Wednesday, March 14, 2012

What makes people read a particular book?

I've recently signed up for Goodreads, which is really great, and I noticed the wide variety of books the people I am friends with read. It got me to thinking, what makes people pick up a book? To actually read, that is.

For me, the biggest draw to a book is a recommendation from someone else. (Goodreads helps out a lot with this.) If someone I trust tells me to read a book, I usually at least give it a try.

Second, it is the author. If I have read something of theirs, or something about them, or even met them, I am willing to give their book a try.

Lastly, it is a bit shallow, but if I think the title and the cover are interesting. Along with that is the synopsis on the back. If it looks good, it draws me in.

I asked some people and they gave similar answers, but also interesting difference. My mom said she looks at the rating on audible, if it is above 3 she buys it. My husband says his number one thing is the price, though he often looks at the best sellers list.

So I wonder, what makes people read a particular book?

1 comment:

  1. In the past I would have said, "I stick with what I like." I know what I like, so why mess with it? But after joining a book club a few years back, I was amazed at the books I read and loved for the club that I would have never picked up on my own. But it goes the other way too. I have read many books that I didn't like and would never recommend.
    Now, I usually do what you do. I like recommendations, or certain authors, but mostly the book has to spark some interest. So the cover, title and synopsis are just as important in my opinion. If it doesn't catch my eye or make me curious to find out what happens, then I won't waste my time, regardless of recommendations or author.

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