1. Introductory Paragraph a. Identify the title, the author, and the publisher of the book. b. Summarize the main idea/theme of the book in one or two sentences. c. Include your thesis statement (what you think of the book). i. Example: I liked/disliked the book because … OR ii. Example: I thought the book had useful information because…
2. Body Paragraph(s)
a. Summarize the important points of the book (This should be several paragraphs.)
i. Use quotes or paraphrases from the book to prove your points.
ii. Use APA or MLA style formatting using these resources for help: . https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/ iv. https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/
b. Evaluate the book. This section should be several paragraphs. The following are prompts that can help to guide this evaluation section:
i. Explain the writer’s purpose for writing the book. Give your opinion on whether the writer achieved her/his purpose in writing the book.
ii. What kind of evidence does the author use to support his/her points, perspective or arguments? Does the author succeed here in a manner that is convincing and credible?
iii. Does the author have the necessary expertise to write the book? What credentials or background does the author have to qualify him/her to write the book? Has the author written other books or publications on this topic? How do others in this field view this author and their handle on the topics presented?
c. Explain to your audience if you thought the book was entertaining or boring, has good, thorough or inadequate information.
i. Use quotes or paraphrases from the book to prove your points.
ii. Use APA style formatting. (https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/ ) 3
3. Conclusion a. Review the main points of your argument. b. Discuss any impact the book had on your knowledge, viewpoints or thinking – specifically around the topic of sustainable food systems. c. In your conclusion, you should revisit your thesis statement, wrapping up your writing around this point for your reader.
