Simple Book Review Advice An academic book review needs to do three things, in approximately 1500 words: Simple Book Review Advice An academic book review needs to do three things, in approximately 1500 words: 1) Introduce the subject of the book and identify the book’s thesis in the first paragraph (this is the argument about the data–with a biography, for example, it might simply be that the artist’s work is shaped by life circumstances. If you’re unsure of what a thesis is, consult me or another faculty member you know. 2) Summarize the book’s contents in the middle 2/3 of the review (around 800-1000 words, covering the entirety of the book’s data) 3) Conclude with an evaluation of the book, stating positive accomplishments of the book and suggestions for helpful information