5-pages, numbered, double-spaced, one-inch margins, in Times New Roman or comparable font.

The book review is one of the most common assignments a science writer performs; as a reviewer of scientific work, a writer can often influence the general public's perception of the research and influence sales of a book as well. It is crucial, therefore, to write as accurate and as fair a review as possible.

1. First, choose a recent science or science-related book relevant to your intended Feature Story.

2. Read the book through once to get an overall idea. Record your impressions.

3. Read the book again, more thoroughly this time, noting in the margins anything that you think is worthy of mention.

4. Be thinking about what your audience will be interested in--this may be somewhat different from your own interests. Be sure to include both what interests you the most and what you think others may be intrigued by.

5. Take note of any seeming inconsistencies in the logic or conclusions of the writer. Identify any obvious bias the writer exhibits and decide whether or not that "ruins" the book for you. You must be aware of the writer's (or writers') perspectives in order to write a good review.

6. Based on the models of other book reviews we will read in class, write a five-page review, including quotations and references to other writers, that would be suitable for publication. Use CBE name-year format documention for all sources for both in-text references and bibliography.

7. For information on CBE Documentation Style, refer to the linked site. Additional links will be provided shortly.