The specimen format for the report. Below is an example how what it looks like:
Name: Josephine StudentBook Review Title:Rules for RevolutionariesAuthor: Guy KawasakiCourse: MKTG 5703:Marketing Management & InnovationDate: 11/11/XX
SynopsisRules forRevolutionaries is one of several books authored by Guy Kawasaki. Kawasaki is perhaps bestknown for his work with Apple Computers, specifically for his work on thelaunch of Apple’s Macintosh line.
In his book Kawasakiexplains how the reader can (and should) create “world-changing revolution”within his or her company. The book’s three main points are 1)Create like aGod, 2)Command like a King, and 3)Work like a slave. Kawasaki gives several examples under eachsection from business history, examples from the marketplace at the time of thebook’s publication, and from his own experiences. Kawasaki’s favorite case studies andsuggested readings are listed at the end of each chapter and in a specialreferences section at the end of the book.
CommentaryThis book is presented in a very straightforward fashionwhich made it both an easy and entertaining read! I especially liked how thebook was structured into sections based on his key ideas. Kawasaki is not afraid to attack businesspractices he considers a waste of time and the tone of his book suggests he isvery interested in contributing to the reader’s success and in inspiring thereader to create “revolution” in the marketplace.
I appreciated Kawasaki’sstraightforward and at times “in your face” writing style, reminiscent ofanother of my favorite authors, Tom Peters. I liked the fact that he wasn’t shyabout talking about mistakes he’d made along with the successes he had enjoyed.I especially noted his inclusion of several different sources which tells methat as an author he did his due diligence and that he wasn’t interested injust telling a bunch of his own “war stories” or in simply touting hisopinions. The book’s layout and its having sources so visibly listed make thebook a great quick-reference tool.
One thing I had a little problem with was his example “Eatlike a bird, poop like an elephant.” While he goes on to explain what he means,and even though this is a memorable visual, I found trying to explain it toothers either resulted in their inability to take it seriously or their outrightdisdain. Added to which there are only a handful of people with whom I wouldeven feel comfortable trying to share this example! It works in terms of makinga memorable impression, but is problematic in its use as an example that can bewidely (and tastefully!) used.
All that aside, I have always enjoyed Kawasaki’s work and this one is a niceaddition to his series. I look forward to his next book.
ConclusionThis book is a worthwhile investment and I would recommendit.Instructor’s note: Theabove example is shown to illustrate possible flow/content of your book reviewusing the outline presented below. It is purposely done in an abbreviatedfashion. Your report will most likely be 3-5 pages or so.
Synopsis
– Summaryof the Content– Mustbe objective (your opinions and comments are presented in the next segment)– Essentiallyparaphrase the book jacket!
Commentary
– Hereit’s your turn– Yourperspectives and opinions on the book– Whatyou liked, or didn’t, what you found useful or not, etc.– Makeyour commentary relevant to the course– Ifyou didn’t like the book, don’t just say “I didn’t like this book,”, but shareexactly what you didn’t like
Conclusion
– Wouldyou recommend this book or not?
