So you’ve been asked to give a book review. A 5-minute slot in the service is yours. The task before you is to enthuse, encourage and inspire the congregation to get stuck into some reading that will help in their walk with the Lord. But what to say? Here are our top tips on how to review a book.
1. What’s it called and who’s it by?
It may seem obvious but I’ve sat through incredibly enthusiastic reviews of books whose titles never gets mentioned! So make sure both the name of the book and author are clear. After all, we want people to remember what they’re being encouraged to read. It’s a good idea to try to have an image of the cover up on screen when you’re speaking too.
2. What’s it about?
It’s great to give people a little taste of the book. Describe what subjects are covered in your own words. And let people know what approach it takes (is it a Bible-study, a commentary, a biography etc?). On occasions you might want to read a short extract but probably no more than 2 or 3 sentences.
3. How is it helpful?
People are busy so they need a reason to give up their time to read a book. Try to give them that reason. For example:
4. Who is it mainly aimed at?
Books aren’t “one size fits all”. Some are more appropriate for women than men; some are aimed at people thinking about the claims of Christianity, others at mature Christians in some form of leadership. Some books are aimed at teens … or those who are struggle with some specific problem. Try to tease out who will benefit from the book you’re reviewing. Though don’t limit it too much otherwise no one will read the book!
5. What’s your opinion of it?
Presumably you’re being asked to review a book because people value your opinion. So, if you’re confident enough, don’t be afraid to give it (briefly!). Would you recommend it enthusiastically? Are there some shortcomings you want to raise? Be honest! Though it’s probably not wise to raise lots of shortcomings... If it’s not a great book there isn’t much point in plugging it in a service!
6. How much does it cost and where can people buy it?
Don’t leave them clueless about where to get it. Encourage people to buy from your church bookstall, support their local Christian bookshop or go online.
If you say these things clearly, succinctly and with appropriate emotion in your voice, there’s a good chance that others will wish to read and be encouraged too!
Helen Thorne is Director of Training and Resources at Biblical Counselling UK. She formerly worked with the London City Mission and has written Hope in an Anxious World, Purity Is Possible, Walking with Domestic Abuse Sufferers and 5 Things to Pray for Your City. She attends Dundonald Church in Raynes Park, London.