More than Just a Rating discussion

Most of my reviews are just my opinion, but should there be more? Should I put things in like what ages would like it, summaries, etc.?

I don't think there is a rigid rule about what your review should have. It's your space to talk about the book. It's as long or as short as you'd like it to be. Only comment I would make is that ideally it should explain why you gave the book a certain numerical/star rating.

Thanks. :)

Raevyn wrote: "Thanks. :)"

You're welcome! :)

I agree that there's no 'should' at all.
However, if you *want* to write more, lots of stuff could fit. I'll make a list for convenience, but *please* don't look at like it's an assignment or anything. :)

1. Age level of intended audience vs. age level of appeal. For example: "This book is supposed to appeal to upper teens, but it's ok for kids as young as 9 imo." "This book is aimed at kids, but I think everyone would like it."

2. Yuck factor. I'm not a prude, honest, but I don't like gratuitous swearing, or child abuse, or teens getting drunk casually, as if it's nbd, stuff like that. At least if someone warns me "there's a lot of swearing, but it's in keeping with the character" (for example), I appreciate the information.

3. Personal appeal. Sure, the blurb says, for example, "a thrilling adventure" but you might say "I didn't find it all that thrilling, but I fell in love with the characters." Or, "This takes place in my home city, so I wanted to love it, but the author's clearly never actually been here cuz it's all messed up, so I have to take a star off my rating."

4. Contrary thoughts. This is hard, but fun when it works out. Say you're reviewing a book lots of people love, and you do too. Try to find something in it that's not perfect. Or, try to imagine a reader who wouldn't like it, because they're looking for something that's not in the book. Or, otoh, Say you're reading an awful book, or a book that is not working for you at all. Try to find one positive thing to say about it.

Hmm. I know I've got more - I'll try to come back later to add.

I created a poll about this. There are not many votes, but this is how it looks.

https://www.goodreads.com/poll/show/1...

I answered!