New Authors Under the Mainstream Radar discussion

A couple suggestions for authors and readers on how a review can go a long way:

Amazon Reviews:
Consumers of any product certainly like to know a bit about what they are purchasing before doing so. While the back of a book gives a description, it is reader reviews that usually help others decide whether or not to purchase a book.

When I taught writing to elementary school students, I conducted an activity called "Writing Workshop." During this time, students would volunteer to read their final copies aloud to the class. While doing so, I would walk around and give comment cards with discussion prompts on them to the other children. One said, "I really enjoyed how you...," Another stated, I would have liked to know more about...," and the last one read, "My favorite part of your writing was..." The kids would have to elaborate on their prompt with their personal opinions and feedback. I made sure to follow a pattern of positive-constructive criticism-postive commentary, ending on a good note so that the vulnerable child standing alone at the front of the room could walk away with their head held high along with some great advice on what to implement better on the next piece of writing.

While it's no surprise that we writers enjoy the good reviews most, we do take in any feedback constructively. This isn't to say that a negative review doesn't sting. Putting yourself out there is tough, and you do have to develop thick skin...which grows thicker over time. To belittle an author in a review is generally in poor taste, but to give intelligent, constructive criticism is actually quite helpful for the author's future endeavors. I've read books with plot lines that I've found boring, yet with dimensional characters that I found quite interesting, so review-wise I would try to include the positive with the not-so positive. Writing and reading are very subjective. What one loves, another hates, so I think being mindful of the subjective nature of the art is key to a strong review.

Consequently, the reviews that I continue to find most helpful as a reader and writer are those that discuss the following: genre, writing style, emotions while reading, and overall opinion- both positive and constructive criticism included.

Any readers who have the time to write a review should know how greatly appreciated it is by the author. We love hearing from you! Please consider posting a review on Amazon or any other networking site/blog the next rainy day.

Thank you, Taylor. This is a useful guide for reviewers, writing groups, and students.

Jeanne

Yes! Great post, Taylor!

Thank you for the invite...the information I've read thus far has been so very positive and informative...I look forward to being part of this group!

Ali :)

Ali wrote: "Yes! Great post, Taylor!

Thank you for the invite...the information I've read thus far has been so very positive and informative...I look forward to being part of this group!

Ali :)"

Hi Ali,
Welcome! Great to have you here. So glad that you are enjoying the group and information!