There will be no essays. Since this will be a new experience for some of you, let me explain what I am after. Explain in an evenhanded, balanced, generous manner what is in the book. Don't insult the authors. If Smyth were standing before you, he should be able to recognize in your paper that his intentions have been fairly presented.
Every book has good and bad points.
Tell me what you think they are. Be fair but definitive . You should include here your own overall evaluation of the book. The paper is not to exceed 10 pp. If your computer does not have 12 point Times, find out from a friend what it looks like and approximate it on your computer.