Why Your Book Review Matters
For me, the hardest part of self-publishing is, well, the self-promotion. I tell anyone who asks, writing is the easiest part! But marketing, particularly selling myself, can be a challenge. I'd like to think it's because of my background in journalism, where you're trained to keep yourself out of the story and out of the spotlight. But the truth is, when it comes to self-promotion, I think this is something everyone struggles with.
So here's my "shameless" plug to you, the reader: please leave a review! Its part of the reading process where your words take power. What did you think of the book? What stood out to you about the characters? Should others pick it up? Is it worth the read? As the author, I can beat on my chest and beg others to read my work, but as the actual reader, its your words that will have the most impact at the end of the day.
And trust me, that review means so much more than just a free advertisement...
Joining the Dialogue
I've always enjoyed movies, but since the pandemic ended, I've really enjoyed going to the movie theater. I don't really know why. Going to the theater wasn't something I did terribly often pre-2020, but now I have a theater pass and watch 4-6 movies a month... seriously!
I use this app called Letterboxd to track my watches. I can add movies to a diary, give it a 1-5 star rating, indicate whether I'd watch again (or if its a repeat watch) and give it a written review.
It gives me an opportunity to think critically about what I just watched. There's a lot to deconstruct beyond the story, from the acting, to the cinematography, use of lighting, sound etc. How did it all come together, and how did it make me feel? Not to sound like a snob, but when it comes to consuming any kind of media or art, we should reflect on these things. It's important for our own spiritual health, and the health of society as a whole.
Add my Letterboxd if you'd like, agfree6!
And my thoughts are shared with the online world!! The experience becomes communal. Not only do I get to see what my friends are watching, I can see what the community thinks of any particular movie. Not only does that help me find amazing movies, but I become part of that dialogue, which creates a shared experience with a bunch of strangers I've never even met.
Sure, leaving an Amazon review isn't as romantic. But whether its a movie or a kitchen gadget, isn't it nice having a community to rely on to help you make the right choices?
By the way, there are similar platforms for readers, such as Goodreads and Fable! In fact, you've likely heard of Goodreads. If you don't have an account yet, I strongly encourage giving it a try! (And giving Wis' Apothecary a review while you're there!)
Sending it Back
Wis' Apothecary always has, and likely always will be, just a passion project. I don't have any grand ambitions of getting on the New York Times Bestseller list or becoming an overnight success. And as nice as it might be to dream about these scenarios, the truth is I don't have the time, resources or drive to make that happen.
I write simply because I enjoy it. I love the world I created, I love trying to see that world from Isabel's point-of-view and I quickly become attached to each and every character that enters the apothecary, from wise teachers to immortal vampires. Most importantly, it's just a fun way to express myself.
At the same time, because I created something, I want to share it. Isn't that natural? I'm proud of what I've put out into the world, and its the kind words, emails and comments I've gotten along the way that keep me going!
Around October of 2022, I got a Goodreads review from someone who said her daughter wanted to be Isabel for Halloween. She was kind enough to send me this photo! I was blown away, and really so touched.
When I read a review, I don't celebrate because I think it'll translate into more sales. I celebrate because it validates what I put out into the universe. What I poured into the book was received, appreciated and had some kind of impact on the reader. That makes me really happy! I wrote something, and that moved someone to reflect and share their own reflections with the world.
Now, truthfully, there is a practical component: where was the writing weakest? How can I improve? What storylines resonated with the reader, and which didn't? Which characters need to return? Cloud Chronicles, for example, returned in book two solely due to popular demand!
Even if the review isn't particularly glowing, to me, it's the ultimate compliment and kindest form of praise.
Building Each Other Up
So yes, your review matters! It's not only noticed, but it's wanted and appreciated.
Does it support the author? Of course. I can romanticize the review process all I want, but at the end of the day, we can't ignore why reviews exist in the first place. Nonetheless, that community feedback matters! And if you enjoyed what you read, what's the harm in throwing them that support anyway?
It doesn't take long. And it certainly doesn't cost anything. But it goes a long way in influencing the dialogue! Here, your words have all the power.
This doesn't just apply to books and movies, either. Reviews help my senseis build their karate dojo. Reviews help my friends in freelance find more work. Reviews have an impact!!
If you've got a friend that is an artist, or a musician or a small business owner... give them a review! For you, it might only cost ten minutes. But for them, it'll mean the world!
Thanks for reading, until next time!!
Comments