Just a short thank you to all readers of every genre everywhere.  Seeing people reading books on trains, coffee shops or on beaches always gives me a little thrill–and that’s not even taking into account all the people who read on tablets, computer screens, phones or through headsets and car speakers!  Reading is one of the oldest leisure activities of society and even in today’s digital world, books live on.  Studies show it doesn’t matter what you read, but just by virtue of reading regularly, people increase their vocabulary, language comprehension and even boosts emotional intelligence.*  So whether it’s for fun or for work, readers, keep on doing your thing!

And while reading serves as it’s own reward, reviews and recommendations allow authors to keep creating new worlds, new characters and new content.  Reviews don’t have to be long, or detailed like old-school book reports (although those are totally awesome to read as an author!) but a simple “I enjoyed this story, it was fun” review helps boost the book you liked so it can find new readers and a wider audience.  Whether you review on Amazon, Goodreads, your own blog or shout-out on social media, every review is a gem.  Thank you to all the lovely reviewers out there.

Let’s not overlook recommendations of books we love!  I ask you, Is there anything better than discussing a book with a friend?  I always find it amazing that two people can read the same book and come away with entirely different messages, favorite plot-points and character takes.  Talking about books we’ve read with others helps us see things we missed and, for me at least, gives the book a new level of enjoyment.  I’m always on the lookout for a new favorite from someone who reads the same books I do, and I’m quick to loan a friend a book I loved–if only so we can talk about it together later!

Keep up those reviews and recommendations, friends!  Thank you all for reading.

*Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2017/05/28/how-reading-fiction-makes-you-smarter.html