1. Do not make it overly personal. Don’t use too many "I’s" in your reviews. This is about the book not about the reviewer. Of course there are cases where your perspective does come in useful. In such cases, make an exception but find a good way to tie the personal with the book.

2. Tempt but do not reveal: Recently Ms. Magazine carried a review of a famous book. In the end, the reviewer revealed a plot secret that was central to the story. Oops! Never reveal plot secrets, in cases where you have to do so, place a "spoiler warning" at the beginning of your review. Outline only enough of the story so the reader gets hooked.

3. Usage of quotes: Quotes from the book are good windows into the material. However, do not use too many and always check for accuracy. Never paraphrase quotes.

4. Place the work in context: Compare the novel with the author’s previous work; even a brief statement should suffice.

5. Don’t be fooled by hype: Go with what you think about the book. Even if others say they loved it, if you didn’t, say it and say why.

6. Point out the good: It sounds obvious but every book has at least one redeeming feature. Point it out.

7. Point out faults: Every author sets out to write the best book he or she possibly can. Still very few books bowl us over completely. It is important to state what you did not like about the book.

8. Edit over and over again: Edit your reviews. Follow a style guide. Check for punctuation, spelling, and grammar mistakes.

9. Know your audience: For example, a desi audience might read Transmission by Hari Kunzru very differently than an American one. Gear your review to your audience.

10. Remember it is subjective: You don’t have to please everybody with your reviews. Your views are your own and readers will soon find out if their tastes match yours.

The above guidelines translate very well for writing movie reviews as well.

Courtesy: Poornima Apte