10 Things I Hate About Starred Book Reviews
Starred reviews are often seen as the gold standard in the world of publishing, a coveted accolade that can make or break a book’s success. However, beneath the glimmer of those stars lies a complex web of issues that can overshadow the very works they aim to celebrate. Here are ten critical problems associated with starred reviews that deserve a closer look.
1. Comparison is the Death of Contentment
One of the most significant drawbacks of starred reviews is the inherent comparison they create among books. When a title receives a star, it sets a benchmark that can make other noteworthy titles appear “less than.” This comparison can lead to dissatisfaction among authors and publishers alike, as they grapple with the notion that their hard work may not be recognized as favorably as others. The pressure to achieve that star can overshadow the intrinsic value of a book, leading to a culture of competition rather than celebration.
2. Equal Effort, Unequal Recognition
It’s essential to recognize that the effort put into creating a book is often consistent, regardless of whether it receives a star. Authors, editors, and publishers pour their hearts and souls into every project, yet the star system can create a false dichotomy. Those who don’t receive a star may find themselves questioning their efforts, wondering what more they could have done to achieve recognition. This can lead to a sense of futility and frustration, detracting from the joy of the creative process.
3. The Compartmentalization of Work
Starred reviews can lead to a troubling compartmentalization of an author’s body of work. Instead of viewing their books as a cohesive collection, authors may begin to categorize their titles into “starred” and “non-starred” groups. This division can diminish the overall value of their work and shift the focus from the narrative and themes to a mere marketing designation. The phrase “body of work” loses its meaning when it becomes overshadowed by the presence or absence of a star.
4. Budgeting Based on Stars
In the competitive landscape of publishing, starred reviews can significantly influence budgeting decisions. A book may require a certain number of starred reviews to secure advertising dollars and promotional support. This reliance on stars can lead to deserving titles being overlooked simply because they didn’t receive the coveted accolade. As a result, many books that could benefit from amplification remain in the shadows, while others bask in the limelight.
5. The Shorthand of Stars
Starred reviews often serve as a shorthand for purchasing decisions, with many readers and librarians relying heavily on the star as a quick indicator of quality. Unfortunately, this can lead to a narrow focus, where the reviews of other excellent titles—those that may not have received a star—are ignored. The richness of literature is lost when readers only gravitate toward the starred selections, potentially missing out on hidden gems.
6. Momentum Toward Awards Season
As the publishing year progresses, starred reviews can create momentum for titles as they approach awards season. However, this momentum is often limited to a select few books, leaving countless other deserving titles unrecognized. The focus on starred books can create a skewed perception of what constitutes excellence in literature, sidelining a wealth of diverse voices and stories that deserve attention.
7. The Impact on Selection Committees
Selection committees for awards and honors often grapple with the influence of starred reviews. While some committees may consider starred status, many members find it challenging to overlook a starred book in favor of an unstarred one. This bias can result in a lack of representation for non-starred titles, which may be equally deserving of recognition. The pressure to conform to the star system can stifle the exploration of a broader range of literature.
8. A Snapshot in Time
Starred reviews capture a moment in time, reflecting the opinions of reviewers based on their current perspectives. However, as societal norms, tastes, and knowledge evolve, a starred book may not stand the test of time. What was once celebrated may later be viewed through a different lens, raising questions about the lasting value of the star. This temporal nature of starred reviews can mislead readers about a book’s relevance and significance.
9. Casting Doubts on an Author’s Legacy
Starred reviews can inadvertently cast dispersions on an author’s entire body of work. An author may achieve acclaim for one title while feeling overshadowed by the absence of stars on their other works. This can lead to a sense of inadequacy and doubt, as authors grapple with the perception that their unstarred titles are somehow lesser. The pressure to achieve star status can overshadow the true essence of an author’s contributions to literature.
10. The Reader Who Needs It Most
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of starred reviews is the potential impact on readers. A starred book may reach a wide audience, but the unstarred title sitting right next to it may never find the one reader who needs it most. This disparity can have profound implications, as deserving stories remain unheard while others dominate the conversation. The star system, while intended to guide readers, can inadvertently limit access to diverse narratives that could resonate deeply with individuals.
In a world where every book has its own unique story to tell, the star system can create an environment that prioritizes recognition over the richness of literature itself. As we navigate the complexities of publishing, it’s essential to remember that every book has value, regardless of whether it shines with a star.
