Patrick O'Scheen's Blog, page 6
September 28, 2013
How to Write a Book Review
In answer to the many questions I received from my post “Writing Isn’t All Glamor”, writing a book review is not difficult. As a reader, you have an opinion that writers actually would love to hear.
Locate the book on Amazon like you would if you were going to buy it. Find the customer reviews by clicking on “customer reviews.” To the right of a bar graph that shows the number of reviews sorted by the number of stars given you will locate a tab that says “Create your own review.” Click it and start writing.
The process is basically 3 simple steps.
Read the book
Answer the question –Did you like it?
Give an explanation.
Let’s consider this in terms of other products we consume:
You buy coffee-
You drink the coffee.
You like or dislike the coffee
there is a reason for your opinion
” I liked Blueberry Chuckles brand coffee because it had a wonderful odor.”
Expressing an opinion about a book is no different.
“I read Dreamer by Patrick O’Scheen and enjoyed it. I love anything about dragons.”
“Seer, by Patrick O’Scheen is wonderful. It was a well written story filled with surprises.”
A long explanation, while it may help steer other readers, is not required. You don’t need to expound on the nuances of the plot or tell others the story. If you want to expand on your ideas, that is your choice, but it is not necessary.
DON’T make your review a personal praise or attack of an author.
(“I love everything about him.” “He stinks.”)
DON’T leave your opinion with no explanation.
It is acceptable to criticize, but not without reason. Writers can use information to better their art.
How I use stars — As a crude guide –
5 stars means the work is exceptional
4 stars means its a good read
3 stars means its average
2 stars means there is something wrong with the work
1 star means the work is unreadable
September 25, 2013
September 22, 2013
Writing Isn't All Glamor
Reblogged from She Said What?:
Today I paused to consider options. Yes, contrary to popular beliefs a career as a writer isn't all glamor. I know that the last time I posted here I pointed out the obvious advantages of working in one's pajamas and drinking coffee with giraffes, but there is a more serious side.
Sadly, like everyone else, authors do need to eat. Right about now I wish I could go to my mythical world and sit down for a hardy dragon-cooked meal, but there are problems with fantasy food that my digestive system has yet to work out...
A Moment’s Puzzle
Sometimes I wonder why people set themselves up as gate keepers. There is only one who will ultimately decide.
Have a wonderful Sunday!
September 18, 2013
September 15, 2013
A Moment’s Evaluation
Sometimes all I can think about is the pain I feel and the insensitivity of the people around me. I forget that I am truly blessed.
Have a wonderful Sunday!
September 14, 2013
Official Pet A Dragon Day!
Hurray!
It was brought to my attention yesterday during the official Pet A Kitty Day celebration that Dragons also like petting…
Totally disregarding the large hole bitten in my leg and the incessant demand for Dragon treats, I yield to the need for equality.
Let’s all join in and celebrate DRAGON PETTING DAY!
via http://thebatschzoocrew.blogspot.com/
Just like with cats there are cautions and approved methods:
It is however never appropriate to poke a dragon with a stick—-
Here’s wishing you a safe and happy holiday!!!
September 13, 2013
Official Pet A Kitty Day! 9/13
News reports have it that Charles aka “the Cat” has declared today Pet a Kitty Day! If you don’t have your own cat (loser!), borrow one!
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The following are some suggested methods for having a safe and happy holiday:
PLEASE NOTE!!! WE WILL BE RATING YOU!
AND THERE WILL BE A TEST!!!
September 11, 2013
September 6, 2013
A Snippet from Seer—-WEWRIWA
An Excerpt from Seer, Book 2 the Chronicles of Marithe
Lase began to snarl at the dragon wizard who had demonstrated the audacity to push him backward, but then his eyes followed the man’s gaze to Mirandra— his Mirandra. Instinctively he barred his fanged teeth, ready to destroy this hungry-eyed man.
Mirandra seemed shocked when Lase let out an impassioned growl. The possessive sounds escaping the Glahee Prince were intended to warn the aggressor to step aside, but the man stood his ground and even touched Mirandra’s arm. Lase had enough! As he pushed his way between the two, his mind became cluttered by the fog of his obsession.
For more of the weekend warriors —- A link to http://wewriwa.com/
