If you’ve been hanging around this blog for a while, you’ve probably noticed that I don’t write negative book reviews. It’s certainly true that I don’t love everything I read; I don’t even like everything I read. And yet, I almost always* choose to highlight the positive.
Here’s why…
1. I’m a writer — part of the writing community — and I don’t feel comfortable offering unsolicited public critique of my peers’ work.
2. I believe every book has its readers. Even if I don’t connect with a story, I can almost always point to its positive attributes, and hope the right reader picks it up.
3. There’s plenty of unpleasantness in the world as is, especially these days. I don’t have time or energy to waste on negativity. I prefer to celebrate books I love, rather than bash books I don’t enjoy.
This isn’t to say that negative reviews are bad. While I appreciate enthusiastic praising when it comes to stories, I also see great value in thoughtful criticisms. That’s just not what I do here.
It’s simple, really. I boost books — particularly the books I love.
And you know what? It feels really good. 💙
*If I notice problematic (racist, sexist, homophobic, etc) content, I’ll say so.
katyupperman.com 
“I prefer to celebrate books I love, rather than bash books I don’t enjoy.” That is such a beautiful way to view the world and lead one’s life. Continue being a beacon of optimism and positivity! 🙂
Thanks so much, Josiah! That’s the goal. 🙂
😊
I honestly don’t write reviews for this same reason. I star rate them more for my memory, but some books just aren’t in my wheelhouse. That doesn’t mean I don’t think others would like them. As I’ve also said on many occasions too, a good book is one that gets someone to read. I don’t like some authors, say one that rhymes with Tames Tatterson, but it gets people reading. How is that a bad thing?