Let’s talk bookish: when an author has gone too far – Do you think authors have a right to call out/attack reviewers because of negative reviews?

Wow, that’s a long title – but a good question and the one I’ll be discussing today. About the meme: Let’s talk bookish hosted by J.R. @ Eternity Books, where each Friday a certain bookish topic is discussed! 

#1 Freedom of Speech

We live in a world where freedom of speech is what makes us feel safe and protected by our government and what makes us feel heard. This also applies for reviewers: they need to feel heard and able to express their feelings without being shut down or attacked by authors. I get that if I were an author, I wouldn’t want people hating about my work where I put my heart into, but that’s how it works.

#2 Constructive criticism

It an be hard to acknowledge your wrongs sometimes, but on the long shot, it always helps to listen to everyone’s point of views. Moreover, you should always tolerate all the different opinions and even though you might not understand or agree, it’s not acceptable for authors to call out somebody criticizing you – especially when the reviewer criticizes the work, not the person himself.

#3 Don’t spread hate – this is a loving community

The great aspect about the book community which I have experienced more and more from the start of my blog is the fact that everyone is polite and friendly to everyone else. The authors aren’t the typical (sometimes not nice people to fans) celebrities, but love their fans and their artwork and support (especially YA authors!). Bloggers are super welcoming and write lovely comments and this community isn’t one where hate is spread on a daily basis. So calling out bloggers who write something negative just isn’t what this community is about.

#4 Reviewers take their time to analyze the books

Reviewers often don’t get paid (or in general, who here gets paid to write reviews) to write reviews. We do this because of our love of books and because we like to share our thoughts. It takes a lot of time to order your thoughts, write more than 500 words and “design” your post – I spend up to 1 1/2 hours writing the “perfect” review and I don’t think it’s appropriate for authors to call out a blogger for criticizing their work when the reviewer takes her time for your book.

So, I have a pretty clear opinion on this – don’t feel offended if you believe it’s okay for authors to call them out! We have freedom of speech, for that matter (but I guess the authors are then also free to call them out, if you look at it like that haha)! Anyways, I’m excited to read what you guys think about it, so please comment what you think!

Enjoy your Friday and Happy reading!