What is the book’s subject? What is its scope–limited by era, by topic, or some other factor?
Explain the book’s argument, discuss the author’s method (what sources used? how well were they used?
See below, for the questions of methods of sources for each book), and critique the book’s argument–how convincing? Other explanations that the author didn’t consider? Other sources the author might have used? How useful for historians, students of history, or history buffs?
What meaning does the material have for you regarding the author’s argument as you understand it? What do you find most convincing or lacking about the author’s argument? Was it supported with evidence?Describe what the reading(s) mean to you.
Describe the main argument(s) or claim(s) the author is trying to convey in the reading
Describe the data or evidence the author presents to back up their argument/claim
What about their argument do you agree with or find convincing? Explain
What about their argument do you disagree with or find less convincing? Explain
