Newsletter #1 Afraid to Review

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Angel News on Reviews!

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Notes From the Editor’s Desk:
Our mission is to discuss the many concerns, techniques, and aspects of reviewing.  While our main focus will be to help you improve the quality of your review, no effort is to big or too small.  Writing.com is more than a site, it is a community centered around helping and encouraging writers of all skill levels.  Let your voice be heard.  Support and help your fellow authors by letting them know what you think!

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Why the stigma surrounding reviews?

In talking to our leader, iKïyå§ama , one thing rang louder than the rest.  It is a sentiment that echoes throughout the community.  People are afraid to review.  But why?

We’ve all felt that nervous excitement upon receiving a review.  I will admit, there are times when the results were maybe not what we expected.  Us writers often have large egos!  It is the same for everyone.  All writers experience a wide range of highs and lows throughout their career.  Reviewers can expect the same.  Though, I will say, in my experience, reviewing tends to have far less bumps!  So, I ask again, why the fear?

Backlash is the most common answer.  Fear of retaliation.  Are the majority of people on WDC that immature?  This has not been my experience.  Not at all.  I’ve given over 1400 reviews, many of them detailed.  While I have had the occasional rate and run, so have we all.  I doubt this is a result of a review, and I’ve never experienced a personal backlash.  Sometimes the author explains their reasons.  Sometimes I am wrong.  But hey, it’s okay to be human and I’ve certainly never encountered anything I would consider wrath.  If you handle people, and their writing, with honesty and respect, nine and a half times out of ten, you will get the same.

I look at this in two ways.  One, know your writer.  Take a second or two to read their bio and browse their port.  If they are young or tender, be gentle.  This doesn’t mean to lie and throw out fives like candy at a parade just to encourage them, but you may not want to give them a detailed review pointing out all the flaws.  If an item is posted here and has a rate or review option, they are seeking comments.  Some people will ask for gentle reviews, some for in-depth.  If they are seeking help for a contest or publication, it’s time to buckle down and help this writer be the best they can be.  (We should be doing this anyway.)

Two.  This may sound harsh, but it’s the truth.  We need to learn to take things in stride.  Writers and reviewers alike.  Many of us have an eye on the prize.  It’s a dog eat dog world out there and if best-selling authors like King and Rice get slaughtered by critics, we are not immune.  Do Not go out there and cut people down with rude or insulting comments.  But be honest.  Point out what didn’t work for you and praise the things that did.  Competition is tough.  With many people competing for a small slot, whether it be for a contest here, or a seat in the publishing world, you will find most authors are grateful for any insight or help you can give them.  This is a business that requires you to work with others and handle those dealings with a level of maturity and grace.

Experience and Qualification is another common rebuttal.  If you can read it, you are qualified!  It’s as simple as that.  No one expects you to write a novel length review (though some authors might love you for life if you do!) People post in hopes of hearing someone’s thoughts outside of their family and friends.  A simple rundown of what you liked and how it made you feel will make anyone’s day.  If something felt rough or uncertain to you, a brief note on this will also help the author.  Simply put, everyone is capable of expressing their thoughts or feelings.  This makes you qualified just as much as anyone else!  Your opinions as a reader = the most valuable tool a writer has.

We learn by doing.  It is my hope that this newsletter will offer helpful advice as well as encouragement to reviewers of all skill levels.  Just remember to be polite and honest, include positives to go with any negatives, and if you read it, let the author know!

I promise, you will be alright and you might just make someone’s day. 

Best wishes,
Adriana

Helpful Links

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Questions, comments, or suggestions?
Please feel free to send them here. 

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