Reviews are a great way to express your feelings about movies or books. Have you ever read a book and wanted to share it with the whole world? Have you ever watched a movie and thought that no one in their right mind should watch it? You now have a chance to share your opinions with all of the readers at Amazing Kids! Just read through these quick review-writing tips, and then submit reviews of your favorite movies and books. Amazing Kids! also has a few DVDs and books that they will send out to reviewers. If you choose to review one of these, you can keep it! Email editor@amazing-kids.org to become an Amazing Kids! reviewer.

Step-by-Step Reviews!

The purpose of a review is not to explain to the readers exactly what happens in a movie or book. If the readers know everything about the story beforehand, they will have no reason to watch/read it. Instead, a review should explain to the readers why or why not the movie or book is worth their time.

A good review should:

1. Include the name of the movie or book, and the author/director's name, if known. This should usually be in the first paragraph.

2. Give a brief overview of the plot. Be careful not to give away any information that will "spoil" the story, such as the villain in a mystery.

EXAMPLE: Ellen is heartbroken when she comes home and finds out that her dog is missing. She searches everywhere in her neighborhood and puts up signs on telephone poles. When this turns up no results, she teams up with her best friend Ashley, and together they undergo numerous adventures on their quest to find the missing dog. However, they soon notice that Ellen's signs have all been taken down. Is someone trying to thwart their efforts?

3. What did you like/dislike about the movie or book? Why?

NOTE: You don't have to write, "I liked it when they went looking for the dog." Instead, write something more individual or meaningful, such as: "They went looking for the dog, which was touching to me because I also lost my dog two years ago."

4. Comment on any or all of these areas:

a. Was the story convincing? Did the beginning pull you into it? Were you hooked until the final scene?
b. What age level would enjoy it? Why?
c. Is there an age level that wouldn't enjoy it?
d. Movies: Acting (were the characters well-acted? Was any particular actor especially good?)
e. Movies: Special Effects
f. Books: Author's writing style

5. Send your review to Amazing Kids! We're always eager to read your opinions!