Think of it like a trailer for a movie: it gives you a taste of what the book is about, but it doesn't tell you everything.
Here's what a good summary usually includes:
* The main characters and their motivations: Who are the main players in the story, and what are they trying to achieve?
* The setting: Where and when does the story take place?
* The main plot points: What are the key events that drive the story forward?
* The resolution: How does the story end?
* The themes: What are the underlying messages or ideas that the author is trying to convey?
Summaries can be short (a few sentences) or longer (a paragraph or more), depending on the purpose. They are often used:
* To help people decide if they want to read the book.
* To provide a quick overview of the book for those who have already read it.
* To help students understand the main points of a book they are studying.
Overall, a summary is a valuable tool for understanding and appreciating a book.