...This introductory chapter presents a study of book reviewing from the perspective of the reviewers. It examines two major dimensions of this research—the study of critics and evaluation as a response to quality uncertainty. The chapter explores the ways in which critics impact book culture...

... reviewing risks It’s kind of an odd bias that we have. I mean, we never ask filmmakers to review our movies for us. We never ask playwrights and directors to review our plays for us. It’s only in this one part of the newspaper that we go after novelists to review novels. — editor for prominent book...

... by reviewers. In the absence of certainty on how to proceed, critics are left to devise personalized solutions to the challenges that arise throughout the reviewing process. In addition, the chapter considers what lessons book reviewing has for understanding the experience and enactment of power in other...

... and are paired with specific books for review. uncertainty “big books ” books reviewing reviews Roth Philip “interesting” books Janssen S Davis M S fiction Lamont M themes reviewers openness negative reviews taste homophily principle editor of book section Los Angeles Times closure Fourcade M...

...This chapter reveals how critics grapple with the question of the ongoing relevance of book reviewing given perceived tensions between its artistic and journalistic commitments. It also examines how critics respond to challenges about what is distinctly valuable about journalistic reviews against...

... and frustrations factor into their willingness or reluctance to write negative reviews. At a time when traditional review opportunities are dwindling while other forms of reviewing thrive, book reviewing as a professional practice is being brought into question. This book offers readers a revealing look...