Book Review vs. Editorial Review
Book reviews are a major driving force behind book sales. Its importance is so great that it can either make or break an author’s success. There are two types of reviews that every author should be aware of. There is the Editorial review and the regular book review. However, many authors do not understand the difference between a book review and an editorial review. There are some similarities but more differences. Learning the difference can help you approach the correct reviewer and also know what to expect from them both.
What Is A Book Review?
The question may seem silly or even very simple but to clarify a book review is a reading of your work by an avid reader. A review should include a brief summary of the story, the highs and lows and what the reader both loved or hated about the character or story line and some type of ranking. Using a 1 to 5 star is most common. In most cases a reviewer is rating your book cover, plot, characters likability and if the story itself keep them turning the page. Many authors are usually moved to the point of writing a review whether it was good or bad.
What Is An Editorial Review?
An editorial review is usually provided as a service to the author by a professional editor or for example an English professor. It is a critique of your work where plot development, character development as well as grammar are rated. An editorial review is usually requested when trying to determine if your story is ready for print or even if it needs more work. In most cases the editor is not there to judge if your story is good or not. They are simply looking to make the technical or mechanical parts of your story work together properly. An Editorial review is a learning experience for the author.
Which Review is Best for Me?
Editorial reviews are best during the editing stages of your manuscript. They are capable of providing you with much needed insight into your writing. They can also help you understand your literary weaknesses and point out your strengths as well. A book review is best after the book is complete and print ready. It is what makes a difference in book sales and what ignites word of mouth marketing which we all know is the best marketing there is. So the next time you’re looking for a review determine which stage of the writing game you are in and then approach the best person for the task. Don’t ask an editor for the personal opinion of your work when asking for their professional opinion. In some cases they may love the story enough to tell you themselves. Don’t ask a book review about your character development or lack thereof because they in some cases may not be qualified to give you a professional opinion.
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