How to Write a Reader's Response
When you write a Reader's Response your job is to tell me what YOU THINK
about the book you are reading. Tell me why you think/feel the way you do
and back up your opinion/observation with specific examples. Please do not
summarize what you have read; I am much more interested in your thoughts and
opinions!!!
Here are some questions to ponder to help spark your writing:
„« What do you think of the characters in the book? Can you identify
with any of them? Do they remind you of anyone? Are they likable?
Why/why not?
„« What do you think about the plot? Is it complex and original? Does it
follow a formula? Does it grab your attention? What do you think about
the conflicts that are presented?
„« What is your definition of good literature? Does this book meet those
standards? Why/why not? Be sure to give examples that support your
opinion!
„« Can you make any associations or connections to what you are reading?
Remember, these can be related experiences you and your friends have had
as well as references to other books you have read and movies you have
seen.
„« Is the book written in first person or third person point of view? Is
the narrator reliable? How do you know? Is the narrator a major of
minor character? If this book were written from a different point of
view, how would it affect your reading?
„« What do you think about the author¡¦s writing style? How does the author
draw you in as a reader? What elements of this style would you like to
try in your own writing? Remember to give specific examples to help
support your opinion!
„« Can you make any predictions for what will happen? If so, what evidence
are you using to make this prediction?
„« Is there an important quote or passage from the book that you¡¦d like to
explain or comment on? Why is this quote/passage significant?
„« Would you recommend this book to another student or adult? Why/why not?
What criteria are you using to make this recommendation?
