Writing Guide – Book reviews
Our reviews of maths books.
If you are interested in writing a book review, we recommend you read this page in full.
The process of writing a book review should take 30 minutes once you have read the book.
Summary
Book reviews offer our members and the wider world recommendations on the best maths books to read from a student perspective in a fun and engaging manner.
Our book reviews largely aim to cover the newest releases, however we also review classics and our members’ favourites.
They aim to encourage readers to buy these books.
Topic
You may be commissioned to review a book about mathematics, which will be sent to you to review, or you may choose a book about mathematics that interests you to review.
Structure
Book reviews should be around 500 words.
They should begin with a snappy and witty 50 word introduction of the book which introduces it, similarly to a blurb. They should track through the content of the book, offering your thoughts, insights, and what you found interesting. At the end you should have some concluding thoughts for the book and your advice for a potential reader.
Writing
Good book reviews:
- Can be anywhere between mixed and incredibly positive, however we advise that your review is not too negative as we hope to convince people to click through to and buy the book
- Are very engaging with lots of your student personality
- Refer to the author by their surname from their second mention onwards
- Explain mathematical elements in the book in some detail, but remain focused on the book and its impression on you
- Have opportunities to link to other articles and features on the Maths Society website
References and Accuracy
- You should read the book in its entirety before writing your review
- Your review must not plagiarise other reviews of the same book
If after reading this guide you still have any questions, or want to get in touch with suggestions to improve this guide, please contact us.