On Dec 8th I wrote a blog about whether
an author should write reviews on other books. In that blog I promised a
follow-up on expectations. Here it is.
about the subject that I found interesting. What was also interesting is that
the people who wrote these didn’t wish to be named. Understood and respected.
Both of the authors are multi-published and have been for years.
***I think this is a tough decision that each person
has to make for her/himself. It’s perhaps even tougher when you’re an author,
not just a “normal” reader. I read a lot, and it’s for pleasure. I don’t want
to be analytical and I don’t want to keep track of details. I don’t want to
turn reading into part of the business side of my writing life – which, of
course, it would be if I attached any of my writing names to the review. And it
could be one of the unpleasant parts of the business side, and I have enough of
those already. Having said that, I am eternally grateful for every reader who
does take the time to post a good review!***
***I’m in the same camp, I’m afraid. Plus for me it’s a matter of finding the
time. I used to judge a lot of writing
contests and would spend hours reading and rereading each entry and agonizing
over comments so they would (I hope) sound positive and constructive and
helpful. Now I limit my judging to one
or two contests a year. The same would be true if I started writing
reviews. I would ponder over what
ranking to give and what to say about the book, and I would likely rewrite the
review several times before posting it.
I know this probably isn’t necessary and I’m sure it’s not what most
people do – but it’s what I would do, and it would eat up huge chunks of my
time. If
it’s any consolation, all of this really makes me cherish the reviews my books
have received. I generally don’t seek
out reviews but I sure do value the time and thought that readers put into
them. ***
I sympathize with both these commenters. It does
take time and energy to write a decent review. On the other hand, with each one
I’ve written it’s become easier. I truly believe that undertaking this task has
helped me in my book blurbs, writing my blogs and leaving
comments on others. Most probably, it’s made all my writing a bit tighter which is a good thing. Anytime you train your brain to function in a way that
takes concentration and effort, you will be rewarded.
Not only in the learning you’re unconsciously
experiencing, but in the knowing that you’ve given back in a positive way. I guess
I consider it like the Golden Rule – do unto others. Maybe it can even be taken a
step further and considered good Karma.
That – I like!!
