book report 4th grade samples

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FREE 10+ 4th Grade Book Report Samples in PDF

Book reports are written compositions or oral presentations that display a description, summary, and evaluation of fiction or nonfiction. It is a common exercise or task given in schools that aims to determine whether a student has read a given work of literature or book or not. These reports are written as informative reports that allow a student to discuss the assigned book from an objective point of view. A book report is similar to book reviews but gives focus on the summary of the book than conducting a work evaluation of the title.

Th Grade Book Report

10+ 4th grade book report samples, 1. 4th grade fiction book report, 2. sample 4th grade book report, 3. 4th grade book report google slides, 4. 4th grade book project report, 5. 4th grade summer book report, 6. standard 4th grade book report, 7. 4th grade second quarter book report, 8. 4th grade assignment book report, 9. 4th grade book report form, 10. 1st quarter 4th grade book report, 11. 4th grade summer assignment book report, what is a 4th grade book report, how to create a 4th grade book report, step 1: break the book into small sections, step 2: ask the students to create a t-chart, step 3: utilize the t-chart to write summaries, step 4: explain what the book summary covers, what details does a book report contain, what is the structure of a book report, what are the common forms of book reports.

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Book reports can be written to summarize the main ideas and arguments of any type of book, from nonfiction to fiction research papers and essays like argument essays , research paper essays , narrative essays , and more. Fourth grade is where children learn how to write more abstract ideas and most of these writing exercises include reading a work of literature and drafting a report about the book. With a book report, these children can demonstrate their understanding of the book while expressing their interest in the story it tells.

One way to develop the skills of children in expressing their position about a book they are reading is by writing or creating an essay outline which they can use to neatly organize their ideas or thoughts.  Fourth-grade book reporting includes the development of a system for the reading and speech abilities of the students. With a book report template , 4th-grade students can efficiently write their analysis of the book as well as understand its meaning, and creative creation, and reflect on the use of literary language.

You can divide your class into groups of pairs and allow them to discuss the chapters they have read among themselves. Instruct the students to focus on the book’s setting, influential characters, and important events. Then ask the students to write a main idea sentient that explains the essence of the chapter in a clear and concise manner.

The T-chart refers to the categories such as the setting, main characters, conflict, major events, and resolution. Instruct the students to create the chart in one column and write a brief description with the main idea sentences in another column.

With the T-Chart, ask the students to create their summaries. Make sure that they are using paraphrasing instead of writing the exact quotes from the book. You can also explain to them the importance of using transitional words and phrases to make smooth and well-structured summaries.

Explain to your students that the information covered by a book summary includes details addressed in the book and should not contain personal views, experiences, or recommendations.

A book report contains details on the title of the book as well as its year of publication, name of the author, genre, main subject, plot, or theme, a brief summary of the key ideas, thesis statement , the reader’s response to the work, and a summary of the book’s them.

The structure of a clear and informative book report includes an introductory paragraph, a summary of key events, character evaluation and details, plot event and theme details, and a concluding statement or paragraph.

The common formats that both teachers and students used to write book reports are the plot summary, character analysis, and theme analysis.

Book reports are informative compositions that commonly describe the events that happened in a book, focusing on the account of the main plot, characters, thesis, and main idea of the title. This report focuses on the summary of the work than its analysis and is most often given as a task like college essays or can appear in professional works like magazines, academic journals, and newspapers. Fourth-grade book reports help students from the same grade level to develop their abilities to comprehend and interpret fiction and nonfiction works by efficiently and effectively expressing their position about the work.

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How to Write a Book Report (+ Book Report Example) 

Download for free, specific tips for writing effective book reports..

Write better book reports using the tips, examples, and outlines presented here. This resource covers three types of effective book reports: plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. It also features a specific book report example for students.

How to write a book report (+ book report example) 

Whether you're a student looking to show your comprehension of a novel, or simply a book lover wanting to share your thoughts, writing a book report can be a rewarding experience. This guide, filled with tips, tricks, and a book report example, will help you craft a report that effectively communicates your understanding and analysis of your chosen book.

Looking for a printable resource on book reports? See our Printable Book Report Outlines and Examples

What is a book report? 

Book reports can take on many different forms. Writing a book review helps you practice giving your opinion about different aspects of a book, such as an author's use of description or dialogue.

You can write book reports of any type, from fiction to non-fiction research papers, or essay writing; however, there are a few basic elements you need to include to convey why the book you read was interesting when writing a good book report.

Types of book reports 

Three types of effective book reports are plot summaries, character analyses, and theme analyses. Each type focuses on different aspects of the book and requires a unique approach. These three types of book reports will help you demonstrate your understanding of the book in different ways.

Plot summary

When you are writing a plot summary for your book report you don't want to simply summarize the story. You need to explain what your opinion is of the story and why you feel the plot is so compelling, unrealistic, or sappy. It is the way you analyze the plot that will make this a good report. Make sure that you use plenty of examples from the book to support your opinions.

Try starting the report with a sentence similar to the following:

The plot of I Married a Sea Captain , by Monica Hubbard, is interesting because it gives the reader a realistic sense of what it was like to be the wife of a whaling captain and live on Nantucket during the 19th century.

Character analysis

If you choose to write a character analysis, you can explore the physical and personality traits of different characters and the way their actions affect the plot of the book.

• Explore the way a character dresses and what impression that leaves with the reader.
• What positive characteristics does the character possess?
• Does the character have a "fatal flaw" that gets him/her into trouble frequently?
• Try taking examples of dialogue and analyzing the way a character speaks. Discuss the words he/she chooses and the way his/her words affect other characters.
• Finally, tie all of your observations together by explaining the way the characters make the plot move forward.

In the novel Charlotte's Web , by E. B. White, Templeton the rat may seem like an unnecessary character but his constant quest for food moves the plot forward in many ways.

Theme analyses

Exploring the themes (or big ideas that run throughout the story) in a book can be a great way to write a book report because picking a theme that you care about can make the report easier to write. Try bringing some of your thoughts and feelings as a reader into the report as a way to show the power of a theme. Before you discuss your own thoughts, however, be sure to establish what the theme is and how it appears in the story.

• Explain  exactly  what theme you will be exploring in your book report.
• Use as many examples and quotations from the book as possible to prove that the theme is important to the story.
• Make sure that you talk about each example or quotation you've included. Make a direct connection between the theme and the example from the book.
• After you have established the theme and thoroughly examined the way it affects the book, include a few sentences about the impact the theme had upon you and why it made the book more or less enjoyable to read.

In the novel Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry , by Mildred Taylor, the theme of racial prejudice is a major catalyst in the story.

How to write a book report

1. Thoroughly read the book

Immerse yourself in the book, taking the time to read it in its entirety. As you read, jot down notes on important aspects such as key points, themes, and character developments.

2. Identify the main elements of the book

Scrutinize the book's primary components, including its main themes, characters, setting, and plot. These elements will form the basis of your report.

3. Formulate a thesis statement

Compose a thesis statement that encapsulates your personal perspective about the book. This should be a concise statement that will guide your analysis and give your report a clear focus.

4. Create a detailed outline

Plan the structure of your book report. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs each focusing on a different aspect of the book, and a conclusion.

5. Craft the introduction

The introduction should provide basic information such as the book's title and author, and present your thesis statement. It should engage the reader and make them interested in your analysis.

6. Write the body of the report

In the body of your report, discuss in detail the book's main elements that you identified in step 3. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis and to prove your thesis statement.

7. Write a strong conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your analysis, reaffirm your thesis, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the overall book.

8. Review and edit your report

After writing, take the time to revise your report for clarity and coherence. Check for and correct any grammar or spelling errors. Ensure that your report clearly communicates your understanding and analysis of the book.

9. Include citations

If you have used direct quotes or specific ideas from the book, make sure to include proper citations . This is crucial in academic writing and helps avoid plagiarism.

10. Proofread

Finally, proofread your work. Look for any missed errors and make sure that the report is the best it can be before submitting it.

Book report example 

Below is a book report example on the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

In  To Kill a Mockingbird , Harper Lee presents a thoughtful exploration of racial prejudice, morality, and the loss of innocence. Set in the small, fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, the book centers around the Finch family - young Scout, her older brother Jem, and their widowed father, Atticus. Scout's character provides a fresh perspective as she narrates her experiences and observations of the unjust racial prejudice in her town. Her honesty and curiosity, coupled with her father's teachings, allow her to grow from innocence to a more profound understanding of her society's inequalities. The plot revolves around Atticus Finch, a respected lawyer, defending a black man, Tom Robinson, unjustly accused of raping a white woman. As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Robinson is innocent, and the accusation was a product of racial prejudice. Despite compelling evidence in Robinson's favor, he is convicted, symbolizing the power of bias over truth. The theme of racial prejudice is a significant part of the book. Lee uses the trial and its unjust outcome to critique the racial prejudice prevalent in society. For example, despite Atticus's solid defense, the jury's racial bias leads them to find Robinson guilty. This instance highlights how deeply ingrained prejudice can subvert justice. The book also explores the theme of the loss of innocence. Scout and Jem's experiences with prejudice and injustice lead to their loss of innocence and a better understanding of the world's complexities. For example, Scout's realization of her town's unfair treatment of Robinson demonstrates her loss of innocence and her understanding of societal biases. Overall,  To Kill a Mockingbird  is a compelling exploration of the harsh realities of prejudice and the loss of innocence. Harper Lee's intricate characters and vivid storytelling have made this book a classic.

The above is an excellent book report example for several reasons. First, it provides a clear, concise summary of the plot without giving away the entire story. Second, it analyzes the main characters, their roles, and their impacts on the story. Third, it discusses the major themes of the book - racial prejudice and loss of innocence - and supports these themes with evidence from the text. Finally, it presents a personal perspective on the book's impact and overall message, demonstrating a deep understanding of the book's significance.

Book report checklist

Always  include the following elements in any book report:

• The type of book report you are writing
• The book's title
• The author of the book
• The time when the story takes place
• The location where the story takes place
• The names and a  brief  description of each of the characters you will be discussing
• Many quotations and examples from the book to support your opinions
• A thesis statement
• The point of view of the narrator
• Summary of the book
• The main points or themes discussed in the work of fiction or non-fiction
• The first paragraph (introductory paragraph), body paragraphs, and final paragraph
• The writing styles of the author
• A critical analysis of the fiction or non-fiction book

Don't forget! 

No matter what type of book report you decide to write, ensure it includes basic information about the main characters, and make sure that your writing is clear and expressive so that it’s easy for audiences in middle school, high school, college-level, or any grade level to understand. Also, include examples from the book to support your opinions. Afterward, conduct thorough proofreading to complete the writing process. Book reports may seem disconnected from your other schoolwork, but they help you learn to summarize, compare and contrast, make predictions and connections, and consider different perspectives & skills you'll need throughout your life.

Looking for more writing resources? You can find them in our creative writing center .

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4th grade nonfiction writing samples

by: Jessica Kelmon | Updated: September 26, 2024

Print article

In fourth grade, students are starting to prepare for middle school, when nonfiction writing is practiced in all subjects. What’s more, under the Common Core Standards, nonfiction writing is more and more essential to the curriculum. Learn more about your fourth grader’s writing under Common Core . According to the standards, students should be learning three types of writing:

Informative/explanatory writing

Like a report, the purpose of this type of writing is to convey information accurately with facts, details, and supportive information.

These can be stories or screenplays or other fiction written in the first, second, or third person.

Opinion pieces

In opinion writing, students encourage readers to accept their opinion about something by writing what they and why.

Fourth grade writing sample #1

John Cabot and the Rediscovery of North America

In this child’s report on John Cabot, you’ll see a few important features. First, there are five sections, each with a bolded header announcing what sort of information follows. Note that the fifth section is the bibliography, where everyone can see the two sources this student relied on for her information.

Type of writing: Informative/explanatory writing

Fourth grade writing sample #2

Big Book of Evolution

Dylan’s report on evolution is also divided into sections. Note that Dylan uses visuals throughout this report. What’s more, the report has a table of contents at the beginning, and at the end, Dylan cites his sources for the written information and the visuals.

Fourth grade writing sample #3

A Tale of Despereaux

This is a classic fourth grade book report. Note that the student uses headers to announce what type of information follows: the summary, the characters, and the writer’s recommendation about the book.

Fourth grade writing sample #4

Zoos Should Close

This student writes an opinion piece about why she thinks zoos should close. Note that she cites multiple reasons with examples of why zoos aren’t good for animals. She also addresses a counterargument and refutes it, which isn’t actually required until seventh and eighth grade.

Type of writing: Opinion writing

See more examples of real kids’ writing in different grades: Kindergarten , first grade , second grade , third grade , fifth grade .

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Elementary Assessments

11+ Free Book Report Templates For Students

If you’re looking for student book report templates, you have come to the right place.

I have compiled some of the best free printable book report templates that encourage students to showcase their reading comprehension skills and knowledge of any book – fiction or nonfiction. 

These book report templates include pages that reinforce a variety of reading skills, prompt critical thinking and help students structure information in a meaningful way.

What’s more, they are suitable for all ability levels of students – from struggling to gifted and talented learners.  

So if you are a teacher looking to assess students’ literacy abilities in a way other than assigning over-the-top book report projects, then these ready-to-use templates are a perfect fit.

Using them, students will be able to produce something great.

Book Report Templates

Book reports usually include…

• Title and author,
• Summary of the book,
• Story elements (characters, setting, problem, solution), and
• Recommendations.

However, the possibilities are many as to what information students report from their books. 

In order for students to write a book report in a meaningful way, try one of the following book report templates which include written and visual formats that appeal to a range of learning styles. 

These graphic organizers are suitable for young readers as well as older readers.

1. Book Report Timeline

This book report template is a timeline that reinforces the literacy skill of sequencing. It includes spaces for students to record six main events. 

The steps flow in a vertical manner from the top of the page to the bottom of the page with transitional words (first, next, finally, etc.) used throughout in order to guide students along.

This very simple but effective book report template is best suited for younger students. 

It will help them to synthesize information, reflect upon the story, and think about which ideas from the book are most important. 

2. 5Ws Book Report

The 5Ws book report template, which works well with fiction and nonfiction texts, is great for younger students because it guides them in answering basic questions derived from who , what , when , where , why , and how . 

After reading a book, students will generate questions using the question stems and answer them on the book report template. 

Because students can create their own leveled questions , this template is great for differentiating instruction because it serves well both advanced and lower-performing students. 

3. Book Report Story Elements

If you seek simple book report templates, this one is a good fit. 

Because students learn the story elements relatively early in their school life, this book report project template makes a great review activity. 

Using the template, students will identify the story’s author, illustrator, characters, setting, problem, and solution.

4. Book Report Vocabulary Squares

In each of the six squares, younger students will write and sketch important words from their books.

Examples of words students may choose…

• New words learned
• Confusing words
• Review words
• Words they figured out using context clues
• Figurative language

They will write the words in the boxes and then sketch each of them.  

As an extension, have students complete a book report vocabulary squares template for each chapter or section of their books. 

5. Book Report Sequencing

To have young readers practice sequencing and main idea, provide them with this helpful book report sequencing template. 

It’s straightforward and provides transition words to guide them along. 

Use for both fiction and nonfiction books. 

6. Book Comparison

Students will analyze two books by the same author and complete a Venn diagram that shows how the two books are alike and different.

Afterward, they will summarize the information in paragraph form. 

Comparison activities serve well as critical thinking exercises because they prompt students to reflect upon similarities and differences among themes, authors, characters, books, etc.

As an extension, encourage students to compare several pairs of books by the same author (e.g. Gail Gibbons books ) in order to observe recurring themes, the author’s writing style, similarities among characters, etc.   

7. Sketch and Summarize

Using the sketch and summarize template, students will sketch the characters, setting, problem, and solution in the squares with the matching number. 

This graphic organizer reinforces the story elements plus summarizing and can be used for all ability levels and grade levels. 

Remind students that a summary includes only the most important events from a book. 

8. ABC Book Report

ABC books aren’t just for younger students. They work well with elementary, middle, and even high school students!

This type of reading project promotes critical thinking, reinforces a variety of literacy skills, strengthens vocabulary, and engages students to the max. 

What’s more, this activity is able to be differentiated for a range of ability levels since students are the ones who choose the words for their books. 

To use this template, students will brainstorm a significant word from their books for each letter of the alphabet. 

They will record each word in the rectangle to the right of each letter. Then on the lines below, they have to explain the reasoning behind that word selection.

Remind students that all the words they choose must be connected to the book in some way. 

Encourage them to provide “deep connections” instead of surface-level surface connections.

9. T-Shirt Book Report

If you desire creative book report templates, try this one. 

Provide guidelines so that students know what information to write on each part of the T-shirt. 

For example:

• Sleeve one: title of the book
• Sleeve two: author and illustrator
• The main part of the T-shirt – a summary of the book, figurative language, important vocabulary, facts, opinions, book recommendations, confusing parts, favorite parts, etc. 

There are many ways to structure information for the T-shirt book report template.

As an extension or to make the assignment more challenging, ask students to complete a T-shirt for each chapter or section of their books.

10. Sketch and Caption

This book report template is perfect for lower elementary students. 

They will sketch a picture in the space at the top of the page that shows the main idea of their books. Then they will write a caption or description to accompany the drawing.

Consider having students present their book projects to a partner or the class. 

11. Research Book Report

After reading a nonfiction book, students will choose a topic related to the book that they would like to explore further. 

As an example, if a student is reading about Martin Luther King, Jr., they may want to research segregation, racism, peace, etc. 

As they conduct research, they will record six facts on the template and then create a drawing that represents the topic.

12. Book Review

Book review templates work well for all grade levels. 

After reading a book, prompt students to reflect on what they liked and didn’t like about the book. 

This book report template provides space for students to record the title, author, illustrator, plus summary of the book.

Additionally, they will rate the book using a 5-star rating system, describing what they liked/disliked about the story thus providing a balanced perspective.

As an added bonus, place these recommendations on a bulletin board so that classmates get ideas for future reads. 

Final Thoughts

Boost literacy skills, tap into different learning styles, and save time planning book project ideas by using these printable and free book report templates that come in a variety of formats. 

They meaningfully engage all ages and ability levels.

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

FREE Thanksgiving Worksheet Bundle for Last-Minute Activities 🦃

42 Creative Book Report Ideas for Students

Inspire your students to share their love of books.

Responding to what you read is an important literacy skill. Reading about other people’s experiences and perspectives helps kids learn about the world. And although students don’t need to dive deeply into every single book they read, occasionally digging into characters, settings, and themes can help them learn to look beyond the prose. Here are 42 creative book report ideas designed to make reading more meaningful for kids.

1. Concrete Found Poem

This clever activity is basically a shape poem made up of words, phrases, and whole sentences found in the books students read. The words come together to create an image that represents something from the story.

2. Graphic Novel

Have students rewrite the book they are reading, or a chapter of their book, as a graphic novel. Set parameters for the assignment such as including six scenes from the story, three characters, details about the setting, etc. And, of course, include detailed illustrations to accompany the story.

3. Book Snaps

Book Snaps are a way for students to visually show how they are reacting to, processing, and/or connecting with a text. First, students snap a picture of a page in the book they are reading. Then, they add comments, images, highlights, and more.

4. Diary Entry

Have your students place themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from their book and write a first-person diary entry of a critical moment from the story. Ask them to choose a moment in the story where the character has plenty of interaction and emotion to share in a diary entry.

5. Pizza Box Book Report

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas that use upcycled materials, try this one using a pizza box. It works well for both nonfiction and fiction book reports. The top lid provides a picture of the book cover. Each wedge of the pizza pie tells part of the story.

6. Book Jacket

Have students create a new book jacket for their story. Include an attractive illustrated cover, a summary, a short biography of the author, and a few reviews from readers.

7. Mint Tin Book Report

There are so many super-creative, open-ended projects you can use mint tins for. Teacher blogger Teacher Thrive describes the process of creating book reports using them. There’s even a free template for cards that fit inside.

8. Fictional Yearbook Entries

Ask your students to create a yearbook based on the characters and setting in the book. What do they look like? Cut out magazine pictures to give a good visual image for their school picture. What kind of superlative might they get? Best-looking? Class clown? What clubs would they be in or lead? Did they win any awards? It should be obvious from their small yearbooks whether your students dug deep into the characters in their books. They may also learn that who we are as individuals is reflected in what we choose to do with our lives.

9. Book Report Cake

This project would be perfect for a book tasting in your classroom! Each student presents their book report in the shape of food. Learn more about book tastings .

10. Current Events Comparison

Have students locate three to five current events articles a character in their book might be interested in. After they’ve found the articles, have them explain why the character would find them interesting and how they relate to the book. Learning about how current events affect time, place, and people is critical to helping develop opinions about what we read and experience in life.

11. Sandwich Book Report

Yum! You’ll notice a lot of our creative book report ideas revolve around food. In this oldie but goodie, each layer of this book report sandwich covers a different element of the book—characters, setting, conflict, etc.

12. Book Alphabet

Choose 15 to 20 alphabet books to help give your students examples of how they work around themes. Then ask your students to create their own Book Alphabet based on the book they read. What artifacts, vocabulary words, and names reflect the important parts of the book? After they find a word to represent each letter, have them write one sentence that explains where the word fits in.

13. Peekaboo Book Report

Using cardboard lap books (or small science report boards), students include details about their book’s main characters, plot, setting, conflict, resolution, etc. Then they draw a head and arms on card stock and attach them to the board from behind to make it look like the main character is peeking over this book report.

14. Act the Part

Have students dress up as their favorite character from the book and present an oral book report. If their favorite character is not the main character, retell the story from their point of view.

15. T-shirt Book Report

Another fun and creative idea: Create a wearable book report with a plain white tee. Come up with your own using Sharpie pens and acrylic paint.

16. Bookmark

Have students create a custom illustrated bookmark that includes drawings and words from either their favorite chapter or the entire book.

17. Rays of Sunshine Book Report

This is great for biography research projects. Students cut out a photocopied image of their subject and glue it in the middle. Then, they draw lines from the image to the edges of the paper, like rays of sunshine, and fill in each section with information about the person. As a book report template, the center image could be a copy of the book cover, and each section expands on key information such as character names, theme(s), conflict, resolution, etc.

18. Reading Lists for Characters

Ask your students to think about a character in their book. What kinds of books might that character like to read? Take them to the library to choose five books the character might have on their to-be-read list. Have them list the books and explain what each book might mean to the character. Post the to-be-read lists for others to see and choose from—there’s nothing like trying out a book character’s style when developing your own identity.

19. Character To-Do List

This fun activity is an off-the-beaten-path way to dive deep into character analysis. Get inside the head of the main character in a book and write a to-do list that they might write. Use actual information from the text, but also make inferences into what that character may wish to accomplish.

20. Collage

Create a collage using pictures and words that represent different parts of the book. Use old magazines or print pictures from the Internet.

21. Book Reports in a Bag

Looking for book report ideas that really encourage creative thinking? With book reports in a bag, students read a book and write a summary. Then, they decorate a paper grocery bag with a scene from the book, place five items that represent something from the book inside the bag, and present the bag to the class.

22. Timeline

Have students create a timeline of the main events from their book. Be sure to include character names and details for each event. Use 8″ x 11″ sheets of paper taped together or a long portion of bulletin board paper.

23. File Folder Book Report

Also called a lap book, this easy-to-make book report hits on all the major elements of a book study and gives students a chance to show what they know in a colorful way.

24. Public Service Announcement

If a student has read a book about a cause that affects people, animals, or the environment, teach them about public service announcements . Once they understand what a PSA is, have them research the issue or cause that stood out in the book. Then provide a template for a storyboard so they can create their own PSA. Some students might want to take it a step further and create a video based on their storyboard. Consider sharing their storyboard or video with an organization that supports the cause or issue.

25. Triorama Book Report

Who doesn’t love a multidimensional book report? This image shows a 3D model, but you can also try an accordion-folded book report, a quadrama, or an info-sphere.

26. Character Cards

Make trading cards (like baseball cards) for a few characters from the book. On the front side, draw the character. On the back side, make a list of their character traits and include a quote or two.

27. Book Report Mobile

This creative project doesn’t require a fancy or expensive supply list. Students just need an ordinary clothes hanger, strings, and paper. The body of the hanger is used to identify the book, and the cards on the strings dangling below are filled with key elements of the book, like characters, setting, and a summary.

28. Fact Sheet

Have students create a list of 10 facts that they learned from reading the book. Have them write the facts in complete sentences, and be sure that each fact is something that they didn’t know before they read the book.

29. Dodecahedron Book Report

Creative book report ideas think outside the box. In this case, it’s a ball! SO much information can be covered on the 12 panels, and it allows students to take a deep dive in a creative way.

30. Be a Character Therapist

Therapists work to uncover their clients’ fears based on their words and actions. When we read books, we must learn to use a character’s actions and dialogue to infer their fears. Many plots revolve around a character’s fear and the work it takes to overcome that fear. Ask students to identify a character’s fear and find 8 to 10 scenes that prove this fear exists. Then have them write about ways the character overcame the fear (or didn’t) in the story. What might the character have done differently?

31. Charm Bracelet Book Report

What a “charming” way to write a book report! Each illustrated bracelet charm captures a character, an event in the plot, setting, or other detail.

32. Mind Maps

Mind maps can be a great way to synthesize what students have learned from reading a book. Plus, there are so many ways to approach them. Begin by writing a central idea in the middle of the page. For example, general information, characters, plot, etc. Then branch out from the center with ideas, thoughts, and connections to material from the book.

33. Book Report Booklets

This clever book report is made from ordinary paper bags. Stack the paper bags on top of each other, fold them in half, and staple the closed-off ends of the bags together. Students can write, draw, and decorate on the paper bag pages. They can also record information on writing or drawing paper and glue the paper onto the pages. The open ends of the bags can be used as pockets to insert photos, cut-outs, postcards, or other flat items that help them tell their story.

34. Letter to the Author

Have kids write a letter to the author of the book. Tell them three things you really liked about the story. Ask three questions about the plot, characters, or anything else you’re curious about.

35. Cardboard Box TV

This cardboard box TV book report project is a low-tech version of a television made from a cereal box and two paper towel rolls. Students create the viewing screen cut out at the top, then insert a scroll of paper with writing and illustrations inside the box. When the cardboard roll is rotated, the story unfolds.

36. Board games

This is a great project if you want your students to develop a little more insight into what they’re reading. Have them think about the elements of their favorite board games and how they can be adapted to fit this assignment.

37. Foldables

From Rainbows Within Reach, this clever idea would be a great introduction to writing book reports. Adapt the flap categories for students at different levels. Adjust the number of categories (or flaps) per the needs of your students.

38. Timeline

Create a timeline using a long roll of butcher paper, a poster board, or index cards taped together. For each event on the timeline, write a brief description of what happens. Add pictures, clip art, word art, and symbols to make the timeline more lively and colorful.

39. Comic Strips

If you’re looking for creative book report ideas for students who like graphic novels, try comic strip book reports. Include an illustrated cover with the title and author. The pages of the book should retell the story using dialogue and descriptions of the setting and characters. Of course, no comic book would be complete without copious illustrations and thought bubbles.

40. Movie Version

If the book your students have read has been made into a movie, have them write a report about how the versions are alike and different. If the book has not been made into a movie, have them write a report telling how they would make it into a movie, using specific details from the book.

41. Wanted Poster

Make a Wanted poster for one of the book’s main characters. Indicate whether they are wanted dead or alive. Include a picture of the character and a description of what the character is “wanted” for, three examples of the character showing this trait, and a detailed account of where the character was last seen.

42. Wheaties Box Book Report

Recycle a cereal box and create a book report to look like an old-fashioned Wheaties box that features sports heroes. Include a main image on the front side of the box. Decorate the sides of the box with information about the book’s characters, setting, plot, summary, etc.

Come share your own creative book report ideas in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, dont’ miss 100 famous children’s books every kid should read (plus free printable).

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