how to write a conclusion on a book report

How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report

Kristine tucker, 27 jun 2018.

Just like an exciting introduction that draws the reader in, the conclusion of a book report needs to wrap up the writer's thoughts and leave the reader wanting to learn more. This requires personal examination and commentary, which is not always easy for middle and high school students. That's why it's important to teach students how to end their reports by reflecting on the characters, themes, setting and plot. They should discuss what they learned or gained from the book and how the themes relate to present-day situations. Students should explain why they would or wouldn't recommend the book to their peers.

Explore this article

• Revelations and Deeper Understandings
• The Significance of Important Themes
• Author Evaluations
• Personal Recommendations

1 Revelations and Deeper Understandings

Encourage your students to consider turning points and unexpected outcomes in their book report conclusions. Show how the plot and characters inspired a deeper understanding of life events. For example, if your student is writing a conclusion for her report on Mark Twain's The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , she might comment on how difficult life was for slaves and indentured servants, how destructive prejudices were and still are today or how orphaned children often feel abandoned and must learn to fend for themselves.

2 The Significance of Important Themes

Students should focus on how the themes, morals and life lessons shared in the book are still relevant today. They should be able to apply messages from the book to their own lives. For example, if your student is writing a conclusion for his report on _J__ames and the Giant Peac_h by Roald Dahl, he might talk about how the book inspired him to be a loyal, trustworthy friend. Or, he might discuss the importance of teamwork and the value of fighting for a cause.

3 Author Evaluations

Help your students learn how to critically assess their books, including the author's purpose and intention. They can use examples from the book such as quotes or scenes to support their viewpoint. For example, if your student read Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, her conclusion might discuss how Dahl incorporated technology into the book -- the shrink machine and the ability to send chocolate bars through the TV -- to force readers to consider the pros and cons of technology. Or she might discuss Dahl's colorful, humorous characters, descriptive details and overall imagination-driven writing style.

4 Personal Recommendations

Instruct your students to include a personal recommendation in the conclusion. A personal recommendation is one of the most important elements in a book report conclusion. This is a great time for students to discuss how the story made them feel. They can also talk about the mood and tone of the story. Encourage your students to discuss the mood and tone of the book and how the story makes them feel. For example, the student might offer advice such as "Students who like adventurous plot lines and stories about beating the odds would enjoy The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner."' Or "I wouldn't recommend The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving to anyone who doesn't like dark, mysterious settings and scary characters."'

• 1 North Carolina State University and the University of Central Florida -- Midlink Magazine: Multimedia Book Report Rubric (Fiction)
• 2 Sequoia Elementary School: Book Reports for 5th Grade; Melissa Reynoso

About the Author

As curriculum developer and educator, Kristine Tucker has enjoyed the plethora of English assignments she's read (and graded!) over the years. Her experiences as vice-president of an energy consulting firm have given her the opportunity to explore business writing and HR. Tucker has a BA and holds Ohio teaching credentials.

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How to Write a Report on a Book

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Tricks to writing a book report that will get you results

We have already provided students with tips on the importance of taking notes when reading a novel for a book report . Now it's time to put those notes into action and start writing a book report.

Discover the hidden meaning

Since your notes will provide you with what you feel are the most important elements of the book, all that's left to do is make connections between the different elements. To do this, you'll want to discover how the symbols that you've noticed add meaning to the events in the novel.

Here's a relatively simple, yet effective, combination of symbolism, meaning, and events: The main character of the book discovers that the love of his life has been cheating on him. He spends all night walking broken-hearted in the rain. In this case, the rain is symbolic of sadness/gloominess, and the night may be symbolic of hardship or loneliness. How do these symbols combine with the events in the story? Easy. The main character is sad and feels alone because he just discovered that his lover has been unfaithful.

Once you've figured out the connections that you'd like to highlight in your book report, it's time to begin writing.

Writing the all-important first paragraph of your report

The opening paragraph of a book report is extremely important because this introduction describes how you plan to analyze the novel in question. The following is a list of things that our editors watch for when editing the first paragraph of a college-level report:

Introduction:

The name of the book, the author, and the date of publication should be included somewhere in your introduction . Just as you wouldn't hang out with a stranger without knowing his/her name, you shouldn't expect your professor to read your book report without first knowing a little about the book.

Subject, genre, and overview of the meaning:

The first paragraph should also contain a sentence that refers to the subject of the book, the genre, and the meaning expounded within the work. This sounds like a lot of information, but with practice you can do this all in one sentence. To clarify, let's define subject, genre, and meaning:

• Subject: The subject is what the book is about. Here's an example of a sentence that explains the subject of a book: Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six relates the experiences of an international group of covert operatives that neutralize a European terrorist plot.
• Genre: This is the type of book you're reading. The summary on the back of a book will often tell you the genre in case you're not familiar with the categories. The book mentioned in the previous point could be classified as a thriller.
• Overview of the meaning: You don't have to get in-depth in the first paragraph, but you should let your reader know that your book report isn't simply a summary but also a treatment of the major themes discussed in the work. Here's an example of a sentence that gives a bit of information on the deeper meaning in a book: The novel raises some important questions regarding freedom of information, ethics, and government secrecy.

If we put all of the above information together, we have a sentence that gives a good overview of the information we plan to include when writing a book report: In the 1998 thriller Rainbow Six , Tom Clancy raises some important questions regarding freedom of information, ethics, and governmental secrecy as he describes the experiences of an international group of covert operatives that neutralize a European terrorist plot.

Keep your ideas structured

Once you've written a solid introduction, it's time to get to the meat and potatoes of your report: the summary and critical analysis. Here's a quick look at what our essay editing experts look for in each of these sections:

• Summary: A good rule of thumb to remember is that the summary should be no more than 1/3 of the report's length. This means that if you're writing a three-page report, your summary section should be no more than one page. In this section, you'll want to go over the main characters , events, and settings (without relating them to symbolism/meanings).
• Critical analysis: This is where you connect the events/actions/settings to the symbolism/meanings that you've gathered from the work. In this section, it's a good idea to remember that any assertion you make should be backed up with information from the book itself (either paraphrasing or direct quotations). You should also comment on the style of writing in this section and how it contributes to the overall feeling/meaning of the book. This section is the most important and should take up about 2/3 of your report.

Concluding thoughts

The concluding paragraph of a book report is where you summarize the ideas you've presented in the analysis and offer your opinion of the novel. Vague phrases such as "I liked this book" or "The book was good" should be avoided.

Any connection that you can make to real life may be helpful in this portion of the report. For example, here's a good opinion sentence using our previous Tom Clancy example:

Although this book was written in 1998, I argue that, given the U.S. political environment of the early 21st century, Clancy's comments regarding the ramifications of terrorism and the ambiguity of government secrecy are more relevant than ever.

Solicit a second opinion before submitting your book report

After you've finished writing your book report, you may be tempted to immediately submit it to your professor for grading. We recommend resisting this urge! Instead, ask a friend or classmate to review your work for any inconsistent content or awkward phrasing. Better yet, submit your document to our essay editing service and have a professional assess your ideas.

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Table of Contents

What a Good Ending Should Do

What the end of the book should not do, how to end a book (and get readers talking about it), great conclusion examples, how to write a book conclusion (& end your story the right way).

Here’s the thing about ending your book the right way:

If the reader got all the way to the conclusion, that means they read the whole book , they liked it, and now they want to wrap this up.

So don’t ramble on and on. Give them what they want.

The goal of a great ending is to tie everything together, neatly summarize your book, and then provide a specific call or calls to action for your reader.

Don’t overcomplicate the conclusion—just let it do its job, and it’ll work great.

• Clearly summarize the book: That’s the best thing you can do, not only to deliver value to the reader but also to make the book memorable (and recommendable).
• Address any lingering issues and close any open loops: The reader should feel like everything is wrapped up in a bow.
• Provide a call to action: In essence, tell the reader what to do.
• Give even more: Point them to any additional resources you have that could help them.
• A conclusion should NOT introduce any new content: This should only be a summarization of what’s in the book. You can have new stories or anecdotes, of course.
• A conclusion should not be too long: The rule of thumb is that it should be the shortest chapter in your book.
• A conclusion should not break faith with the reader: Don’t tell them “operators are standing by” or try to sell them in a preposterous way that turns them off.

At Scribe, we like to outline the conclusion using this template:

• Grab the reader with a great hook
• Restate the book’s thesis
• Summarize the chapters
• Call to action: what should the reader do when they finish the book?

This is one of the most important writing tips for any Author:

Every chapter should start with a hook. Even the last one.

This can be a story that summarizes the book, or you can close a loop from earlier in the book. But the point is, the reader should feel like they do at the end of a good movie, where everything feels nicely summarized with a satisfying ending.

By this time, you’ve mentioned a lot of different topics. Usually, the easiest and most compelling way to begin the conclusion is by referring back to one (or more) of them. Or you can add another dimension to a story you already told or tie up loose ends.

2. Restate the book’s mission/thesis

This is pretty simple, but make sure you restate the book’s thesis. From the first chapter to the final chapter, your book’s primary message should be consistent.

3. Summarize chapters

This is optional, but most good nonfiction books do this. They summarize the key points so succinctly and clearly that the reader can’t help but understand your lessons the same way that you do.

You want the reader to think about and talk about your book to their friends the same way you would if you could be there yourself. The best way to make sure they do that is to tell them exactly what to say.

That’s what this section is for.

Specifically, it’s about nailing whatever you want your readers to remember about your book. What are the takeaways that really matter? How do you want them to talk about them?

If your book is a memoir, your conclusion also needs to complete your story arc, tying up any plot threads and subplots in your storyline so you don’t leave any cliffhangers.

You might not summarize the plot points of each chapter literally, but you still want to remind your readers of the journey.

4. Call to action

What’s the first thing you want your reader to do when they finish the last word and put the book down? This is usually the final word, and it’s what you should leave them with on the final page.

Note on the call to action

A call to action (CTA) is not required in a conclusion, but most nonfiction books have them. It’s usually the very last bit of the conclusion, the final word to readers, and it ensures they know what you want them to do.

Authors generally adopt a different tone with the CTA—one that’s not just more explicitly inspirational but that’s also framed as an imperative. The underlying message of the call to action is straightforward and empowering: now that you have all the tools, go out there and use them.

This is good, and readers tend to like it. Some authors feel uncomfortable including such a direct appeal to readers because they may feel it’s unprofessional, and they can be right (sometimes).

Authors often want to be too inspirational in the introduction, and not enough in the conclusion. But this is when you can really tell your reader what to do, and be very direct.

What you do not want to do is write a glorified sales brochure. The last thing you want to do here is try to pitch them something of yours to buy.

Think about it—you’ve spent the whole book earning their trust, and now you ruin it with a bad ending that tries to sell them?

Don’t do that. Most importantly because it doesn’t work very well.

Readers are smart. They’re interested in your topic because they’ve picked up your book. If they’ve made it this far, then they’ve already read an entire book’s worth of your knowledge and expertise.

They can form their own conclusions when it comes to contacting you.

That said, if you do want to suggest they contact you, do so authentically—from a place of trying to help them , not yourself. Tell them you want to hear from them, or that you want to help them move forward.

If your website or the name of your firm is in your bio or About the Author page , that’s sufficient. Give them your email in the conclusion if you like—but only if you’re sincere about responding to them.

Ultimately, your goal is to provide so much value to them that they respect and admire you and your work, and choose to contact you because they have sold themselves on wanting to, not because you sold them.

Some authors want a more explicit CTA, such as directing readers of the book to a specific landing page. This can work, as long as the page you’re directing them to gives the reader something.

But it has to be something they’ll see as extra, not something they’ll feel should have been in the book. For example, a map or chart that is additive, but not crucial, to the content is great.

What you don’t want to do is give them something on a landing page that makes them think, “Why isn’t this in the book?” That just breaks faith with the reader.

1. Syndicating is a B*tch, by Bruce Petersen

“The most tangible stress of managing a syndication deal happens prior to close. You’re taking care of a lot of moving pieces and are responsible for a lot of money for a lot of people, and that’s a lot. Once the deal closes, that’s it. There’s not a lot happening at that point.

That doesn’t mean the stress has ended. The more experience you gain doing deals, the more prepared you’re going to be for the weird things that come up—and something will always come up. Remember when I lost $5.2 million to OFAC? I was completely blindsided that first time, and as I’m writing this book, it happened again. Yep.”

This is a fantastic example of how to start a well-structured conclusion. The author leads by talking about closing a deal, just as he’s closing his book. There’s a parallel structure there that orients the reader to the end of the book.

He also refers back to something that happened earlier in the book, then leads into a story about the same thing happening again. The new story hooks the reader while reminding them of an important point he made earlier.

2. Breakthrough Leadership Team, by Mike Goldman

“You’ve just finished reading this book, and your head is swimming with ideas. You’re probably wondering, Where do I begin?

I suggest you start by measuring where you are in your journey toward becoming a Breakthrough Leadership Team …”

Here, again, the opening lines of the conclusion orient the reader, signaling to them that they have reached the final chapter. In this case, the Author jumps immediately into helping the reader figure out what to do next.

The title of this final chapter, by the way, is “Call to Action.” It’s the theme of the whole chapter, reminding the reader of their journey throughout the book and suggesting what to do next.

3. Beyond Wins, by Mala Subramaniam

“Did the book address questions posed in the OpeningThoughts?

Why do I feel like I am on a seesaw of wins and losses in my business negotiations? Even when I win, I sometimes feel like I lost something. Tools and techniques I picked up in books and training are not foreign, so what am I missing? What will put me on the path to success? What Is the yardstick for success?

It did for Paula of the Adrift Website Case, which is a real success story.”

This Author begins her conclusion by returning to and listing the questions she asked at the beginning. As the book ends, she reminds the reader of where the journey started, then immediately leads into a new story.

While you shouldn’t introduce new concepts in a conclusion, new stories that drive key concepts home are a great way to leave the reader with a memorable application of what they’ve learned.

The Scribe Crew

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How to Write a Book Report

6 July 2023

last updated

Book reports are essential in achieving one’s academic goal. Basically, a book report is an objective summary of the major ideas and arguments in a scholarly source. Also, students complete a book report to resolve if a source is valuable. In this case, people need to know how to write a book report. Hence, a good paper on a book should have an informative introduction, a description of the structure and main characters, a summary of the central ideas, and a contemplative conclusion.

Informative Introduction

A good book report should have an informative introduction. For instance, the introductory part should summarize the content of the articles by considering how to write a book report. In this case, this paragraph should begin by identifying the book title its author’s name. Besides, the introduction should contain a one-sentence summary of the book’s scope. In turn, other sentences in the introduction should explain the importance of the book. Also, a writer should disclose why he chose the book. Thus, a book report should start with an introduction that identifies the source and its significance.

A Description of the Structure and Main Characters

A good book report should have a clear description of the structure and characters. For instance, one must describe the structure of the book and its significance. In this case, the body paragraphs should describe the general organization of the book. Besides, the report should disclose how the organization of the reading influences the flow of ideas. Also, a good book report must describe the main characters where applicable. This statement alludes to novels and storybooks, which contain main and essential characters. Hence, the body paragraphs should describe the personalities and attributes of the main characters to follow the rules of how to write a book report. Thus, good papers should have body paragraphs that describe the structure or characters where applicable.

How to Write a Book Report with a Summary of the Central Ideas

A book report should summarize important ideas in various sections of the item under consideration. For instance, the work should identify the main knowledge question or gap, covering how to write a book report. Also, the paper should disclose the primary focus of the book. In turn, the writer should identify the knowledge contribution that the book makes. For sources like novels, a book report should focus on what happens to the main characters. In this case, the report should identify the conflict and explain what happens at the beginning, the middle and the end of the book. Besides, the report must contain the solution adopted by the main characters. Thus, a book report must have body paragraphs that report the main ideas.

A Contemplative Conclusion

A book report should end with a reflective conclusion. For example, the concluding part must give one’s opinion of the reading under consideration, covering the basic principles of how to write a book report. Moreover, the conclusion should reveal if one liked the book. In this case, the conclusion should contain the reasons why a writer liked the book and the lessons learned. Thus, the conclusion in a book report should disclose the writer’s opinion.

Summing Up on How to Write a Book Report

In conclusion, a book report helps scholars to evaluate the significance of sources. Basically, if people know how to write a book report, they provide an informative introduction that identifies the sources and gives a brief background. In this case, the introduction should reveal the scope of the book under review. Then, other sections of the book review include a clear description of the structure and main characters. Besides, writers should provide a summary of the main ideas and give personal opinions in the conclusion of the book report.

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How To Write A Conclusion For Your Book

A conclusion is the last paragraph or last part of the book. A good conclusion should tie together all the ideas and arguments presented in the essay or chapter. It should also give the reader some closure to feel satisfied with what they have read. If you’ve ever read a book with a terrible ending, you know how disappointing it can be to finish something only to find that it doesn’t end well. Here’s a guide on how to write a conclusion for your book to give it a memorable ending!

Table of Contents

Five elements of a fantastic book conclusion

The conclusion should be well-written and thought out. It should not feel rushed or tacked on at the end. Here are five elements to include when deciding how to write a conclusion for your book .

1. The summary

A good summary should give the reader a clear overview of what has happened in the book up until this point. It should be concise and concise, focusing only on the most critical information. This is not the time to introduce any new characters or subplots – stick to summarizing the main story. As for the ending, it should be satisfying without being too predictable.

The best endings leave readers wanting more while still wrapping up all the loose ends. So how do you achieve this balance? It’s all about finding the right mix of closure and openness. Bring your story to a natural conclusion, but don’t tie everything up too neatly – leave a little room for interpretation. 

2. The impact

One of the essential elements of a fantastic book is its conclusion. The conclusion should have a lasting impact on the reader, leaving them with something to think about long after reading. But how do you know how to write a conclusion that will have this kind of impact? Here are some tips. First, make sure your conclusion is satisfying. It should tie up all the loose ends and answer any lingering questions.

Second, don’t be afraid to go big. A powerful ending can stay with a reader for a long time, so don’t be scared to aim for emotion. Finally, make sure your conclusion feels earned. Every plot point and character development should lead logically to the conclusion so that it feels like a natural and inevitable resolution. With these tips in mind, you can write a conclusion that will leave a lasting impact on your reader.

3. The lesson

A conclusion should tie up all the story’s loose ends and leave readers with a sense of satisfaction. It should also leave them with something to think about, some lesson or moral. The lesson is one of the most critical elements of a fantastic book conclusion. The lesson is the central message or moral of the story. It is what the reader takes away from the book after finishing it. Do you know how to write a conclusion for your book that teaches a lesson?

A good lesson is memorable and makes the reader think about the book long after they have finished reading it. There are a few things to remember when writing a conclusion to a lesson. First, make sure that the lesson is clear and easy to understand. Second, try to make the lesson relatable to the reader’s life. And finally, make sure that the lesson is memorable and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. 

4. The reminder

The reminder is another element of a fantastic book conclusion. It’s an opportunity to leave your reader with a final thought or image that will stay with them long after they’ve finished the book. The reminder can be something as simple as a single word or phrase or a more complex concept or image. Either way, it should be something that resonates with the reader and gives them something to think about long after they’ve finished the book. So how do you go about writing a reminder?

First, consider what you want your reader to take away from the book. What themes or messages do you want them to remember? Once you’ve decided on that, try to distill it down to a single word or phrase that you feel captures the essence of what you’re trying to say. And finally, don’t be afraid to be creative with your reminder. A good reminder should be memorable, so don’t be scared to think outside the box and come up with something original.

5. The question

Wondering how to write a conclusion for a book? A great conclusion leaves your readers with a question. It’s the perfect way to tease them and leave them wanting more. Here’s how to do it. First, identify the main question that your book is exploring. This is the question that your reader will be thinking about long after they finish the book. Next, create a cliffhanger that leaves this question unanswered.

You can do this by creating a scene where the protagonist is facing a difficult choice or by introducing a new character who seems to have ulterior motives. Finally, end on a note of hope or possibility. This will give your reader something to look forward to in the next book. Following these steps, you can write a conclusion that will leave your readers intrigued and eager for more.

Seven tips on how to write a conclusion

Are you struggling to write a conclusion for your book? If so, you’re not alone. Many writers find it challenging to know how to wrap up their story in a way that leaves readers satisfied. But with some planning and preparation, you can write a conclusion that will leave your readers longing for more. Here are seven tips on how to write a conclusion for your book.

1. Keep your readers in mind

When you’re writing the conclusion to your book, it’s essential to keep your readers in mind. You want to give them a satisfying ending that will leave them satisfied and engaged. Here are a few tips on how to write a conclusion that will resonate with your readers. First, consider what your readers have been through in the story up to this point. What have been the most significant challenges and triumphs? What questions have been left unanswered? Your conclusion should address these elements and provide closure for your readers.

Second, don’t be afraid to tie up loose ends in conclusion. This is your chance to provide answers to any lingering questions and wrap up any plot threads that may have been left hanging. Finally, try to end on a positive note. Your readers have invested much time in your story, so you want to leave them with a sense of satisfaction and hope. A positive conclusion will stay with your readers long after they’ve finished reading your book.

2. Create a sense of finality

When you reach the end of your book, you want to ensure that your readers feel satisfied with how everything has turned out. One way to create a sense of finality is to tie loose ends. Make sure that all plot threads have been resolved and that any loose ends have been neatly wrapped up. Another way to create a sense of finality is to bring the story full circle. If you started your book with a particular scene or event, try to end it with a similar scene or event.

This will help create a feeling that the story has come full circle and that everything is complete. Finally, don’t be afraid to give your readers a little bit of closure. Let them know what happens to your characters after the story is over. This will help them to feel like they’ve finished the journey with your characters and that they can say goodbye knowing what will happen next. Following these tips can create a solid and satisfying conclusion for your book.

3. Give readers a message

The best way to write a conclusion for your book is to give your readers a lesson. This could be a moral lesson or something they can take away from the story. It should be something that helps them to understand the book as a whole and how it fits into their life.

The conclusion should also be memorable so your readers will never forget the book. Finally, make sure that your conclusion ties up all of the loose ends in the story so that there are no unanswered questions. By following these tips, you can ensure that your book has a powerful and impactful conclusion.

4. Consider ending on a cliffhanger

Whether you’re writing a mystery novel or a drama, one of the best ways to keep your readers engaged is to end on a cliffhanger. A cliffhanger is a suspenseful moment that leaves the reader wondering what will happen next. It’s a great way to keep them turning the pages and help set up the next book in your series. If you’re unsure how to write a cliffhanger, here are a few tips. First, consider what kind of suspense you want to create. Do you want to leave your reader hanging on a physical cliff, or do you want to create an emotional cliffhanger?

Once you know what type of suspense you want to create, you can start planning your cliffhanger. If you’re going for a physical cliffhanger, try to end your book with a scene that leaves your reader on the edge of their seat. If you’re going for an emotional cliffhanger, try to end your book with a scene that leaves your reader feeling shocked or surprised. Either way, make sure your cliffhanger is big enough to leave your reader wanting more.

5. Introduce new mysteries

One of the best ways to write a conclusion is to introduce new mysteries. This ensures that readers will be eager to find out what happens next, giving them a reason to keep coming back. In addition, it can help to set up sequels or spin-offs , keeping your world alive and expanding. Of course, you don’t want to be too heavy-handed with this approach, as it can become frustrating if readers feel like they’re being teased without any payoff.

Instead, try to strike a balance between offering closure and raising new questions. And remember, even if you’re introducing a new mystery, it’s still essential to provide some level of resolution for the story you’ve been telling up until now. With these tips in mind, you should be able to craft a conclusion that will leave your readers wanting more.

6. Create a sense of hope

When you’ve reached the end of your book, you want to leave your readers with a sense of hope. Whether it’s hope for the future, for humanity, or something more personal, your conclusion should provide a sense of uplift. Here are a few tips on how to write an ending that will leave your readers feeling inspired.

• Paint a picture of a better future. Use your conclusion to paint a picture of a better future possible if we take the right actions. This can be a future in which humanity comes together to solve our biggest problems or a future in which people live happier and more fulfilling lives.
• Emphasize the positive aspects of your story. If your story has been heavy on the negative, use your conclusion to emphasize the positive aspects. This will help balance out the reader’s emotions and leave them feeling hopeful rather than despairing.
• Focus on personal growth. One of the most inspiring things we can see is someone overcoming adversity and growing. In your conclusion, focus on how your characters have grown and changed throughout the story. This will show readers that it’s possible to overcome difficult circumstances and become stronger.

Even if the ending is bittersweet or sad, highlight the moments of happiness and love that your characters have shared. These moments will stay with readers long after they finish the book, and they’ll remember the hope that your story has left them with.

7. Be creative

As any writer knows, how to write a conclusion for your book can be tricky. You want to wrap up your story while still leaving readers wanting more. One way to be creative and still give readers the satisfaction of a well-written ending is to write a “circle” conclusion. This means you bring your story full circle by ending where you began. For example, if your book started with the protagonist waking up from a dream, you could end with the character falling asleep and dreaming again.

This type of ending can leave readers satisfied and intrigued, and it can be a great way to create a sense of closure without giving too much away. If you’re stuck on how to write a conclusion for your book, consider a “circle” conclusion – it might just be the perfect way to end your story. The possibilities are endless, so use your imagination and get creative!

Four common mistakes when writing a conclusion

When it comes to writing a conclusion, there are a few common mistakes that writers often make. Here are four of the most common ones and how to avoid them.

1. Not tying up loose ends

One of the most common mistakes authors make when writing a conclusion is not tying up loose ends. While leaving some things open-ended to create sequels or set up future books is tempting, doing so will only frustrate your readers. They want satisfaction at the end of a book, not more questions. So, how do you ensure you tie up all the loose ends in your conclusion? The first step is to take stock of all the story elements that need to be resolved. This includes both major plot threads and more minor subplots.

Once you have a list, please review it and ensure each one is given proper attention in the finale. It’s also important to pay attention to your characters’ arcs and make sure they are given satisfactory resolutions. If a character has undergone significant growth throughout the story, that growth should be reflected in the ending. Finally, don’t be afraid to tie up loose ends with some finality. Sometimes it’s necessary to kill off a character or destroy a location to provide closure. 

2. Being too predictable

The conclusion of your book is just as important as the beginning and middle. After all, it’s the last thing your readers will read, so you want to make sure it’s memorable. Unfortunately, many authors make the mistake of being too predictable in their conclusions. They wrap up everything too neatly, tying all the loose ends in a nice bow. While this can be satisfying for readers, it can also feel contrived and formulaic.

So how can you avoid this common pitfall? The key is to focus on your characters and their journey rather than the plot. Let your characters’ actions and emotions drive the conclusion, rather than trying to force a particular outcome. This will help create a more organic and emotionally resonant ending that will stay with readers long after you’ve finished your book.

3. Giving away too much

Giving away too much information is a common mistake when writing a conclusion for your book. You want to leave the reader with a sense of finality and resolution, not more questions. Be sure to tie up loose ends and provide a satisfying ending that will leave readers content. While it may be tempting to include a cliffhanger or tease the next installment in your series, resist the urge!

This will only leave your readers feeling frustrated and disappointed. Instead, focus on wrapping up the story you’ve been telling in a way that feels natural and satisfying. If you’ve done your job well, your readers will be so invested in your characters and world that they’ll be excited to see what you have in store for them next.

4. Being too vague

When writing a conclusion for your book, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. One of the most common is being too vague. A good conclusion should provide the reader with a sense of resolution or closure. It should tie up loose ends and leave them satisfied with how the story ended. If you’re too vague in your conclusion, readers may feel like they’ve been left hanging, and that can be frustrating.

Another mistake is to include a cliffhanger. Again, this can leave readers feeling frustrated, especially if they were expecting some resolution at the end of the book. If you want to include a cliffhanger, make sure it will genuinely intrigue and excite readers, not just something that will leave them feeling angry and disappointed.

Frequently asked questions

Here are answers to some of your frequently asked questions!

Q: How long should my conclusion be?

A: There’s no set length for a conclusion, but generally speaking, it should be about 10-20% of the overall book. So if your book is 100,000 words , your conclusion should be 10,000-20,000.

Q: What if I’m having trouble coming up with a good ending?

A: If you’re struggling to come up with a good ending, it might help to brainstorm with a friend or family member. Sometimes it can be helpful to get another person’s perspective on how the story should end. You can also try reading the endings of other books to get some inspiration. Just be sure not to copy someone else’s ending exactly!

Q: What should I do if I’m still unsatisfied with my ending?

A: If you’re still unhappy with your ending, don’t be afraid to go back and make some changes . You must be happy with how the story ends, so take the time to get it right. Remember, your readers will appreciate a well-crafted ending that feels earned and satisfying.

Writing a conclusion for your book can be challenging, but it’s essential to get it right. Be sure to avoid common mistakes like being too vague or giving away too much information. Instead, focus on tying up loose ends and providing a satisfying ending that will leave readers content. If you take the time to craft a well-written conclusion, your readers will surely appreciate it!

Discover the 17 Steps to Creating a Best-selling Business Book

How to Write a Book Report

Writing a book report can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In essence, a book report is a summary of a book’s content, structure, and analysis. It is a way for you to demonstrate your understanding of the book and its themes. A well-written book report can showcase your attention to detail, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

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What is a book report?

A book report is a written summary of a book’s content and your analysis of it. It includes an introduction, plot summary, analysis, and conclusion. A book report is typically assigned to students in middle or high school, but it can also be assigned in college. Book reports are typically 250–500 words long.

What is the purpose of a book report?

The purpose of a book report is to demonstrate your understanding of the book and its themes . It is a way for you to practice critical thinking skills and develop your writing ability. Additionally, a book report can help a teacher assess a student’s reading comprehension and analytical abilities.

What are the elements of a good book report?

A good book report should include the following elements:

• Introduction : This section should include the book’s title, its author, and any other relevant information.
• Plot summary: This section should provide a summary of the book’s plot, including the main characters, setting, and conflict.
• Analysis: This section should provide your analysis of the book, including its themes, symbolism , and other literary devices .
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your thoughts on the book and its relevance.

How to write a book report

Writing a book report might feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more manageable. Here’s a detailed guide on how to write a book report that will help you get started:

1 Read the book

Read the book thoroughly, taking note of the significant plot points, characters, themes, and tones. It’s important to read the book carefully to identify these things.

2 Take notes

As you read, take notes on the plot, characters, and themes. This will help you organize your thoughts and keep track of important information.

3 Create an outline

Use your notes to create an outline for your book report. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you cover all the major points.

4 Write the introduction

The introduction should include the book’s title, its author, and any other relevant information. It should also include a thesis statement that summarizes your overall opinion of the book.

5 Write the plot summary

The plot summary should provide a brief summary of the book’s plot, including the main characters, setting, and conflict. Be sure to include any major plot twists or events that affect the story.

6 Write the analysis

The analysis explores your insights into the book, including its themes, symbolism, and any other literary devices. Use specific examples from the book to support your analysis and provide evidence for your arguments.

7 Write the conclusion

The conclusion should summarize your overall thoughts on the book and its relevance. Be sure to restate your thesis statement and provide a final analysis of the book.

Tips for writing a book report

When writing a book report, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, avoid repetition by adding a new perspective about the book. Second, be concise and keep your analysis focused on the content your readers are looking for. Third, support your claims and positions with insights from the book and provide evidence for your arguments.

Remember, there are no firm requirements for what should be included in a book report. However, it’s important to pay attention to elements with specific formatting rules, such as the title page, table of contents, page numbers, headings and subheadings, citations , and the works cited page . Always refer to the assignment for specific guidelines and formatting requirements.

If you follow these steps and keep these tips in mind, you can write a thorough and thoughtful book report that will impress your readers. Don’t be afraid to share your opinion and insights into the book and remember to support your arguments with evidence from the text.

Book report vs. book review

A book report and a book review are often confused, but they are not the same thing. A book report is a summary of a book’s content and analysis, while a book review is a critical evaluation of a book’s content, style, and merit. A book review is typically written for a more advanced audience and is often published in a literary journal or newspaper.

Example book report

To provide a clear example of a book report, we’ll look at one on To Kill a Mockingbird , by Harper Lee.

Introduction: To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel written by Harper Lee and published in 1960. The book is set in the 1930s in the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, and follows the story of a young girl, Scout Finch, as she learns about the injustices of the world around her. The novel explores themes of racism, prejudice, and the loss of innocence and is a powerful commentary on the social issues of its time.

Plot summary: The book revolves around the trial of Tom Robinson, a Black man accused of raping a white woman. Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, is the defense attorney for Tom Robinson and faces opposition from the town’s residents for defending a Black man. Throughout the story, Scout and her brother Jem learn about racism and prejudice and the importance of standing up for what is right. The trial serves as a catalyst for the children’s moral growth and understanding of the world around them. The plot also features Boo Radley, a reclusive neighbor who becomes a mystery for the children to solve.

Analysis: To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful commentary on racism and injustice in America. The book highlights the importance of empathy and understanding and shows the devastating effects of prejudice. The characters in the book, especially Atticus Finch, serve as examples of how to stand up for what is right, even in the face of opposition.

Conclusion: To Kill a Mockingbird is more than just a story; it is a window into a time and place that many of us have never experienced firsthand. It is a reminder that racism and prejudice still exist today, and it challenges people to examine their own biases and beliefs. The book’s themes of justice, equality, and empathy are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published. To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with readers for generations to come.

Book report FAQs

A book report is a written summary of a book’s content and your analysis of it.

The purpose of a book report is to demonstrate your understanding of the book and its themes. It is a way for you to practice critical thinking skills and develop your writing ability.

What should a book report include?

A book report should include an introduction, a plot summary, an analysis, and a conclusion. It should also include the book’s title, its author, and any other relevant information.

This blog post was written with the support of Grammarly generative AI.

How to write a book conclusion in three stupidly simple steps

March 19, 2021 by Liz Green

How do you write a conclusion for a non-fiction, self-help book? What do you say at the end of your book? Why is it sooooooo hard to wrap things up? You’ve written about so much stuff already—what’s left to say? How do you end your book in an awesome, not-at-all-lame way that makes readers excited to tell others what they’ve learned, eager to put their new knowledge into practice, and raving about you, the incredible author?!

As an editor and book coach, I read a TON of first-draft manuscripts, and writers almost always overcomplicate their book’s conclusion . There are really only three things a conclusion needs—and they are stupidly simple . Trust me: your big, beautiful brain is overcomplicating this conclusion thing, so let me break it down for you.

But first, do you need a structure for your conclusion?

This is the third post in a series. The first is How to Write a Book Introduction , and the second is How to Write a Book Chapter That’s Actually Good . As I said in those posts, not everyone needs a structure like the three steps presented here. If you're flying by the seat of your pretty panties and writing epic books, then go you!

But if you're not flying the g-string of victory, and you need some writing help,   here are three stupidly simple steps to write a book conclusion without overcomplicating the matter.

Three Stupidly Simple Steps to Write a Book Conclusion

Step 1. remember the point of all this.

Remind the reader of the point of this book —which is usually that they want to move from where they’re currently at to a solution . Refer to the I Get It and The Solution sections of your introduction and recall some of those details here.

Length: Three to five paragraphs.

Step 2. Here’s a little recap

Remind the reader of everything you’ve taught them. You might feel like you’re rehashing stuff; that’s how it should be. Humans need repetition to learn, so repeat the key takeaway from every chapter , and relate it back to how it will help the reader overcome their current challenge. Use the If You Remember Nothing Else… section of each chapter for this.

Length: One or two sentences to introduce this recap, plus one to three sentences per chapter recap, plus one or two sentences to conclude this section.

Step 3. What’s next?

Paint a picture of what life will be like for your reader when they’ve acted upon everything you’ve taught them. Let them see the new life available to them. This will leave them encouraged and excited.

Add a call-to-action at the end. This should direct them to somewhere where they can learn more . Often this is your website. Sometimes it’s a Facebook or other social media group, or a particular page on your site where they can access an additional resource. Consider how this book will funnel readers into interacting with you, and direct readers accordingly.

Length: Three to four paragraphs.

A note about length guidelines

The length guidelines above are  only guidelines ! Don’t get caught up in adhering to them. Writing is a creative process that can never be completely codified. The guidelines are there to keep you from steering wildly off-track, but  you must be the judge of your own work , and write accordingly.

If you have a book coaching package with me, I’ll guide you on length as we work through each chapter and tell you if your drafts are too long or short. If you’ve hired me as an editor , I’ll look out for this as I edit your writing. Otherwise, use your judgment to assess if you’ve said everything you need to on a topic in the shortest possible way.

Additional Conclusion Notes

The conclusion will be your shortest chapter in the book. It doesn’t really matter how long it is, but if it’s coming up at the same length as your chapter or longer, you need to revisit it. (See Most Common Pitfall, below.)

Writing Practice

If you get stuck during the writing process, drafting your conclusion can be a fantastic exercise to refocus on what you’re trying to accomplish.

Revisit your introduction (if you’ve written it) or introduction outline (if you haven’t yet) and ensure you’re tying up any loose ends. Refer back to anything you promised in the introduction and mention here how you fulfilled that promise .

Most Common Pitfall

Do not teach new content in your conclusion! Writers are usually generous people who want to give everything they’ve got to their reader. They’re often uncomfortable writing a chapter that doesn’t give more information, more teaching, and more help. However, this is the easiest and most common way of ruining a conclusion.

Your conclusion should just recap everything you’ve already said. This isn’t a cop-out; it’s essential in helping your reader retain the information and feel confident enacting it. If you overload the reader at this crucial moment, you’ll sink them. Hold back. Help them absorb what you’ve shared. They will love you for it.

What questions do you have about the three stupidly simple steps to write a book’s conclusion? Email me and ask away! I'm happy to help however I can.

Liz "One, Two, Three, I’m Outie" Green Editor, Book Coach, and Ghostwriter Green Goose Writing

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Don't know where to start writing your book? Wondering how to write an introduction? Not sure what to include in your book's introduction? This is for you. If you're writing self-help, a guide, something that's designed to help other people by sharing your experience, knowledge, and stories, listen up for the seven essential parts of a book introduction . Read more…

How to Write a Conclusion for a Book Report

Writing a book report is a common assignment for students at various academic levels. It requires careful reading, analysis, and interpretation of the text. Once you have completed the main body of your book report, it is essential to conclude your thoughts effectively. A conclusion provides closure and summarizes your main points, leaving a lasting impression on your readers. In this article, we will explore some effective strategies to write a compelling conclusion for your book report.

1. Recapitulate the main points: Begin your conclusion by briefly summarizing the main points of your book report. Highlight the key ideas and arguments you presented in the body paragraphs. This will help your readers remember the important aspects of your analysis and evaluation.

2. Reflect on the significance: After summarizing the main points, reflect on the significance of the book and its impact. Consider the author’s purpose, the themes explored, or the lessons learned from the book. Discuss how the book has influenced your understanding of the topic or your personal growth as a reader.

3. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses: Provide an evaluation of the book by discussing its strengths and weaknesses. Did the author effectively convey their ideas? Did the characters and plot engage you? Did the book meet your expectations? Be honest in your assessment and support your opinions with evidence from the text.

4. Connect with the introduction: Your conclusion should bring your book report full circle by connecting with the introduction. Refer back to the hook or thesis statement you used in the beginning. Show how your analysis and evaluation in the body paragraphs have supported your initial claims or ideas.

5. Leave a lasting impression: A conclusion should leave a lasting impression on your readers. Consider ending your book report with a thought-provoking statement, a call to action, or a question that encourages further reflection. This will keep your readers engaged even after they have finished reading your report.

FAQs about Writing a Conclusion for a Book Report

Q: Can I introduce new information in the conclusion?

A: No, the conclusion is not the place to introduce new information or ideas. It should only summarize and reflect on the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.

Q: How long should a conclusion be?

A: A conclusion should be concise and to the point. It is generally recommended to keep it between 3 to 5 sentences. However, this may vary depending on the length and complexity of your book report.

Q: Should I include my personal opinion in the conclusion?

A: Yes, the conclusion is an appropriate place to include your personal opinion and evaluation of the book. Just ensure that you support your opinions with evidence from the text.

Q: Can I end the conclusion with a quote?

A: Ending the conclusion with a quote can be an effective way to leave a lasting impression. However, ensure that the quote is relevant and reinforces your main points.

Q: Should I include a recommendation in the conclusion?

A: Including a recommendation in the conclusion is optional and depends on the purpose of your book report. If your assignment requires it, provide a brief recommendation based on your evaluation of the book.

In conclusion, writing an effective conclusion for a book report requires summarizing the main points, reflecting on the significance, and leaving a lasting impression on your readers. By following these strategies and addressing the frequently asked questions, you can create a compelling conclusion that enhances the overall impact of your book report.

Laura is a seasoned wordsmith and pop culture connoisseur with a passion for all things literary and cinematic. Her insightful commentary on books, movies, and the glitzy world of film industry celebrities has captivated audiences worldwide. With a knack for blending literary analysis and movie magic, Laura's unique perspective offers a fresh take on the entertainment landscape. Whether delving into the depths of a novel or dissecting the latest blockbuster, her expertise shines through, making her a go-to source for all things book and film-related.

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