Rating and Reviewing Books
My approach to rating books is on a scale of three, four, and five stars. First off, I’m always scouting for titles that I hope will enlighten and compel me to give them four or five stars along with an accompanying stellar review. It’s what I want to happen with every book—to have a reading experience that transports me, lifts my spirits, and makes me encounter the world with more compassion and understanding. The inevitability is that not every book makes me want to celebrate it as brilliant. However, even if I’m not thrilled with a book or if I dislike it, there is always something worthwhile or redeeming about it, which makes me appreciate it on some level. That to me earns or deserves at least three stars. When I’m struggling to get into a book, I consider if the problem is me. Perhaps I am unable to connect with the writer’s voice or find a rhythm with his or her style. In these cases, I often give a three-star rating to the book and move on to the next.
Stephen King once said that if you’re unable to engage with a book, wish the author the best and find another title that suits you better. If I offer a review on a three-star book, it is with a constructive outlook because it’s probably me who fails to relate to the writer’s vision. Besides, I know how hard writers work to compose their books. I respect how much time and effort has been put aside and sacrificed. It is a commitment and an achievement to complete a book or any art form for that matter. In the end, it must be remembered that all art is subjective. Readers’ reactions to books will run the gamut from love to hate. My hope would be for every book I pick up to be one I love, eliciting a four or five star rating and review. The reality is we cannot like everything, and there is nothing wrong with that. It doesn’t mean the book is horrible and warrants a one or two star rating and a scathing review. Approach each book as a piece of art that has some value. If it does not appeal to you or fit your tastes, don’t condemn it and crucify the author. Think about his or her effort and move on to the next.
Roger 8-)
Stephen King once said that if you’re unable to engage with a book, wish the author the best and find another title that suits you better. If I offer a review on a three-star book, it is with a constructive outlook because it’s probably me who fails to relate to the writer’s vision. Besides, I know how hard writers work to compose their books. I respect how much time and effort has been put aside and sacrificed. It is a commitment and an achievement to complete a book or any art form for that matter. In the end, it must be remembered that all art is subjective. Readers’ reactions to books will run the gamut from love to hate. My hope would be for every book I pick up to be one I love, eliciting a four or five star rating and review. The reality is we cannot like everything, and there is nothing wrong with that. It doesn’t mean the book is horrible and warrants a one or two star rating and a scathing review. Approach each book as a piece of art that has some value. If it does not appeal to you or fit your tastes, don’t condemn it and crucify the author. Think about his or her effort and move on to the next.
Roger 8-)
No comments have been added yet.
