Are You a Real Reader?

Are You a Real Reader?

I wanted to draw a bit of attention to readers this week. This is a writing site for writers, but it’s also for those who just want to read, review and become involved in that way.

What would this site be if not for those members who just love to read? Writers are busy writing and have little time left for reading, but they want to be read. That is easily seen by the low number of reviews given to items posted in The Grill. (the group only review forum)

I have no burning desire to be published, but I enjoy writing. Surprised? Does anyone else dare admit it? I know I’m not the only one. I like to write articles, like this newsletter, but writing fiction is out of the question. I don’t have the patience needed to learn all I would need to know to write a decent piece. Anyone can learn to write, but it takes a natural talent to write well enough to publish. So, the next best thing is reading the work of writers who burn to be published and help when we can.

Borrowing a famous phrase from Jessiebelle™ #I cringe whenever I read a piece on reviewers that includes something about checking out the reviewers writing. Can this reviewer write well enough to review me? I feel embarrassed because I know most write better than I do.

# "Are You Qualified to Write a Review?"   by Jessiebelle™

But, why should I feel guilty? There are many good readers who know how to read comprehensively, to see the style the writers are going for, but can’t write themselves. Some leave their ports empty. I wonder if it’s because they are like me? Maybe, maybe not. It really doesn’t matter.

I would like to see more of us call ourselves what we are - readers - and not be made to feel less qualified because we don’t write perfectly. Readers are equally as important as writers when reviewing those who need feedback. After all, we are the buyers of published writers. We know what readers like. You have to be a prolific reader to write well, but you don’t have to be a prolific writer to read well. Yes? No? Comments welcome.


Thanks so much for reading.

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