How to Write a Negative Book Review
We need half stars please, Goodreads
Welcome to one of our additional written guides for this season's ‘Curriculum'. If you are unfamiliar with what that is, let me catch you up!
The Curriculum is a supplemental series we run alongside the podcast season. The main difference being that it is for our paid subs here on Substack.
What does it include? Exclusive episodes (full list of this season's available to read here), written guides, and premiere access to exciting and upcoming content. It's academia, but it's fun. We hope.
This week, we bring you:
“How to Write a Negative Book Review: Balancing Honesty and Respect”
Because we have all been there. We read a book, either as a physical or digital proof that we must review in exchange for, and it just isn't living up to expectations. Or that book that has been on your TBR for months finally gets cracked open and… Whomp, whomp. It really misses the mark.
Maybe it needs further proofreading, perhaps there is a massive plot hole, or the characters and narrative style isn't working for you.
It's ok to leave a negative review. Whether that feedback is going straight to the publisher, or being made public on a blog or reviewing app/website, there is a way to handle it with grace and mindfulness, while also being truthful.
Read on to learn how…
Writing a negative book review can feel like walking a fine line. On one hand, readers value your honest opinion, and constructive criticism helps future readers make informed choices. On the other, it’s important to maintain a respectful tone, recognising the time and effort that the author poured into their work, and accepting that sometimes a book just isn't for you. Here’s a guide to navigating the delicate art of writing a negative review effectively and respectfully.