scijessreads

I thought I would share what goes into sharing and reviewing the books and book-related stuff I post around here. I have always treated social media (and blogging here is definitely a form of social media) with a relatively light hand. It’s a chance for me to share my thoughts with whomever finds it. It also gives me an outlet to explore new ideas and see things differently than I might have on my own. I try not to read too much into what I post or others post, and am more an observer and a cheerleader for things that I like or feel like I can contribute a small piece to.

When it comes to books, these are the thoughts I have on what and why I post what I do. I have always been a reader, and only recently have I been given the opportunity to do it in a more directed fashion with ARC reading. I fit books into my life, and not the other way around. Which is what works for me. And I will continue to explore this new direction of things for as long as it fills a little piece of my soul and makes me happy.

First, I share what I love. If I read something that resonates (in any capacity), I want to share that in case others are looking for something similar. It givesme joy when someone else loves a book I did. Maybe it’s a form of love language…

As I have been reading more ARCs over the last two years, it is also a major place (outside of Goodreads) for me to promote these books. Even with ARCs I did not entirely click with, I try to share what I liked, and what others may like about it. Every book has an audience, even if it’s not always me.

Not every book I read gets its’ own post. So, monthly recaps help me share all of what I’ve managed to read in a month. This is also where I can share any rereads as well. Each recap ends up taking on a bit of a different format, but I do love sharing the favorites and everything else.

Most of the time, however, what I share is just “vibes.” Most of how I review books is also based on feeling much more than details and format. A book that clicks with me can get a higher review than one that maybe technically perfect, but did not steal a piece of my soul.

As far as reviews go, overall I’ve moved away from star ratings on any platform other than Goodreads/Netgalley (where they are *somewhat* required). I can convey more with my own words how I felt than a star rating ever could. Because sometimes there are “3 star” books that I love and reread. I compared it before to food. Food can be delicious and fun, but maybe isn’t the best thing I’ve ever eaten. Doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it though, and wouldn’t eat it again. Same goes for books and stars.

There it is. My process. That isn’t really a process.

How do you read/review books and share to social media?