So, I have this fascination with reading one star book review of my favorite books. Why might you ask?
I am a glutton for punishment. Haha
No, seriously, I just like reading people’s opinions. There is something about reading why people don’t like a certain book and reading about it. I may have a different opinion than they do, but I really don’t get offended by what they want to say.
I prefer to read one-star reviews after I have rated and written a review of a book because I don’t have my reading experience affected by that person’s opinion.
But when I read the comments of people’s reviews. I find that people’s reviews can impact a reader whether they read the book or not.
In my book podcast, Booktrovert Reader Podcast, I go over some of my favorite one-star reviews of my favorite five-star reads.
Some of the books I discussed:
So, I want to talk about the pros and cons of reading one-star book reviews.
Pros:
You get to read diverse opinions on books:
It is good to see the strengths and weaknesses of a book. There are times when I saw the weakness, but it was overshadowed by the great things about the books. It is a great way to come down to earth sometimes and understand that not every book is perfect.
Critical Analysis:
I love it when people write the plot of a book, character development of the book or themes in a book that brings to focus on a book. After I have read the book, it gets me thinking about a book and everything about it.
Lowered Expectations:
It can help manage expectations. I would say, approach with caution anyways. It helps you go in with reasonable expectations that might help you enjoy the book better. When I was reading The Cruel Prince one star reviews, I saw a lot of well-written opinions about why you should lower your expectations of the book. Since it is a super hyped book, it was good to know going in.
Cons:
Subjectivity
Books can be rated on a person’s mood, experiences, or taste. So, when reading these one-star reviews, you may realize that this person is rated based on how they feel, and it might not be in the same line as you. I read a one-star review in my book podcast about Once Upon a Broken Heart where they didn’t get enough of a certain character. That is why they gave it a one-star review.
Potential bias
Some people, no matter how good the book is, would hate it. When I was reading Fourth Wing‘s one-star reviews, that is the case. They just wrote that they hated it and didn’t give a valid reason for it.
Potential Spoilers:
Ugh, the worst one-star reviews ever. They just write the review and don’t put any spoiler warnings and ruin the book for you. I don’t have much to say on that one. It explains itself.
With so many opinions out there, it’s essential to approach reviews with an open mind, considering the subjectivity of opinions and the potential biases or spoilers that may be present. Ultimately, the decision to read one-star reviews should depend on your personal preference.
Check out my book podcast website for all the ways you can download the episodes straight to your phone: HERE
