The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained

So, what’s a star worth? People ask me all the time how I decide. For me, it isn’t about a complex algorithm; it’s about how much of my “brain-space” a book occupies after I close the cover.

Here is how I break it down:

5 Stars: Awesome! I’m going to read you again.

You didn’t just entertain me; you moved me. I loved your characters—in fact, I’m still thinking about them right now. I loved your story—I couldn’t put you down. Your author has some serious talent, and I felt a real connection to the pages. I will be actively campaigning to get as many people as possible to read you, starting with my own children. Thank you for the pleasure of the experience. I’ll be back for a second helping, for sure.

4 Stars: Awesome! But once is enough.

Your characters and your story are still bouncing around my head, and that’s a good thing. You didn’t necessarily change my life, but you absolutely entertained me—and let’s be honest, that’s the whole reason I read. You are a “Must-Read,” and you are definitely going on my list of books to recommend to anyone who will listen.

3 Stars: A Good Effort.

You entertained me, but we had some problems. I’m already having trouble remembering some of your characters’ names, and while reading you was a positive experience, I’m not exactly sure why. Maybe the writing got in the way of the story, or maybe you crossed some moral lines regarding language, sex, or violence. I’ll tell people about you if they ask, but my recommendation will definitely have a “but” attached to it.

2 Stars: Lame.

I don’t hate you, but I certainly didn’t enjoy you. You had promise, but in the hands of a more capable author, you could have been so much more. The writing ruined the story, and the characters were either immoral, boring, or both. Because of you, I’ll probably think twice before I pick up anything else by this author.

1 Star: Complete Fail.

I will actively campaign against you. If I had my way, no one would ever read you again. I gave you my time—the one thing I can’t get back—and you gave me nothing in return. You are lazy, you are immoral, and frankly, you assumed I was stupid. There is no forgiveness for the offense you’ve given me. We are done.