Two Hats
I've finished the revisions for Zach & Zoe in Double Trouble, and yesterday I emailed them to the publisher. Now it's time to vacuum, dust, clean the bathroom, and do some laundry. Yes, as preposterous as that sounds, we famous writer types still get to do housework and other mundane tasks. Ugh. But if I get right on it and don't procrastinate (ha!), I could be done in a couple of hours and then ...
I can curl up with a book -- not just for my reading pleasure, mind you (although I'm happy to say I'm enjoying the book so far) -- but with a critical eye to the writing of it, because this is a book I'm supposed to review. I've been reviewing young adult and juvenile fiction since 2000, and during that time I've written reviews for a number of journals, including Quill & Quire and Books in Canada. The bulk of my reviewing has been for CM Magazine and The Canadian Book Review Annual.
Most writers look forward to reviews, holding their breath and crossing their fingers that the reviewer's take on what they've written is -- if not an actual rave -- at least positive. However, not all writers are in favour of having their books reviewed by a fellow writer -- conflict of interest and all that. They would rather be critiqued by a librarian, teacher, journalist, bookseller, or writing student.
I can understand that, and in a way I even sort of agree. On the other hand, who better knows the craft of writing than another writer? The sad truth is that there is a real shortage of reviewers out there, and if you remove those who are themselves writers, some books might be in danger of not being reviewed at all.
The trick to being a writer/reviewer is maintaining your objectivity. As I read I am contantly reminding myself not to be influenced by my personal taste, but to focus on the author's ability to tell a good story. Does it flow? Are the characters well-drawn? Is it credible? Does it target the right audience? Does the plot work? Are there gaps? Is it original? Is it energetic and innovative? Is the imagery vivid? Does the style suit the subject? And so on.
There is a definite advantage for writers when another writer reviews their books. Kindness. No author likes to feel the sharp edge of a reviewer's tongue, and as a writer/reviewer, I'm very aware of that. Confucious says, "Do unto others ..." So when I write reviews -- no matter how awful I might have found the book -- I try to make my criticisms as constructive as possible, and I make sure I find something positive to say too.
So what's in it for me? Not money, that's for sure. Some periodicals pay, but for the most part I work for free. I get to keep the books, though I tend to give them away. My reward is knowing I'm providing a service for the writing community of which I am a part. Reading other writers' works also helps me stay on top of what's happening out there, and best of all, I get to read some really great books -- hot off the press.