What is a book talk?

A book talk is a short, engaging, and enthusiastic presentation designed to inspire others to read the same book. The purpose of a book talk is to sell the book to a small or large group. The presenter should share enough of the plot (events that make up the story) to interest the listener, but should not give a summary of the entire book. The presenter should not give away the important part or the ending. However, the presenter should highlight the interesting points. The presenter should read chosen passages to the listeners. The purpose is to grab the audiences interest, give a feel for the way the writer writes, and make each listener want to read the book. Some presenters end the book talk with a cliffhanger. A cliffhanger is a story or a situation that is exciting because the ending or result is uncertain until it happens. The presenter presents the book talk orally and should have the book as a visual prop.

How do book talks differ from book reviews? Although similar, they perform different functions. In a book review, the reviewer is judging the book. The book is recommended or not and may contain criticism. A summary of the plot may also be included. In a book talk, a recommendation is assumed. Things to Discuss in Your Book Talk Tell the audience the title, the name of the author, and the genre (category). (Examples: fantasy, mystery, realistic fiction) Tell the audience about the setting. Where and when did the story take place? Who is the main character in your book? Describe him/her. Was there a conflict or struggle that the character had to overcome? Share some story details but dont give away too much of the plot. Leave the audience guessing and wanting to read the book. What was the mood of this novel? (Example: funny, sad, exciting) What was the theme (idea or lesson)? Why did you like it? What do you remember most about the book? You may want to read a passage from your novel: an interesting quotation or a memorable line or paragraph. Who would you recommend this book to and why? Why should the viewer want to go out and get this book?

Book Talk Ideas 1. Do a costumed presentation of your book. Dress either as the author or one of the characters. 2. Make a new jacket for your book. 3. Participate with three or four classmates in a television talk show about the book. 4. With another student, do a pretend interview with the author or with one of the characters. 5. Make a "wanted" poster for one of the characters or objects in your book. Include the following: (a) a drawing or cut out picture of the character or object, (b) a physical description of the character or object, (c) other information about the character or object which is important, (d) the reward offered for the capture of the character or object. 6. Use magazine photos to make a collage about the story. 7. Make a poster advertising your book so someone else will want to read it.

Student Name: ____________________________

BOOK TALK Rubric

Category Book Summary Description Book summary is not too long, but provides enough details to develop an understanding of the books main characters/ideas; summary suggests student has full knowledge of the book. Spelled words correctly and used correct grammar; typed or neatly written; design is appealing to the eye. Book is used as a visual prop. Introduction includes the book title, authors name, and genre. Read favorite passage from the book. The passage grabbed the audience attention. Ends the book talk with a cliffhanger. Points Possible 15 Points Earned

Written Piece

15

Visual Prop Introduction

5 5

Favorite Passage

20

Cliffhanger

10

Presentation

Used eye-contact. Spoke loud and clear. Presentation was 3-4 minutes.

30

TOTAL

100

Comments _______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________