Here's why:
* Universality: The events of the story are happening within the world of the book, regardless of when you're reading it. Using present tense makes it feel like the story is unfolding right now.
* Clarity: Present tense is concise and avoids awkward shifts in time. It's easier for the reader to follow the plot.
* Engagement: Present tense often makes the summary feel more dynamic and engaging.
Example:
Instead of: "The main character, Tom, went to the store and bought a new book."
Use: "The main character, Tom, goes to the store and buys a new book."
Important Note: If you are directly quoting a passage from the book, you should use the tense that appears in the original text.