Book Review on "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You"

The purpose of the assignment is for you to provide a critical analysis of the reading. What this means is that you will present what, in your opinion, are the strengths and weaknesses of the book. Keep in mind that your audience has some knowledge of U.S. history.

The review must be a minimum (4) pages in length, but no longer than eight (6) pages. The summary of the book should not be more than one page long. Double-spaced, typed.

In general, the review should be structured in several sections:

1) Introduction

2) Methodology, in which you describe how the author organized the book i e thematically, chronologically, etc.

3) Summary

4) Critique: strengths and weaknesses.

5) Conclusion

The review should contain the following:

I. Synopsis of the book:

A. General Topic

B. Chronological scope

C. Major emphasis (political, economic, social)

II. Evaluation

A. What is the overall thesis, the point of view or conclusion?

B. What are your reactions?

C. Did the book enhance your understanding of the issues?

D. What are the main points that you want to make? (Be direct)

Note: Each section should explain a point

III. Framing the Review

A. Provide information on the author (if available)

1-What are his/her relevant qualifications and background for writing on the subject?

2-What was his/her reason for writing the book? (Preface)

B. What evidence is cited?

C. Consider time period when book was written and, if evident, the author’s values and biases.

D. Conclusion:

1-Personal Critique: (Refer back to your introductory paragraph)

a) What is your ultimate judgment of the style, format, content and historical value of the book?

b) Has the author achieved the purpose, explicit or implicit for writing the book?

c) Has he/she proven the thesis to your satisfaction? Why or why not?

d) Has the book challenged you intellectually, increasing your knowledge base, raising new questions and /or presenting the material in a novel, even provocative manner? Or does the author rehash old arguments?

e) Finally, would you recommend this book to others and to what age/school level?