Well, I have finally bitten the bullet and created a page of my own so I can move into the 21st century on firm ground. I started writing reviews after a mad and tempestuous relationship with my Kindle, which, being an older model (like me) is getting rather full these days. Once I realized I post reviews of my own for those books I really really liked or really really hated - I just don't see the sense in talking much about average books - I starting getting nice feedback, especially from some of the wonderful authors whose works I have enjoyed.
After a while, I discovered Goodreads also, and started posting there, and have made some more good friends who lead me in some interesting directions with books and writers I have missed, not wanted to give a chance, or just plain haven't gotten around to reading.
So, here I am, testing the waters, hoping at least one more person might be interested in what I have to say.
My purpose is to highlight those books, writers, or people who I find along my way that mean something to me, touch me, make me curious, move me, maybe even piss me off. The fact that a writer opens his or her heart enough to share their talent with us is remarkable. they should be acknowledged, congratulated, and encouraged to share again, grow, and bless us with their labors.
It has to be hard to open yourself up to the scrutiny of having your every thought second guessed. I am not sure my ego could take it, but I know some terrific people who create works of beauty, and, by God, they need to know that someone is noticing and cares. If you enjoy something they write, tell them. You don't have to be as eloquent as they are - I know for a fact that many would love a simple "Thank you, your work meant something to me".
And if you want to, agree with me about something I like, disagree with me, call me an idiot, but interact if you wish. Fell free to make recommendations about something you particularly like or want me to take a look at or highlight. And while I know a few of you talented writers, feel free to introduce yourselves to me and say hi. I would be happy to introduce you to others out there,
Tom
Also known as a Big Ol' Bear
*bear hug*
ReplyDeletexx
Great blog, Tom! You'r reviews are well written and insightful. I have such a hard time with reviews, even though I'm a writer, I don't feel like I ever know how to articulate intelligently why I enjoyed a book. Looks like you're off to a great starts, and I look forward to having you review me someday. :)
ReplyDeleteAnd my goodness, you were a freaking adorable baby!
Congratulations on the blog.
ReplyDeleteAnd, yes, writers should always be interested in what a reader has to say about any book, not just their own.
Best of luck. I know I'll be checking in now and then to see what you're up to simply because true honesty and sincerity deserves to be read and respected.
Good luck with your new review blog, Tom *g*. I'll be reading your entries with interest.
ReplyDeleteChris
Thank to everyone. I hope you enjoy what I have to say. If not, that's okay too. I think a gay male voice is needed, and while I will be choosing to focus on the positive and what I like, don't think I am a pushover.
ReplyDeleteTom
Looks great!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth
GREAT blog Tom!! Well said, as always. I, for one, truly enjoy reading your reviews. Many of them have inspired me to read books that I had not thought of reading previously.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work!
Sharon
Tom,
ReplyDeleteYou have a terrific blog and you are one of my resources for Ebook Review Central. Thanks for all of your great work.
Marlene
Marlene,
DeleteThank you so much!!! I appreciate your kind words, and am proud to be a resource!
Tom
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ReplyDelete