What makes a book good? Is it the proper use of punctuation or grammar? Is it the plot line? Is it the quippy one-liners spat out by the leading lady? What makes a book good to you?
For me, it’s a combination of things. First of all, the plot has to be something I’m interested in. A good story, regardless of poor punctuation and grammar is still a good story. Personality in the characters, people I can relate to are also important. If I can somehow put myself in the shoes of the protagonist, or even the antagonist, I’m more likely to get involved in the story to a point where I won’t want to put it down.
Puctuation and Grammar are not that important – to me – in the telling of a great story. Does that mean that they’re not important? Absolutely not. Poor punctuation and grammar can be very distracting, even to the point where the reader can become so distracted that they put down the book. Puctuation and Grammar are important, as far as ensuring your reader understands the point of the story; can follow along and not feel like they’re lost in a haze of missplaced comma’s and periods.
When I write, I am very conscientious of how the reader might feel. I even take the time to read aloud what I have just written to make sure it flows just right. I find myself bothered by other writers who don’t do the same. There is a series of books out there that I am reading, and one of my biggest complaints is that the punctuation, and in some cases grammar and spelling, are getting in the way of the story. What bothers me more, is that the book series is a New York Times Best Seller. I find myself questioning, did the book sell so many because of the popularity of its subject matter? Or did people really find it that great that they spread the word and it sold like hot cakes?
What makes a book good to you? What is important to you, as the reader, when it comes to the telling of a great story?
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