I've always loved to read. Even as a little kid I was an avid reader. Some of my favorite times were spent at the local library. My mom used to take us for a walk into town and we'd stop at the library. She always brought along a bag for us to fill with our chosen books and she'd make sure to read them all to us over and over again. We'd spend hours in the kid's section, looking for books and playing with the puppets and toys. Those were fun times and they also built a firm foundation for us as children. By doing these things with us, I now realize that my mom was telling us how important reading is in our lives. Good job, Mom!
So now, when I'm older, I love finding a good book that I can lose myself in. I'm fortunate, in that I enjoy all types of books - all genres, basically. Just as long as it's good. And, by good I mean that it needs to have a strong plot, some unexpected twists and turns, and some really great characters who are fully developed, relatable and likable. If I spend time choosing a book and reading it and it doesn't deliver for me I feel cheated.
I'd much rather write a positive review than write a negative one. In fact, I HATE giving a book a bad review. I know that some author has put his or her heart and soul into writing that book and it hurts when people criticize what they've done. Sometimes I'm torn about whether I should write a book when I know it'll be negative. But what keeps me from shying away from writing a negative review is that I know a lot of readers (myself included) rely on reviews to choose their books. If I go easy on a book just because I don't want to hurt an author's feelings is that really fair to other readers? No, it's not. And I really don't want to forgo writing a negative review altogether because I've already invested a certain amount of time and money on the book.
My reasons for blogging about books doesn't always involve book reviews. Sometimes it's just to spread the word about a new book I've heard about. Or it's about writing in general. There are many other avid readers out there. There are many independent authors looking for ways to promote their books. I'm always willing to connect with authors and other readers. Blogging is a great way to do that.
How about you? If you also blog about books, why do you do it? I'm interested in hearing your thoughts! Leave me a comment below.
Bob
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