Spawned from the Big Sis, Little Blog program, Book Blogging 101 was born. Do you have a question? Leave it in the comments section or email me parajunkee at gmail dot com
Q: Should I pick a “template” for my review style?
When I first started reviewing I just sort of went with the flow, I did short paragraph reviews and lengthy 10 paragraph reviews, depending on how I felt at the time. I had no set style and I guess it worked for me then. But devising and refining a review template made my life so much easier and gave me something to start with -- in turn it made me review the book easier. I don’t know about better, but it works for me.
Once I started actively “stalking” other bloggers I began recognizing their styles and the way they handled their reviews. Some I like, some I’m not to fond of, really it all a matter of preference.
The big thing about blogging is finding your voice, you style. If a “go-by” on how you review works for you, go for it. If you are looking to set up a style, try it out. You can do it any way you like, you can even change it up if you want.
My main PRO regarding a template is it gives me an outline on how to set up my review so I have the first step down before anything. Usually with that first step in place everything comes out easily.
Q: What should I include in my reviews? Is there something that shouldn’t be left out, something that should be left out?
Once again, personal preference. The one thing that I think should be in every review is your opinion and feelings about the book. The reason you are writing this review is because you have some thoughts on the book, right? So what are those thoughts.
Oh and of course, the little bit about where you got the book is required. If the book was given to you for review you need to disclose that you did receive it for review.
i.e. This book was provided for review by the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
Things that can be in a review:
• A synopsis
• Your opinion on the story line
• Recommendations, who would like this book
• Your rating
• Information on how to purchase the book
• Information on the book, publisher, pages, ISBD etc.
• Author bio/info
• Promotional items regarding the book, like book trailers
• The book cover
• Links to the books web page, author’s blog etc.
• Pictures of you reading the book in stunned appreciation
• Skits of barbies and GI JOES acting out scenes from the book..... ;)
What are your thoughts about any of these items in a review? I’ve heard some people rant about a synopsis. I’m not particularly stuck either way. I will usually skip over a regurgitated synopsis (when a synopsis is copy and pasted from goodreads or amazon) and just read the review part. I usually make sure that I surmise the book in my own words - but sometimes this can be hard to not reveal spoilers.
I'm not saying that this post will warrant as much discussion as former posts...but a few posted their own follow-up posts in response to this one...so to make it easier, I've attached a Mr. Linky. If you posted in response to this one...link it up.
