Journey to a 5-Star Read:
The Book Rating Scales
Hi guys,
Welcome back to another blog post😊! If you are new to reading or care about anything I have to say, well, this is the post for you. Today, we're discussing book ratings, but before we dive in, let's answer the question, What is a book rating?
Well, I believe a book rating is a reflection of a reader's perception of a book after finishing it. To determine this rating, a 1–5 star system, akin to a customer satisfaction survey, is typically used. One star is the worst, and five stars are, well, the best.
From what I have noticed, some readers take this exercise seriously as they meticulously analyze plot, character, and style. Though this is admirable, it is not my style. I personally base my ratings around one single question: How did this book make me feel?
Here's my breakdown:
5 stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
The book was truly amazing in every sense of the word. It has allowed me to experience a plethora of emotions, such as joy, sadness, anger, anxiety, and everything in between, and it is highly recommended to those who ask and to those who don't. I would 1000% read it again and again and again.
4 stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
This was a really good read. Some emotions were experienced, but somewhere in the story, it felt a little flat to me. I wouldn't mind rereading, but chances are I won't; however, if someone were to ask for a good book recommendation, I would suggest it.
3 stars (⭐⭐⭐)
The book was an OK read. I didn't love it, nor did I hate it. The plot wasn't great, the characters were not memorable, and to be honest, I probably forgot what I read soon after I finished. Would I recommend it? Maybe.
2 stars (⭐⭐)
This made me go... Ummmmmmmmm, what was that, really? You probably would never catch me re-reading this or recommending it. It was not my cup of tea, and I only finished because I wanted to say I saw it through. It was definitely a no for me.
1 star (⭐)
For most, this might mean the book was the absolute worst, but for me, it meant I DNF'd (did not finish). This could be due to two reasons: either I really hated the book or I was just not in the right mood to read this particular book at this particular time. I have hopes that I might pick it up again, and then I would be able to give it a fair chance to get a better rating.
Questions to ask yourself?
If you are struggling with how to identify a five-star read for yourself, try answering these questions:
1. Did I experience a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this book?
2. Is this a book I think others need to read?
3. Was I sad when the book ended?
4. Was I emotionally attached to the characters in this book?
5. Is this a book I can get excited about reading again?
If you answered yes to all the above questions, then, friend, you probably just experienced your first 5-star read. Good for you!
Remember, these ratings are tailored to your reading experience and opinion. One person's 2-star read might be your 5-star read! So never let someone's opinion of a book deter you from reading that book!
Well, thank you for showing up to this week's book club session! Until next time, Happy Reading! 😊
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