Do you 'Draw The Line' on what type of book you'll read and review?

[Lynda Coker]

We all have those invisible lines of preference, taste, and morality. How do you handle yours as you read, review, and blog?

[Sophie]

I pretty much read and blog about what I like, which is a healthy mix of nonfiction, bios and fiction.

[Noel]

In my case, I can and will review anything.

Now, let me follow that by saying that my preferred genres are science fiction, fantasy, and graphic novels. But that's not ALL I read...it's just what I read the most. I do have genres that I don't generally get involved with -- romance and western, for example. But that doesn't mean that I wouldn't try it if someone asked. I'm pretty good about retaining an objective outlook on what I'm reading. I may not like vampires or romance novels as a general rule, but I'll give a book about either one a shot -- I'll judge it according to what I expect of a good novel, what it does that other books in the same genres don't, or what cliches it over-works, if any.

As far as content, I'm really not easily offended. There's very little that I'll refuse to read. Although, in one particular case, I did read a book that was both badly written (or rather, in SERIOUS need of editing) AND had characters that were so horribly stereotypical and self-degrading that I had a really hard time finishing it. Then I was sent the sequel, which I DIDN'T finish...it was quite the frustrating story. Though I suspect that, had it been better written, I might have managed to tolerate it more.

[Sheila DeChantal]

Hi Linda,

Yes. I learned really fast in this world of book blogging that there are books out there that I just am not interested in reading. When I started receiving emails for such books I was stumped on how to handle this as I did not want to offend the author and just because the book was not something I would enjoy, I am sure that there are many wonderful bloggers out there that would love to read the book.

I discussed this with a couple wonderful bloggers who were more established than I, and they suggested that I have a review policy. I put that together right away and that has been very beneficial.

In the policy I have:

The genres I like to read - and a list of those I will not read

What an author/publisher can expect out of a review from me

time frame for review (approx)

Here is a link to my review policy

This has really bee helpful to me and I suggest that all book bloggers have one. I keep this on my sidebar and it is linked to my books tab as well.

[Lynda Coker]

This is very helpful, thanks for sharing.

[Wayne Hurlbert]

I usually review nonfiction, especially business, economics, history, and science book, but I also review literary fiction, and participate in many book tours. Many of the books in those tours could even be classified as "chicklit", but I'm not even sure what that term really means. I read many books where women are the main characters.

I have added more fiction to my review list, but then, overall I am writing more reviews of more books than ever before. That increased volume includes more fiction and nonfiction.

[Patricia Ramirez]

I hate the idea of censorship when it comes to what authors write and/or what I read. I am very difficult to offend, and therefore will generally review any book I receive, regardless of subjec matter. However, if I am posting a review on a book that contains content that I feel that the majority of my followers may find objectionable, I do include a disclaimer somewhere in my review. Something like "Warning: This book contained an EXTREMELY graphic sex scene midway through" or something to that effect.

[Stacey R. (AKA Aubrey)]

I try to only ask for books that sound good to me. If in the end it has material that I personally cringe at or don't like then I will make the decision whether or not to keep reading. Usually I do finish books however. I give the authors the benefit of the doubt that it will be something I like in the end since the premise was something that interested me.

However, I also have to be honest in my reviews and then let people know that there was, in my opinion, questionable content. I think the readers of my blog appreciate my opinion and agree with my thoughts for the most part, or they wouldn't be following my blog and reading it.

I also always try to be respectful to the author about it though. Just because I disagree with content doesn't mean it isn't a book worth reading to someone else.

[Debbie]

I'll try any genre if the plot of the novel sounds interesting. Of course I have my favorite genres, but I've also read some really great books outside of those genre. My only restriction is that I don't like books with a lot of bad language written out (about two or less bad words per chapter is okay, but two on more on every page is not) or explicit sex scenes. I don't find these things offensive; I just don't enjoy reading them. And, since there are so many good books out there that met my reading preferences, why bother reading something I know I don't enjoy? :)

In my reviews, I do take into account the genre. For example, I generally don't nit-pick about crime scene information being off in a romance (that never claimed to have suspense) whereas I would point out a crime scene problems in a suspense or thriller.

[EclecticBookWorm]

I really am not picky when it comes to books. I'll read almost anything so I have found that I can be pretty objective when I write a review as I'm not really biased against one genre or another. If I didn't enjoy the book I will simply state my personal opinion, whether it be "purple prose" or crude scenes or dialogue. It's great to stick within your favored genre if you really enjoy it but I find it breaks up the monotony to venture outside a bit....And if you do, review the book! It might help others who are in the same position to decide if that book is one they want to read!

[Derek]

Since I'm only blogging for fun, and not as a professional book reviewer, whatever I read is simply something I'm interested. If it interests me, I'll read it. If it doesn't, I won't!

[haley mathiot]

I have a little policy post on my blog that says what i will and won't accept.

[Lynda Coker]

That eliminates problems for everyone. Thanks for sharing