About the Talking Points Folder

[Ella]

While we don't want to encourage people to find controversy or court it, it seems controversy has come to our little part of the book world and doesn't plan to go away. As such, we thought a place to hold these discussions might be helpful, so that's what Talking Points aims to be: a place (folder) to discuss issues (in threads) that crop up with the books we read, the types of books we read, publishers etc, articles, the latest book-world drama or news. Basically things that don't fit into any of our already-existing folders and threads.

It need not be actual controversy! More general topics, for instance extended author discussions, etc are all welcome here and of course everyone will be cordial amidst our spirited discussion!

With some basic guidelines, of course (and we reserve the right to change this at will, should it be required.)

Folder Guidelines
1) Start a new thread for a new topic. Stay on topic.
2) Think about the types of books, publishers, authors, etc our group discusses -- if it fits into the general scheme of The Mookse and the Gripes, it's welcome here. Just try to stay within the rubric of our group.

Thread Guidelines
1) Be decent and considerate - even while having a spirited discussion.
2) No ad hominem attacks are tolerated in this group as a whole: this is true of this folder obviously.
3) Try to assume the best about other people. If someone says something you find offensive, ask that person to clarify, keep several grains of salt handy and breathe deeply. If need be, PM a moderator.
4) Threads should be kept as much to the original topic as humanly possible.

One more reminder: Cordiality, decency, general good humor, consideration of others' viewpoints, passion, reason etc should all be par for the course in this group as a whole, but are especially important here.

Edited b/c months later I realized I failed at counting...