🐾 How to Write a Book Review (for Teens!) + Free Template
Ever finish a book and just need to talk about it? Whether it was the best plot twist ever or you wanted to throw it across the room (lovingly, of course 🫣), writing a book review is the perfect way to share your thoughts!
Book reviews aren’t just for professional critics, they’re for every reader, especially teens who have a lot to say about stories that hit (or miss) differently. So today, we’re breaking down exactly how to write one, with a free template you can use again and again! 💌
🧠 Why Write a Book Review?
Writing reviews isn’t about sounding fancy, it’s about connecting. You’re sharing your reading experience, helping other readers find (or avoid!) certain books, and practicing how to express your opinions clearly.
Plus, writing reviews can help you:
- Remember what you read and key moments in the book
- Notice writing styles, themes, and character growth
- Build your writing confidence ✨
- Join book conversations online (hello, BookTok & Bookstagram!)
Here’s a simple guide made for teen readers who want their reviews to stand out, honest, fun, and a little personal.
1. Start with the Basics
Include:
- Book title
- Author
- Genre
- (Optional) Star rating ⭐ out of 5
2. Share a Quick Summary (No Spoilers!)
Give a short idea of what it’s about. Enough to set the scene, not give away the plot twist!
“Liz is a hopeless romantic who’s obsessed with movie-style love stories… until real life throws her a surprising lead.”
3. Talk About What You Loved (or Didn’t)
Be honest! What worked for you? What didn’t?
- Characters that felt real
- A plot twist that had you gasping
- Pacing that dragged a little
- Writing style — easy to read or a bit slow?
4. Share Your Feelings
The best reviews have personality! How did you feel reading the book? Cozy, inspired, confused, heartbroken?
5. End with a Recommendation
Who should read it?
“For anyone who loves enemies-to-lovers, movie and songs’ lyrics, and slow-burn chaos.”
✨ Free Teen Book Review Template
You can copy this into your journal, notes app, or print it out for your reading binder:
📚 BOOK REVIEW TEMPLATE
Book Title:
Author:
Genre:
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💭 What It’s About:
(A short, spoiler-free summary)
❤️ What I Loved:
(Characters, writing style, favorite scenes, etc.)
🤔 What I Didn’t Love:
(Slow parts, confusing moments, etc.)
🎭 My Thoughts:
(How it made you feel — funny, sad, cozy, etc.)
📢 Recommended For:
(Fans of..., readers who love..., perfect for when...)
🪩 Bonus Tips for Fun Reviews
- Use emojis or bullet points to make it pop 🎀
- Add quotes you loved (but keep them short)
- Include a mini aesthetic or playlist for the vibe 🎧
- Post it on Pinterest, Goodreads, or your blog to connect with other readers!
Writing book reviews isn’t homework, it’s storytelling about a story! You’re sharing your feelings, ideas, and imagination with the world. So grab your notebook, fill out the template, and start reviewing your favorite reads, one honest, heartfelt review at a time. 💕
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