Once more into the breach...Kidlit book reviews

9/22/2014

Once more unto the breach,
dear friends, once more.

~ Shakespeare's Henry V

Well, once again I’m jumping into something new, and I don’t know where it will take me: I just added a book review tab to my website.

Yep, I’ll be reviewing the occasional children’s book of approximately 100 pages, written for pre-school - 6th grade.

Kinda nervous but excited.

I want to support my fellow Indie authors. I remember how hard it was for me to find reviewers, especially when I first started writing. I was so grateful for anyone who gave me the time of day! I want to pay that forward.

Picture: Bottle washed up on a beach with a note sticking out that says,

Photo: Morguefile

I want to support my fellow Indie authors. I remember how hard it was for me to find reviewers, especially when I first started writing. I was so grateful for anyone who gave me the time of day! I want to pay that forward.

However, I’ve been turning down review requests because the day isn’t long enough to write, tend to social media posts, and have a balanced life outside of writing. But there’s more to it than the time crunch most of us experience these days. Readers expect honest reviews and professionally published books---by that, I mean books written by traditional and Indie authors. Pressure’s on.

I understand the flip side, too: the soul and sweat authors pour into writing or illustrating a book. I dread the thought of dashing any author’s dream if I could not give his or her book a favorable review. Anguish and gnashing of teeth.

Yet, Indie writers are professionals who are held to the same standard as authors supported by a publishing firm and having a full staff of editors, marketers, and graphic/tech gurus that make writing life easier.

I’ve been noodling over how to offer an occasional honest review and still continue to have time to write, feel at peace with myself, celebrate Indies, and not crush anyone’s hopes. Did I already mention feeling stressed?

Eureka! I came up with a query process and review policy that I hope will accomplish my goals. In a nutshell, I’ll only complete and post reviews that I believe are deserving of a very good or excellent rating. If I believe a book to be rated as fair, I will quietly, gently let that author know why I cannot write a review.

I don’t want to come off like the Grumpy Cat. I’m just trying to offer authentic reviews for all involved. Gulp. Deep breath. Really nervous but still going for it.

You can take a peek at my review policy.

Review Policy

And a wee drum roll….
Might you check out my first post on my new review page, and let me know what you think in the comments below?

kid lit book reviews by cat michaels

Thanks for stopping by.
Happy tales and all the best with your writerly journey.

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9 Comments

Leigh

9/22/2014 10:01:48 am

Love it Cat! How wonderful! Too bad my book is too long to request a review from you, but sooo many Indies out there will (and do) benefit from your time and talent!!

Cat Michaels

9/22/2014 01:42:29 pm

Thanks, Leigh. New territory for me but very exciting. Might John Bloom's rewrite be very close to 100 pages -:D.?

Cool Mom for The Stanley & Katrina Gang link

9/22/2014 10:17:09 am

Great policy. We found out the hard way the problem with saying "Yes" to reviewing a book only to find that there is no way you can put your stamp of approval on it. It puts you in a very difficult position. You are wise to think about that early. We'll be sharing. Great post!

9/22/2014 02:07:04 pm

You nailed the dilemma! Hopefully, setting out rating expectations in advance will make for honest reviews that are comfy and authentic for all.

Eiry Rees Thomas link

9/22/2014 10:42:47 am

A well-thought out initiative, Cat. Looking forward to reading the reviews and getting to know the authors and their books.

9/22/2014 01:48:06 pm

Eiry, It is definitely a learning experience and great way to connect with other writers.

Jaclyn Bartz link

9/22/2014 11:08:54 am

Congrats and best wishes on your newest adventure. As a fellow author and book reviewer, it is not the easiest task juggling writing and reviewing. But as long as a reasonable schedule is set, there are no limits to building a fulfilling career while helping others. Thank you for offering this wonderful service. :) You'll do great!

9/22/2014 01:51:30 pm

Jaclyn, I appreciate the words of encouragement, especially from some who's in the thick of it. I will need to perfect my calendar-keeping for sure.

Carmela Dutra link

10/1/2014 08:28:53 am

I think that's perfect Cat! We've all started off in the same boat trying to get our name and books out there. It's hard because you want to help everyone you can, but some books just aren't quite there yet. Your honesty though can really help them. If they are sincere and want honest reviews they will accept what you say as constructive.

You go girlfriend!

Cat's Corner