In offering an assignment to write a book review, an editor said to me, “What could be better than reading a book that you would want to read anyway, receive it for free, write what you think of it, and get paid!” Can't argue with that, and the same applies to writing reviews of movies, the arts, theater, and restaurants.

The chief purpose of the review, like all nonfiction, is to inform. With novels, movies, and the theater, it is important to convey a summary without giving away the story ending. In reviews of nonfiction books, the essence of the book should be imparted, and in fact, reviews are often read as substitutes for reading the entire book.

While the reviewer's opinion is usually put forward, it should not be the focal point of the review. It is best to present objective information about the subject to allow the reader to make an informed decision whether to read the book, attend the play or movie, or dine at the restaurant.

Reviews are generally short pieces between 300 and 1,000 words. Sometimes they evolve into “review/essays” that use the subject of the review as a springboard for a more extensive article of several thousand words. For example, a review of Philip Roth's most recent book may continue to explore some common themes running through his other books, thus becoming a review/essay.