Are you searching for an exciting alternative to the ever-boring elementary book report forms?  Let students create a cereal box book report that incorporates not only story elements, but art in literature.  Here are the steps for children to make these fun book reports:

1.  Choose a book on which to report–this should be quality elementary or middle school literature.

2.  Get an empty cereal box.

3.  Cut off the top of the box.

4.  Cover each side of the box (except the bottom) with light-colored construction paper.

5.  Draw and color the cover of the book on the front of the cereal box, including the title of the book.

6.  On one side panel, list the characters and setting.

7.  On the other side panel, describe the plot of the story.

8.  Here’s the fun part:  On the back of the cereal box, create a puzzle such as a maze, word search or crossword puzzle that relates to the story.

9.  Finally, here’s the very best part:  Put a toy surprise inside the box to show to the class when you present the report.  This could be a small toy spider for Charlotte’s Web, a little dog for Sounder, a small money for Summer of the Monkeys, or as easy as a rock for Stone Soup.  Be creative!

10.  Present your book report to the class explaining every side of the cereal box.  Then, show off your toy surprise!