hidden pasts, evidence of a new willingness to leave the borders of South Africa. Etienne van Heerden’s 12th novel, Die wêreld van Charlie Oeng (The World of Charlie Oeng), takes place in South Africa, Amsterdam, and Hong Kong, while S. J. Naudé’s Die derde spoel moves from London to Berlin and South Africa. While the former has yet to be translated, the latter appeared simultaneously in the author’s own English version, The Third Reel —a double publication following in the footsteps of his first work, the outstanding short story collection Alfabet van die voëls (2011), which was published in his English translation as The Alphabet of Birds in 2014.

Despite challenging conditions, Afrikaans has seen a remarkable flourishing since the ending of apartheid in 1994.

Other Afrikaans works from 2017 challenge the generic boundaries of the novel. One is a posthumous publication by the late Karel Schoeman, one of South Africa’s most prolific and respected authors (his 50-plus books include 19 novels, most not translated into English). Titled Skepelinge: Aanloop tot ’n roman (Seafarers: Approach to a Novel), it weaves together Dutch archival materials, English poetry, and the writer’s own meditations to present a complex picture of the 17th- and 18th-century travelers by sea from the Netherlands to the Cape. Another is Hierdie Huis (This House), an extraordinary autobiography by Fanie de Villiers, writing under the pseudonym Kleinboer. The last in a trilogy recounting a life lived at the edgy intersection of races and classes in Johannesburg, it is graphic in every sense (the pages are laced with tables illustrating the author’s obsession with the state lottery).

Last year also saw the appearance of an English translation, again by Heyns, of a novel by one of the most singular and intriguing of Afrikaans writers, Ingrid Winterbach. Originally published in 2015, Vlakwater (translated as The Shallows ), like all the author’s work, both lures and teases the reader with its near opacities and wry displacements. Winterbach has published 11 novels (5 under a pseudonym, Lettie Viljoen). Her more recent works, all of which have been translated, portray, with an undercurrent of irony, the tribulations of individuals caught up in mysterious, sometimes violent, plots: Die boek van toeval en toeverlaat (2006), translated by the author with Dirk Winterbach as The Book of Happenstance (2008); Die benederyk (2010), translated by Leon de Kock as The Road of Excess (2014); and Die aanspraak van lewende wesens  (2012), translated by Heyns as It Might Get Loud (2015).

Other Afrikaans novelists who have published important work in recent years include Dan Sleigh, whose massive 1795 appeared in 2016, a successor to his equally substantial Eilande (2002; translated by André Brink as Islands , 2004); both novels rely on the meticulous historical recovery of earlier periods in South Africa’s time as a Dutch colony. Perhaps more of an acquired taste, Eben Venter’s Wolf, Wolf appeared in the original Afrikaans and in an English translation by Heyns in 2014, not as nightmarish a work as Horrelpoot (2006; translated by Luke Stubbs as Trencherman , 2008), his rewriting of Conrad’s Heart of Darkness . Van Niekerk’s own most recent major fictional work is Memorandum: ’n verhaal met skilderye ( Memorandum: A Story with Paintings ), published in 2006 in conjunction with Heyns’s translation: a remarkable work juxtaposing a fiction about a minor municipal official facing death with the last paintings of Adriaan van Zyl.

But to get back to Van Niekerk’s Agaat . It’s a long novel, and not light reading, but perseverance is fully rewarded—it is moving, instructive, and thoroughly engrossing. There is a plot of family secrets and revelations, but more important than the events of the story are the superbly realized psychological, interpersonal, and material worlds that it inhabits, and that the reader soon finds herself inhabiting too.

Agaat ’s very specificity in time and place is what, paradoxically perhaps, makes it so universally accessible. For most of the book, the present is 1996, the place the rich farming country of the Overberg region of South Africa, some 150 miles east of Cape Town, and the central consciousness that of 70-year-old Milla de Wet, the former matriarchal presence on the farm Grootmoedersdrift (Grandmother’s Crossing), a woman who is now in the last stages of the motor neuron disease ALS.

Milla can communicate only by blinking—until that, too, becomes impossible. She is being tended by a coloured woman in her late 40s, Agaat Lourier, whose relationship with Milla is at the heart of the book, although the story of that relationship emerges only gradually through four interwoven strands, each using a distinctive mode of narration. The spine of the narrative is made up of Milla’s thoughts in the present, a gripping, intense representation of a rich but tortured life experienced entirely in the mind, as the disease makes bodily functions harder and harder, and communication with Agaat becomes a greater and greater struggle. One small example will have to suffice.

In the early part of the novel, Milla, after swallowing three teaspoons of porridge with great difficulty, tries to convey to Agaat that she wishes to look once more at the maps of the farm, and Van Niekerk captures both the physical effort and the frustration involved—especially the frustration at being misunderstood:

The third swallow exhausts me. I close my eyes, bit by bit I manage to filter it through. When at last it’s down, I open my eyes, I open my mouth and I try to say m. I know very well how it’s done. I must close my mouth, take my tongue out of the way, press my lips together and breathe out quickly, abruptly, through my nose, and open my mouth a soft nasal plop. A short, humming sound it must be, unvoiced, a vibration as brief as a second, a whimper of pain, a murmur of assent. M for map. Gaat rushes to my aid. Are you choking, Ounooi? Wait, wait, I’ll help you. Calmly now. Just a small breath now and then swallow and breathe out. Swallow, Ounooi, swallow, I’ll rub, come now, swallow just once.

(This extract illustrates some of the challenges of translation: in the original Afrikaans, Milla wants to look at the “kaarte,” and so is trying to pronounce k—and hence the description of the vocal movements is quite different. Heyns worked closely with Van Niekerk, so presumably the alteration was an agreed solution to an intractable problem. Heyns wisely retains the Afrikaans “Ounooi,” for which there is no English equivalent; it could be deferential, but it could also be spoken with a hint of mockery.)

Interspersed with this strand is the story of Milla’s life from her engagement to the dashing but impractical and intolerant Jak de Wet in 1946 to his death in 1985, a story addressed to herself in the second person as a series of memories. It ends with a recollection, out of chronological sequence, of the inaugural event in 1953 that allowed the malnourished and malformed child discovered crouching in the fireplace of a hovel to become the cherished foster daughter, “Asgat”—ash bottom—becoming “Agaat” (from the Greek for “good”). The closing words of this recollection create an echo of the passage that the reader encountered  over five hundred pages earlier, and that I have just quoted—though the two events took place 43 years apart:

You held the dropper of valerian at the ready and on entering grabbed the child, clamped fast her head, forced open her mouth. You felt something snapping in you over the way you were treating her. The only remedy, you told yourself. You pinched shut her nose so that she had to swallow the sleeping pill as well. You rubbed her gullet hard. You could feel the little rings of cartilage under your fingers. Swallow, you hissed, swallow so that you can calm down, swallow, I’m not taking any more nonsense from you.

A third interpolated strand that runs through the novel consists of Milla’s diaries, which Agaat is reading out to her bedridden mistress. This strand begins with another pivotal event in the history of the relationship, Milla’s pregnancy in 1960 and the consequent relegation, without any comprehension of its psychological effect, of the 12-year-old foster daughter to the status of servant. It ends in 1979 with Agaat’s 31st birthday. A second sequence from the diaries follows, taking the reader back in time to the events from Agaat’s adoption to Milla’s pregnancy. This second sequence from the diaries begins, chronologically, immediately after the memory related in the previous extract:

Wednesday 16 December quarter past three (day one Day of the Covenant!) The great clean-up has begun. She’s still groggy with the valerian. I thought I’d grasp my opportunity. Cut off the hair and washed with tar medicine and then with shampoo and applied ointment. Bad ringworm. Fiddled out the gouts of ear wax with matches and cotton wool and cut the nails. Big struggle to get the teeth brushed. Gums inflamed, lots of rotten teeth. Milk teeth fortunately, must be extracted, the whole lot while we’re about it. Disinfected the mouth with extract of cloves. The whole body first rubbed with oils and then soaked in a hot bath for half an hour, afterwards scrubbed down with hard sponge and nailbrush and soap. Scabs, raw patches everywhere. Half limp, the little body. Eyes keep falling shut. Look at me, Asgat, I say, everything will turn out all right. Must think up another name.

The progress of Milla’s illness—which appears to have started in 1993—is charted in a fourth strand, this one in short, italicized, largely unpunctuated streams of consciousness. One recognizable stage is indicated as follows:

this is how you do it you lean forward on the crossbar who says it’s like walking with a little table but without the top? Don’t look at your feet your feet are of no importance you drag them after your legs you keep straight you make a rigid knee the other one is like walking with the tea-trolley but without the tea you roll ahead you drag behind the wheels are braked you can adjust them if they turn too easily you fall who shall tell the walker from the frame? and the wheel from the revolution? the imitator from the imitated?

A viewpoint other than Milla’s is provided in short sections bookending the novel. These feature the interior monologue of Jakkie, her son, on his way from Canada, where he has lived for nearly 12 years and whence he has been summoned by a telegram from Agaat informing him that his mother is dying. His flight back to Canada after the funeral closes the book.

The extracts I’ve given here provide a hint, though only that, of the way the different styles and modes of narrative work to deepen and intensify the subject matter. The history of the relationship between Milla and Agaat gradually emerges from these varied strands; above all is the reversal of power as the daughter turned servant becomes the nurse. Yet in both cases, the exercise of power is complicated: severity comes across as an expression of a kind of love.

Milla’s act of taking the child away from a home in which she has suffered terrible mistreatment is done with good intentions, and until her own pregnancy she shows a generosity toward the girl that earns her the reproaches of her fellow whites. (The wife of the dominee , or minister, accuses her of “subtly undermining community values.”) Even in her treatment of Agaat as a servant Milla believes she is being generous, and her racially rooted harshness is a product of values imbibed from her culture.

As for Agaat’s power over Milla in the three years of the disease, it is exercised in meticulous and thorough nursing care that often comes across—to Milla, at any rate—as vindictive heartlessness, retribution for all those years of subservience. In the first passage quoted above, we can’t know (and Milla doesn’t know) if Agaat’s misunderstanding is real or feigned. And the reading and rereading of the diaries (some passages of which Agaat can recite from memory), recording as they do Milla’s blindness to the needs and feelings of the girl she believed she was treating benevolently, are part of Agaat’s fierce reckoning.

Afrofuturism: Everything and Nothing

There’s a great deal more in the detail of the novel: the intricacies of Agaat’s embroidery as an aspect of her power, from her cap—“Her crown of glorified cotton, her mitre, her fire-barrel specked with light, that gives her dominion over the underworld”—to Milla’s shroud; the daily patterns of farming life that often become a source of tension between Milla and Jak; the souring of what had seemed a promising marriage; the growing closeness between Jakkie and Agaat, and Milla’s consequent sense of exclusion; the clashes between Jakkie and his father over what constitutes “manliness”; and much else.

It’s a remarkable exploration of the interweaving of power, love, need, and hate in human relationships, and the place of race, gender, class, and ideology in that complex knot. We are made to feel, in piercing detail, how to be well-meaning is not necessarily to be just, and how ingrained attitudes can deform the way we treat one another.

We have to stand back a little from the absorbing detail of the novel to appreciate its engagement with less universal but no less important issues: the particular history of South Africa in the 50 years covered by the novel, from 1946—two years before the Afrikaner National Party came into power—to 1996, two years after the first democratic elections installed the African National Congress in government and Nelson Mandela in the presidency. We don’t get many overt references to the political events during this period (the assassination of Prime Minister Verwoerd in 1966 gets a brief mention, and there’s a casual reference to Milla’s voting for the National Party), although Jakkie’s three-year service as a fighter pilot, including the bombing of guerrillas on South Africa’s borders, brings home the conflicts between the apartheid state and its opponents in the 1980s. And Milla’s death leads to a state of affairs unthinkable during the apartheid years and emblematic of the new order: Agaat, the coloured servant, inherits the farm, the plaas , for so long one of the sacrosanct places in the Afrikaner imagination. Van Niekerk’s novel is an intimate yet radical engagement with Afrikaner culture that is at the same time a major contribution to the world’s literature.

• Agaat  was originally published, by Tafelberg (South Africa), in 2004. The title is pronounced with the /x/ sound of Bach. ↩
• South African publishers Jonathan Ball brought out the Heyns translation in 2006; Little, Brown UK published it as The Way of the Women in 2007; the current reissue, by Tin House, reverts to the original title. ↩
• The most recent census took place in 2011, when the number of first-language Afrikaans speakers recorded was a little under 7 million. Numbers have undoubtedly grown significantly since then. I use the South African spelling of “coloured” to distinguish it from American usage of the term with a different meaning. ↩
• For 60 years until his death in 2016, Small was the preeminent writer using Kaaps, producing memorable work in poetry, drama, and fiction. Trantraal’s best-known collection is Chokers en survivors (2013); Kamfer’s is Noudat slapende honde (2008). ↩
• See Colin Dayan’s excellent account of Triomf , “ Into the Crud ,” in  Public Books , March 6, 2013. Two English translations by Leon de Kock, one for the South African and one for the international market, were published in 1999. ↩

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A South African Beauty, Lifestyle and Parenting Blog

Some great Afrikaans books for kids!

Afrikaans is like a swear word in our home…well when it comes to the kids. My kids CANNOT speak Afrikaans. I’ve realised we have definitely neglected encouraging them to read Afrikaans, and as a result, their comprehension of the language is a bit shocking. #ParentingFail! To improve matters, I’m definitely trying to get them to read more Afrikaans . In today’s post, I’ll share some Afrikaans books for kids, that will potentially help your kids too 😉

Perseus, by Martha Snyman (RSP R145)

Hy kan vlieg. Hy kan planne maak. Hy kan met nare mense se gal werk. Hy en sy swaard skrik nie vir monsters nie. Sy naam is Perseus – ’n superheld van lank gelede. Jy sal mal wees oor sy storie!

My thoughts

I’ll admit that when Joshua started reading this, he had NO idea what language this was! It was hilarious to see his confusion when I explained that it was indeed Afrikaans. The story takes place in Greece, so the names are Greek…literally and figuratively! Add that to saying them in Afrikaans and it may seem a bit above your head when you’re 9yrs old. This is a bit too advanced for Joshua, not in terms of reading skills, but just comprehension. I reckon this is more suited to kids in Grade 6 and 7.

Diere Verkenners – Tobie Die Diepseeduiker, by Jaco Jacobs (RSP R155)

Aandag alle avonturiers! Die Diereverkenners-reeks is ‘n inspirasie om jou drome na te jaag. Tobie is ‘n jong tier wat daarvan droom om die donkerste dieptes van die oseaan te verken. Al wat hy nodig het, is waagmoed, deursettingsvermoë – en ‘n tuisgemaakte duikboot! Kom saam met Tobie op ‘n pretbelaaide avontuur, en ontdek daarna die inspirerende verhale van drie regte oseaanverkenners.

Met pragtige, skerp illustrasies en stories wat op ware verkenners gebaseer is, is Diereverkenners ‘n reeks wat kinders sal inspireer om hulle drome te volg.

This book is so beautifully illustrated and a great book for kids of all ages. Adam will enjoy the beautiful illustrations; for Joshua this one is quite age (for a 2nd language) appropriate, and even Addison would be able to read this. The book deals with adventure, discovery…and also a lesson in ocean pollution, a great addition to your kid’s bookshelf!

Buy Diere Verkenners – Tobie Die Diepseeduiker over HERE .

Loop Lag-Lag Deur die Wetenskapklas (RSP R115)

27 getoorde resepte wat jou gaan laat lag terwyl jy leer!

Verveel jou gewone skoolhandboeke jou? Maar is jy nuuskierig en wonder jy hoe die wêreld rondom jou werk? Dan is hierdie die boek vir jou! Len, Lara en Leon is die nuuskierigste kinders op aarde. Hulle vra gedurig vrae en wonder hoekom dinge werk soos dit werk. Hulle doen eksperimente en leer baie oor lugdruk, swaartekrag en energie. Hulle doen dit lag-lag, want hulle kan nie help om mekaar poetse te bak soos hulle speel-speel slim word nie!

Hierdie is ‘n unieke boek wat 27 eksperimente bevat wat in strokiesprentformaat aangebied word.

My Thoughts

There’s nothing like a combination of fun AND education right? Kids love experiments, especially easy ones….so this book is perfect for young enquiring minds. The experiments are simple and most of them can be done with what’s lying around the house…..and best of all, it’s in Afrikaans. So science/maths, some fun….and improving their Afrikaans skills? it’s a win-win for me! This is definitely a great book to have on the bookshelf.

Buy Loop Lag-Lag Deur Die Wetenskapklas over HERE .

This was a round up of some of the Afrikaans books that I have for my kids! Let me know how you go about improving your kid’s grasp of their 2nd….and even 3rd language! This mama needs all the tips she can get!

Disclaimer: These books were sent to me by Lapa Uitgewers and Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 

I’m Simone, a mom of 3, a wife...obsessed with my family, makeup and books!

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Language learning for language lovers

The 10 Best Afrikaans Books For Beginners

We think that not enough emphasis is placed on reading as a way of bolstering new language skills. Reading helps not only with vocabulary and grammar acquisition, but also with overall fluency.

For beginners, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to reading in Afrikaans. You don’t want something that’s too challenging, otherwise reading will become a slog that you quickly give up. Likewise, you don’t want something too easy, as that will be too boring.

So, just like Goldilocks, beginners need something that’s “just right.” That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top 10 books in Afrikaans that learners should read. They’re all for younger readers, but they’re not too easy and not too challenging – perfect for those just starting out!

Die Leeu en die Hond

Die Leeu en die Hond (Babadiertjies van Afrika, Kinder Prentenboeke)

“The Lion and the Dog” is a children’s book about a lion who is removed from his home in Africa and forced to live in a zoo. Naturally, being away from his land and family, he becomes very angry and isolated. This all changes when he meets a kind dog who befriends him and helps him to adjust to his new life.

This is a great place for any new learners to start, as there are plenty of nice illustrations, and the language is quite easy.

Sirkus Honde Roscoe en Rolly

Sirkus Honde Roscoe en Rolly: Afrikaans Edition of Circus Dogs Roscoe and Rolly

“Circus Dogs Roscoe and Rolly” is a heartwarming story about the bond between a mentor and his student. It’s also a great book for teaching young children about teamwork.

Roscoe is a skilled circus dog, but he’s getting old. Rolly, a new puppy, helps him out and the two become good friends. When the circus is in trouble, Roscoe comes to the rescue.

This is another great book for learners, with easy language and fun illustrations.

Ek en Prins Donkerkuif

Ek en Prins Donkerkuif (Lehandi-reeks Book 1)

“Prince Dark Fringe and I” is an enjoyable read middle grade (8-12) readers who are struggling with the ups and downs of school life. It tackles topics such as popularity, crushes, and friendship in a fun and relatable way.

Join Lehandi as she navigates the choppy waters of tweenhood and figures out where she belongs in the world.

With easy language and plenty of humour, this book is sure to keep learners entertained.

Trompie (#1)

Trompie is a much-loved South African character who has been entertaining readers with his antics for nearly 50 years. This is like the South African version of Richmal Crompton’s popular “Just William” books.

This collection of stories is perfect for learners who want some authentic Afrikaans reading material. With easy language, crazy scenarios, and lovable characters, Trompie will keep learners entertained from beginning to end.

Stalmaats Omnibus 1

If you like horses, you’ll love this “Stable Mates” omnibus!

This omnibus contains the first five books in the series, which is about a girl who moves to a new town, leaving all her friends and her old riding school behind.

She eventually joins a new school, where she makes new friends and becomes a riding instructor to newbies. But it’s not all fun and games – there’s a school nemesis and a boy crush to deal with too!

This is a great series for horse lovers of all ages. The language is easy enough to follow and the stories are exciting and engaging. So saddle up and enjoy!

Die Boekwinkel Tussen die Wolke

Die boekwinkel tussen die wolke

“The Bookshop Between the Clouds” is a charming story about a girl who finds adventure in the most unexpected place.

With easy language and delightful illustrations, this book is perfect for beginners of any age who are looking for a good read full of mystery and adventure.

You’ll love this story if you’re a fan of books and magic – two things that are synonymous, in our opinion!

Sanri Steyn Omnibus 1

In this 4-story omnibus, you’re introduced to Sanri Steyn, a girl with an ambitious dream to become a world-renowned journalist. Join her and her best friend Markus as they take on all sorts of crazy adventures in their small village of Raaiselfontein.

Beginners and intermediate readers will love this book that’s packed with wacky stories, excitement and adventure.

Liewe Heksie se Groot Omnibus

Liewe Heksie se groot omnibus

In “Liewe Heksie’s Big Omnibus” you’ll find 41 stories of the adventures of Levinia and her friends in the magical world of Blommeland.

As the only witch in the land, she often gets herself and her friends into all sorts of trouble with her magic. But no matter what, she always manages to save the day in the end.

These charming stories are classics that have been enjoyed by children for over 50 years. This generous tome is perfect for beginner learners who are just starting to read Afrikaans. With its easy-to-read text and enchanting illustrations, this omnibus is sure to keep readers entertained for hours on end.

‘n Goeie Dag vir Boomklim

n Goeie dag vir Boomklim (Audiobook)

“A Good Day for Climbing Trees” is a fun and inspiring story about the power of standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s scary.

Marnus embarks on a journey that sees him scaling a tree in a bid to save it from being chopped down, and in the process, he finally gets to be seen for who he really is. This inspiring and fun story is perfect for beginner readers of Afrikaans.

(This is actually an Afrikaans language audiobook , which will be especially useful for learning the correct pronunciation and boosting your listening skills. You can get the Kindle version of the book to accompany the audio so that you don’t feel too lost when listening.)

Afrikaans for Beginners Kids: A Beginner Afrikaans Workbook

Okay, so while not strictly a story book, there’s still lots of reading to be done, along with plenty of activities. You’ll learn numbers, shapes, body parts, colors, and more in this Afrikaans workbook.

It would have been better if they’d skipped the number-tracing, as that seems pretty redundant, in our opinion. But aside from that, you can really get a lot out of reading and working through the exercises.

We hope you’ve found this list useful and that you enjoy reading these books in Afrikaans! At some point, once you’ve had enough of reading about children’s adventures, you’ll want to move on to something more challenging. But for now, these books are perfect! Happy reading!

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Best Books to Practice Afrikaans

Introduction to Learning Afrikaans

Learning Afrikaans can be a rewarding experience, whether you are looking to communicate with native speakers, enhance your linguistic skills, or simply explore a new culture. Afrikaans, derived from Dutch, is one of the 11 official languages of South Africa and boasts a rich literary tradition. To master Afrikaans, you’ll need dedication, practice, and the right resources. This article will guide you through some of the best books to practice Afrikaans, catering to various levels of proficiency.

Best Books for Beginners

For those starting from scratch, it’s essential to choose books that introduce the basics of Afrikaans in an engaging and comprehensive manner. Below are some top recommendations:

1. “Teach Yourself Complete Afrikaans” by Lydia McDermott This book is an excellent starting point for beginners. It offers a structured course that covers essential grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Accompanied by audio CDs, “Teach Yourself Complete Afrikaans” ensures that learners can practice listening and speaking skills.

2. “Colloquial Afrikaans: The Complete Course for Beginners” by Bruce Donaldson “Colloquial Afrikaans” is another fantastic resource for beginners. The book includes dialogues, grammatical explanations, exercises, and cultural notes. The audio material helps learners develop their listening and speaking abilities, making it a comprehensive tool for mastering Afrikaans.

3. “Afrikaans for Beginners” by Taalkommissie This book is a great introduction to Afrikaans for English speakers. It focuses on basic vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and everyday conversations. The exercises and quizzes in the book reinforce learning, making it easier for beginners to grasp the language.

Books for Intermediate Learners

Once you have a basic understanding of Afrikaans, it’s time to delve into more complex materials. Intermediate learners can benefit from books that challenge their comprehension and expand their vocabulary.

1. “Afrikaans Handbook & Study Guide” by Beryl Lutrin and Marcelle Pincus This comprehensive guide is perfect for intermediate learners. It covers advanced grammar, vocabulary, and idiomatic expressions. The book also includes practice exercises and exam-style questions to test your understanding.

2. “Afrikaans Short Stories” by James H. Gaasch Reading short stories is an excellent way to improve your language skills. This collection of Afrikaans short stories provides learners with exposure to different writing styles and vocabularies. Each story is accompanied by English translations and explanations of difficult words, making it an ideal resource for intermediate learners.

3. “Teach Yourself Afrikaans Vocabulary” by Leonard Williams Building a robust vocabulary is crucial for language proficiency. This book focuses on expanding your Afrikaans vocabulary through thematic word lists, exercises, and quizzes. It also provides tips on how to retain new words and use them effectively in conversations.

Advanced Afrikaans Books

Advanced learners need resources that challenge their language skills and deepen their understanding of Afrikaans literature and culture. Here are some top picks for advanced learners:

1. “Die Swerfjare van Poppie Nongena” by Elsa Joubert This novel is a classic in Afrikaans literature. It tells the story of Poppie Nongena, a black South African woman, and her struggles during apartheid. The book provides advanced learners with rich vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and insights into South African history and culture.

2. “Klop Klop” by Fanie Viljoen “Klop Klop” is a gripping thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book’s intricate plot and sophisticated language make it an excellent choice for advanced learners looking to improve their reading comprehension and expand their vocabulary.

3. “Die Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho (Translated by Kobus Geldenhuys) “Die Alchemist” is the Afrikaans translation of Paulo Coelho’s renowned novel “The Alchemist.” The book’s philosophical themes and poetic language provide advanced learners with a challenging yet rewarding reading experience.

Children’s Books for Learning Afrikaans

Children’s books can be a fun and effective way to learn Afrikaans, regardless of your age. These books often use simple language and engaging illustrations to make learning enjoyable.

1. “Jakkals en Wolf” by Piet Grobler This book is a collection of traditional Afrikaans folktales featuring the cunning Jakkals (Jackal) and the naive Wolf. The stories are entertaining and easy to understand, making them perfect for young learners and beginners.

2. “Lulu se Avontuur” by Leon de Villiers “Lulu se Avontuur” follows the adventures of a young girl named Lulu. The book’s engaging storyline and colorful illustrations make it an excellent choice for children learning Afrikaans.

3. “Die Groot Afrikaanse Storiewerf” by Jaco Jacobs This anthology features a variety of Afrikaans stories, ranging from fairy tales to modern-day adventures. The diverse collection ensures that young readers are exposed to different writing styles and vocabularies.

Grammar and Reference Books

A solid understanding of grammar is essential for mastering any language. The following books provide detailed explanations of Afrikaans grammar, along with exercises to reinforce learning.

1. “Afrikaans Grammar: A Comprehensive Guide” by Bruce Donaldson This book is a thorough guide to Afrikaans grammar, covering everything from basic sentence structures to advanced grammatical concepts. The detailed explanations and examples make it an invaluable resource for learners of all levels.

2. “Afrikaans Verbs and Essentials of Grammar” by Jan H. Kroeze This concise guide focuses on the most important aspects of Afrikaans grammar, including verb conjugations, sentence structures, and common grammatical errors. The book’s clear layout and practical examples make it easy to use as a reference.

3. “Afrikaans Handbook: A Practical Grammar Guide” by Beryl Lutrin This handbook offers a practical approach to Afrikaans grammar, with clear explanations and plenty of exercises. It’s suitable for both beginners and advanced learners looking to reinforce their grammatical knowledge.

Books for Improving Speaking and Listening Skills

Practicing speaking and listening is crucial for achieving fluency in Afrikaans. The following books come with audio materials to help learners improve their pronunciation and listening comprehension.

1. “Pimsleur Afrikaans” by Pimsleur Language Programs The Pimsleur method focuses on spoken language and listening comprehension. This audio course is designed to help learners develop their speaking and listening skills through interactive lessons and repetition.

2. “Afrikaans Phrasebook & Dictionary” by Lonely Planet This phrasebook is a handy resource for travelers and language learners alike. It includes essential phrases, vocabulary, and pronunciation tips, along with an audio CD to help with listening and speaking practice.

3. “Living Language Afrikaans” by Living Language This comprehensive language course includes a book, audio CDs, and online resources. The interactive lessons focus on speaking and listening skills, making it an excellent choice for learners looking to improve their conversational Afrikaans.

Books for Cultural Understanding

Understanding the culture and history of a language’s speakers can greatly enhance your learning experience. The following books provide valuable insights into South African culture and the role of Afrikaans in society.

1. “Long Walk to Freedom” by Nelson Mandela This autobiography of Nelson Mandela provides a profound insight into South African history and the struggle against apartheid. The book is available in Afrikaans, offering learners a chance to improve their language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the country’s history.

2. “Country of My Skull” by Antjie Krog This powerful memoir by Antjie Krog covers the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. The book is written in both Afrikaans and English, making it an excellent resource for advanced learners interested in contemporary South African issues.

3. “A History of South Africa” by Leonard Thompson This comprehensive history book provides an in-depth look at South Africa’s past, from pre-colonial times to the present day. It’s available in Afrikaans, allowing learners to expand their vocabulary and gain a better understanding of the country’s cultural context.

Learning Afrikaans can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. With the right resources, you can develop your language skills and gain a deeper appreciation for South African culture. The books listed in this article cater to various proficiency levels and learning needs, ensuring that you have the tools to succeed in mastering Afrikaans. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, these books will provide you with the knowledge and practice you need to achieve fluency in Afrikaans.

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Home » Afrikaans book titles to read this year

Afrikaans book titles to read this year

Afrikaans could be what’s called a pretty popular language in SA. Here are some of the most popular book releases, what they’re about, and why.

Afrikaans could be called a pretty popular language in South Africa, and there are many people who speak it as a first, second, or even third language. But what if you’d like to find some good Afrikaans books – though have no idea where to start?

Here are some of the most popular current book releases, what they’re about, and why you might want to read them when you’re making up your reading list for the last part of the year.

Afrikaans: Deur die tonnel van twyfel (Koos Kombuis)

English: through the tunnel of doubt.

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‘Deur die tonnel van twyfel’ or ‘Through the tunnel of doubt’ is the new essay collection by masterful singer-songwriter and author Koos Kombuis . If you’re familiar with the Voëlvry-movement or Lisa se klavier, then you’re already on the right track – and if you don’t know what that means, you’re about to discover a whole new facet of South Africa.

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The book explores thoughts of the author’s religious upbringing. He talks about Christanity, identity, the church, and the future of what could be a very confused generation.

English: Son of a Whore (Herman Lategan)

‘Son of a Whore’ is the life story of author Herman Lategan, whom you might not know yet (but will want to several pages into the book). It’s a story of a very powerful and interesting life – and this makes it a wonderful exploration of life in South Africa told from the perspective of someone who is living it.

ALSO READ: Local literature: 7 must-read South African classics

Originally released in Afrikaans as ‘Hoerkind’, the memoire has also made it to a successful stage production

Afrikaans: Leo (Deon Meyer)

English: leo.

If you’re into hard-boiled mysteries and late-night action movies, ‘Leo’ by Deon Meyer is the Afrikaans novel right up your alley. According to Goodreads , the tale tells the story of several found bodies – and of course, the trail that leads from them to the murderer (or is it murderers?).

From the author also responsible for the highly successful television adaptation of Orion .

Afrikaans: Erf en Elders (Kleinboer)

If you’re into poetry and might be learning Afrikaans, try Kleinboer – a fascinating poet who often jokes that he might be the last white man living in Yeoville. According to an introduction on LitNet . this is his latest poetry collection – about life, the universe, and everything.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY FRANCOIS JANSEN (‘ALEX J COYNE’)

Is jy Afrikaans? Kliek hier vir nuus in jou taal!

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Top children’s Afrikaans picture books

Over the past year we have been fortunate enough to add a few new Afrikaans picture books to our bookshelf, giving us the wonderful opportunity to read together in a second language. It goes without saying that these books are a must-have if you are an Afrikaans family, but they’re also a fantastic way to broaden your understanding and new learn words if you are not first language Afrikaans.

I would encourage you to read to your child in Afrikaans, it will give them familiarity with the language and stand them in good stead for when they start to learn it at school. As an added bonus some of the onomatopoeic words sound even better in Afrikaans!

Living in South Africa we can experience so many languages and cultures, so come on and embrace this and add an Afrikaans book (or two!) to your bookshelf.

Diereverkenners: Tobie die diepseeduiker

Diereverkenners: Tobie die diepseeduiker is a picture book by Sharon Rentta which has been translated by Jaco Jacobs. Tobie is a young tiger who dreams of exploring the ocean and who sets out to discover the wonders of the deep. It’s a fun story that teaches children about having the courage and determination to follow their dreams. The illustrations are bright and beautifully detailed, with the labelled under the sea animals giving your budding explorers the opportunity to learn the Afrikaans words for many different animals.

How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to Write a Book Review- A Step-by-Step Guide

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could be improved? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “How to write a Book Review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair: Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “How to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

What is the difference between a book review and a report?

Who is the target audience for book reviews and book reports, how do book reviews and reports differ in length and content, can i write professional book reviews, what are the key aspects of writing professional book reviews, how can i enhance my book-reviewing skills to write professional reviews, what should be included in a good book review.

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Book Review Writing Examples

Examples: learn from the efforts of others.

Learning how to write strong reviews takes time and not a little effort. Reading the reviews others have done can help you get a feel for the flow and flavor of reviews.

If I Never Forever Endeavor Review by Hayden, age 4, Southeast Michigan Mensa

This book was about a bird who didn't yet know how to fly.

The bird has to decide if it will try to fly, but it was not sure if it wants to. The bird thought, "If I never forever endeavor" then I won't ever learn. On one wing, he worries he might fail and on the other wing he thinks of how he may succeed. He worries that if he tries, he may get lost in the world. That makes him want to stay in his nest where he's safe.

I think this book would help other children to learn that trying new things can be scary, but sometimes when we try, we can find things that make us happy too. And this book will help others know that mistakes are okay and part of learning.

My favorite part is that the bird tried and learned that she could fly. I also liked that I read this book because it gave me a chance to talk to mom about making mistakes and how I don't like making them. Then I learned they are good and part of learning.

Boys and girls who are 3 to 8 years old would like this book because it teaches about trying a new thing and how it's important to get past being scared so you can learn new things.

I give the book 5 stars since I think it's important for other children to learn about courage.

Flesh & Blood So Cheap Review by Umar B., age 8, Central New Jersy Mensa

I liked this book. People who are interested in national disasters and US history as well as immigration will most probably be interested in reading this book.

Readers can gain knowledge of what it was like to work in New York City in the early 1900s. One of the things that was especially interesting was that there were no safety laws at work. Also, there was a big contrast between the rich and the poor. Some people may not like this book because it is very depressing, but it is an important event in history to remember.

This book was very well written. It has black and white photos along with descriptions of the photos. These photos give us a better idea of what people's lives were like. This book is suitable for 9-20 year olds.

I give this book 5 stars.

Galaxy Zach: Journey to Juno Review by Young Mensan Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

Journey To Juno is the second book of the Galaxy Zack series. It is just as good as the first one. It's awesome!

Zack joins the Sprockets Academy Explorers Club at school. They fly on a special trip to Juno, a new planet no one has ever visited. Zack gets paired up with Seth, the class bully, and that's dreadful but Zack is excited when he finds a huge galaxy gemmite. A gemmite that large had not been found in 100 years! Kids will love this book!

Boys and girls will both like it. It's an easy chapter book with pictures on every page. I love the illustrations. I think ages 6-8 would like this but younger kids would like the story being read to them.

My favorite parts are the galactic blast game (it is similar to baseball except there are robots playing), recess at Zack's school where everything is 3-D holographic images, the rainbow river in a crystal cave on Juno, and the galaxy gemmite that Zack finds on Juno. I also loved when a life-size holographic image of his Earth friend appears in Zack's room because he calls him on a hyperphone. I give this book one hundred stars! There is a "to be continued" at the end so you have to read the next book see what's in store. I can't wait to find out what happens!!!

I Capture the Castle Review by Lauren W., age 17, Mensa in Georgia

Dodie Smith's novel I Capture the Castle is a journey through the mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle her daily life. Seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and she decides to work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those around her.

Cassandra lives in a fourteenth-century English castle with an interesting cast of characters: her beautiful older sister, Rose; her rather unsociable author father and his second wife, artist-model Topaz; Stephen, the garden boy; a cat and a bull terrier; and sometimes her brother Thomas when he is home from school. One fateful day they make the acquaintance of the Cotton family, including the two sons, and a web of tangled relationships ensues.

While I definitely recommend this book to other readers, I would recommend it to older teenagers, mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that younger teens could also read it, but most of the characters are adults or on the verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Cassandra's sometimes subtle humor.

Over the course of the novel, Cassandra undergoes a definite transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the course of several months. I love that I could see into her mindset and read exactly what she was feeling when she thought out situations. Her thoughts flowed well and moved the book along very quickly.

Cassandra's narrative voice is wonderful. She is serious at times, but also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account. Her emotions and the dialogue are so genuine, and they are spot-on for a seventeen-year-old girl in her situation.

Cassandra has many wonderful insights on life, on topics ranging from writing to faith to matters of the heart. I personally have had some of the same thoughts as Cassandra, except Ms. Smith was able to put them into words.

Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books. Dodie Smith is an exceptional writer, and I Capture the Castle is a book that will never become obsolete.

Frankenstein's Cat Review by Zander H., age 12, Mid-America Mensa

I appreciated Frankenstein's Cat for its fascinating explanation about the often baffling subject of bioengineering and its sister sciences. Emily Anthes explains the many sides of today's modern technology, such as gene modification, cloning, pharmaceutical products (from the farm), prosthesis, animal tag and tracking and gene cryogenics. This book provides a well-rounded summary of these complicated sciences without being boring or simply factual. Her real world examples take us on a journey from the farm, to the pet store and then from the pharmacy to the frozen arc.

Have you ever wondered if the neighborhood cat is spying on you? Read about Operation Acoustic Kitty and find out if this feline fantasy fiction or fact. Do you think bugs are creepy? What about a zombified cyborg beetle? Is Fido so special that you want two of him? Money can buy you an almost exact copy of your pooch BUT don't expect the same personality. Emily Anthes makes you crave more information. She makes you want to know the future of Earth's flora and fauna, as well as humanity itself.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who desires a guide to the future of biological science and technology. Frankenstein's Cat is best read by the light of a glow-in-the-dark fish, while cuddling your favorite cloned dog and drinking a glass of genetically modified milk.

About Marsupials Review by Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

About Marsupials is the title so the book is about...marsupials, of course. It's non-fiction. I really think everyone would like the book. I think someone who likes animals would especially like to read it.

The glossary of facts in the back of About Marsupials is the most useful part. I thought the most interesting parts were that some marsupials have their pouch at their back legs and one marsupial, the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, is very small but can jump 13 feet wide!

Kids in the 4-8 age range would like this book. Even though it's not a story book, 4 year olds would like the few words on each page and they would love the beautiful pictures. But older kids would like it because of all the facts in the back of the book. There's a lot of information for each animal. I think boys and girls (and parents) would enjoy reading it. This book is very interesting. I give it 4 stars.

Mapping the World Review by Umar A., age 10, Central New Jersey Mensa

Every day, people around the world use maps. Whether it is an airplane pilot or businessman, housewife or museum group, maps have always and will continue to provide useful information for all.

Mapping the World talks about the uses of maps, as well as how to differentiate between the type of map projection and type of map.

In this series, we travel to the past and learn about historical mapmakers, from Claudius Ptolemy (who stated the idea that the Earth is at the center of the universe) to Gerardus Mercator (who created one of the most widely used map projections) and more. This series goes into tremendous detail on the cartographer's life and maps. We then journey to the present era to learn about map projections and the diverse types of maps used today. You might ask, "What is the difference between the two? They sound the same to me." No map projection is perfect, because you cannot really flatten a sphere into a rectangle. An uncolored projection could be used in many ways. We could use it for population concentration, highways, land elevation, and so many other things!

For example, we could make a topographic map of the U.S., which shows land elevation. We could make it a colorful map that shows the amount of pollution in different areas, or it could be a population map, or it could even be a map that shows the 50 states, their capitals and borders! Our last step in this amazing excursion is the near future, where we see some hypothetical solutions as to what maps will be used for. Currently, we are working on better virtual map technology.

Now, scientists have been able to put maps on phones. Back in the early 1900s, people had to lug a lot of maps around to find your way from place to place, or just keep asking for directions. Now, all the information is on a phone or global positioning system (GPS). It is amazing how much maps have changed technology and the world in this century.

The Mapping the World 8-book set goes into amazing levels of detail. It is a long read, but it gives an immense range and amount of information that you would not find in any other book or series on maps. The flowing way the chapters and books are organized makes it easy to link passages from different books in this series together. Mapping the World is a treasure box, filled with the seeds of cartography. Collect and plant them, and you soon will have the fruits of cartography, beneficial to those who want to be cartographers. Use this series to the utmost, then the fruits of mapping will be sweet for all who endeavor to succeed in cartography.

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.

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Blog – Posted on Friday, Mar 29

17 book review examples to help you write the perfect review.

It’s an exciting time to be a book reviewer. Once confined to print newspapers and journals, reviews now dot many corridors of the Internet — forever helping others discover their next great read. That said, every book reviewer will face a familiar panic: how can you do justice to a great book in just a thousand words?

As you know, the best way to learn how to do something is by immersing yourself in it. Luckily, the Internet (i.e. Goodreads and other review sites , in particular) has made book reviews more accessible than ever — which means that there are a lot of book reviews examples out there for you to view!

In this post, we compiled 17 prototypical book review examples in multiple genres to help you figure out how to write the perfect review . If you want to jump straight to the examples, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, let’s first check out what makes up a good review.

Are you interested in becoming a book reviewer? We recommend you check out Reedsy Discovery , where you can earn money for writing reviews — and are guaranteed people will read your reviews! To register as a book reviewer, sign up here.

Pro-tip : But wait! How are you sure if you should become a book reviewer in the first place? If you're on the fence, or curious about your match with a book reviewing career, take our quick quiz:

Should you become a book reviewer?

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What must a book review contain?

Like all works of art, no two book reviews will be identical. But fear not: there are a few guidelines for any aspiring book reviewer to follow. Most book reviews, for instance, are less than 1,500 words long, with the sweet spot hitting somewhere around the 1,000-word mark. (However, this may vary depending on the platform on which you’re writing, as we’ll see later.)

In addition, all reviews share some universal elements, as shown in our book review templates . These include:

• A review will offer a concise plot summary of the book. 
• A book review will offer an evaluation of the work. 
• A book review will offer a recommendation for the audience. 

If these are the basic ingredients that make up a book review, it’s the tone and style with which the book reviewer writes that brings the extra panache. This will differ from platform to platform, of course. A book review on Goodreads, for instance, will be much more informal and personal than a book review on Kirkus Reviews, as it is catering to a different audience. However, at the end of the day, the goal of all book reviews is to give the audience the tools to determine whether or not they’d like to read the book themselves.

Keeping that in mind, let’s proceed to some book review examples to put all of this in action.

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Book review examples for fiction books

Since story is king in the world of fiction, it probably won’t come as any surprise to learn that a book review for a novel will concentrate on how well the story was told .

That said, book reviews in all genres follow the same basic formula that we discussed earlier. In these examples, you’ll be able to see how book reviewers on different platforms expertly intertwine the plot summary and their personal opinions of the book to produce a clear, informative, and concise review.

Note: Some of the book review examples run very long. If a book review is truncated in this post, we’ve indicated by including a […] at the end, but you can always read the entire review if you click on the link provided.

Examples of literary fiction book reviews

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ralph Ellison’s The Invisible Man :

An extremely powerful story of a young Southern Negro, from his late high school days through three years of college to his life in Harlem.

His early training prepared him for a life of humility before white men, but through injustices- large and small, he came to realize that he was an "invisible man". People saw in him only a reflection of their preconceived ideas of what he was, denied his individuality, and ultimately did not see him at all. This theme, which has implications far beyond the obvious racial parallel, is skillfully handled. The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing. The boy's dismissal from college because of an innocent mistake, his shocked reaction to the anonymity of the North and to Harlem, his nightmare experiences on a one-day job in a paint factory and in the hospital, his lightning success as the Harlem leader of a communistic organization known as the Brotherhood, his involvement in black versus white and black versus black clashes and his disillusion and understanding of his invisibility- all climax naturally in scenes of violence and riot, followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative. Parts of this experience may have been told before, but never with such freshness, intensity and power.

This is Ellison's first novel, but he has complete control of his story and his style. Watch it.

Lyndsey reviews George Orwell’s 1984 on Goodreads:

YOU. ARE. THE. DEAD. Oh my God. I got the chills so many times toward the end of this book. It completely blew my mind. It managed to surpass my high expectations AND be nothing at all like I expected. Or in Newspeak "Double Plus Good." Let me preface this with an apology. If I sound stunningly inarticulate at times in this review, I can't help it. My mind is completely fried.

This book is like the dystopian Lord of the Rings, with its richly developed culture and economics, not to mention a fully developed language called Newspeak, or rather more of the anti-language, whose purpose is to limit speech and understanding instead of to enhance and expand it. The world-building is so fully fleshed out and spine-tinglingly terrifying that it's almost as if George travelled to such a place, escaped from it, and then just wrote it all down.

I read Fahrenheit 451 over ten years ago in my early teens. At the time, I remember really wanting to read 1984, although I never managed to get my hands on it. I'm almost glad I didn't. Though I would not have admitted it at the time, it would have gone over my head. Or at the very least, I wouldn't have been able to appreciate it fully. […]

The New York Times reviews Lisa Halliday’s Asymmetry :

Three-quarters of the way through Lisa Halliday’s debut novel, “Asymmetry,” a British foreign correspondent named Alistair is spending Christmas on a compound outside of Baghdad. His fellow revelers include cameramen, defense contractors, United Nations employees and aid workers. Someone’s mother has FedExed a HoneyBaked ham from Maine; people are smoking by the swimming pool. It is 2003, just days after Saddam Hussein’s capture, and though the mood is optimistic, Alistair is worrying aloud about the ethics of his chosen profession, wondering if reporting on violence doesn’t indirectly abet violence and questioning why he’d rather be in a combat zone than reading a picture book to his son. But every time he returns to London, he begins to “spin out.” He can’t go home. “You observe what people do with their freedom — what they don’t do — and it’s impossible not to judge them for it,” he says.

The line, embedded unceremoniously in the middle of a page-long paragraph, doubles, like so many others in “Asymmetry,” as literary criticism. Halliday’s novel is so strange and startlingly smart that its mere existence seems like commentary on the state of fiction. One finishes “Asymmetry” for the first or second (or like this reader, third) time and is left wondering what other writers are not doing with their freedom — and, like Alistair, judging them for it.

Despite its title, “Asymmetry” comprises two seemingly unrelated sections of equal length, appended by a slim and quietly shocking coda. Halliday’s prose is clean and lean, almost reportorial in the style of W. G. Sebald, and like the murmurings of a shy person at a cocktail party, often comic only in single clauses. It’s a first novel that reads like the work of an author who has published many books over many years. […]

Emily W. Thompson reviews Michael Doane's The Crossing on Reedsy Discovery :

In Doane’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results.

An unnamed protagonist (The Narrator) is dealing with heartbreak. His love, determined to see the world, sets out for Portland, Oregon. But he’s a small-town boy who hasn’t traveled much. So, the Narrator mourns her loss and hides from life, throwing himself into rehabbing an old motorcycle. Until one day, he takes a leap; he packs his bike and a few belongings and heads out to find the Girl.

Following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and William Least Heat-Moon, Doane offers a coming of age story about a man finding himself on the backroads of America. Doane’s a gifted writer with fluid prose and insightful observations, using The Narrator’s personal interactions to illuminate the diversity of the United States.

The Narrator initially sticks to the highways, trying to make it to the West Coast as quickly as possible. But a hitchhiker named Duke convinces him to get off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. “There’s not a place that’s like any other,” [39] Dukes contends, and The Narrator realizes he’s right. Suddenly, the trip is about the journey, not just the destination. The Narrator ditches his truck and traverses the deserts and mountains on his bike. He destroys his phone, cutting off ties with his past and living only in the moment.

As he crosses the country, The Narrator connects with several unique personalities whose experiences and views deeply impact his own. Duke, the complicated cowboy and drifter, who opens The Narrator’s eyes to a larger world. Zooey, the waitress in Colorado who opens his heart and reminds him that love can be found in this big world. And Rosie, The Narrator’s sweet landlady in Portland, who helps piece him back together both physically and emotionally.

This supporting cast of characters is excellent. Duke, in particular, is wonderfully nuanced and complicated. He’s a throwback to another time, a man without a cell phone who reads Sartre and sleeps under the stars. Yet he’s also a grifter with a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude that harms those around him. It’s fascinating to watch The Narrator wrestle with Duke’s behavior, trying to determine which to model and which to discard.

Doane creates a relatable protagonist in The Narrator, whose personal growth doesn’t erase his faults. His willingness to hit the road with few resources is admirable, and he’s prescient enough to recognize the jealousy of those who cannot or will not take the leap. His encounters with new foods, places, and people broaden his horizons. Yet his immaturity and selfishness persist. He tells Rosie she’s been a good mother to him but chooses to ignore the continuing concern from his own parents as he effectively disappears from his old life.

Despite his flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany The Narrator on his physical and emotional journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable road trip.

The Book Smugglers review Anissa Gray’s The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls :

I am still dipping my toes into the literally fiction pool, finding what works for me and what doesn’t. Books like The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray are definitely my cup of tea.

Althea and Proctor Cochran had been pillars of their economically disadvantaged community for years – with their local restaurant/small market and their charity drives. Until they are found guilty of fraud for stealing and keeping most of the money they raised and sent to jail. Now disgraced, their entire family is suffering the consequences, specially their twin teenage daughters Baby Vi and Kim.  To complicate matters even more: Kim was actually the one to call the police on her parents after yet another fight with her mother. […]

Examples of children’s and YA fiction book reviews

The Book Hookup reviews Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give :

♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the voice of a movement like Black Lives Matter, but I do know that Thomas did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. With an unapologetically realistic delivery packed with emotion, The Hate U Give is a crucially important portrayal of the difficulties minorities face in our country every single day. I have no doubt that this book will be met with resistance by some (possibly many) and slapped with a “controversial” label, but if you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk in a POC’s shoes, then I feel like this is an unflinchingly honest place to start.

In Angie Thomas’s debut novel, Starr Carter bursts on to the YA scene with both heart-wrecking and heartwarming sincerity. This author is definitely one to watch.

♥ Review: The hype around this book has been unquestionable and, admittedly, that made me both eager to get my hands on it and terrified to read it. I mean, what if I was to be the one person that didn’t love it as much as others? (That seems silly now because of how truly mesmerizing THUG was in the most heartbreakingly realistic way.) However, with the relevancy of its summary in regards to the unjust predicaments POC currently face in the US, I knew this one was a must-read, so I was ready to set my fears aside and dive in. That said, I had an altogether more personal, ulterior motive for wanting to read this book. […]

The New York Times reviews Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood :

Alice Crewe (a last name she’s chosen for herself) is a fairy tale legacy: the granddaughter of Althea Proserpine, author of a collection of dark-as-night fairy tales called “Tales From the Hinterland.” The book has a cult following, and though Alice has never met her grandmother, she’s learned a little about her through internet research. She hasn’t read the stories, because her mother, Ella Proserpine, forbids it.

Alice and Ella have moved from place to place in an attempt to avoid the “bad luck” that seems to follow them. Weird things have happened. As a child, Alice was kidnapped by a man who took her on a road trip to find her grandmother; he was stopped by the police before they did so. When at 17 she sees that man again, unchanged despite the years, Alice panics. Then Ella goes missing, and Alice turns to Ellery Finch, a schoolmate who’s an Althea Proserpine superfan, for help in tracking down her mother. Not only has Finch read every fairy tale in the collection, but handily, he remembers them, sharing them with Alice as they journey to the mysterious Hazel Wood, the estate of her now-dead grandmother, where they hope to find Ella.

“The Hazel Wood” starts out strange and gets stranger, in the best way possible. (The fairy stories Finch relays, which Albert includes as their own chapters, are as creepy and evocative as you’d hope.) Albert seamlessly combines contemporary realism with fantasy, blurring the edges in a way that highlights that place where stories and real life convene, where magic contains truth and the world as it appears is false, where just about anything can happen, particularly in the pages of a very good book. It’s a captivating debut. […]

James reviews Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight, Moon on Goodreads:

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is one of the books that followers of my blog voted as a must-read for our Children's Book August 2018 Readathon. Come check it out and join the next few weeks!

This picture book was such a delight. I hadn't remembered reading it when I was a child, but it might have been read to me... either way, it was like a whole new experience! It's always so difficult to convince a child to fall asleep at night. I don't have kids, but I do have a 5-month-old puppy who whines for 5 minutes every night when he goes in his cage/crate (hopefully he'll be fully housebroken soon so he can roam around when he wants). I can only imagine! I babysat a lot as a teenager and I have tons of younger cousins, nieces, and nephews, so I've been through it before, too. This was a believable experience, and it really helps show kids how to relax and just let go when it's time to sleep.

The bunny's are adorable. The rhymes are exquisite. I found it pretty fun, but possibly a little dated given many of those things aren't normal routines anymore. But the lessons to take from it are still powerful. Loved it! I want to sample some more books by this fine author and her illustrators.

Publishers Weekly reviews Elizabeth Lilly’s Geraldine :

This funny, thoroughly accomplished debut opens with two words: “I’m moving.” They’re spoken by the title character while she swoons across her family’s ottoman, and because Geraldine is a giraffe, her full-on melancholy mode is quite a spectacle. But while Geraldine may be a drama queen (even her mother says so), it won’t take readers long to warm up to her. The move takes Geraldine from Giraffe City, where everyone is like her, to a new school, where everyone else is human. Suddenly, the former extrovert becomes “That Giraffe Girl,” and all she wants to do is hide, which is pretty much impossible. “Even my voice tries to hide,” she says, in the book’s most poignant moment. “It’s gotten quiet and whispery.” Then she meets Cassie, who, though human, is also an outlier (“I’m that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food”), and things begin to look up.

Lilly’s watercolor-and-ink drawings are as vividly comic and emotionally astute as her writing; just when readers think there are no more ways for Geraldine to contort her long neck, this highly promising talent comes up with something new.

Examples of genre fiction book reviews

Karlyn P reviews Nora Roberts’ Dark Witch , a paranormal romance novel , on Goodreads:

4 stars. Great world-building, weak romance, but still worth the read.

I hesitate to describe this book as a 'romance' novel simply because the book spent little time actually exploring the romance between Iona and Boyle. Sure, there IS a romance in this novel. Sprinkled throughout the book are a few scenes where Iona and Boyle meet, chat, wink at each, flirt some more, sleep together, have a misunderstanding, make up, and then profess their undying love. Very formulaic stuff, and all woven around the more important parts of this book.

The meat of this book is far more focused on the story of the Dark witch and her magically-gifted descendants living in Ireland. Despite being weak on the romance, I really enjoyed it. I think the book is probably better for it, because the romance itself was pretty lackluster stuff.

I absolutely plan to stick with this series as I enjoyed the world building, loved the Ireland setting, and was intrigued by all of the secondary characters. However, If you read Nora Roberts strictly for the romance scenes, this one might disappoint. But if you enjoy a solid background story with some dark magic and prophesies, you might enjoy it as much as I did.

I listened to this one on audio, and felt the narration was excellent.

Emily May reviews R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy Wars , an epic fantasy novel , on Goodreads:

“But I warn you, little warrior. The price of power is pain.”

Holy hell, what did I just read??

➽ A fantasy military school

➽ A rich world based on modern Chinese history

➽ Shamans and gods

➽ Detailed characterization leading to unforgettable characters

➽ Adorable, opium-smoking mentors

That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. I know 100% that The Poppy War will be one of my best reads of 2018.

Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every horrific, nail-biting moment of it? This is one of those books for me. And I must issue a serious content warning: this book explores some very dark themes. Proceed with caution (or not at all) if you are particularly sensitive to scenes of war, drug use and addiction, genocide, racism, sexism, ableism, self-harm, torture, and rape (off-page but extremely horrific).

Because, despite the fairly innocuous first 200 pages, the title speaks the truth: this is a book about war. All of its horrors and atrocities. It is not sugar-coated, and it is often graphic. The "poppy" aspect refers to opium, which is a big part of this book. It is a fantasy, but the book draws inspiration from the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Rape of Nanking.

Crime Fiction Lover reviews Jessica Barry’s Freefall , a crime novel:

In some crime novels, the wrongdoing hits you between the eyes from page one. With others it’s a more subtle process, and that’s OK too. So where does Freefall fit into the sliding scale?

In truth, it’s not clear. This is a novel with a thrilling concept at its core. A woman survives plane crash, then runs for her life. However, it is the subtleties at play that will draw you in like a spider beckoning to an unwitting fly.

Like the heroine in Sharon Bolton’s Dead Woman Walking, Allison is lucky to be alive. She was the only passenger in a private plane, belonging to her fiancé, Ben, who was piloting the expensive aircraft, when it came down in woodlands in the Colorado Rockies. Ally is also the only survivor, but rather than sitting back and waiting for rescue, she is soon pulling together items that may help her survive a little longer – first aid kit, energy bars, warm clothes, trainers – before fleeing the scene. If you’re hearing the faint sound of alarm bells ringing, get used to it. There’s much, much more to learn about Ally before this tale is over.

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One , a science-fiction novel :

Video-game players embrace the quest of a lifetime in a virtual world; screenwriter Cline’s first novel is old wine in new bottles.

The real world, in 2045, is the usual dystopian horror story. So who can blame Wade, our narrator, if he spends most of his time in a virtual world? The 18-year-old, orphaned at 11, has no friends in his vertical trailer park in Oklahoma City, while the OASIS has captivating bells and whistles, and it’s free. Its creator, the legendary billionaire James Halliday, left a curious will. He had devised an elaborate online game, a hunt for a hidden Easter egg. The finder would inherit his estate. Old-fashioned riddles lead to three keys and three gates. Wade, or rather his avatar Parzival, is the first gunter (egg-hunter) to win the Copper Key, first of three.

Halliday was obsessed with the pop culture of the 1980s, primarily the arcade games, so the novel is as much retro as futurist. Parzival’s great strength is that he has absorbed all Halliday’s obsessions; he knows by heart three essential movies, crossing the line from geek to freak. His most formidable competitors are the Sixers, contract gunters working for the evil conglomerate IOI, whose goal is to acquire the OASIS. Cline’s narrative is straightforward but loaded with exposition. It takes a while to reach a scene that crackles with excitement: the meeting between Parzival (now world famous as the lead contender) and Sorrento, the head of IOI. The latter tries to recruit Parzival; when he fails, he issues and executes a death threat. Wade’s trailer is demolished, his relatives killed; luckily Wade was not at home. Too bad this is the dramatic high point. Parzival threads his way between more ’80s games and movies to gain the other keys; it’s clever but not exciting. Even a romance with another avatar and the ultimate “epic throwdown” fail to stir the blood.

Too much puzzle-solving, not enough suspense.

Book review examples for non-fiction books

Nonfiction books are generally written to inform readers about a certain topic. As such, the focus of a nonfiction book review will be on the clarity and effectiveness of this communication . In carrying this out, a book review may analyze the author’s source materials and assess the thesis in order to determine whether or not the book meets expectations.

Again, we’ve included abbreviated versions of long reviews here, so feel free to click on the link to read the entire piece!

The Washington Post reviews David Grann’s Killers of the Flower Moon :

The arc of David Grann’s career reminds one of a software whiz-kid or a latest-thing talk-show host — certainly not an investigative reporter, even if he is one of the best in the business. The newly released movie of his first book, “The Lost City of Z,” is generating all kinds of Oscar talk, and now comes the release of his second book, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI,” the film rights to which have already been sold for $5 million in what one industry journal called the “biggest and wildest book rights auction in memory.”

Grann deserves the attention. He’s canny about the stories he chases, he’s willing to go anywhere to chase them, and he’s a maestro in his ability to parcel out information at just the right clip: a hint here, a shading of meaning there, a smartly paced buildup of multiple possibilities followed by an inevitable reversal of readerly expectations or, in some cases, by a thrilling and dislocating pull of the entire narrative rug.

All of these strengths are on display in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Around the turn of the 20th century, oil was discovered underneath Osage lands in the Oklahoma Territory, lands that were soon to become part of the state of Oklahoma. Through foresight and legal maneuvering, the Osage found a way to permanently attach that oil to themselves and shield it from the prying hands of white interlopers; this mechanism was known as “headrights,” which forbade the outright sale of oil rights and granted each full member of the tribe — and, supposedly, no one else — a share in the proceeds from any lease arrangement. For a while, the fail-safes did their job, and the Osage got rich — diamond-ring and chauffeured-car and imported-French-fashion rich — following which quite a large group of white men started to work like devils to separate the Osage from their money. And soon enough, and predictably enough, this work involved murder. Here in Jazz Age America’s most isolated of locales, dozens or even hundreds of Osage in possession of great fortunes — and of the potential for even greater fortunes in the future — were dispatched by poison, by gunshot and by dynamite. […]

Stacked Books reviews Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers :

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Malcolm Gladwell’s writing. Friends and co-workers tell me that his subjects are interesting and his writing style is easy to follow without talking down to the reader. I wasn’t disappointed with Outliers. In it, Gladwell tackles the subject of success – how people obtain it and what contributes to extraordinary success as opposed to everyday success.

The thesis – that our success depends much more on circumstances out of our control than any effort we put forth – isn’t exactly revolutionary. Most of us know it to be true. However, I don’t think I’m lying when I say that most of us also believe that we if we just try that much harder and develop our talent that much further, it will be enough to become wildly successful, despite bad or just mediocre beginnings. Not so, says Gladwell.

Most of the evidence Gladwell gives us is anecdotal, which is my favorite kind to read. I can’t really speak to how scientifically valid it is, but it sure makes for engrossing listening. For example, did you know that successful hockey players are almost all born in January, February, or March? Kids born during these months are older than the others kids when they start playing in the youth leagues, which means they’re already better at the game (because they’re bigger). Thus, they get more play time, which means their skill increases at a faster rate, and it compounds as time goes by. Within a few years, they’re much, much better than the kids born just a few months later in the year. Basically, these kids’ birthdates are a huge factor in their success as adults – and it’s nothing they can do anything about. If anyone could make hockey interesting to a Texan who only grudgingly admits the sport even exists, it’s Gladwell. […]

Quill and Quire reviews Rick Prashaw’s Soar, Adam, Soar :

Ten years ago, I read a book called Almost Perfect. The young-adult novel by Brian Katcher won some awards and was held up as a powerful, nuanced portrayal of a young trans person. But the reality did not live up to the book’s billing. Instead, it turned out to be a one-dimensional and highly fetishized portrait of a trans person’s life, one that was nevertheless repeatedly dubbed “realistic” and “affecting” by non-transgender readers possessing only a vague, mass-market understanding of trans experiences.

In the intervening decade, trans narratives have emerged further into the literary spotlight, but those authored by trans people ourselves – and by trans men in particular – have seemed to fall under the shadow of cisgender sensationalized imaginings. Two current Canadian releases – Soar, Adam, Soar and This One Looks Like a Boy – provide a pointed object lesson into why trans-authored work about transgender experiences remains critical.

To be fair, Soar, Adam, Soar isn’t just a story about a trans man. It’s also a story about epilepsy, the medical establishment, and coming of age as seen through a grieving father’s eyes. Adam, Prashaw’s trans son, died unexpectedly at age 22. Woven through the elder Prashaw’s narrative are excerpts from Adam’s social media posts, giving us glimpses into the young man’s interior life as he traverses his late teens and early 20s. […]

Book Geeks reviews Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love :

WRITING STYLE: 3.5/5

SUBJECT: 4/5

CANDIDNESS: 4.5/5

RELEVANCE: 3.5/5

ENTERTAINMENT QUOTIENT: 3.5/5

“Eat Pray Love” is so popular that it is almost impossible to not read it. Having felt ashamed many times on my not having read this book, I quietly ordered the book (before I saw the movie) from amazon.in and sat down to read it. I don’t remember what I expected it to be – maybe more like a chick lit thing but it turned out quite different. The book is a real story and is a short journal from the time when its writer went travelling to three different countries in pursuit of three different things – Italy (Pleasure), India (Spirituality), Bali (Balance) and this is what corresponds to the book’s name – EAT (in Italy), PRAY (in India) and LOVE (in Bali, Indonesia). These are also the three Is – ITALY, INDIA, INDONESIA.

Though she had everything a middle-aged American woman can aspire for – MONEY, CAREER, FRIENDS, HUSBAND; Elizabeth was not happy in her life, she wasn’t happy in her marriage. Having suffered a terrible divorce and terrible breakup soon after, Elizabeth was shattered. She didn’t know where to go and what to do – all she knew was that she wanted to run away. So she set out on a weird adventure – she will go to three countries in a year and see if she can find out what she was looking for in life. This book is about that life changing journey that she takes for one whole year. […]

Emily May reviews Michelle Obama’s Becoming on Goodreads:

Look, I'm not a happy crier. I might cry at songs about leaving and missing someone; I might cry at books where things don't work out; I might cry at movies where someone dies. I've just never really understood why people get all choked up over happy, inspirational things. But Michelle Obama's kindness and empathy changed that. This book had me in tears for all the right reasons.

This is not really a book about politics, though political experiences obviously do come into it. It's a shame that some will dismiss this book because of a difference in political opinion, when it is really about a woman's life. About growing up poor and black on the South Side of Chicago; about getting married and struggling to maintain that marriage; about motherhood; about being thrown into an amazing and terrifying position.

I hate words like "inspirational" because they've become so overdone and cheesy, but I just have to say it-- Michelle Obama is an inspiration. I had the privilege of seeing her speak at The Forum in Inglewood, and she is one of the warmest, funniest, smartest, down-to-earth people I have ever seen in this world.

And yes, I know we present what we want the world to see, but I truly do think it's genuine. I think she is someone who really cares about people - especially kids - and wants to give them better lives and opportunities.

She's obviously intelligent, but she also doesn't gussy up her words. She talks straight, with an openness and honesty rarely seen. She's been one of the most powerful women in the world, she's been a graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School, she's had her own successful career, and yet she has remained throughout that same girl - Michelle Robinson - from a working class family in Chicago.

I don't think there's anyone who wouldn't benefit from reading this book.

Hopefully, this post has given you a better idea of how to write a book review. You might be wondering how to put all of this knowledge into action now! Many book reviewers start out by setting up a book blog. If you don’t have time to research the intricacies of HTML, check out Reedsy Discovery — where you can read indie books for free and review them without going through the hassle of creating a blog. To register as a book reviewer , go here .

And if you’d like to see even more book review examples, simply go to this directory of book review blogs and click on any one of them to see a wealth of good book reviews. Beyond that, it's up to you to pick up a book and pen — and start reviewing!

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“Enigeen kan ’n moordenaar wees. Al wat dit vat, is ’n goeie rede, en ’n slegte dag.” (p. 25) Sommer vroeg-vroeg moes ek heelhartig saamstem met hierdie sentiment van adjudant-offisier Lisamore Talakase. Ek het om die beurt ’n hele paar van die uitgebreide aanbieding van karakters oorweeg as die moordenaar, selfs die moontlikheid ondersteun dat daar inderdaad meer as een moordadige sluiper los is in Hermanus. Die tienermoorde en die ander moorde hou duidelik nie verband nie. Koloner Bekeer se taakspan, bestaande uit Talakase, Werner de Wege en die vermaaklike Johnny Delport, maak nie hond haaraf van die twee reekse moorde nie. Die hulp van kaptein Stephan Schutte word ook ingeroep. Laasgenoemde se IT-vernuf sorg weliswaar vir ’n paar deurbrake. Die tienermoordenaar word redelik vroeg ontmasker, maar die storielyn verloor nie momentum nie. Die ander moorde sorg dat die spanningslyn geensins verslap nie. Wegkruiper is die tipiese boek wat mens heeltemal te vinnig lees omdat jy agter die kap van die byl wil kom. Die skrywer het geduldig omgegaan met die detail van destydse gebeure wat die karakters verbind asook met die moordenaar se makabere motivering is die wreedaardige slagtings. Christelle Wessels se vorige boeke, Adder en Brandmerk, het ek nie gelees nie, maar ek is seker dat Wegkruiper ’n stewige posisie gaan inneem onder spanningsromans. Dit is net-net aanvaarbaar vir hierdie ietwat sensitiewe leser! Wegkruiper is uitgegee deur Penguinbooks SA

A Crown of Chains was my introduction into the literary world of Closed Door Romance books. I loved every minute of it. The characters were well written, the story made my pulse race and the main character was so strong. Loved it!

Wat 'n lekker kinderboek! Ilustrasies is puik en die stories is so kreatief geskryf dat jy jou behoorlik inleef met die karakters.

Ek hoop daar is 'n reeks wat voorlê!

yes yes just YES!

Well researched by the author and a common sense approach to a taboo topic. An epitaph to many unnecessary deaths and untold suffering.

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