Let's Talk: Book Blogger Etiquette

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: What sort of book blogger etiquette do you follow, or do you think bloggers, in general, should follow?

Let's be honest, kids. There's no Miss Manners guide to blogging, and a lot of us simply learn by doing, but here's what I learned really quickly. You're going to catch more flies with honey, or, better said, you're going to make more contacts, have more fun and forge friendships if you're willing and ready to do so. Did I know what to do when I first started book blogging? Heck no, but I learned pretty dang fast. So, I've compiled some of the important do's and don'ts for book bloggers everywhere.

Do use your own opinions and stay true to them. That's what separates you from the others!

Don't let your personal opinion morph into snarky, rude and demeaning reviews/content towards authors. Nobody likes an a%$. I'm jussayin'.

Do actually read the books. If you're not going to read it, why review it?

Don't try and influence everyone else's opinions on the books. Let them make that choice for themselves.

Do write your reviews in whatever manner you wish...words, pictures, short, or long, they're yours, so run with it.

Don't be mean. If you don't like a book, fine...but why attack it? Shock value? That's dumb.

Do be yourself! People read your blog because it's different than others...put a little of yourself into that blog, and people will get invested in it.

Don't simply request books ad-nauseum for no reason. Limited ARCs are available - if you receive one, that's awesome! Use it wisely, and consider yourself lucky. :)

Do have patience. It takes time to build a following. The more you engage with others, the more they will engage with you.

Are there more things to do? Of course! And remember, these are my personal guidelines for book blogging which, frankly, could apply to all if others want. Ultimately, blogging is up to you to do what you want. Please bear in mind that these are my personal opinions, and they are in no way meant to degrade other bloggers or their blogs!

Want to weigh in? Feel free to link up!