Debating "The Kite Runner"

[Andrew]

Once every six months an article appears in a publication that runs book reviews accusing book reviews in general of either needless negativity or cheerleading. Both sides of this fake-debate (invented to garner page views) are right. At Grappling Book, we've got a solution: do both.

Our new book blog "Re-bates" will publish book reviews in the form of debates, with one side arguing for the importance/greatness/worth-the-time-to-read-iness of the book in question and the other explaining why the same work tarnishes the human tradition of putting words on paper.

We're looking for writers willing to take a strong stance in a combative conversation with other writers; and right now, we're particularly looking for someone who loved The Kite Runner and might like to take up it's defense. PM if that might be you.

[Monty J]

Andrew wrote: "Once every six months an article appears in a publication that runs book reviews accusing book reviews in general of either needless negativity or cheerleading. Both sides of this fake-debate (inve..."

What's the pay?

[Andrew]

Low if any, unfortunately! Would that we lived in a world where arguing in public was a profitable venture. Remains fun though.

[Thomas]

Hmmm I did a thing ages ago I called the Rave and Scathe - wasn't in debate format but unleashing both my needless negativity and inner cheerleader about a book, then people were to vote on which was the better review.

[Stephen]

I can see the need, particularly with this book which has a number of negative reviews leading the popularity list.

Personally, I rated the book 5 stars and countered a few of the criticisms in my review. http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/... Please feel free to read and/or use it in your Re-bate.