Book Review Assignment

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This is an opportunity for you to pursue of topic of interest within the framework of this course's focus on mediated interaction. The book that you choose (either from my suggestion list or with my approval) should be one that will provide you with a deeper understanding of one area or issue related to communication channels and social interaction.

As noted in the syllabus, this is NOT a book report (a mere summary). This should be a focused, informed review that draws on your education and experiences. Your tone and style should be for a general, yet informed, audience. So assume a relatively high level of education, but don't assume a high level of knowledge about the topic at hand.

Your review should (1) summarize the contents, (2) analyze the contents, and (3) critique the contents.

1. Summary: Should provide your reader with an overview of the book's content, while also providing the basis of your analysis and critique.
- Characterize the theme and focus of the book
- Identify the major points that constitute or support the theme
- Review the content of sections/chapters
- When relevant, include some examples that reflect the content areas.

2. Analysis: Should provide reader with a context for understanding the book's content, based on your knowledge of related developments and conditions. Questions might include:
- Argument/view consistent with itself? With other works in the same area? How so?
- Argument/view supported by evidence? Strong or weak? Convincing or flawed? How so?
- Argument/view relevant or peripheral to important issues of the day? How so?
- Book based on author's experience or on a broader foundation of observations or research?
- Book consistent or inconsistent with other works in the same general area? How so?
- Author have credentials to make the types of claims or conclusions that the book presents?

3. Critique: Should provide reader with your evaluation of the content based on your analysis of that content. Here is where you provide your view on the book -- of course, supported by your own evidence or arguments or reasoning. Questions might include:
- What is the author's contribution to our understanding of communication technologies in our social lives? Support your evaluation.
- What are the primary strengths and weaknesses of the book? Support your evaluation.
- Would you recommend the book? Why or why not?

Format Requirements

- Eight to 10 pages, typed, double spaced, 1" margins, 12-point type.
- Include page numbers on each page.
- Add an extra cover page for your title and include the book reference (APA style).
- Include a reference page (APA style) for any other works cited in the review.

Also submit an electronic version (on disk or via email ... use MS Word please) to allow posting of everyone's reviews on the course website for the benefit of the rest of the class.