Write-minded: Weekly Inspiration for Writers

The State of the Book Review, featuring John McMurtrie

Apr 15, 2024

Former editor of the San Francisco Chronicle’s book review section, John McMurtrie, discusses the transition of book reviews to online outlets like Amazon and Goodreads. He shares insights on breaking into book reviewing, the key elements of a great book, and the impact of the internet on traditional review methods.

42:00

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Quick takeaways

The transition of book reviews from traditional media to online platforms like Amazon and Goodreads has reshaped the way readers discover new books.

Authors can build symbolic capital by strategically leveraging various review avenues, including traditional trade reviews, engaging with book bloggers, and submitting to established review publications.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Book Reviews

Book reviews have undergone significant changes from traditional newspaper reviews to the influence of social media platforms like BookTok. The podcast delves into how reviews were essential for discovering new books, with the Sunday Times and San Francisco Chronicle being prominent sources. The discussion highlights the shift towards online reviews on platforms such as TikTok and Goodreads, emphasizing the impact of social proof and the challenges authors face in building symbolic capital.

Passion Over Money in Book Reviews

01:34

Qualities of a Good Book

01:19

The Importance of Book Reviews and Alternative Review Outlets

01:52

Introduction

2min

Evolution of Book Reviews in the Digital Age

9min

Evolving Role of Publications and Book Selection Process Explored

4min

Navigating the Changing Landscape of Book Reviews

15min

Exploring Unique Storytelling in Fiction Books

3min

Debating Publishing Industry's Reliance on Social Media and BookTok Critiques

3min

This week’s guest is John McMurtrie, the esteemed former editor of the San Francisco Chronicle’s book review section. Join us as we explore the transition of book reviews from traditional media like TV and radio to online outlets like Amazon and Goodreads. His is an interesting take about how things were and how things are, along with insight about what a book reviewer is looking for when considering what books to review. Join us as John shares valuable insights on breaking into book reviewing and what he considers to be the key elements of a great book.

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