The Importance of Book Reviews and Alternative Review Outlets

Book reviews play a crucial role in book campaigns, especially in getting recognized by traditional review outlets like Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, Booklist, Library Journal, and Foreword. While these outlets don't choose many books for review, they hold significant clout, particularly in the library market. Authors are advised to focus on these big five trade reviews and, if necessary, consider paying for reviews from other reputable outlets like Shelf Awareness, Midwest Book Review, Lambda, and Blue Ink. Traditional review outlets are valued more than blog sites due to their longevity, reputation, and focus on reviews. For new writers, creating symbolic capital beyond traditional reviews is essential, possibly by building an advanced reader team to support and promote their work.