One was surprising, exciting and just "made my day" before it was even noon! I received a really nice, 5-Star review on Amazon, from one of my Goodreads winners. Here's the link:
http://www.amazon.com/From-Pigtails-Chin-Hairs-Memoir/product-reviews/1481157493/ref=cm_cr_pr_top_recent?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending
I never dreamed I would hear back from anyone, and especially not for a review. What a fabulous feeling! (By the way, out of the four or five books I gave away, I did receive an e-mail from one or two, saying they received my book, etc. I love courteous people)
~~~
The second thing that happened was an e-mail I received, reporting that their review of my memoir "wasn't a rave." Hmm, not at all what I was hoping for. But, it's not getting printed anywhere which is a relief. It's my first negative review and although I was a bit hurt and disappointed at first, I just thought Wow, are they ever wrong! J
As I typed "Rolling With the Punches" for my title, it also made me immediately think of Charlie Rich's 1970s hit "Rollin' with the Flow." I love everything about this song: the music, the lyrics, and the handsome guy who sings it!
So, anyway......I'm rolling with the punches....and....rollin' with the flow!
How's your day been so far?!
Taste is such an individual things - and any trip to a shopping mall will clearly show that some people have very little, and what there is resides in their smelly feet. Keep rolling.
ReplyDeleteGosh, here it is almost July 5th, and I've completely missed replying to any of the comments here. My apologies to you all.
DeleteMs. EC ~~ I love your sense of humor. We'd have a hilarious time together!
Yep, different strokes for different folks! Got expect some of that I guess. Have not thought of Charlie Rich in years! Thanks. Also thanks for my box! It has arrived. Just got home to it on the front porch...have to leave again with hubby but I took time to open. Lovely things! Thank you! Oh everything is so BRIGHT...can't look in that box and not feel better!
ReplyDeleteI'm pleased to remind you of Charlie Rich again! And I'm so glad you're happy with your goody box! I think I owe you an e-mail about it, too. I better write myself a note!! LOL
DeleteI think this just confirms your firm place in the field of writers. Rejection just adds a jewel to your badge of courage.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Myrna! That's a great way to think of it!
DeleteOh, Becky, I'm so sorry about the "less than stellar" review. It's amazing, isn't it....1 negative word seems to undo all the good of 100 positive words. I know it's easy to tell you not to let it bother you, so I will just remind you that you are a wonderful writer. Even multi-million dollar authors like Danielle Steele and Nicholas Sparks have negative reviews on their works. So...you are in good company.
ReplyDeleteLove ya,
Patti
Thanks, Patti! And really, after my initial "Huh?!" feeling, I thought about it for a few minutes and then Let it go! Not to worry!
DeleteOn the plus side, at least the not-so-good feedback was handled privately. Thank goodness for that! And those good reviews? Pure gold, aren't they?
ReplyDeleteHere's to a terrific weekend. Just a-rollin' with the flow. Preferably in an inner tube.
Hey Susan! Fabulous to see you here! (And hopefully soon I'll make it over to YOUR blog!) Yes, I agree about the not-so-good being kept private, and the good reviews ...Pure Gold! Thanks!
DeleteYou can't please all of the people all of the time!
ReplyDeleteHey Val ~ You are so right...and in such good company as good old Abe! :)
DeleteYou can't please everybody, so you gotta please yourself...I think I heard that somewhere :)
ReplyDeleteYes, ma'am!! Good old Rick Nelson! Thanks, Linda!
DeleteI think it's even harder when a memoir writer receives a mediocre review because for goodness sakes, it's your LIFE! I know your book is well-written and laugh out loud funny with all sorts of universal themes, and so do you.So, don't sweat it. Maybe the reader was looking for more sex or grit and couldn't handle a truly feel-good book!
ReplyDeleteHi Margo! Thank you! I can just hear your voice, gettin' all excited and ready to fight for me! LOL
DeleteHi Becky...One things I've learned in life is that not everyone is going to like me or like what I do. As for the negative review, let it go like a feather in the wind. Look at all the GOOD reviews and concentrate on them. Susan
ReplyDeleteHi Susan! Yes, I agree...and I like picturing the feather in the wind!
DeleteJust you keep right on rolling and I know you will come out on top regardless. Love that song and very appropriate on this blog. I still think your glass is way above half full so no worries.
ReplyDeleteMimsie, you are the sweetest little thing!! Thank you so much!
DeleteCongratulations on your 5 star review and excellent attitude towards the other.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vanessa! I really appreciate your kind words!
DeleteAs they say, writers need thick skins. Unfortunately I've always been the thin-skinned type and totally understand your initial reaction. After all, who wants their baby criticized?
ReplyDeletePat
Critter Alley
Hey Pat! I'm just like you. Saying I need to develop thicker skin....but also thinking that at this stage of my life, I may not be able to do it! Thanks...and yes...my memoir is definitely my baby!
DeleteDitto to all the above comments!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marcia!! :)
Delete