Comments on: 6 Reasons I Stop Reading (and How to Avoid Them)

By: Elizabeth West

Elizabeth West — Fri, 21 May 2010 21:48:26 +0000

I used to keep reading even if I didn’t like the book, because I kept hoping something would get better later on. Now I don’t do that anymore, because I just don’t have time.

These are great reasons to stop reading. One that always brings me to a screeching halt is ponderous, emotionless writing. I picked up the latest of a thriller writer I used to love at the library, and barely made it through a third of the book. I don’t know what happened to him, but it was overwritten and dull. He included a sex scene (most thrillers seem to lack them, so I was like “YEAH!”), but it was so mechanical I was actually bored. I won’t name the writer, but he is or was a doctor.

By: Julie

Julie — Tue, 18 May 2010 18:40:00 +0000

All worthy reasons! I feel sort of guilty when I stop reading a book. It’s rare, but it has happened. I feel like I need to send the author a basket of cookies as an apology.

By: Amy Saunders

Amy Saunders — Mon, 17 May 2010 17:14:43 +0000

Boring main characters! I’ve read books where I loved the premise but the main character bored me to tears. One solution that’s helped me develop better characters is to exaggerate their personalities. Average Joes don’t translate well on the page. The more larger-than-life the person, the better.

By: David Jarrett

David Jarrett — Mon, 17 May 2010 16:45:33 +0000

This is a very enlightening post for all us aspiring authors. I’m going to print it out so I can keep it in front of me. Thank you.

By: Catherine A. Winn

Catherine A. Winn — Mon, 17 May 2010 02:51:57 +0000

Excellent list, it covers everything that I have gone through myself as a reader. It’s a good reminder to look for those things in my own writing.

By: annastan

annastan — Sun, 16 May 2010 12:49:04 +0000

Thanks, Lydia and Jennifer! Happy writing!

Andrea, that’s an interesting point. If you find yourself noticing the word-choice (which should be invisible) that’s a sign that it’s not quite right for the story. I think sometimes it’s tempting to use the words we, the writers, want instead of what the characters would actually say.

By: Andrea

Andrea — Sat, 15 May 2010 12:42:07 +0000

Anna, this is all so true. Another thing that stops me is the words themselves – if they are trying too hard or not in keeping with the character, I find I can’t connect.

By: Jennifer King

Jennifer King — Sat, 15 May 2010 06:01:34 +0000

Fantastic insights, so well-said. I’m using it as a reference starting now

Thank you! -Jennifer

By: Lydia K

Lydia K — Sat, 15 May 2010 02:26:35 +0000

I totally agree with this list. Thanks for posting!

By: annastan

annastan — Sat, 15 May 2010 01:41:32 +0000

Lisa, that really is the most important thing, isn’t it? If you wouldn’t want to read it then why would you expect other people to?

Anne, that is such an interesting point. Sad as it is, that sort of approach kind of makes sense, doesn’t it? I’m sure publishers would love to put out only the highest quality books, but those aren’t always the ones that sell; ultimately, they want people to buy the books first, then (possibly) enjoy them.

Shannon, I try to forgive a craft issue or two, but if they’re widespread then it can be pretty frustrating. I agree with you about distracting narrators – often they’re supposed to be funny, but there’s a fine line between entertaining and intrusive.

Thanks, Christina! I had no idea so many people would be bothered by the same things I am – I guess these are pretty universal.

Wendy, I’m impressed that you finish almost all of the books you start! The book you describe would drive me nuts. There are definitely ways to put your CIA/FBI knowledge to use without hitting readers over the head with it!