Book talks are a fun way for students to demonstrate comprehension and share their love of reading.
This is a great extension activity for lit circles or whole class novel units as well as a way to support independent reading.
Students can give their book talks ‘live’ in class or pre-record them.
Prepare Students to Create their Book Talks
- Watch other examples like this one or this one or search YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram for “Book Talks.”
- Pick a book you’re excited about.
- Set a time limit (e.g. 2-5 minutes).
- Write down your script/narration first.
Elements of a Book Talk Script
There are three elements to a good book talk: the hook, the summary and the reason to read.
1. Grab Your Audience’s Attention with a Hook
- Read a favorite scene from the book
- Share a quote you liked
- Show the book cover
- Pose a question (Have you ever been so angry with your brother that you wanted to scream?)
2. Provide a Short Summary
- Share the title, author’s name, and reading level of the book
- Give a brief overview of characters and main plot/conflict
- Don’t give away the ending!
3. Offer Reason(s) to Read & Cliffhanger
- Tell them why you love this book and why they will, too.
- End with a question or unresolved issue like “If you want to know how Sam and Dave escape the hot lava pit, read the book!”
Share Their Book Talks
- Have a “Book Talk” day (or days) where students present their book talks to each other IRL. (Record them to share with families)
- Have students pre-record their book talks and then watch them in class.
- Share with families – Make a QR code of videos and post at Open House or email links to families.
- Send them to Bookopolis! We’d love to post them on our Book Talks & Trailers page for other students around the world to enjoy.