A Warning

I primarily read for enjoyment, if I learn something along the way that’s great, but it’s not my first thought. So if it’s not engaging I’m unlikely to make it to the end.

Why do it?

Reviewing makes me read and read faster. It’s amazing the motivational power of a high To-Be-Read pile.

What gets reviewed?

It’s a mixture really of review copies kindly sent by publishers, books I’ve bought recently, and books I’ve had a for a little while. Review copies tend to get read faster. This is mostly out of politeness and guilt kicks in if I leave them sitting about too long.

Are review copies an excuse just to get free books?

Nope. I’ve got more than enough books to be getting on with thank you. As per the answer above it’s more that I’m exposed to a wider range of writers than if I didn’t accept or request them. It also means I can mention and recommend books that are outside my normal reading range.

How long does it take for a review to appear?

It depends on what else is in the reading pile and the mix of books available. I try vary the genre from book to book so I cover as a wide range as I can.

Last year I read around 25 books and this year I’m aiming to at least match that if not double it! Which means I’m need to read a book every one to two weeks. So hopefully not too long ;).

How do you score?

Reviews prior to 2007 are scored out of five. From now on I’m adopting a more flexible out of ten system that I hope will allow a bit more nuance.

How do I send you information or a book to review?

Drop me a line at gav (at) nextread.co.uk and if needed I’ll supply a snail mail address.

Last updated: 23 Jan 07