What am I supposed to do when I am instructed to "retell the story of my novel"? Am I supposed to summary what I have already read or tell the story differently by changing the plot?

http://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-summary-and-vs-synopsis/

Read carefully and let us know what you decide.

I am not entirely certain, but I think I may have been instructed to write a summary. Do you think so as well?

Yes ... simply retell the story in summary fashion, not telling it differently.

When you are instructed to "retell the story of your novel," you are expected to summarize and recount the events of the novel as accurately as possible. You should aim to provide a concise and coherent account of the main events, characters, and plot points.

Retelling the story does not involve changing the plot or introducing new elements. Instead, it requires you to effectively communicate the key elements of the novel in your own words. Think of it as sharing a brief overview or synopsis that captures the essence of the story.

To retell the story of your novel, follow these steps:

1. Revisit the novel: Familiarize yourself with the main characters, settings, and major events. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the plot.

2. Identify the key points: Identify the most significant events and developments that move the story forward. These could include major conflicts, turning points, or character transformations.

3. Create a concise summary: Take the identified key points and craft a summary that captures the overall narrative arc. Focus on providing a clear and coherent overview without unnecessary details.

4. Use your own words: Avoid copying directly from the text. Instead, express the events and details in your own words, using language that reflects your understanding and interpretation of the story.

5. Maintain coherence and flow: Ensure that your retelling maintains a logical progression and coherence. Connect the events in a way that clearly conveys how they unfold in the storyline.

Remember, a retelling is primarily about summarizing and recounting the events of the novel rather than changing the plot or introducing new elements.