North Texas Institute for Educators on the Visual Arts

(page 14)

How to Write a Critical Review

Pretend you are a newspaper reporter. You are in attendance of the first viewing of the artwork and reading of the book, The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg and assigned to write a critical review of the book and the art.

1. Write an amusing or surprising opening sentence that will “grab” your readers.

2. Begin by describing the story of the book and the art by answering some of the following questions:

· Who is the main character?
· What is the main idea of the story?
· What attracted your attention?
· What images are in the picture?
· What is the main story line of the book?
· What type of colors, forms, lines, etc does the artist use?
· What type of words, sentences and story does he write?

3. Describe some of your interpretations of the artwork and book by answering
some of the following questions:
· Why did Mr. Van Allsburg write and illustrate this book?
· How is the artwork different from the story of the book?
· What does the locomotive represent?
· What emotions and meaning does the artist/author convey?

4. Finally give your opinions about the artwork and book by answering some of the
following questions:
· Which do you prefer, the artwork or the book?
· Would you recommend the artwork or book to your readers? Why?
· Is this artwork and book of value? Why?

(continued on page 15)
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