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Jennifer talks about the importance of reviews...
As you probably know, I’ve been using this round of alphabet
blogging to review books I’ve been reading. It’s been helpful in many ways.
First of all, it’s encouraged me to read more. I love
reading. Always have. But as I’ve mentioned, now that I’m a writer, some
reading is less enjoyable for me, because I edit as I read. Which is like
taking a break from your day job and bringing that work home at night. There’s
no escape. But knowing I’m going to review books forces me to push past the
discomfort and gets me off Facebook. J
Second, it’s a huge help to writers to have people review
their books, especially by readers with whom they haven’t arranged reviews.
Those reviews show impartiality allow other readers to take the review
seriously, as opposed to paid reviews or reviews from friends. They get people talking
about their books and they learn from reviewers as well.
And third, and this may be a little selfish, it gives our
blog the added benefit of new readers and more exposure. The more books we
review, and the more tags we use on our blog, the more new readers we get,
which is important for bloggers.
So, if you’re reading a book and you love it, review it! If
you hate it, review it! And if it doesn’t strike any particular chord, review
that one too. Honest (not mean) reviews help readers and writers alike.
I really should take more time to do reviews of the books I read. Usually I'm in too big of a hurry to get on to the next one to stop and take the time. Or I think it takes time away from my writing, which really, in the grand scheme of things, probably isn't true. It doesn't take hours to write a review. I really should make it a goal to write them more often.
ReplyDeleteI will admit to not reviewing every book I read. And sometimes, I'll just give it stars on Amazon. But I try to do at least a few.
DeleteI know there are ways to write a polished review. I should delve into that and learn how.
ReplyDeleteI think the polish is less important than the honesty (with tact).
DeleteI'm also glad you are reviewing books now. You have introduced me to authors I want (now) to read and follow!
ReplyDeleteIt's an added benefit--we get to discover new authors!
DeleteI feel guilty that I haven't written as many reviews as I should.
ReplyDeleteThere are times I choose not to review, so you shouldn't feel guilty.
DeleteI'm feeling even more guilty Paula, because I never review books. Is that a bad thing?
ReplyDeleteI feel guilty because I really appreciate the reviews of my own books, and feel I ought to do the same for other authors.
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