Each semester, at least 30 students read four books and draft and revise reviews for them. That s how we catalog 120 or more new reviews each term. Students take pride in showing others what they have said about a book, and this entices other students to read. I think these peer recommendations are a very effective way to encourage reluctant readers to check out books and to read. Students listen closely to other students opinions.
Teachers often use student book reviews to help other students select reading material.
The writing skills students learn is also valuable, of course. All reviews are revised and edited before publication. Some teachers have incorporated book review writing as a class assignment or extra credit. If your library wants to implement a reading motivation program, I d encourage you to switch to Surpass. Click here to try Surpass yourself free for 60 days.