~"Y I REVU"

Why I review?

The answer is simple – I love books and I love sharing them with others. And with finances being

so iffy and most everyone tightening their budgets it is all the more important to have honest, reliable

information before spending those hard earned dollars. Because nothing is more irritating than

spending money on a book, based on a critic opinion (that says it is fabulous), getting it home

and having to force yourself to finish it because it is utterly awful. After finding myself in that very

position on more than one occasion I jumped into the blogosphere.

3Rs Reading Den

MISSION STATEMENT©

Launching a new concept into a heavily populated & commercialized community is never easy. However, with the availability of the Internet, doors are opening for new voices to be heard in almost every conceivable arena. It was only after careful consideration, support and encouragement that I have stepped into the book reviewing foray. Albeit small, and ever so gingerly, steps non-the-less. The reception I have received has been nothing short of amazing, from authors, publishers and readers alike.

3Rs Den provides authors/publishers and most importantly readers with honest, objective, and insightful opinions. Each book is evaluated independently and only after it has been read to conclusion, are the specific characteristics analyzed and critiqued. As with any review, it is merely an opinion. In this case, it is my opinion. I do not utilize the star ranking system, unless specifically requested by the publisher or author. Why? Because in my humble opinion, as a result of all the 5 star reviews, the weight of the system has been voided. While, I have read many wonderful titles, that are very close to an absolute perfect rating, they aren’t perfect. Does that mean that I can state a specific flaw that if corrected would change the rating from a 4.9 to a 5.0? No, it simply means that in my eyes giving a rating of 5.0 means there is no room for improvement whatsoever. Of course, Twain, Poe, Emerson, and the like would most definitely be awarded the coveted 5 stars. My question is, would that have been the case in their day? Probably not. Because it is only after a book has stood the test of time that it is deemed a ‘classic – a true work of art.’

So, there you have it. My opinion. Which is subjective and easily argued. I have listened to several very convincing arguments for the rating systems and the use of the 5 stars. However, if all the books rate 5 stars, where does that leave a reader when standing in the store trying to decide between two books, in the same genre, with basically the same plot, etc.? Confused and unsure even after reading the reviews.

I hope that you find the reviews posted here entertaining, interesting, and informative.  Although it is never my intention to harm an author or a title, I am obligated by a personal sense of integrity to state my opinions honestly and without reservation. Just because a title doesn’t appeal to me, doesn’t mean there isn’t a market for it. Movies, music, art and books come in all shapes and sizes, much like the people that enjoy them! What may very well be a classic to me, may in fact be boring to someone else and vice versa. It is for this reason it is so important to have a wide variety of creative talents available to the public. Thus making it possible for everyone to enjoy a book. Which is, after-all what has motivated me to begin this journey………………to share my love of reading with others! *It is important to note our opinions/reviews are not purchased. Those seeking a cookie cutter or canned opinion do not submit their books for review to The Reading Den. We cannot and do not guarantee a good review. There are no such guarantees, written, communicated or implied.

Happy Reading!

-RJ

Mission Statement Copyright ©

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BLOG with INTEGRITY

By displaying the Blog with Integrity badge or signing the pledge, I assert that the trust of my readers and the blogging community is important to me.

I treat others respectfully, attacking ideas and not people. I also welcome respectful disagreement with my own ideas.

I believe in intellectual property rights, providing links, citing sources, and crediting inspiration where appropriate.

I disclose my material relationships, policies and business practices. My readers will know the difference between editorial, advertorial, and advertising, should I choose to have it. If I do sponsored or paid posts, they are clearly marked.

When collaborating with marketers and PR professionals, I handle myself professionally and abide by basic journalistic standards.

I always present my honest opinions to the best of my ability.

I own my words. Even if I occasionally have to eat them.

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