Is the text original in conception, or, despite its experimental trapping, does the text feel derivative or cliched?

Include:
1. An introduction placing the text into some kind of context (literary, cultural,
historical), while conveying crucial background information (on the author, genre,
publisher, etc.).
2. An overview of the text which includes, but also exceeds, matters of plot, character,
and setting.
3. Discussion of theme and meaning.
4. Aesthetic evaluation. How successful is the text in its aims? Does it succeed in the task
it set out for itself? Literary judgment is to some extent subjective. However, here are
some aesthetic questions you might answer in attempting to judge the success of your
chosen text: 1) Does the book’s form mesh well with, or enhance, its themes? 2) Does the
text handle its themes with sophistication, grace, maturity, or authenticity? 3) Is the text
original in conception, or, despite its experimental trapping, does the text feel derivative
or cliched? 4) Does the text contribute to some current cultural discussion or
controversy—or, negatively put, does the text blunder into cultural questions that it seems
ill-equipped to handle?
5. A conclusion in which the reviewer wraps things up.
Your review should draw on (and cite) at least four outside sources.

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