Band 6

Performance Appreciate literary works and present ideas critically in an

Standard exemplary manner.
Descriptor B6 DT1
Giving opinions on books read
Evidence B6 DT1 E1

 an introduction
 a synopsis
 a personal opinion

Sample Instrument

BOOK REVIEW

Read a book of your choice. Now, write out a review of the book using the guidelines
given below.

Title :

Author :

Publisher :

Introduction :

Synopsis :

Comments :
Suggested Answer

Title : Potato People

Author : Angela Wright

Publisher : Pustaka Delta Sdn. Bhd.

Pages : 70

Introduction

The story is set in Ireland in the mid-19th century. The people are facing a
tragedy. There is a potato blight. All the potato plants have died due to a disease. The
people have no money and no food to eat. To their dismay, their English masters have
raised the rent on the lands and want them to pay up. As they are unable to do so, they
are being chased out of their lands.

Synopsis

The novel illustrates the suffering of the Irish people. It is due to the poor harvest
of potatoes and the long, dry season. The main character is Patrick, an orphan who
suffers as a result of the potato blight. He lives in the village of Skullgoragh. Patrick
and his people are driven out of their land by Lord Egham who is the landlord. His
henchman, Mr. Graystone comes with his fierce dogs and the English soldiers. They
chase the villagers out of their homes and burn the villages down.

Patrick, like all the other people of the village, leaves for the city of Cork to board
a ship to America. His close friend, Sean, promises to get the money to buy the tickets
to America. Along the way, he meets Marie, a gypsy girl and shares with her, his food.
She becomes his most trusted companion and friend.

They reach Cork and meet up with Sean who gives them money to buy their
tickets. However, he is soon arrested by the British soldiers for the murder of Mr.
Graystone. Patrick and Marie make their way to America where they start a new life.
They then get married and live happily ever after.
Personal Opinion:

I enjoyed reading the story because it shows Patrick’s determination to go to

America to start a new life with Marie. Though he goes through a lot of hardship, he
does not give up easily. He perseveres and finally succeeds in having a better life.