Excuse me, do you know how analyze a book?

Question: Excuse me, do you know how analyze a book!?

I have to analyze a book, I have to know what the author is trying to tell us in his book!.
I'd like to know if you have some steps to follow to make it easier!.
Thank you and I'd appreciate any help!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Your analysis (such an unnecessarily technical word!) should include:

* SETTING: where and when the story takes place
* GENRE: romance, adventure, science fiction, etc!.
* PLOT: an outline of the high points is fine!.
* POINT OF VIEW, or NARRATION (usually 1st or 3rd person; see website below for description)
* THEME(S): What ideas is the author exploring!?
* What SYMBOLS and motifs does the author use to get across the theme(s)!?
* What's the CLIMAX and where does it occur!?
* Overall TONE or MOOD
* CHARACTERS: Chances are some will be flat and others rounded

Here's a very well-organized and concise website that should help a lot:

http://www!.orangeusd!.k12!.ca!.us/yorba/lit!.!.!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Sometimes, before reading the book, it helps to look it up and read what the main themes of the book are!. Once you know what they are, it is easier to recognize the hidden meanings in the metaphors, similies, etc!. that the author may use!.Www@QuestionHome@Com