The purpose of this assignment is to write a 1000-1500 book review, suitable for journal publication. For reference regarding formal conventions, you may consult book reviews in scholarly journals, such as Quarterly Journal of Speech and Philosophy and Rhetoric, for the normal expectations, as well as those for content. In general, understand that the primary function of a scholarly book review is to provide interested scholars with sufficient information about the thesis and supporting arguments offered by the author(s) such that those scholars may judge whether or not the book relates to their research and/or pedagogical interests.

I am suggesting that you review one of the books listed below; however, if there is another book you would prefer, talk with me about it, and it may be suitable. For your convenience, I will place copies of these in the reading room, 234 Phifer.

Though some reviewers indulge in vituperation, most scholars regard such writing as unprofessional and undisciplined. The responsible scholar provides a careful, analytical report of the scholarly strengths or weaknesses of an author's work. Reviewing a book is not an opportunity to grandstand or to promote one's own research agenda, though it is possible to find published examples of both. The book editor for the journal is ultimately the one responsible for maintaining the professional standards of that journal.

The criteria to which you will be held for this assignment are provided below.