Reviews: The Good and the Bad

Since my picture book is currently being reviewed, I thought I'd talk about book reviews today. Here's my philosophy on reviews:

From the Reviewer's Standpoint:

 

Identify strengths and weaknesses I think a good review does both. You can love one thing about a book and feel lukewarm about something else.Be honest while still being respectful to the author It's perfectly okay to be honest. If you didn't like a book, that's your opinion and you are entitled to it. Just keep in mind that someone poured a lot of him/herself into that book. Respect that. And remember that even if a book wasn't your personal taste, it will be someone else's.

 

From the Author's Standpoint:

Never lash out at a reviewer I hate when authors do this. It just makes the author look bad. Remember you are a professional. It's important to act like one.Try not to stress out over reviews It's easy to drive yourself crazy over checking your book's page on Amazon to see if anyone's posted a new review. Of course we want good reviews, but all five stars are not realistic. Even best selling authors get their share of low ratings.Now, someone remind me of these when my reviews come in!
How do you feel about reviews? Are you an only-review-books-you-love reviewer? Are you an author who worries about being reviewed? Share your tips and concerns.