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Here comes Spring Book Release Season! And I have a stack of awesome books to review for you. (Not these, by the way.)
But I want to ask you some things first.
Book reviews have grown more frequent on this blog in the past year, and I’m noticing that more publishers are cultivating blogger reviews. Let’s face it, as magazines stop publication, publishers begin losing outlets to promote new titles, and blogs are filling this gap.
Personally, I adore reviewing craft books. But I want to know what kinds of information you like best in book reviews. Would you mind answering a few questions? (Just leave a comment with anything that grabs you.)
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1. How often do you read craft book reviews here?
2. What would you like to see more of in a craft book review?
(For example: a full list of the projects? Photos of the projects? Commentary on the quality of the instructions? Commentary on how the book fits into the current craft scene? A blog interview with the author? Comparisons with other similar books? Anything goes – what matters to you?)3. What would you like to see less of in a craft book review?
4. Why do you read craft book reviews?
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Rewarding your efforts! All commenters who leave usable suggestions here will be entered in a drawing for their choice of craft book (from a little stash I have built up). I’ll choose three winners on Saturday, March 14, at noon PST.
Thank you!
I skip reviews for knitting/crochet since I don’t
I like reviews that tell the good and the bad- does the book lay flat so it can be used? Are the directions clear? Does it require quirky things I won’t be able to purchase in my small rural community? Is it actually cost effective for me to purchase or are there only a few projects I would be inclined to do so library is a better fit? Is it step by step or general guidelines?
I don’t see a review as the be all and end all, but it can often be enough so that when I make it to a large bookstore (over an hour away) I’m more inclined to look for the book on the shelves so that I can decide for myself if it’s a good fit.
The only things I really want to know about an author is why are they qualified to teach/write about something? This does not include how many kids they have and that they bake their own bread, unless it’s a bread book.
What kinds of techniques does the book lean toward? I don’t have a serger and I hate hand sewing- so books that focus on these techniques aren’t going to work for me.
Reading a book and handling a book is always a good place to start. You can get a good idea for how projects are laid out just by reading, but you don’t really know if things are going to work until you make something from the book. So, have you made anything from the book? Why or why not?
Did it make you smile? Weird, huh? But did thumbing through the book make you smile and make your hands itch to start creating?
I skip reviews for knitting/crochet since I don’t
I like reviews that tell the good and the bad- does the book lay flat so it can be used? Are the directions clear? Does it require quirky things I won’t be able to purchase in my small rural community? Is it actually cost effective for me to purchase or are there only a few projects I would be inclined to do so library is a better fit? Is it step by step or general guidelines?
I don’t see a review as the be all and end all, but it can often be enough so that when I make it to a large bookstore (over an hour away) I’m more inclined to look for the book on the shelves so that I can decide for myself if it’s a good fit.
The only things I really want to know about an author is why are they qualified to teach/write about something? This does not include how many kids they have and that they bake their own bread, unless it’s a bread book.
What kinds of techniques does the book lean toward? I don’t have a serger and I hate hand sewing- so books that focus on these techniques aren’t going to work for me.
Reading a book and handling a book is always a good place to start. You can get a good idea for how projects are laid out just by reading, but you don’t really know if things are going to work until you make something from the book. So, have you made anything from the book? Why or why not?
Did it make you smile? Weird, huh? But did thumbing through the book make you smile and make your hands itch to start creating?
Just discovered your blog through Melanie Falick books. I love reading reviewes on crafty books as it gives me a better idea if I would be interested in a book. I sew , I am self taught and usually look for very good instructions. Most often buy books that I know I will be able to refer back to again and again. I like knowing if there are good photos with the project as I can also look at the picture when trying to figure out how to make something when instructions are not good.
Just discovered your blog through Melanie Falick books. I love reading reviewes on crafty books as it gives me a better idea if I would be interested in a book. I sew , I am self taught and usually look for very good instructions. Most often buy books that I know I will be able to refer back to again and again. I like knowing if there are good photos with the project as I can also look at the picture when trying to figure out how to make something when instructions are not good.
1 read reviews when the subject looks interesting to me. (So, um, sometimes, to be completely unhelpful.)
2 want to see: Photos of projects are good, but I’d rather see a discussion of the projects – how accessible are they to people without great skill in some area (good for beginners, intermediate, advanced…). I’ve bought books that were too basic, and also struggled with projects that assumed a level of technical knowledge I didn’t have at the time.
Are the projects as described in the book? Harder to pull off? Worth the effort?
3. Don’t want to read how adorable the finished project is. Ok, that is nice and all but I’m not generally buying books just so I can look at the projects and not do them. I know lots of people just like to read them the way that non-cooks read cookbooks, but for me I want the book to be functional.
4. Related to 3, I read reviews of craft books to see if I might want to get the book and make something from it.
1 read reviews when the subject looks interesting to me. (So, um, sometimes, to be completely unhelpful.)
2 want to see: Photos of projects are good, but I’d rather see a discussion of the projects – how accessible are they to people without great skill in some area (good for beginners, intermediate, advanced…). I’ve bought books that were too basic, and also struggled with projects that assumed a level of technical knowledge I didn’t have at the time.
Are the projects as described in the book? Harder to pull off? Worth the effort?
3. Don’t want to read how adorable the finished project is. Ok, that is nice and all but I’m not generally buying books just so I can look at the projects and not do them. I know lots of people just like to read them the way that non-cooks read cookbooks, but for me I want the book to be functional.
4. Related to 3, I read reviews of craft books to see if I might want to get the book and make something from it.
Hi!
1. I read all your craft book reviews. Though I might skim it if it’s a craft I’m not really interested in.
2. I think your reviews are very comprehensive. A fuller list of projects, or at least of the types of projects would be good for longer books. Whether they generally will take a long time, or if there’s a mixture of long/short is handy too. I like the fact that you have photos of the inside pages – it helps to judge if there’s enough explanatory content and photos.
3. I don’t really like a lot of information about the author, or a long interview. I think the book and the projects should speak for themselves, and who the author is doesn’t really matter to me too much.
4. Why? Because I love craft! I buy very few craft books due to lack of cash, but I have a huge wishlist on Book Depository, and I’m waiting for the day I find another gem that I just can’t resist. I love to see what other people are doing and get new ideas.
xx
Katie
Hi!
1. I read all your craft book reviews. Though I might skim it if it’s a craft I’m not really interested in.
2. I think your reviews are very comprehensive. A fuller list of projects, or at least of the types of projects would be good for longer books. Whether they generally will take a long time, or if there’s a mixture of long/short is handy too. I like the fact that you have photos of the inside pages – it helps to judge if there’s enough explanatory content and photos.
3. I don’t really like a lot of information about the author, or a long interview. I think the book and the projects should speak for themselves, and who the author is doesn’t really matter to me too much.
4. Why? Because I love craft! I buy very few craft books due to lack of cash, but I have a huge wishlist on Book Depository, and I’m waiting for the day I find another gem that I just can’t resist. I love to see what other people are doing and get new ideas.
xx
Katie
1. I am not sure how often I read them. I read them as they are posted. I use RSS to stay up on your posts. I have been reading your blog for a few months.
2. I like to see reviewers try a project or two from the book. This offers insight into the quality of the instructions, construction, and finished objects. I always appreciate photos.
3. Thus far I think your reviews are solid. If need be, perhaps offer a bit of critique? For example.. sometimes we purchase a book only to find only one attractive (to us) project.
4. For the beauty of other people’s art and to open myself to the temptation of a new project. E.g., the button book review was great!
1. I am not sure how often I read them. I read them as they are posted. I use RSS to stay up on your posts. I have been reading your blog for a few months.
2. I like to see reviewers try a project or two from the book. This offers insight into the quality of the instructions, construction, and finished objects. I always appreciate photos.
3. Thus far I think your reviews are solid. If need be, perhaps offer a bit of critique? For example.. sometimes we purchase a book only to find only one attractive (to us) project.
4. For the beauty of other people’s art and to open myself to the temptation of a new project. E.g., the button book review was great!
I read your craft book reviews when the book is on a subject that interests me (a craft I would like to do). I like to know whether the book is for beginners or someone more advanced, whether the photos and diagrams are helpful or just pretty, the aesthetic of the craft (hipster? country cornball? vintage-y?), and whether the writing is good. I am also interested in whether the skills in a craft book are easily transferred to other projects. I hate following a project exactly as outlined in a book or on a blog — I would never want to make something that looks exactly like someone else’s craft. It gets on my nerves when books give brand names for supplies when generic is much more helpful. I would like to know if you tried a project and how it turned out, and how much the book contributed to your success or failure. What don’t I want in a review? I am not sure, but the more concise the better. Unlike this comment — sorry. :)
I read your craft book reviews when the book is on a subject that interests me (a craft I would like to do). I like to know whether the book is for beginners or someone more advanced, whether the photos and diagrams are helpful or just pretty, the aesthetic of the craft (hipster? country cornball? vintage-y?), and whether the writing is good. I am also interested in whether the skills in a craft book are easily transferred to other projects. I hate following a project exactly as outlined in a book or on a blog — I would never want to make something that looks exactly like someone else’s craft. It gets on my nerves when books give brand names for supplies when generic is much more helpful. I would like to know if you tried a project and how it turned out, and how much the book contributed to your success or failure. What don’t I want in a review? I am not sure, but the more concise the better. Unlike this comment — sorry. :)
Long time lurker, first time commentor (love your blog!)
1. I really enjoy all your craft book reviews and when I’m out trolling craft blogs I, at the very least, skim book reviews. I love books, I love crafts so its a natural combination. I don’t generally go out looking for book reviews, unless I’ve read one on someone’s blog and then decide to research further.
2. I love pictures, even if its just one or two it helps me get a feel for the direction and tastes of the author. I like it when the reviewer tells me what caught THEIR eye in the book; I know I might not like the exact same things but getting excited about the book is going to make me more interested in it. I enjoy a general overview of how many projects/type of projects are in the book. I don’t need every single one but an overview of what to expect is helpful. The number one thing that grabs me in a book review is WHY this book is different. There are alot of crafty books out there and while some are real gems, many of them aren’t really worth the $20-30 they cost. I generally screen potentials at the library anyway but if something is really exciting I might just run out and buy it.
3. Things I don’t like about book reviews… If you don’t really have anything to say then I’d really rather not read your review. If the book was just blah, don’t try to sell it to me. It seems like you are one of those fortunate people who gets to preread the occasional book from the publisher and help create buzz if you enjoy the book. That’s great, I’d just hate to read reviews by someone who felt they were obligated to review a book and/or obligated to say something nice that wasn’t in accordance with their real opinion. Basically, I just want to hear wat you REALLY think.
My wait list at the library is currently full of craft books that have just barely been released and next week I’m planning on a trip to Powell’s purely for crafty books. Much of this is your fault! Thanks! :)
Long time lurker, first time commentor (love your blog!)
1. I really enjoy all your craft book reviews and when I’m out trolling craft blogs I, at the very least, skim book reviews. I love books, I love crafts so its a natural combination. I don’t generally go out looking for book reviews, unless I’ve read one on someone’s blog and then decide to research further.
2. I love pictures, even if its just one or two it helps me get a feel for the direction and tastes of the author. I like it when the reviewer tells me what caught THEIR eye in the book; I know I might not like the exact same things but getting excited about the book is going to make me more interested in it. I enjoy a general overview of how many projects/type of projects are in the book. I don’t need every single one but an overview of what to expect is helpful. The number one thing that grabs me in a book review is WHY this book is different. There are alot of crafty books out there and while some are real gems, many of them aren’t really worth the $20-30 they cost. I generally screen potentials at the library anyway but if something is really exciting I might just run out and buy it.
3. Things I don’t like about book reviews… If you don’t really have anything to say then I’d really rather not read your review. If the book was just blah, don’t try to sell it to me. It seems like you are one of those fortunate people who gets to preread the occasional book from the publisher and help create buzz if you enjoy the book. That’s great, I’d just hate to read reviews by someone who felt they were obligated to review a book and/or obligated to say something nice that wasn’t in accordance with their real opinion. Basically, I just want to hear wat you REALLY think.
My wait list at the library is currently full of craft books that have just barely been released and next week I’m planning on a trip to Powell’s purely for crafty books. Much of this is your fault! Thanks! :)
1. How often do you read craft book reviews here?
Regularly, as they are posted. Often you review books I didn’t know were coming out, but that look really interesting.
2. What would you like to see more of in a craft book review?
A sense of who the book is aimed at skill-wise. Is this a good book to start learning about a particular craft from? Also, does the book leave room for the reader to adapt, change, take further the projects in the book? I always wonder if a craft book is going to involve the purchase of new supplies/tools to do the craft or does it use many common things crafters might already have on hand, and a few special items.
3. What would you like to see less of in a craft book review?
Often (not at crafty pod though) I come across book reviews that are just press for the book and give a general description of what it covers with no sense of how well or how poorly the book is written.
I’m a quilter and doll maker, and after looking at a number of books, it still surprises me when I get a book and the directions for a particular project are incorrect or incomplete. In a craft book, clearly written, well illustrated and complete instructions are a must.
4. Why do you read craft book reviews?
I love to learn new skills and get new ideas. While most of the crafting I do is fabric related, I have in the past been an avid rubber stamper, card maker, hand made book maker, collage artist, and beader. I still do some of these other crafts, including crochet along with quilting and doll making and love to read about good books that inspire new projects. I also love to revisit materials and techinques I’ve not played with in a while. A new book sometimes is just the thing to prompt some creative playtime.
1. How often do you read craft book reviews here?
Regularly, as they are posted. Often you review books I didn’t know were coming out, but that look really interesting.
2. What would you like to see more of in a craft book review?
A sense of who the book is aimed at skill-wise. Is this a good book to start learning about a particular craft from? Also, does the book leave room for the reader to adapt, change, take further the projects in the book? I always wonder if a craft book is going to involve the purchase of new supplies/tools to do the craft or does it use many common things crafters might already have on hand, and a few special items.
3. What would you like to see less of in a craft book review?
Often (not at crafty pod though) I come across book reviews that are just press for the book and give a general description of what it covers with no sense of how well or how poorly the book is written.
I’m a quilter and doll maker, and after looking at a number of books, it still surprises me when I get a book and the directions for a particular project are incorrect or incomplete. In a craft book, clearly written, well illustrated and complete instructions are a must.
4. Why do you read craft book reviews?
I love to learn new skills and get new ideas. While most of the crafting I do is fabric related, I have in the past been an avid rubber stamper, card maker, hand made book maker, collage artist, and beader. I still do some of these other crafts, including crochet along with quilting and doll making and love to read about good books that inspire new projects. I also love to revisit materials and techinques I’ve not played with in a while. A new book sometimes is just the thing to prompt some creative playtime.
I like your reviews because you include pictures of the photos/layout. I have always wondered whether you have to get permission to do that. Is there a certain law or etiquette to what you can post from a book?
I like your reviews because you include pictures of the photos/layout. I have always wondered whether you have to get permission to do that. Is there a certain law or etiquette to what you can post from a book?
1. How often do you read craft book reviews here? I read most of the book reviews.
2. What would you like to see more of in a craft book review?
I’m wary of all positive informercials posing as reviews. I’m looking for an honest and balanced opinion on what the book has to offer and if it’s appropriate for the intended audience. Is the price worth it? Is the content truly original? Is it just a rehash of what’s already available somewhere else. (Look at all the learn to knit book with ipod cozy patterns.)
I don’t think an interview with the author would add anything. You might not be objective as you should be if you know you’ll be talking to the author.
3. What would you like to see less of in a craft book review? Can’t think of anything.
4. Why do you read craft book reviews: Like any other review, I want a sense of what the book has to offer, and if it’s something that I might be interested in.
1. How often do you read craft book reviews here? I read most of the book reviews.
2. What would you like to see more of in a craft book review?
I’m wary of all positive informercials posing as reviews. I’m looking for an honest and balanced opinion on what the book has to offer and if it’s appropriate for the intended audience. Is the price worth it? Is the content truly original? Is it just a rehash of what’s already available somewhere else. (Look at all the learn to knit book with ipod cozy patterns.)
I don’t think an interview with the author would add anything. You might not be objective as you should be if you know you’ll be talking to the author.
3. What would you like to see less of in a craft book review? Can’t think of anything.
4. Why do you read craft book reviews: Like any other review, I want a sense of what the book has to offer, and if it’s something that I might be interested in.
1. I read all of your book reviews.
2. The more examples of projects in a book review, the better idea I have if I actually want the book. So, yes I would love a full list of the projects. I’m happy to follow links to see photos, so I don’t need photos on the blog. I love that little bit of background info that you get from a interview with an author; it makes me feel like I’m more “in the know”.
In a grand world with limitless time, I would love to see an actual project attempted by the reviewer. So many of these craft books, the instructions sound good on the surface, but you can’t tell how good they are until someone tries to do a project.
3. What do can I see less of? I don’t care where the person fits into the craft scene. I’m just not into the click quality. It seems like some of the craft books out there are more about personality than actual substance, and position in the “craft scene” is part of that. I want to know what I’ll learn from the book, not who thinks the author is super keen.
4. I read craft book reviews to figure out which books I actually want to add to my collection. Money is tight, and craft books are EXPENSIVE, so I only want to buy those books that are actually going to be worth it.
1. I read all of your book reviews.
2. The more examples of projects in a book review, the better idea I have if I actually want the book. So, yes I would love a full list of the projects. I’m happy to follow links to see photos, so I don’t need photos on the blog. I love that little bit of background info that you get from a interview with an author; it makes me feel like I’m more “in the know”.
In a grand world with limitless time, I would love to see an actual project attempted by the reviewer. So many of these craft books, the instructions sound good on the surface, but you can’t tell how good they are until someone tries to do a project.
3. What do can I see less of? I don’t care where the person fits into the craft scene. I’m just not into the click quality. It seems like some of the craft books out there are more about personality than actual substance, and position in the “craft scene” is part of that. I want to know what I’ll learn from the book, not who thinks the author is super keen.
4. I read craft book reviews to figure out which books I actually want to add to my collection. Money is tight, and craft books are EXPENSIVE, so I only want to buy those books that are actually going to be worth it.
1. I ALWAYS read the book reviews you post.
2. I like a pretty detailed review. An interview with the author is a big plus. It gives me an idea of where the author is coming from. I must admit that the author can be quite charming and the book be unsuitable for my needs, and the opposite. A full list of the projects isn’t essentail, but a couple of pictures to illustrate the author’s esthetic and a count of projects including types if they are different is. Comparisons are helpful. I like a note on the layout, too: Is the photography beautiful? Is the paper crummy or the typeface unreadable?
3. I’m not so concerned with where the author fits into the craft scene.
4. I LOVE books. I good review is like another layer of book p*rn. If the review comes from someone whose projects and atitude I like I’ll be sure to check it out and maybe add it to my collection.
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1. I ALWAYS read the book reviews you post.
2. I like a pretty detailed review. An interview with the author is a big plus. It gives me an idea of where the author is coming from. I must admit that the author can be quite charming and the book be unsuitable for my needs, and the opposite. A full list of the projects isn’t essentail, but a couple of pictures to illustrate the author’s esthetic and a count of projects including types if they are different is. Comparisons are helpful. I like a note on the layout, too: Is the photography beautiful? Is the paper crummy or the typeface unreadable?
3. I’m not so concerned with where the author fits into the craft scene.
4. I LOVE books. I good review is like another layer of book p*rn. If the review comes from someone whose projects and atitude I like I’ll be sure to check it out and maybe add it to my collection.
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