Format: Book reviews should be three (3) double-spaced, typewritten pages and follow the specifications below. DO NOT INCLUDE COVER SHEET The font must be comparable in size to Microsoft Word Times 12 point. All pages must have one-inch margins. The number “three” is not a flexible unit of measure. Reviews of less or more than three pages will receive lower grades.
Summary portion of reviews (2 pages): Summarize the essential points. Be sure that you your coverage is even. Avoid the common error of giving too much space to early chapters and not enough to later ones. Include as much explanatory detail as possible.
Critical analysis (1 page): Critique the book as a work of history. Use professional language. Note the author’s credentials. Identify the author’s argument(s). Point out what evidence/sources the author uses. Comment on the writing style and supplementary materials (maps, tables, bibliography, index, etc.). Indicate whether you agree with the author’s viewpoint and use of evidence, explain your opinion, and provide as much evidence as possible to support your position. Note that you do not have to agree with the author or with the instructor. What matters is how well you argue your position. Avoid juvenile criticism (boring, too hard, too long, too many names, etc.).