book review interview questions

101 Imaginative And Fun Author Interview Questions

You’re ready to interview an author for your blog.

Or maybe you’ve started a podcast and are wondering how to interview an author for it? 

We’re here to help — both with preparing for the interview and with making your list of author interview questions. 

As authors with an insatiable appetite for authentic stories, we created this post to answer the question, “What are good questions to ask an author about a book?”

There are loads of questions you could ask.

But these will make the interview more enjoyable for you and your guests. 

For authors, these questions can help prepare you for interviews and know what to expect when you’re called on to talk about your work.

How Do You Prepare for an Author Interview? 

Best author interview questions, author interview questions about their book, fun author interview questions, questions about writing, questions to ask authors about other books and authors, personal questions for authors.

Preparing for an author interview requires more than a list of good questions to ask an author.

Both of you need to be in the right frame of mind. 

But since you’ll be the one conducting the interview — and the author is offering their time and answers for your readers’ or listener’s entertainment — it’s on you to make sure this interview is a positive experience for your guest. 

Related: 16 Best Self-Publishing Companies For Your Writing Business

To that end, keep the following tips in mind:

• Know your audience (just as important for interviewers as it is for authors). 
• Ask open-ended (not YES or NO) questions.
• Make the author the star of the interview.
• Prepare questions that will pique your audience’s curiosity. 
• Keep your audience engaged by inviting them to ask questions.
• Be punctual and respect the author’s time. 

The better prepared you are for each author interview, the more likely your readers or listeners are to keep coming back for more. 

101 Author Interview Questions 

You need a list of good questions to ask a writer, and we aim to make your job easier.

The questions below are divided into popular categories, so you can choose the types of questions most interesting to your audience.

1. At what point do you think someone should call themselves a writer?

2. What difference do you see between a writer and an author?

3. Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym , and why or why not?

4. What do the words “writer’s block” mean to you? 

5. How do you process and deal with negative book reviews? 

6. Are there therapeutic benefits to modeling a character after someone you know?

7. What is the most difficult part of your writing process? 

8. How long have you been writing or when did you start? 

9. What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?

10. What, to you, are the most important elements of good writing ?

11. What comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why?

12. How do you develop your plot and characters? 

13. When did you first call yourself a writer? 

14. How do you use social media as an author? 

15. What’s your favorite and least favorite part of publishing? 

16. What would you say to an author who wanted to design their own cover?

1. How many books have you written and which is your favorite?

2. What part of the book did you have the hardest time writing?

3. What part of the book was the most fun to write?

4. Which of the characters do you relate to the most and why?

5. If you’re planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?

6. What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft? 

7. What perspectives or beliefs have you challenged with this work?

8. What inspired the idea for your book?

9. How would you describe your book’s ideal reader?

10. How much research did you need to do for your book? 

11. How important was professional editing to your book’s development?

12. What was your hardest scene to write , and why?

13. What characters in your book are most similar to you or to people you know?

14. How long did it take you to write this book ? 

15. How did you come up with the title for your book ?

16. Would you and your main character get along? 

17. If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

1. What is your writing process like? Are you more of a plotter or a pantser?

2. What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused? 

3. If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?

4. If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

5. What is your schedule like when you’re writing a book?

6. Have you ever traveled as research for your book? 

7. What’s your favorite writing snack or drink?

8. How do you celebrate when you finish your book? 

9. What do you think of NaNoWriMo? Worth it? 

10. What is your kryptonite as a writer?

11. What risks have you taken with your writing that have paid off?

12. When was the last time you Googled yourself and what did you find?

13. Which of your characters are most likely to be an activist, and what kind?

14. Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?

15. Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing? 

16. If your book were made into a movie, which actors would play your characters? 

17. Have you ever killed off a character your readers loved? 

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1. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

2. What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?

3. What advice would you give to help others create plotlines?

4. What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book? 

5. Does writing energize or exhaust you? Or both? 

6. What is the best money you’ve ever spent with regard to your writing?

7. What are common traps for new authors? 

8. How many hours a day do you write?

9. What are your favorite blogs or websites for writers? 

10. At what time of the day do you do most of your writing?

11. What’s your writing software of choice? 

12. How do you come up with character names for your stories?

13. Do you participate in writing challenges on social media? Do you recommend any?

14. When you’re writing an emotional or difficult scene, how do you set the mood?

15. Whom do you trust for objective and constructive criticism of your work?

16. What are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for? 

17. What do you do to get inside your character’s heads? 

1. What books do you enjoy reading?

2. Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?

3. What books helped you the most when you were writing your (first) book?

4. What books did you grow up reading?

5. What authors did you dislike at first but then develop an appreciation for?

6. Name an underappreciated novel that you love.

7. Has any hugely popular novel left you thinking you could write it better?

8. Have you ever tried to write a novel for a genre you rarely or never read? 

9. What book (or books) are you currently reading? 

10. If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be? 

11. Do you prefer ebooks, printed books, or audiobooks most of the time?

12. What are your favorite series or series authors?

13. Have you listened to any audiobooks? Which did you enjoy the most?

14. If you could be a character in one of your favorite books, who would you be?

15. What author in your genre do you most admire, and why?

16. Have you used an app to borrow ebooks or audiobooks from the library?

17. What books have you read more than once in your life? 

1. Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself? 

2. Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?

3. Do you see writing as a kind of spiritual or therapeutic practice? 

4. As a writer, what would you choose as your spirit animal? 

5. What spiritual or therapeutic practices help you get into the right headspace? 

6. At what stage (or stages) of your life have you done most of your writing? 

7. What’s the trickiest thing about writing characters of the opposite gender?

8. What do the words “literary success” mean to you? How do you picture it?

9. If you didn’t write for a living, what would you probably do for work?

10. Would anyone in your family disapprove of anything you’ve written?

11. Does anyone in your family read your books? 

12. Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing? 

13. Do you have other writers in the family? 

14. If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite? 

15. Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?

16. If you had to describe yourself in just three words, what would those be?

17. If you had the power to cure a disease of your choosing, what would it be? 

Are you ready for your next author interview?

Now that you know how to interview an author, which authors do you have in mind? And which of the author interview questions in this post stood out enough to make you want to add them to your own interview list? 

Your questions don’t have to sound original. It’s more important to ask questions your readers or listeners want the answers to. 

And as much as possible, give them a reason to check out the author’s books. 

That’s the beauty of author interviews. Done right, they make the authors you’re interviewing more interesting and relatable to your audience. 

May every author you interview be glad you did. 

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101 Interview Questions to Ask an Author

Rebecca Graf

Interviewing an author can be fun. It helps you as a reviewer get followers, and it helps authors get more readers. A big problem has grown over the last few years. Interviewers keep asking the same questions over and over.

As authors move from one interviewer to another, the same questions get repeated. If I followed on specific interviewer, I would start to get bored as they have the same cache of questions they give each author. Needless to say, I start to ignore them all because I’ll just hear the same old things.

Let me take one step back. It is good to have a list of questions to pull from. Sometimes we are frazzled and have trouble getting ideas on what to ask. There is nothing wrong with having a list of questions to help us or even to prompt our minds to come up with something even better.

When interviewing an author, please read their book ahead of time. I’ve made that mistake several times and regretted it. If you read the book, you can discover more questions to ask that will actually get a potential reader interested in buying the book. Talk about the book and try to avoid the generic questions.

Yes, the questions I have listed could be considered generic, but I have added quite a few that many interviewers don’t ask. Also, the intent is to assist you and spoon feed you. Use these to…

Written by Rebecca Graf

Writer for ten years, lover of education, and degrees in business, history, and English. Striving to become a Renassiance woman. www.writerrebeccagraf.com

Text to speech

Kristina Elyse Butke

• Feb 15, 2022
• 18 min read

101 Imaginative and Fun Author Interview Questions

Today's post comes from Authority Pub and it is a doozy because of the number of questions. If you noticed, I love doing tags, asks, and self-interviews, and they make up a large bulk of my new blog so far. I find talking about my process and the writing craft to be very cathartic, and I think it's a fun way to learn about me and what I do. If you'd like to know more about me, read on, friends!

*✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ*✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ*

Best Author Interview Questions

At what point do you think someone should call themselves a writer.

I think as soon as you sit down and make the decision to write and commit to it, you're a writer.

What difference do you see between a writer and an author?

I think an author has been published, but a writer hasn't necessarily.

Have you ever considered writing under a pseudonym?

Oh, yeah. I have used my pseudonym once, being credited for proofreading on a BL game, but I'd also like to use it for writing BL, too.

What do the words "writer's block" mean to you?

That there's something preventing my writing from flowing out of me, and it's usually something psychologically blocking me. Most likely, a manifestation of perfectionism.

How do you process and deal with negative book reviews?

I haven't gotten a negative review yet but I have gotten negative feedback and it's something I struggle with. I tend to take it personally and overthink it, and agonize over how to make changes or what I should do in the future. I do not recommend anyone do what I do.

Are there therapeutic benefits to modeling a character after someone you know?

I have written people into my plays before in anger. At the time it felt good, but it didn't really provide closure or fill the hole in my heart. Plus, I was kind of a jerk about it. I have since resolved never to deliberately write characters based on people I know (except characters who are influenced by me).

What is the most difficult part of your writing process?

Coming up with a plot. I'm all characters and vibes.

How long have you been writing, or when did you start?

I started writing stories in elementary school. My earliest memory of getting complimented on my writing was in second grade. So...that's like 30+ years!

What advice would you give to a writer working on their first book?

Be kind to yourself, and it's ok to make mistakes.

What, to you, are the most important elements of good writing?

Characters who are living, breathing humans I'll follow anywhere.

What comes first for you--the plot or characters--and why?

The characters always come first to me. I usually think about their appearance and names, then craft a personality from that.

How do you develop your plot and characters?

I try to think of different emotions my characters could feel--the expressions on their faces; the sounds of their voice--and then create things that cause those emotional reactions.

When did you first call yourself a writer?

I didn't consider myself a writer until I wrote my first full-length play that got performed in 7th grade.

How do you use social media as an author?

I'm bad at it. I'm spread out among all sorts of different sites: Facebook , Twitter , Tumblr , Pinterest , LinkedIn , and Instagram . Then I have this website. I have all these profiles because I want to have a lot of listings in Google and protect my name, but in terms of engagement on the sites, I have very little. Social media takes a lot out of me, and it's actually one of my mental health triggers, I can lose myself pretty fast if I'm not careful.

What's your favorite and least favorite part of publishing?

Favorite: (It will be) seeing the cover art to the book and finding the book on the shelves in the wild.

Least favorite: The money. I would really like to get paid for my work. Granted, I submitted to certain places willingly knowing that they were non-paying markets in order to get more of my writing out there, but I would love to live in a world where all writing, and all art, is valued where the creator can be paid and sustain a living. When it comes to publishing books, writers are getting paid, but the way it's being done is basically taking the advance writers would get and splits it into four payments, and then spreading those payments out over a 2-3 year-period. It just seems like it's so hard to make a living writing!

What would you say to an author who wanted to design their own cover?

There's a difference between designing the cover and making it yourself. I think it's ok to sketch out a design, and pass that design onto a professional to render it in the best way possible, but I think making covers yourself is a risk. You've got to be sure you use a good program and have a lot of design skills up your sleeves. You have to be highly critical of your own work, too. If you can afford to, I think it is better to invest in someone else doing your cover, or at the very least, your art.

Author Interview Questions About Their Book

I'm going to talk about son of the siren for this section., how many books have you written and which is your favorite.

I've written two books so far and my favorite is The Name and the Key , which was my graduate thesis at Seton Hill. It's largely because I feel like I did a lot right with that book, and created a character--Andresh--whom everybody loved. I had fun writing it and since it was my first book, it's my little baby, and I can't forget my baby! However, I do think Son of the Siren features better writing overall.

What part of the book (Son of the Siren) did you have the hardest time writing?

Almost all of the times Queen Aurinda interacted with Lirien. I didn't want to make her fully a villain, but she does absolutely terrible things, and because she is a Queen, she gets away with a lot. She's particularly cruel to Lirien, and those scenes were hard to write.

What part of the book was the most fun to write?

All the scenes in Elythia! I had so much fun writing about the Fae, and creating my super amorous couple, Lord Iesin and Lady Ariana, who rule Autumn Wood. Lirien meeting Kitra and the scenes with the Green Man were also fun to write.

Which of the characters do you relate to the most and why?

This is a really personal question for me and I don't think I have it in me to answer it, because it's too traumatic for me to recount.

If you're planning a sequel, can you share a tiny bit about your plans for it?

Son of the Siren is a standalone novel!

What is a significant way your book has changed since the first draft?

I cut the gods and goddesses and their mythology from the book, including the royal family descending from one of those gods; I cut the vampiric Sleeping Beauty when I found out one of the books I read ages ago already did that; I cut a lot of Kitra's vengeful personality out and tried to make her more playful; and I cut 78 pages of writing that just wasn't working. This was all before I got feedback from my editor and beta readers, whew!

What perspectives or beliefs have you challenged with this work?

I can only speak for myself because my book isn't out in the world yet, but I hope my book helps readers reexamine what they know about intimacy and consent.

What inspired the idea for your book?

Three fairytales: Allerleirauh , The Wild Swans , and The Little Mermaid .

How would you describe your book's ideal reader?

My original goal was teenagers aged 14-18 but since getting feedback from an Author Mentor Match author as well as beta readers, it looks like my audience should be aged up and the book changed to Adult fantasy. So, readers 18 and up...but with crossover appeal for readers as young as 16 years old, I think.

How much research did you need to do for your book?

I had to research the time period. The clothes, architecture of the palace, weapons, and dances all come from Tudor England. I also researched using a spinning wheel and loom, the best time to view the Northern Lights, and name meanings for certain characters.

How important was professional editing to your book's development?

So, so important. The book has received professional developmental edits; beta reading from a librarian, book reviewer, and a literary fantasy author; a first chapter editorial letter from an editor and traditionally published author; and critiques from a self-published author and a professor. I also just solicited two more beta readers, both of whom are published authors, to get additional feedback on the book's most recent revision, which was substantial.

What was your hardest scene to write, and why?

The final confrontation between Queen Aurinda and Lirien. This is where all of the emotions are laid bare and the truth comes out, and Lirien defends himself.

What characters in your book are most similar to you or to people you know?

Because I'm actively trying not to write about other people, I sort of picked at little pieces of myself, past and present, and put them into characters like Lirien and Kitra. Only people who know me really well will be able to see which parts of me ended up where.

How long did it take you to write this book?

When it was a graphic novel (seriously!) it took me like a month to make the front cover and first page. I realized I wasn't going to be able to pull off writing and illustrating at the same time, so the comic became a novel. I didn't start drafting the novel until I moved to Japan; it took almost three years to write "The End" on the first draft of the book.

How did you come up with the title for your book?

I came up with it immediately. The book was always going to be about Lirien, and Lirien is the son of the siren, an identity he grapples with constantly. I thought it was the perfect title.

Would you and your main character get along?

I think so, but I'd probably ask Lirien to sing more than he'd like to, and that might annoy him.

If you could meet your characters, what would you say to them?

Thank you for coming with me on the journey. I love you all.

Fun Author Interview Questions

What is your writing process like are you more of a plotter or pantser.

I'm a pantser who handwrites some plot points (but not a full plot) in a notebook and then wings the rest on the PC.

What do you need in your writing space to help you stay focused?

Generally, silence. Sometimes music helps, but Son of the Siren has a lot of songs and riddles in it, so I avoided music on purpose so as not to be influenced by it.

If you were to write a spin-off about a side character, which would you pick?

From Son of the Siren, I'd write about Kitra or Brandegil. From The Name and the Key, I'd write about Laney.

If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

Margaret Rogerson or Holly Black.

What is your schedule like when you're writing a book?

There really should be a schedule, but there isn't. I can't bring myself to write every day and a lot of times I have trouble concentrating or brainstorming, so it really is a "write when the mood strikes" type of situation. This is not sustainable.

Have you ever traveled as research for your book?

I would love to. As of right now, I think of where I've already travelled, and that ends up in the book. Parts of New York City and Wales appeared in The Name and the Key, and lots of Japan appeared in Son of the Siren.

What's your favorite writing snack or drink?

I can't stop drinking soda while I write. *sobs*

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

When I finished The Name and the Key, I cried a little. When I finished Son of the Siren, I went shopping.

What do you think of Nanowrimo? Worth it?

I have tried Nanowrimo multiple times and failed. I just can't thrive under that kind of pressure--I'd never finish 50,000 in one month because I relentlessly self-edit as I write, run into plotting blocks frequently, and can never stick to an outline. I think Nanowrimo is definitely worth it to other people.

What is your kryptonite as a writer?

PLOTTING! AHRHOUOUGFSJGFOUWROHSLBFBJFLSJBFSJ I suck at it!

What risks have you taken with your writing that have paid off?

When I do what I call "auto-write" (where I just go with the flow, or hyper-pants it), I have reached the point of enlightenment where I'm no longer worried of what other people think and I'm just focused on the story. It's risky to just let the writing go off on auto-pilot, but my best and most fun scenes to write appear when that happens.

When was the last time you Googled yourself and what did you find?

I Googled myself just now to answer this question! And what's weird is depending on what device I use, my Google results change. On my PC right now as I type, my #1 link is to my LinkedIn profile (what?) followed by this website. But on my cell phone, my Twitter pops up first. My goal is for this website to pop up first, and I don't know how to get my results to change in that way. …I do Google pretty frequently just to see if my blog posts are showing up, and to keep an eye on privacy violations (like websites that aggregate your phone number and prior addresses. Those suck).

Which of your characters are most likely to be an activist, and what kind?

I feel like this question should go in a different section. Anyway, I'm pulling from Son of the Siren again, and I feel like Brandegil or Kitra would be activists. Brandegil would deal with protesting the illegal seizure of artifacts, and Kitra would advocate for the rights of tricksters and other magical creatures.

Do you play music while you write--and if so, what's your favorite?

If I need to be in a certain mood, I'll grab instrumental music; mostly soundtracks from movies, video games, or anime. My favorite soundtrack that works well for writing is from Sword Art Online (the soundtrack to the Aincrad arc) . The songs are like a minute and a half or two minutes, have vastly different styles, but also equally evoke the sense of the fantastic. In other words, if you're writing fantasy, it's an ideal fantasy soundtrack!

Have pets ever gotten in the way of your writing?

When I briefly had cats, yes. They would come up on my lap and want a hug (yes! I had a hugging cat!) and I'd want to stop everything and give them my attention.

If your book were made into a movie, which actors would play your characters?

Ok, so I tend to imagine my books as anime. Son of the Siren would be animated by Kyoto Animation and Lirien, the lead, would be played by Hosoya Yoshimasa because he has a beautiful singing voice. His voice is a bit higher than how Lirien's is described in the book (Lirien is a "gentle baritone") but I don't care. Hosoya is a great actor and would pull it off well.

Have you ever killed off a character your readers loved?

I don't think so.

Questions About Writing

What is the most valuable piece of advice you've been given about writing.

To not fight my process. I'm paraphrasing, but my mentor Tim Waggoner told me this when I was struggling with what "real writers" do.

What do you think is the best way to improve writing skills?

By continually reading and writing.

What advice would you give to help others create plotlines?

I would *not* give advice on this because I'm terrible at this.

What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?

Hindered: my self-doubts and need for validation. Helped: Not caring about what other people think.

Does writing energize or exhaust you? Or both?

On the whole, unfortunately writing exhausts me. The moments where the writing flows out by itself are rarer and rarer--and those are the moments that energize me.

What is the best money you've ever spent with regard to your writing?

The laptop I'm writing on right now!

What are common traps for new authors?

I don't feel qualified to answer this question as I am still a new writer (at least when it comes to fiction).

How many hours a day do you write?

I don't write everyday, but when I do it completely varies from like one hour to six.

What are your favorite blogs or websites for writers?

I'm going to go ahead and plug my Flipboard Writerlicious here. On a daily basis I compile articles on writing, publishing, and reading, and I take them from all different kinds of writing blogs I follow. So if you'd like to be one of 60,000+ viewers, bookmark my magazine !

At what time of the day do you do most of your writing?

Late afternoon into the night, but most commonly nighttime.

What's your writing software of choice?

I tried out Scrivener but couldn't figure it out and gave up on it pretty quickly, so I am a Microsoft Word girl.

How do you come up with character names for your stories?

I usually go based on sound, then meaning. If I need help with meanings I go to Behind the Name for inspiration.

Do you participate in writing challenges on social media? Do you recommend any?

I don't really participate in stuff like that on social media. It's probably one of the reasons I have almost no engagement. Most of the time I have no idea what challenges are going on, anyway, and by the time I do find out, it's almost over.

When you're writing an emotional or difficult scene, how do you set the mood?

I imagine my characters' faces or voices during the scene I'm about to write. I'll also listen to certain musical scores to get in the mood.

Whom do you trust for objective and constructive criticism of your work?

Experienced, published authors; reviewers; and reputable beta readers. Basically I need to know the background and experience of the people I want to critique my work in order for me to trust them.

What are the essential characteristics of a hero you can root for?

Kindness, honesty, equity, and loyalty. Kindness is the biggest one!

What do you do to get inside your character's heads?

They're already in my head, so it's not hard to already be inside theirs. I wish I had a better answer for this, but I don't really know how I pull it off; I just do.

Questions to Ask Authors About Other Books & Authors

What books do you enjoy reading.

Fantasy, horror, comics, manga.

Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?

Reading Juliet Marillier in college inspired me to switch from playwriting to fiction.

What books helped you the most when you were writing your first book?

Tim Waggoner recommended I read Plot Versus Character: A Balanced Approach to Writing Great Fiction by Jeff Gerke. That helped.

What books did you grow up reading?

Fear Street, Goosebumps, Bad News Ballet, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark...

What authors did you dislike at first but then develop an appreciation for?

I don't read authors I dislike. I stop reading their work. There are too many books in the world for me to read, so I'd rather get on with something else than force myself to read authors I don't like.

Name an underappreciated novel that you love.

Megan Rose Gedris's graphic novel series Spectacle hasn't even broken ten reviews on Amazon as I write this...which makes me think it is underappreciated. I've really enjoyed reading the series (set in a circus!), with queer love, murder and ghosts, and lovely art.

Has any hugely popular novel left you thinking you could write it better?

Have you ever tried to write a novel for a genre you rarely or never read.

When I was in high school I started drawing characters that would go in a science fiction novel set in space. It was supposed to be epic/high adventure but I never came up with a plot, so it was abandoned.

What book (or books) are you currently reading?

I am currently reading Dark and Shallow Lies by Ginny Myers Sain.

If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be?

Margaret Rogerson or Holly Black, pretty please!

Do you prefer eBooks, printed books, or audiobooks most of the time?

I think printed books are beautiful and are normally what I prefer, but because I live in Japan and have to move back to the US, I have stopped buying physical books (can't ship them home; I have hundreds of them) and have switched to eBooks. And one thing I really love about eBooks besides being able to load them up onto my Kindle easily, is the Word Wise feature, where you can highlight a word you don't know and it will give you a definition.

What are your favorite series or series authors?

Brigid Kemmerer for the Cursebreakers series and Holly Black for The Folk of the Air.

Have you listened to any audiobooks? Which did you enjoy the most?

I don't listen to audiobooks. I want to get through a book quickly; I prefer to hear the voices in my own head; and I will have to devote all of my focus to the audiobook so as not to get distracted, and it's hard for me to do.

If you could be a character in one of your favorite books, who would you be?

I always wanted to be Josephine March from Little Women.

What author in your genre do you most admire, and why?

I feel like these are just variations of the same questions over and over again, which is why my answers are all the same. I'm going to pick my newest favorite, Margaret Rogerson, who writes completely creative standalones that feature a lot of things I love. I just want to pick her brain; her ideas are so good. And I like her characters.

Have you used an app to borrow eBooks or audiobooks from the library?

What books have you read more than once in your life.

I won't reread them now because I don't want to support the author, but I did reread the Harry Potter books growing up.

Personal Questions for Authors

Has writing and publishing a book changed the way you see yourself.

Well, the book hasn't been published yet, but when it is, I think I'll feel like I'm finally a real author. Right now, I have some poetry published, and when that happened, I felt like an author, too, but it seems like publishing a book means it's totally official. That I'm the real deal.

Is there a particular genre you would love to write but only under a pseudonym?

Do you see writing as a kind of spiritual or therapeutic practice.

I do tend to get a little more spiritual as I write because I often pray for guidance through hard patches. And writing is also therapeutic because sometimes I process things, like past trauma, through characters and situations.

As a writer, what would you choose as your spirit animal?

This is a question that shouldn't be asked ( here's an article with reasons why; you can find several if you Google).

What spiritual or therapeutic practices help you get into the right headspace?

Praying helps. I also think of patron saints and gods or goddesses who deal with creative flow, output, and writing, and hang art of them somewhere in my writing space to help inspire me.

At what stage of your life have you done most of your writing?

I did a ton from my late teens into my twenties. I was on fire. It was probably mania that helped that output. Now I'm better, but I'm a slow writer.

What's the trickiest thing about writing characters of the opposite gender?

Giving them a voice that sounds authentic, I think.

What do the words "literary success" mean to you? How do you picture it?

Being published; being able to write full time without the need for a second or third job to support myself. I realize this is really hard, nigh impossible, to have happen, but I'm shooting for it anyway. I guess the most important one to me is being a published author of multiple books.

If you didn't write for a living, what would you probably do for work?

I would continue presenting workshops at conferences and conventions, and probably teach on the side. However, teaching really exhausts me, so I would rather be a lecturer for only 1-2 classes instead of the 3-4 I was previously doing. I would like to teach for the fun of it as opposed to teaching for survival.

Would anyone in your family disapprove of anything you've written?

I think my fanfiction, probably. I don't publish it online for a variety of reasons. It's personal to me.

Does anyone in your family read your books?

My family has read The Name and the Key ! When I graduated I had the manuscript printed and bound as an actual trade paperback book (not for sale) to make it easier for people to read it. I have had family members attempt reading Son of the Siren , but they would get busy or I would make such substantial changes to it while they were reading, I just told them not to bother reading it anymore. When it's officially finished it'll probably be like how it was for my thesis--it has to be in book form for people to want to read it.

Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing?

My mother and my sister. My mother reads and comments on all of my writing. My sister defends me all the time and talks me through my rough spots when I write. I have other supporters, but I think those two are my biggest cheerleaders.

Do you have other writers in the family?

Yep. My brother writes and posts fanfiction regularly on A03, and my sister is working on a nonfiction title.

If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite?

Besides the writers I listed above, just to switch things out, I'm going to say Edgar Allan Poe, Junji Ito, and Queen Elizabeth. It will be a very interesting dinner!

Would you share something about yourself that your readers don't know (yet)?

I am really, really good at rhyming lyrics and poetry. You'll find out when you read Son of the Siren.

If you had to describe yourself in just three words, what would those be?

Creative, emotional, variable.

If you had the power to cure a disease of your choosing, what would it be?

Cancer. It has killed members of my family and we're at risk for it because close family members had it. I don't want to lose any more people to it. Thousands of people share this pain with me, too...so I want to cure it for them as well.

You made it! You survived this giant post!! Do you want to try it out for your own blog? Be sure to link back to me in the comments if you do! Thanks so much for reading through all of this. I appreciate it!

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50+ Critical Questions to Ask an Author (For Interview)

Have you ever wondered what to ask your favorite author? Questions can tell you more about the author than what you can find on the internet. 

If you find it tricky to figure out what to ask or if you’re getting ready for an author interview, then don’t worry. I’ve got you!

This article is all about critical questions that you can ask an author to make your interview spicy. No complicated words here – just straightforward questions to help you know more about authors.

So, let’s start!

Table of Contents

List of Questions:

Questions about writing.

• What inspired your latest book?
• How do you begin writing a new story?
• Do you plan the ending of your book before you start writing?
• What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
• How do you name your characters?
• Is there a message you hope readers will take away from your books?
• Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
• How do you handle writer’s block?
• Can you describe a typical day in your writing life?
• What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
• How do you edit and revise your work?
• What genre do you enjoy writing the most, and why?
• How do you create a believable and immersive setting for your stories?
• Can you share a funny or memorable writing-related anecdote?
• How do you balance writing with your personal life and other responsibilities?
• How do you celebrate when you finish writing a book?
• How do you stay motivated throughout the writing process?
• What do you think is the key to creating compelling and relatable characters?
• How do you handle criticism and negative reviews?
• What do you enjoy most about interacting with your readers?

Questions About Books

• What was your favorite book when you were a kid?
• Is there a book that made you see the world differently?
• How do you choose the books you read for fun?
• Do you prefer reading physical books or digital ebooks, and why?
• What book are you reading right now, and what do you like about it?
• Do you read on a screen, from a real book, or listen to someone reading?
• How do you make time for reading along with your other activities?
• Is there a classic book you think everyone should read?
• How do you find new books or authors to read?
• What have books taught you that you find important?

Questions About the Latest Book

• What is your new book about? Can you explain it simply?
• What made you want to write this story?
• Is there a special message you want readers to get from your new book?
• How do you want readers to feel after they read your new book?
• Can you share something fun or interesting about where the story is set?
• How did you pick the title and cover for your new book?
• How did you celebrate finishing and publishing your new book?

Questions About Future Work

• What are you planning to write next? Can you share a little bit about it?
• Are there specific topics in mind for your future books?
• Is there a special kind of story or genre you want to try writing in the future?
• How do you challenge yourself when you write new stories?
• Do you plan to collaborate with other writers or artists in your future work?
• Are there story types or themes you haven’t explored yet but want to in the future?

Personal Questions

• What’s your favorite hobby outside of writing?
• Do you have any pets?
• What’s your favorite food?
• Do you enjoy traveling? If so, where is your favorite place you’ve visited?
• What’s your go-to way to relax after a long day?
• Do you have a favorite movie or TV show?
• Are you a morning person or a night owl?
• Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that inspires you?
• Do you prefer spending time indoors or outdoors?

In interviewing authors, prepare by researching their work and creating questions about their writing and personal interests. Start with a friendly chat to help them feel comfortable. Listen carefully to their answers and ask follow-up questions. Balance serious and fun questions. Be flexible, respectful, and polite. 

After the interview, thank them and share the interview if possible. Stay curious and respectful during the conversation.

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10 Interview Questions To Ask An Author

“A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.”

Here at What We Reading , speaking to authors is one of the best ways we’ve found to learn more about our industry and be inspired by our craft. Over on our Author Spotlight tab, we’ve been fortunate enough to interview some incredible authors, delving into everything from what influences them to what infuriates them about the writing world. This is why we thought we would look back and offer a comprehensive guide on some of the best questions to ask an author. If you’ve ever asked how you became a writer, wondered how book ideas are developed or how to publish a book once it’s been written, these are some of the best and most popular questions to ask in an interview with an author!

10 Best Questions To Ask An Author

If you ever find yourself with an upcoming interview or book event to attend, these questions are open and interesting enough to generate responses that are interesting, insightful and actionable.

1. How do you find time to write?

Our daily lives are so hectic with work, home and social commitments the greatest enemy of any budding writer is often time. This question will allow an author to explain how they find the time to write, and they are sure to impart some handy tips for you to take away with you i.e. blocking out an hour every day where you commit to writing something.

2. How long does it take to write a book?

Asking how long it takes an author to write a book will give you a good insight into the writing industry, and open the door to understanding word counts, publisher guidelines etc. Naturally, the time it takes to write a short story compared to a novel will vary significantly, so having more responses will give you a better insight.

3. How do you know what to write?

This question can give you a lot of insight into how an author’s mind works when they are writing. A writer will likely give you a good amount of tips on how they structure chapters and plan their work, ensuring that all of their ideas make it onto the page in a coherent manner. They may also explain the role of editors and the importance of having eyes on a story before it is submitted for publishing.

4. Did you self-publish or go into traditional publishing?

Self-publishing versus traditional publishing is still one of the hot topics in the writing world, so your interviewee is sure to have an opinion on this one! Self-publishing means a writer retains all of the profits they make from the sales of their books. However, they are also forced to bear all the costs of getting a book published. Traditional publishing sees a publisher taking on most of the costs, with authors being paid royalties on a percentage of the sales. Publishers will likely have a wider visibility net and significant distribution network that could help reach buyers.

There are pros and cons to either approach, making it one of the best questions to ask an author you find yourself in front of.

5. How did you get a book deal?

Undoubtedly one of the most burning questions budding writers have, asking this question to an author will likely lead to a discussion about creating and submitting book proposals and negotiating with publishers, all of which is great information on learning how the industry works.

6. How did you negotiate your book deal?

An author will likely explain that each of their works comes with its book contracts that they had to negotiate separately. When discussing book deals , an author will likely highlight these key areas they pay close attention to:

• Their book rights
• The book advance
• Royalties (domestic and global)
• An audiobook inclusion

Separate negotiations allow writers to leverage their work individually and ensure they aren’t locked into a long-term deal that turns out to be undervalued against their skill. Another important author interview question to ask here focuses on one-time book advances against royalties. Advances are great for new writers, but royalties are ongoing based on the percentage of sales.

7. What is the best time of day to write?

Everyone is different when it comes to the best time for writing , so some of the answers you get from your interview with an author may surprise you! Sometimes inspiration strikes at the most unusual of hours. Typically, most writers feel at their most creative in the mornings or later into the evening, however.

8. What is the hardest part of writing a book?

Any question about the hardest part of writing is sure to lead to a discussion about writer’s block. It’s an inevitable part of the writing process, and even the most successful of bestselling authors can find themselves going days or even weeks with very little progress on the page. What makes this one of the best questions to ask an author is the practical wisdom they will give you in how they tackle these obstacles . You’re sure to pick up some handy tips to take with you into your writing.

9. What advice would you give to a new author?

Another one of the best questions to ask authors is what advice they would give to a new writer in the industry. You could even frame it in a different way e.g. ‘What advice would you give to yourself if you could go back in time?’

The experiences these writers have picked up in the industry are invaluable to people starting out looking to make a success out of their writing, and this question gets to the most commonly made mistakes and obstacles, as well as how to conquer them.

10. Other useful questions

If you still find you have time left for some other questions for your author interview, here are some more options you could consider:

• If you could go back in time and read one book again for the first time, what would it be?
• How important are book reviews?
• What are your favourite parts of being a writer?
• What are your favourite/least favourite writing tropes ?
• How much do your stories change as you write them?
• If you weren’t a writer, what would you be?
• What are your favourite parts of a story?

When it comes to interviewing writers, you must ask them about their work. It’s what they are most passionate about and therefore the thing they want to talk about most. Questions about their work, what inspires them, how they write etc. are sure to yield more detailed answers that are more interesting and useful.

Tips For Interviewing An Author

Test your equipment.

From the pen you’re taking notes with to the recording software documenting their answers, it’s important to ensure that all your equipment is working properly ahead of time. Whilst most of these are features on your smartphone or laptop, equipment not working is a time drainer, makes you look bad and could lead to you losing material.

Ask intentional questions

The best interviews are the ones that feel the most natural. Like a conversation between two engaged and interested individuals. We’ve prepared some of the best questions to ask authors here as a guideline but feel free to veer off with any branching questions that feel natural based on the responses an author gives.

Do research

Finally, it’s essential to come to your interview prepared with research on the author and books you’re going to be asking about. Take the time to read their work at least once, take notes on the themes and messages they are attempting to create and explore other interviews they have done in the past to gauge some of the most unique angles to lead with.

Also, keep in mind your audience and what sorts of questions they would have for the author.

How To Prepare For An Author Interview

One of the best tips we can offer for how to prepare for an author interview is to start by planning your questions. Visualise the order in which you want to ask them, and how they lead into one another so that the interview feels more like a conversation than any interview.

Don’t be afraid to inject yourself into the interview. Authenticity helps you stand out and makes for a far more compelling interview for yourself, the author and your audience. Think about what you liked about the author’s work, and what points you picked up naturally whilst reading and have fun with it. It’s important to serve up soundbites and ensure everything is left open, giving the author plenty of room to respond.

And always remember to thank them for their time!

Good Questions To Ask An Author On Limited Time

Sometimes either you or an author will be pressed for time. If they don’t have the time to go into their life story and ways of finding inspiration, here are three of the best questions to ask an author:

• What are your favourite books?
• What advice would you give to an aspiring writer?
• What’s your number one goal with your work?

Questions To Ask Non-Fiction Authors

Non-fiction authors naturally differ from fiction writers. Rather than focusing on creative themes and imagination, questions for non-fiction writers typically focus on the inspirations and lessons readers can take away from their work. Some of the best questions to ask non-fiction authors include:

• What experiences influenced your decision to write about this topic?
• What made you move into non-fiction writing as opposed to fiction?
• What publishing tips do you have for non-fiction books?

Acing The Interview

Authors like questions that focus on their writing process, what inspires them to write, and what other works inspire them. Every author has a love for reading, so be sure to allow them to talk about their books, favourite authors and artists and what goes into their writing.

An interview with an author is all about preparation. Familiarise yourself with the person as well as the material, prepare your questions in advance and structure them in a way that flows naturally and allows all your pressing queries to be answered. Remember, your end goal is to find things out that you and countless others want to know!

Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).

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15 Brilliant Author Interview Questions To Ask In Podcast

• October 31, 2023

Table of Contents:

Author interview questions.

• 1. What's Your Writing Routine Like?

2. Where Do Your Book Ideas Come From?

3. do you plan or wing it, 4. what messages hide in your stories, 5. what inspires your work, 6. how do real experiences shape fiction, 7. tell us about character creation, 8. building worlds – how do you do it, 9. challenges of crafting immersive worlds, 10. balancing plot and characters, 11. crafting realistic dialogue, 12. secrets to perfect pacing, 13. lessons from your writing journey.

• 14. Battling the Dreaded Writer's Block

15. Wisdom for Aspiring Authors:

Conclusion: .

Are you gearing up to host an author on your podcast? Interviews with authors offer a golden opportunity to dive into the minds behind your favorite books and stories. But how do you ensure your conversation shines? Fear not! We’ve got your back with these 15 brilliant author interview questions that will make your podcast special.

Podcasts offer a special window into authors’ minds and fascinating stories. If you have ever wanted to know how your favorite books are created, you’re in for a treat. Author podcast interviews are a way to peek behind the curtain and learn how book writers work their magic. And here’s the exciting part: We have 15 excellent author interview questions to make these podcast interviews stand out!

Imagine having a cozy conversation with an author about how they write, where they get their ideas, and the challenges they face. 

1. What’s Your Writing Routine Like?

Have you ever found yourself pondering over whether they prefer to wrap themselves in the cozy embrace of fuzzy socks or if they find inspiration in the comforting aroma of endless cups of coffee? These seemingly ordinary yet utterly intriguing nuances glimpse the inner sanctum of the memoir writer’s creative process.

However, Asking about these quirky details in author interview questions isn’t just about satisfying curiosity. It’s about building a bridge between the author’s world and the eager ears of your podcast audience. So, By shedding light on these personal rituals, you’re inviting your listeners to envision the author’s writing space – the place where characters are born, worlds are crafted, and stories come to life.

Have you ever found yourself lost in wonderment, pondering the enigmatic origins of the unique story ideas that authors bring to life? Imagine it as a journey behind the velvet curtain, where the intricacies of their creative process unfold before you, much like a mesmerizing stage performance. With this question, you’re not just scratching the surface; you’re delving deep into the alchemical mixture that transforms mere thoughts into captivating tales.

Some authors are like architects, carefully sketching every detail of their stories beforehand. Others are explorers, venturing into their tales without a fixed path. 

So, By asking about their planning process, you can uncover whether they’re the builders of blueprints or the adventurers of words. It’s like peering into their creative workshop and understanding how they construct the enchanting worlds that captivate readers.

Imagine plunging into the depths of an author’s writing, much like a deep-sea explorer. With this question, you’re delving beyond the surface, seeking the hidden treasures within their tales. Ask them about the themes and messages they aim to convey through their stories. It’s like unearthing precious gems – these messages might be about courage, friendship, or even the beauty of the ordinary. Every story carries a message, so by asking, you’re unraveling the threads of meaning that make their narratives shine. For assistance in crafting captivating narratives, consider exploring the best ghostwriting services in USA .

Have you ever wondered what sparks the creativity of authors? Picture it as discovering the secret ingredients in a recipe for a delightful dish. Authors find inspiration in countless places – the tapestry of their own experiences, the canvas of their dreams, the symphony of nature, and even the quirks of neighbors. 

So, By asking about their sources of inspiration, you’re unveiling the magical sources that breathe life into their stories. It’s like tracing the footprints of their imagination and understanding the diverse elements that fuel their storytelling fire.

Have you ever considered how an author’s real-life moments find their way into their stories? It’s like blending ingredients into a delicious recipe. 

With this author’s interview questions , you uncover the threads of truth woven into their fictional tales. Authors often infuse their experiences, emotions, and encounters into their characters and plots. It’s like watching a painter add vibrant colors to a canvas, making their stories rich and relatable.

Characters are like the beating heart of any story, giving it life and soul. Have you ever wondered how authors, without resorting to ghost authorship , bring these characters to life? It’s a bit like crafting intricate sculptures. By asking about character creation, you’re learning about the sculpting process. Authors give their characters personalities, quirks, and histories that make them feel like old friends or exciting strangers. It’s as if the characters step off the page and into your imagination.

Think of yourself as a master architect, designing entire worlds from scratch. Authors do just that when creating settings for their stories. Whether it’s a land of fantasy or the streets of a bustling city, authors have a toolkit for building these captivating backdrops. 

So, By asking about world-building, you’re getting a glimpse into their toolbox. They decide on geography, history, and culture, much like a skilled craftsman shaping a masterpiece. It’s like taking a guided tour through their meticulously crafted landscapes.

Have you ever tried building a whole universe from just words? It’s like assembling a grand puzzle piece by piece. But it’s no easy task. With this question, you’re peering into the writer’s workshop, where they sculpt entire worlds. 

Ask them about the hurdles they face – from keeping everything consistent to avoiding gaps in the plot. It’s like learning about the difficulties of crafting a complex tapestry where every thread must align. By asking, you’re exploring the intricate web they weave to make their literary galaxies shine.

Think of a story as a magnificent dance between plot and characters. The plot sets the stage, and the characters bring it to life. Have you ever wondered how authors strike this balance? It’s like being an orchestra conductor, ensuring every note is harmonious. As if hiring hip hop ghostwriters , they decide when to twist the plot and when to let the characters take the lead. It’s like watching a masterful performance where both elements shine, creating a symphony of storytelling.

Imagine overhearing a conversation that’s so real you forget you’re listening to fiction. That’s the magic of well-crafted dialogue. With this question, you’re stepping into the writer’s dialogue studio. Ask them how they create conversations that feel right beside you. It’s like learning their language of words, tones, and pauses. Just as a painter chooses colors carefully, authors select words to paint genuine interactions. By asking, you’re peeling back the curtain on their dialogue artistry and discovering how they make characters’ voices ring true.

Have you ever felt like a book had you on a thrilling roller coaster, making you race through its pages? That’s the magic of pacing, especially in books written in the third person . Imagine it as a symphony, where the rhythm keeps you entranced.

By asking authors about their pacing techniques, you’re like a curious composer learning their melodies. They decide when to speed up and when to slow down – it’s like orchestrating the reader’s emotions. 

With this question, you’re diving into their toolbox, discovering how they create a rhythm that keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end.

Imagine writing as a path paved with words, winding through challenges and triumphs. With this question, you’re walking alongside the author, gathering wisdom from their footprints. 

Ask about their biggest lessons as their author interview questions – it’s like receiving precious insight tokens. From battling self-doubt to mastering patience, you’re tapping into their experiences. It’s like sipping from a cup filled with their hard-earned knowledge. 

14. Battling the Dreaded Writer’s Block

Even the most skillful wordsmiths, including professional Wikipedia writers , hit roadblocks in their creative journeys. It’s like a marathon runner encountering a tough hill. You’re delving into their resilience toolkit by asking authors about their strategies to overcome writer’s block.

They might have quirky rituals or unique remedies – it’s like learning their secret potions. With this question, you’re not just exploring their creative sanctuary.

As we round off our conversation, consider asking the authors to bestow their pearls of wisdom upon those setting foot on their writing journey. Their words could be a guiding light, igniting the spark to embark on a personal writing adventure. 

It’s akin to passing on a cherished heirloom of inspiration, fostering a connection between experienced authors and the aspirations of those who yearn to weave their narratives. As a side note, exploring video book trailer services could be a creative endeavor to consider for those looking to enhance their book’s allure.

Remember, interviewing authors is like embarking on a literary treasure hunt. Each question reveals a new layer of their creativity, struggles, and triumphs. 

When you’re in the interviewer’s seat, listen actively. Give them the space to share anecdotes and insights, and let the conversation flow naturally. Ultimately, these author interviews aren’t just enriching for your podcast content; they’re also an ode to the diverse universe of literature. 

So go forth, armed with these 15 brilliant author interview questions , and create podcast episodes that celebrate the magic of storytelling and the minds behind it. Your audience will thank you for taking them on this captivating journey.

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18 Author Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various author interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

or download as PDF

Common Author Interview Questions

What inspired you to become an author, what drives your creativity, how do you approach writing a new book, what are the biggest challenges you face when writing a book, what are your favorite books and why, what book are you reading right now and why, what are your thoughts on the current state of the publishing industry, what advice would you give to aspiring authors, what do you think is the most important aspect of writing a book, what are your thoughts on marketing and promoting a book, what do you think is the most important thing for an author to remember when writing a book, what are your thoughts on the editing and proofreading process, what do you think is the most challenging thing about writing a book, what are your thoughts on self-publishing vs. traditional publishing, what do you think is the most important thing for an author to consider when writing a book, what are your thoughts on the cover design process, what do you think is the most important thing for an author to remember when writing a book proposal, what are your thoughts on query letters.

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. One reason is to get to know the author better. This question can help the interviewer understand what drives the author and what motivates them. Additionally, this question can give the interviewer some insight into the author's writing process. For example, if the author says that they were inspired by a particular event or person, the interviewer can ask follow-up questions about how that event or person influenced their writing. Finally, this question can also help the interviewer gauge the author's level of commitment to their craft. If the author is passionate about their work and has a strong motivation for writing, that will likely come through in their answer to this question.

Example: “ I've always loved stories and been fascinated by the power of words. As a child, I was an avid reader and loved making up my own tales. Becoming an author was a natural progression for me, and it's something I'm passionate about. It's a great privilege to be able to share my stories with others and hopefully bring them some enjoyment. ”

There are many possible reasons why an interviewer would ask an author what drives their creativity. It could be to get a sense of what inspires the author and how they approach writing, or to understand the author's creative process. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in how the author overcomes creative blocks, or what resources they use to help them generate new ideas. Ultimately, it is important for the interviewer to understand what drives the author's creativity in order to gain insights into their writing.

Example: “ There are a few things that drive my creativity. First and foremost, I'm driven by a desire to tell stories that entertain and engage readers. I want my stories to take them on a journey, to make them laugh, cry, and think. I also want to create characters that people can relate to and root for. Additionally, I'm always looking for new ways to challenge myself as a writer. I want to push myself to come up with fresh ideas and find new ways to tell stories. Lastly, I'm motivated by the feedback I receive from readers. Hearing that someone enjoyed one of my books or found it helpful in some way is incredibly gratifying and helps me keep going. ”

An interviewer might ask "How do you approach writing a new book?" to an author in order to get a sense of the author's process and how they go about starting a new project. This can be important because it can give insight into how the author works and how they might approach writing a book that is similar to one that the interviewer is interested in. Additionally, this question can help the interviewer understand what kind of support the author might need in order to complete a new book.

Example: “ When I sit down to write a new book, the first thing I do is come up with a general outline of what I want the book to be about. I then start doing research on the topic, reading books and articles and taking notes. Once I feel like I have a good understanding of the subject matter, I start writing the first draft. I usually start by writing the chapters in order, but sometimes I will jump around and write whichever chapter I'm feeling most inspired to write at that moment. As I'm writing, I am constantly revising and editing, both my own work and the research I've gathered. Once I have a complete draft, I send it to my editor for feedback. After taking my editor's suggestions into account, I do another round of revision and then the book is ready to be published! ”

There are many challenges that an author may face when writing a book. These challenges can include finding the time and motivation to write, dealing with writer's block, and making sure the book is well-written and edited. Asking about the biggest challenges an author faces can help the interviewer understand what it takes to write a book and how the author overcomes obstacles. This question can also give the interviewer insight into the author's creative process and how they approach writing.

Example: “ The biggest challenge I face when writing a book is finding the time to write. I have a full-time job and a family, so it can be difficult to find the hours needed to sit down and write. Additionally, I often find myself struggling with writer's block. When I'm stuck, it can be hard to push through and keep going. However, I've found that the best way to overcome these challenges is to set aside specific times for writing, and to make sure that I stick to my schedule. Additionally, I try to take breaks when I'm feeling stuck, and come back to the project with fresh eyes. ”

The interviewer is asking for the Author's favorite books so that they can get to know the Author's taste in literature and what kind of books the Author enjoys reading. This is important because it can give the interviewer insight into what kind of books the Author might be interested in writing and what kinds of books the Author is likely to be successful in writing.

Example: “ My favorite books are the Harry Potter series and The Hunger Games trilogy. I love both of these series because they are incredibly well-written and engaging. They both have complex plots and characters that keep me coming back for more. ”

There are a few reasons an interviewer might ask this question to an author. One reason is to get a sense of what kind of books the author is interested in and why. This can give the interviewer some insight into the author's taste and preferences, which can be helpful in understanding their writing. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in hearing about any new or upcoming books that the author is reading, which can give them a sense of what the author is currently working on or thinking about. Finally, this question can also be a way for the interviewer to start a conversation about books and reading in general, which can be a fun and stimulating topic for both parties.

Example: “ I am currently reading "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger. I chose to read this book because it is often considered to be a classic of American literature, and I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. So far, I have enjoyed the book and can see why it is so highly regarded. ”

The publishing industry is in a state of flux, and authors need to be aware of the changes in order to be successful. The interviewer is gauging the author's understanding of the current market and whether they are keeping up with the latest trends.

Example: “ The current state of the publishing industry is in a state of flux. There are a number of factors that are causing this, including the rise of digital publishing, the increase in self-publishing, and the changing tastes of readers. This means that it is difficult to predict what the future of the industry will look like. However, there are a few things that we can say for sure. First, digital publishing is having a major impact on the industry. More and more people are reading books electronically, either on their computers or on dedicated e-readers such as the Kindle or Nook. This trend is likely to continue, as digital books are often cheaper than print books and they are more convenient to carry around. As a result, traditional publishers are struggling to keep up with the demand for e-books. Second, self-publishing is also on the rise. Thanks to platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and Smashwords, it is now easier than ever for authors to bypass traditional publishers altogether and release their books directly to readers. This trend is likely to continue as well, as more and more authors realize that they can reach a larger audience by self-publishing. Finally, readers' tastes are changing. People are becoming ”

There are a few reasons an interviewer might ask this question to an author. First, the interviewer could be interested in the author's thoughts on the writing process and what advice they would give to someone who is just starting out. This is important because it can give the interviewer insight into the author's own process and what they believe is necessary for success as a writer. Additionally, the interviewer may be interested in the author's thoughts on the publishing industry and what advice they would give to someone who is looking to get their work published. This is important because it can give the interviewer insight into the author's own experiences with publishing and what they believe is necessary for success in that arena.

Example: “ There is no one formula for success as an author, but there are certain things that can help you increase your chances of success. Here are some tips: 1. Write what you love. Write the stories and characters that you are passionate about. This will make writing easier and more enjoyable, and will also help you connect with readers who share your interests. 2. Be persistent. It takes most authors years to achieve success. Don't give up if your first few attempts don't lead to immediate success. Keep writing and refining your craft, and eventually you will find an audience for your work. 3. Be professional. Treat writing as a business, and learn as much as you can about the publishing industry. Attend writers' conferences, join professional organizations, and network with other authors and professionals in the field. 4. Be flexible. Be open to new ideas and willing to experiment with different genres and formats. Don't be afraid to try something new – it could be the key to finding success as an author. ”

An interviewer might ask this question to an author to get their opinion on what is the most important aspect of writing a book. It is important to get the author's opinion on this topic because it can help the interviewer understand the author's process and what they think is important when writing a book.

Example: “ There are many important aspects to writing a book, but I believe the most important aspect is creating a compelling story that will engage and entertain readers. To do this, you need to have strong writing skills and be able to craft an engaging plot with interesting characters. Additionally, it's important to edit your work thoroughly so that there are no errors or typos that could distract readers from enjoying your book. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask an author their thoughts on marketing and promoting a book. Firstly, the interviewer may be interested in the author's opinion on the best way to market and promote their book. Secondly, the interviewer may be interested in the author's thoughts on how effective marketing and promotion are in terms of sales. Finally, the interviewer may be interested in the author's thoughts on how important marketing and promotion are in terms of getting their book noticed by potential readers.

Example: “ There is no one answer to this question as everyone has different thoughts on marketing and promoting a book. Some authors believe that it is important to do whatever is necessary to get their book in front of as many people as possible, while others believe that quality should come before quantity. There are a number of different ways to market and promote a book, and the best approach depends on the book itself, the author's goals, and the resources available. Some common methods of marketing and promoting a book include: - Creating a website or blog dedicated to the book - Creating social media accounts (e.g. on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) to share updates and excerpts - Reaching out to bloggers and other online influencers to review or promote the book - Hosting events or webinars related to the book's subject matter - Giving talks or presentations about the book at conferences or other events - Selling rights to foreign publishers in order to have the book translated and distributed in other countries ”

An interviewer might ask this question to gauge the author's understanding of the creative process and what they believe is necessary for producing a successful book. It also allows the interviewer to get a sense of the author's priorities and values.

Example: “ There are many important things for an author to remember when writing a book, but one of the most important is to ensure that the story is engaging and interesting for the reader. This means creating a well-developed plot with believable characters and an exciting narrative arc. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to detail and ensure that the book is well-edited and free of errors. ”

The interviewer is trying to gauge the author's attention to detail and their thoughts on the importance of editing and proofreading. It is important to have a clean, well-edited manuscript before submitting it to publishers or agents. A poorly edited manuscript is likely to be rejected outright.

Example: “ The editing and proofreading process is essential to ensuring that my work is of the highest quality possible. I take great care in editing and proofreading my work, and I believe that it is a vital part of the writing process. I am very meticulous in my editing and proofreading, and I believe that it is one of the most important aspects of writing. ”

An interviewer might ask this question to gain insight into the author's creative process. It is important to understand the challenges an author faces in order to create a successful book.

Example: “ There are many challenges that come with writing a book. One of the most difficult things is staying motivated throughout the process. It can be easy to get discouraged, especially if you hit a roadblock or aren't seeing the progress you want. It's important to remember why you're writing in the first place and to keep your eye on the prize. Another challenge is making sure your book is well-written and engaging. This means taking the time to revise and edit, which can be tedious and time-consuming. But it's worth it to make sure your readers will enjoy your book and want to recommend it to others. Finally, promoting your book can be a daunting task, but it's essential if you want people to actually read it! There are a lot of different ways to market a book, so it's important to find the right strategy for you and your book. This can take some trial and error, but once you find a system that works, it'll all be worth it. ”

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, it shows that they are interested in the author's thoughts on the publishing industry and how it is changing. Second, it allows the author to share their thoughts on the pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing. This is important because it helps the interviewer understand the author's views on the publishing industry and how they make decisions about their own work.

Example: “ There are pros and cons to both self-publishing and traditional publishing. Self-publishing gives you more control over your work, but traditional publishing offers more prestige and a larger potential audience. Ultimately, the decision of which route to take depends on your specific goals and preferences. ”

The most important thing for an author to consider when writing a book is the audience. It is important to know who the book is for and what they are looking for. Additionally, it is important to consider the length of the book and the overall message.

Example: “ There are many things that an author must consider when writing a book, but one of the most important things is to ensure that the story is engaging and enjoyable for the reader. This means creating interesting characters, plots and settings that will keep the reader hooked from beginning to end. It is also important to ensure that the book is well-written and edited so that there are no errors or typos that could distract or annoy the reader. ”

An interviewer might ask an author their thoughts on the cover design process to get a sense of their opinion on the matter and how they feel about the process. It is important to know an author's thoughts on the cover design process because it can help the interviewer understand how the author feels about their work and how they want it to be presented to the public.

Example: “ The cover design process is one of the most important aspects of creating a book. It is the first thing that potential readers will see and it should be eye-catching and representative of the book's content. I think it is important to work with a professional designer who understands the market and knows how to create a cover that will stand out. The author should also have a say in the design process, as they know their book better than anyone else. ”

An interviewer might ask this question to an author in order to get a sense of the author's understanding of the publishing process and what is necessary to create a successful book proposal. It is important for an author to remember the most important aspects of a book proposal in order to make a strong case to potential publishers. These aspects might include the marketability of the book, the author's platform and audience, and a clear and concise synopsis of the book's plot.

Example: “ When writing a book proposal, the most important thing for an author to remember is to focus on the marketability of their book. They should identify their target audience and what need their book will fill. They should also have a clear and concise synopsis of their book, as well as a marketing plan. ”

There are a few reasons an interviewer might ask an author their thoughts on query letters. Firstly, the interviewer may be interested in the author's opinion on the best way to approach literary agents or publishing houses with a book proposal. Secondly, the interviewer may want to know the author's thoughts on the importance of a well-crafted query letter in the publishing process. Thirdly, the interviewer may be curious about the author's experiences with query letters, and whether they have any advice for other writers who are submitting their work to agents or editors.

Query letters are an important part of the publishing process because they are often the first point of contact between an author and a potential publisher. A well-crafted query letter can make a strong first impression and persuade an agent or editor to request more information about the book. However, a poorly written or unprofessional query letter is likely to be rejected outright. For this reason, it is important for authors to spend time crafting their query letters carefully, and to research the specific guidelines of each agent or publisher before submitting their work.

Example: “ There are a lot of different opinions out there on query letters, and it can be tough to know what to do. In general, your query letter should be concise, professional, and polite. It should give the reader a brief overview of your book and your writing experience. Most importantly, it should be intriguing enough to make the reader want to read more. ”

17 Author Interview Questions and Answers

Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from an author, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.

An author is someone who writes books, articles, or other literary works. They may be employed by a publishing company, or work independently. When you’re applying for a job as an author, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your writing experience, your published works, and your qualifications.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of questions that you may be asked, as well as suggested answers.

Are you a full-time author?

What are some of your favorite books that you’ve written, how do you come up with ideas for your books, what is your favorite genre to write in, provide an example of a time when you had to conduct research for a book., if you could write about any subject, what would it be, what would you say is your greatest accomplishment as an author so far, how well do you handle criticism, do you have any tips for aspiring authors, when was the last time you had to market a book you wrote, we want to attract more young readers to our books. how would you go about doing that, describe your writing process., what makes your writing unique, which authors do you admire and why, what do you think is the most important aspect of book design, how often do you update your blog or website, there is a lot of controversy surrounding your latest book. how do you handle it.

If you’re applying for a position as an author, the interviewer may want to know if you can dedicate your time to this role. If you are currently working in another field, explain how you would balance both roles and what steps you would take to ensure you meet deadlines.

Example: “I am not a full-time author yet, but I do plan on making that transition within the next year. My current job is in marketing, so I have experience with writing content for websites and social media platforms. I also write blog posts for my own website where I share tips about marketing and business strategies. I’m hoping to use these skills to help me succeed in this role.”

This question is a great way to show the interviewer your writing style and how you can apply it to their company. You should pick two or three of your favorite books that you’ve written, but make sure they are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I really enjoyed writing my first book on marketing because I got to learn so much about the subject matter. It was also exciting to see my work in print for the first time. My second favorite book was one I wrote on social media marketing because I learned so many new things about the platforms and how to use them effectively.”

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your writing process. They want to know how you generate ideas and what inspires you. In your answer, share a few ways that you come up with ideas for books. Explain that some of your ideas come from personal experiences or things you’ve read in the news. Share an example of when you used one of these methods to create a book idea.

Example: “I have always been inspired by current events. When I was working as a journalist, I would often write articles based on stories I heard while covering breaking news. Now, I use those same skills to write fiction novels. For my last novel, I heard about a local crime story and decided to write a mystery novel based on it. I interviewed several people involved in the case and wrote a fictionalized version of their story.”

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your writing style and preferences. It also helps them understand if you have experience in their publishing company’s genre. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific book or series that you enjoyed reading in that genre.

Example: “I really enjoy writing fantasy novels because I love creating new worlds for my characters to explore. My favorite book series is A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin. The world he created was so rich with detail and history, and I loved getting lost in his stories.”

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your writing process. They want to know how you gather information and what methods you use to ensure the accuracy of your work. In your answer, explain which resources you used for research and why they were important to your book.

Example: “I once wrote a nonfiction book on parenting that included advice from many different sources. I wanted to make sure all of my sources were credible so I researched each resource thoroughly before including it in my book. I looked at each author’s background and qualifications, read reviews of their books and checked out any media coverage they had received. This helped me feel confident that the advice I was providing was accurate.”

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your interests and passions. It also helps them understand what you might be able to write about if they hire you. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something that is relevant to the position or company.

Example: “If I could write about any subject, I would definitely want to write about my passion for travel. I have been fortunate enough to visit many places around the world, and I think there are so many interesting stories to tell from these experiences. If I were writing about travel, I would love to share some tips on how people can save money while traveling.”

This question can help interviewers understand what you value as an author and how your values align with the company’s. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific book or project that you’re proud of.

Example: “I’m most proud of my first novel, which I wrote when I was in college. It took me two years to write, but I learned so much about writing during that process. The book is now available on Amazon, and I still get emails from readers telling me how much they enjoyed it.”

As an author, you may receive feedback from your editor or publisher. This question helps employers understand how you react to criticism and whether you can take it in stride. In your answer, explain that you welcome constructive criticism because it allows you to improve your writing.

Example: “I love receiving feedback on my work because I find it helpful when trying to edit a piece. When I first started writing, I would get defensive if someone gave me negative feedback. However, now I realize that the feedback is there to help me become a better writer. If I make changes based on their advice, I usually see improvements in my writing.”

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you can offer advice or guidance to others who are interested in writing. Use your answer to share any tips that helped you become a successful writer, and explain how they could help someone else achieve their goals.

Example: “I think the most important tip I have for aspiring writers is to write every day. When I first started my career as an author, I would set aside time each morning to write. Even when I didn’t feel inspired, I forced myself to sit down and put words on paper. Eventually, I found that by doing this regularly, it became easier to find inspiration and motivation to write. If you’re just starting out, try setting aside 30 minutes each day to write.”

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with marketing and how you approach it. Use examples from past experiences to highlight your skills in this area, including any strategies or tactics that were successful for you.

Example: “In my last role as a freelance writer, I had to market my own books because they weren’t published by a company. I used social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to promote my book, which helped me reach thousands of people who liked what I wrote. I also created an email list where I sent out newsletters about new content I was writing and other things I was doing.”

This question is a great way to see how an author thinks about their audience. It’s important for authors to understand who they’re writing for and what kind of content will appeal to them. In your answer, try to explain the steps you would take to attract young readers to your books.

Example: “I think it’s really important to write characters that are relatable to younger audiences. I would start by researching popular children’s literature and finding out what makes those stories so appealing to kids. Then, I would use some of those elements in my own work. For example, if I were writing a book about dragons, I might include a character with a unique personality or a funny quirk. That way, kids can relate to the story and want to read more.”

This question is a great way to see how you approach your work and what methods you use. It can also help the interviewer understand how you might fit into their organization, so it’s important to describe your process in a way that highlights your strengths.

Example: “I start by researching my topic thoroughly, including reading any relevant books or articles and interviewing experts on the subject. Then I outline my ideas and create an initial draft of the book. After that, I revise and edit the manuscript several times before submitting it for publication.”

This question can help the interviewer determine how your writing style and voice differ from other writers. Your answer should include a specific example of something you’ve written that makes your work unique.

Example: “I think my writing is unique because I always try to write with empathy. In my last role, I wrote an article about a new product launch for our company’s website. The marketing team was excited about the launch, but I noticed some customers were concerned about the price increase. I reached out to the marketing manager and asked if we could lower the price by $5. She agreed, and I updated the article to reflect the change. This made the customers happy, and it helped us avoid any negative reviews.”

This question can help an interviewer get a sense of your writing style and the types of books you enjoy. It also helps them understand what type of author you would be if hired for the role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention authors who write in a similar genre as the one you’re applying for.

Example: “I admire J.K. Rowling because she was able to create such a magical world that I’ve enjoyed reading about since childhood. Her Harry Potter series is something I still read every year or so, and I think her ability to create such a unique story has inspired me to do the same with my own work.”

Book design is an important part of the publishing process. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have experience with book design and what your priorities are when it comes to designing a book cover or layout. Use your answer to highlight your creativity, attention to detail and communication skills.

Example: “I think that the most important aspect of book design is clarity. When I am working on a book’s cover or layout, my goal is always to make sure that the information inside the book is easy for readers to understand. This means using colors that are eye-catching but also easy to read and avoiding fonts that are too small or hard to read. It also means making sure that the book has plenty of white space so that the text is not overcrowded.”

This question can help an interviewer understand your writing schedule and how you prioritize your work. Your answer should include the frequency of your blog or website updates, as well as any other projects you’ve worked on in the past.

Example: “I update my blog once a week with new content. I also have a newsletter that goes out every month with additional information about my latest posts. In addition to blogging, I maintain a social media presence on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I post at least three times per day on each platform.”

An interviewer may ask this question to see how you handle criticism and controversy. They want to know that you can take constructive feedback, learn from it and use it to improve your work in the future. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to address the issue and move forward with your career.

Example: “I understand that there is a lot of controversy surrounding my latest book because I wrote about an important topic that many people disagree on. However, I am confident in my research and believe that I have presented both sides of the argument fairly. If someone criticized my work, I would listen to their concerns and consider if they had any valid points. If so, I would make sure to include those points in my next book.”

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24 Book Review Questions to Ask Before Writing a Review

By: Author Laura

Posted on Published: 23rd February 2021  - Last updated: 29th February 2024

Categories Book Blogging , Books

Trying to write a book review but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, these book review questions for a book report will help you on your way!

Writing a book review or book report can feel overwhelming for one of two reasons. Either you have too much to say or nothing to say at all.

In either case, having some structure to your review and a roadmap of questions to answer can be helpful in focussing your thoughts so you can write a useful book review.

These book review questions are designed to get your brain thinking about some of the key issues and interesting points about your book in question.

You certainly don’t have to answer all of them and you don’t need to follow the order I have listed the book report questions below.

RELATED: How to Write a Good Review of a Bad Book

Book Review Questions: General Information

Before you delve into sharing your own opinions, you should share some general information about the book.

This can be to do with its plot, its genre, the setting and whether there is anything readers should be aware of before delving in.

These are good questions to ask about a book as a basic starting point and where you should always begin.

What is the book about?

What genre does this book fit into?

In what time and place is the book set?

Who is the intended audience of the book?

Is the book appropriate for that audience?

Should this book come with any content warnings?

Book Review Questions: Stylistic Points

An author could craft the most fascinating story in the world but if they can’t convey that story with an interesting or logical style then a book may well just fall flat.

Consider whether the author of the book you are reviewing has a particularly interesting style and what is it about their style that shaped the book and your opinion of it.

What style is the book written in?

What point of view is the book written from?

Does the author use any interesting techniques?

Book Review Questions: The Characters

Really compelling characters, whether you love them or hate them, can make a book really stand out. If they don’t feel real then a book can crumble pretty quickly.

Make sure to include some information about the main character (or characters) but there’s no need to mention every single person, there simply isn’t space!

Who are the key characters in the book?

Did the characters feel real?

Are the characters likeable?

Which character did you find most compelling?

Could you relate to the key characters?

Book Review Questions: Your Opinions

Of course, any good book review should contain what you, the reviewer, actually thought about it! These book review questions to ask yourself are some of the most important.

Did you discover a new favourite book or is this one you wish you had never picked up in the first place?

Try to share a balanced view so reader’s of your review can come to their own conclusions about whether this book is worth reading for them. Some points that you might not have liked might be another reader’s favourite trope!

What did you like about the book?

What did you dislike about the book?

What could have been improved?

How did the book make you feel?

How does the book compare to other similar books?

Book Review Questions: Conclusion

Make sure to wrap up your book review with some final reflections about who should read this book, what you learnt from it and what other books it is similar to.

If a reader sees that a book is similar to one they have already read and loved then that’s a great indication that they’ll love this one too.

Would you recommend this book?

What did you learn from reading this?

What sort of reader would like this book?

What other books did this one remind you of?

What star rating would you give this book?

That concludes my list of book questions to ask yourself kick your brain in gear and get you thinking about all the most interesting points of the book you’ve just read.

Do you have any more relevant book review questions to add to the list?

Let me know in the comments below!

Follow me on Instagram and Goodreads for regular book updates!

If you liked this post, check out these: How to Write a Negative Book Review How to Start a Book Blog 36 Easy Book Blog Post Ideas

Founder & Editor of What’s Hot?

Saturday 10th of December 2022

Book report question: What made this book unique from other books you have read?

Thursday 25th of February 2021

This is so so useful.

Tuesday 23rd of February 2021

Very key points here. That first part, where I talk about the synopsis, the intended audience, the genre, that is my biggest struggle.

CRAFT: 14 Tips for Interviewing Authors by Sarah Boon

November 4, 2019.

Many literary outlets like to promote new books by featuring an interview with the author. It gives readers an introduction to the author’s new book, and also provides insights into the mind of great writers, and allows them to find out what makes these authors tick. For authors, it’s an opportunity to share why readers should pick up their latest book, their personal writing habits, and their thoughts on the literary world in general. For the interviewer, it’s a great way to connect with the writing community and learn some writing tips and tricks.

I’ve published author Q&As in Longreads, the LA Review of Books, Electric Literature, Earth Island Journal, and other outlets. The key is to pitch the Q&A well in advance of the author’s book release, as publications work on a longer timescale when it comes to timely events like book releases. It’s also important to ensure the author is on board before pitching a Q&A. Authors understand that Q&As in key outlets can be critical for getting the word out about their new book, so they are usually amenable to having a chat. Having author Q&A’s in your portfolio shows that you have a knack for connecting with other writers and asking the right questions.

But interviewing an author isn’t as simple as picking up the phone and talking—there’s a lot of preparatory work that goes into the interview itself, plus things to remember both during and after the interview itself. Below are 14 tips for executing a thoughtful author Q&A, one that readers are interested in reading and that you enjoy doing.

• Read the author’s latest book—preferably several times. Read closely and take notes if you have to. Most Q&As are about the author’s latest book, so you want to be prepared by knowing it inside and out. This will also help you come up with questions about the book. If you have time (and if the budget for the piece makes it worthwhile), read several of the author’s books. When I interviewed Barbara Kingsolver I re-read all of her novels and found that there were themes I hadn’t noticed before that I could ask about in my interview. This is helpful if you’re writing a craft piece about the writer’s process and writing themes. If the writer has written any non-fiction, try and fit it into your reading as it can provide insights into the author that are very different than those you get from novels. For example, when I interviewed Ann Patchett I read her collection of non-fiction pieces called “This is the Secret of a Happy Marriage,” and picked up some tips on what her writing practice looks like.
• Read other interviews the author has done. This will help you avoid asking the same questions they’ve already been asked 100 times, and can help you generate ideas for new questions. Again, like reading their non-fiction work, reading interviews will give you insider tips on the author herself.
• As you start to pull your questions together, consider the audience for your interview. Are they writers looking for writing secrets and tips? Are they feminists looking for a woman-centered approach to writing? Are they general readers who just want to know what the book is about and whether or not they should read it? Each of these audiences will require that you ask different questions of the writer, from what her daily routine is to when her next book is coming out.
• Consider the outlet in which you plan to publish the Q&A. They may have a certain style guide or approach to interviews that they want you to follow — or at least be aware of. This includes the type of question you ask and the kind of answers they’re looking for. For example, I once had a completed Q&A rejected because the outlet didn’t like a couple of my questions. One of the caveats for many places that take author interviews is that it must be conversational and relatable — no email interviews allowed, as they miss some of that conversational aspect.
• Type out all of your questions beforehand. I usually split them into questions about their new book and then broader craft-related questions. In some cases, it’s possible to use an interview for two different outlets — one that wants the new book angle, and one that wants just the craft angle. Organize your questions in an order that flows for you.
• Make sure before the interview that you have the correct date and time, and the number at which to reach the author. Usually, you’ll get this from their publicist (for more well-known writers), but sometimes you’ll be dealing with the author directly. If you don’t want to pay long-distance charges, you can always ask if the author is open to chatting on Skype, though it can be somewhat unprofessional if you run into Skype problems. Make sure they have your phone number in case something goes wrong (the call gets disconnected, or you get the time zone wrong).
• Test your recording equipment or recording app before you start the interview. Some apps people use are Otter, JustPressRecord, Tape-A-Call, and QuickTime audio recording. I use a digital TASCAM recorder that makes recording and transcribing super easy. Make sure you’re recording at the right volume and that you have enough battery power and storage space. You’ll never be able to keep up with the author by writing everything longhand, so a recorder or recording app is crucial. You can, however, use your handwritten notes to mark key points in the interview.
• When you first connect with the author, let them know how you’ve structured the interview. I usually ask about the new book first, and then ask questions about the writing craft. I let them know how long to expect the interview to take, and I also thank them in advance for their time — they don’t have to talk to you but it’s beneficial to both of you if they do.
• During the interview itself, don’t get caught in the trap of only asking only the questions you’ve written down. Sometimes the author will respond to a question with something that you’d like to explore further even though it’s not in your question list. Follow your instincts and ask new questions to tease out this new idea. This is the part I find the most difficult about author Q&As because you have your questions there in front of you but you also have to process author responses quickly in order to pivot and ask completely new questions. If the author starts telling you personal stories, that suggests you’ve connected with them on a deeper level and you should definitely take advantage of the opportunity to ask more exploratory questions.
• When the interview is finished, thank the author for their time and ask them if they have anything else to add or anything they don’t want you to include (sometimes they don’t want the ending of the book to be given away, or they don’t want a particular plot twist to be included).
• Try to transcribe your interview soon after you’ve done it so that it’s still fresh in your mind. You can use a transcription service, or hire someone to transcribe it (usually $1/min of recording). I usually transcribe it myself so that I hear the responses a second time and get a sense of how to make the interview flow.
• Edit for length and clarity. This is the standard disclaimer on interviews, but what does it actually mean? It means that you take out all the ums and ahhs. You cut out repetitive answers. You may decide that some questions were duds and remove them from the interview. You might rewrite your questions to better match what you actually asked the author. You might have questions to add that weren’t in your original list. And, in most cases, you’ll have too much information for the interview and will have to cut your word count in half. That’s what editing for length and clarity is all about.
• Once the interview is published, send a link to the author or to their publicist—whomever is your main contact. Authors need to know where, when, and how their books were written about to keep track of how they’re doing and what audience they’re reaching.
• On to the next interview! I find that I learn something new each time I interview an author, but one thing that’s constant is that if you’re sharing a laugh, the interview is going well.

Not only will a Q&A help the author get the word out about their new book, but it’s a chance for you to practice your interviewing skills, which can come in handy for reported pieces. You can also build a reputation with authors’ publicists as a solid, dependable interviewer who brings out the best in the authors you talk to, which will lead to more work down the line. Plus you just might get some good writing tips from your interviewees.

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Book Reviews/Writing a review/questions to answer

==Questions to answer==

• What is the: title, author, publisher, date, length, and ISBN?
• What is the genre? Fiction, non-fiction?
• Who is the audience? (i.e. age, reading level, interests, specialties…)
• Highlight any notable aspects, good or bad, of the book’s design and production. Consider aesthetics, typography, cover, design, images, table of contents, notes, references, index, . . .
• What is the Style (casual, formal, light, humors, serious, scholarly . . .), point of view [ 1 ] ,
• Was it easy or difficult to read? Fun and rewarding to read?
• What qualifies the author to write this book?
• Does the book deliver on its promise? (What does it promise? What does it deliver? Cite evidence.)
• Is the book intellectually honest ?
• What, if anything, is the original contribution this book makes?
• What did you learn? What insights did you gain? Does the book make a unique contribution to knowledge or wisdom? Does it provide a new and better way to present difficult material?
• What surprised you? Did you ever have an ah-ha moment while reading the book?
• For a fiction book, consider: Did you get lost in the book? What are the salient plot points ? Did the book achieve emotional entrainment? Was the character development intriguing? Did you care about the characters?
• Which part attracts you most? Which ones were boring? Which chapter is the key-point of the story? Which portions did you like most? Why?
• What is your favorite quote from the book? Why?
• What creative value does this book contribute?
• How does this book affect you on the whole? How does the author achieve this?, How does each role affect the story?
• What is missing?
• Does the book sparkle ? A book that sparkles is fun to read, breaks new ground, communicates in memorable ways, uses images effectively, is accessible to a broad audience, and influences a significant readership to change their assumptions, beliefs, or ways of thinking.
• Judge the book. Is it good or bad? Why?
• Who are your target readers for your review? Are you writing this review to serve someone? Is your review outstanding among all the reviews of this book?
• What, if anything, makes this an important work? What does the reader stand to gain by reading this book?
• Identify the design decisions were made in creating this book. Consider these areas, then comment on the most distinctive design choices:

Book aesthetics, format, and production: Cover style and art. Paper choice, size, trim Typeface, font size, leading , margins, and other page layout choices. Table of contents, notes, references, index, additional materials Use of figures, photographs, graphics, graphic novel, . . . Book Style Reading level, vocabulary, sentence length. Point of view (omniscient narrator, first person, . . .) Serious, satire, humorous, academic, pedantic, frivolous Comforting, call to action, alarming, disturbing, Tone is the feeling that a book evokes in the reader. In many cases, this category best answers the question, “What are you in the mood for?” [ 2 ] A more extensive list of tone descriptors and a brief definition of each is avaliable in the above reference. Humorous, solemn, distant, intimate, ironic, arrogant, condescending, authoritative, scholarly, sentimental, angry, melancholy, anguished, youthful, optimistic, deadpan, satirical, maudlin, self-righteous, and so on. Book Semantics Credible, speculative, innovative, drivel, … Informative, argumentative, entertaining, … Well organized, well argued, excellent supporting evidence, Muddled logic, rambling Coherence, consistency,flow

• ↑ See: http://www.literarydevices.com/point-of-view/
• ↑ Caplinger, Victoria. The Secret Landuage of Books, A Guide to Appeal . NoveList. pp. 40 . https://www.ebscohost.com/novelist/our-products/novelist-appeals .  

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20 Questions to Ask When Writing a Book Review

By Megan Alms, a professional writing student at Taylor University

You’ve just read a book, and you want to tell the world what you thought of it. Your mind is swirling with ideas and emotions. But as soon as you sit down to write your review, you forget everything you’ve just read.

So, what needs to go in a review?

All of the information needs to be relevant. Every word needs to count when you have such a limited space. Here are 20 things worth considering when you’re writing your book review.

1. What audience am I writing for?

Consider where your review will be published. Who will be reading it, and what will they want to know about a book before buying it?

2. What audience is the author writing for?

Put yourself in the perspective of the intended audience, even if you are not a part of it.

3. What genres/subgenres does this fit into?

Define the primary genre, then find elements of other subgenres that may not have been immediately identifiable.

4. Was I confused at any point while reading?

If the writing was unclear, note this. If you didn’t understand it, other readers probably won’t either.

5. Did I care about the characters?

If the characters weren’t compelling in the slightest, the story likely fell flat. If you noticed this, include it in your review. (This is primarily a consideration in fiction and memoir.)

6. Did it have a compelling plot?

Without a compelling plot, any work involving a storyline will lose the reader’s attention. If you got bored, make it clear in your review.

7. Was the dialogue believable?

If it was difficult to believe anyone would talk like the characters in the book, the characters themselves were probably difficult to imagine.

8. Were the events believable?

At its core, a book (unless purely informational) is a story. If a story fails to be credible, the book cannot succeed at being a book.

9. Did any quotes strike me?

Was anything said that you found interesting, thought-provoking, or tear-jerking? Note these strong moments in your review! (If this quote spoils a surprise moment in the book, include a warning at the beginning of your review.)

10. Was there any information I thought to be inaccurate?

Credibility is important an any genre. If one piece of false information is presented, readers will lose trust in the entire book.

11. Are the illustrations engaging?

If it includes illustrations, note if they are eye-catching or bland. Pay special attention to this if you are reviewing a children’s book.

12. Is there any questionable/profane/graphic content?

Many readers want to be aware of this kind of content before picking up a book. Even if it doesn’t bother you, note anything that may be questionable to other readers.

13. What is the author’s voice like?

Describe how the author approaches the reader. Is the tone comedic, conversational, professional, or aloof?

14. What is the author’s purpose?

Consider why this book was written and what the author intends to convey to the audience.

15. Is the author’s purpose accomplished?

Now consider how the answer above came across. Was it clear, or did you have to “dig” for it?

16. What are the author’s credentials?

What makes this author the only person who could write this book? Do they have a certain education or experience that makes them unique?

17. Is there an index or bibliography?

This extra material, though not necessary, is good to know about before picking up the book.

18. What other books are similar to this one?

What other titles have the same style as this one? Compare it to other books to give your audience a better idea of what it is like.

19. What did I learn while reading?

Did this book make you think more deeply about any academic or moral topics?

20. Who would I recommend this book to?

What specific audience would enjoy this book? Is it worth the time for others to read it?

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

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This is a thoughtful article that should help a reviewer keep on task. It occurs to me that a writer could direct these questions to his own work before he publishes. Thanks for the list.

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Glad you found it helpful!

I certaintly agree with Annette, this is very helpful to witer as well.

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10 Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

• Vicky Oliver

Use this guide to stand out from the crowd and land the role you want.

Interviews can be high stress, anxiety-driving situations, especially if it’s your first interview. A little practice and preparation always pays off. While we can’t know exactly what an employer will ask, here are 10 common interview questions along with advice on how to answer them. The questions include:

• Could you tell me something about yourself and describe your background in brief? : Interviewers like to hear stories about candidates. Make sure your story has a great beginning, a riveting middle, and an end that makes the interviewer root for you to win the job.
• How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations? : Share an instance when you remained calm despite the turmoil. If it’s a skill you’re developing, acknowledge it and include the steps you’re taking to respond better to pressure in the future.
• What are your salary expectations? : Before you walk in for your first interview, you should already know what the salary is for the position you’re applying to. Check out websites such as Glassdoor, Fishbowl, or Vault.com for salary information. You could also ask people in the field by reaching out to your community on LinkedIn.

Resignation numbers have remained abnormally high in the U.S. between July 2021 and October 2021, with millions of Americans quitting their jobs  — which also means there are millions of new openings up for grabs. If you’re entering the market for the first time, or just looking to make a change, use this guide to prepare for your next interview.

• Vicky Oliver is a leading career development expert and the multi-best-selling author of five books, including  301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions , named in the top 10 list of “Best Books for HR Interview Prep.” She’s a sought-after speaker and seminar presenter and a popular media source, having made over 900 appearances in broadcast, print, and online outlets.    

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• Education quotations

20 questions to ask about a book you’ve read

A starting point for discussion in reading groups or for students doing reading assignments (fiction).

• Explain the title.
• What category or genre do you think it fits into?
• What do you think the author’s purpose was?
• Something you liked about it.
• Something you disliked about it.
• Describe the setting.
• Which character did you like most?
• Which character did you like least?
• Describe one of the main characters.
• What changes does a main character go through?
• Describe one significant episode.
• What techniques does the author use to tell the story?
• How did reading it change you, or your views?
• What would you say to persuade a friend to read it or not to read it?
• Summarise it in one written sentence or a one minute speech.
• What feedback would you give the author?
• How might you have written it differently?
• What do you think of the ending?
• What happens, or should happen, after the ending?
• What would you want to read about in a sequel or prequel?

Students can be asked to select which 5 questions to prepare answers for, to ask each other in turn or to be ready to answer any of these in a class discussion.

The idea is to encourage students to engage with a text from different perspectives and to share their responses to it without simply re-telling the story.

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About Eddie Playfair

20 responses to 20 questions to ask about a book you’ve read.

very helpful. Thank you very much.

Like Liked by 1 person

I love these questions, I have to ask questions about the Secret Garden for school and needed ideas. I’m very glad I read this blog post.

Thx so much needed help for my book talk.🤓🤓🤓🤓

It will really help me alot. I’m grateful

It help’s me with my book report thanks!!!!

These questions are really great. Thank you very much.

these question are great but some of the questions i dont understand but ill try my best and thank you!

very helpfull!!!

Thank you so much for the entire set of questions. It will definitely be of great help to the students how to write a more comprehensive review.

Pingback: Book Review Questions – Book Time

I love the questions you help me with my school work

thank you …very thoughtful questions and will be useful to use with twins I am tutoring

It might be interesting to bring a little personal creativity to the book reading after answering most of the questions, by asking each reader to write a four line poem about the main character–nothing to be graded, of course–simply another way to look at the reader’s attitude toward the main character of a book.

Helpful questions and ideas thanks

I used to teach at University level and would have used this format for my students who were reading plays in my survey course. Great questions, too bad I’m retired.

I was able to do a project with my class!! Thank you for making this!!😁

The questions are helping me to stay focused in the right place for the questions and not top get off track.

This has been a great lesson and so very informative regarding how different perspectives can be taken depending of indivual background

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30 Book Editor Interview Questions and Answers

Common Book Editor interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

In the literary world, the role of a Book Editor is pivotal. Your keen eye for detail, understanding of narrative structure, and ability to polish prose are critical skills that can elevate a manuscript from good to great. As you prepare for your next interview, it’s essential to not only demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of literature but also showcase your unique approach to refining text.

In this article, we’ll delve into potential questions you might face during a book editor interview, along with advice on how best to answer them. Whether you’re editing novels, non-fiction, or academic texts, these tips will help you articulate your expertise and make a strong impression on your potential employer.

1. Can you describe a project where your editing significantly improved a manuscript?

Hiring managers want to know that you can not only spot the errors in a manuscript but also elevate the quality of the writing. They’re looking for editors who can collaborate with authors to bring out the best in their work. By asking about a specific project, they’re trying to get a sense of your editing process, your ability to make substantive changes, and how you handle the delicate task of improving an author’s work without losing their voice.

Example: “One project that stands out is a debut novel I worked on. The author had a compelling story but the manuscript was overly descriptive and lacked dialogue, making it hard for readers to connect with characters.

I suggested incorporating more direct conversations between characters to bring them to life. We also worked together to trim down excessive details while preserving essential ones to maintain the narrative’s richness.

Post-editing, the book received positive reviews for its engaging characters and vivid storytelling. This experience underscored how strategic editing can enhance a manuscript without compromising the author’s voice.”

2. How do you approach the developmental editing stage?

Every editor has a different approach to developmental editing, and hiring managers want to understand yours. This process involves a deep dive into the content, structure, and flow of a manuscript, and it can be the most time-consuming part of the editing process. It requires a good eye for detail, a strong understanding of storytelling and structure, and the ability to provide constructive, actionable feedback to authors. Your approach to this stage can tell a lot about your editing style, skills, and ability to work with authors.

Example: “In the developmental editing stage, my primary goal is to enhance the manuscript’s structure and content. I start by thoroughly reading the material to understand its core message and identify any potential issues.

Next, I focus on elements like plot development, characterisation, pacing, and voice consistency. It’s crucial to ensure these aspects are well-balanced and engaging for readers.

I then provide detailed feedback to the author, suggesting revisions that can improve clarity, flow, and overall impact. This collaborative process helps refine the manuscript while maintaining the author’s unique voice and vision.

Lastly, it’s important to be respectful and sensitive when delivering critiques, as this encourages a productive dialogue with the author.”

3. What is your experience with copy-editing and proofreading?

As a book editor, it’s essential to have a keen eye for details and a deep understanding of language and grammar. This question seeks to gauge your experience and proficiency in these areas. By asking about your experience with copy-editing and proofreading, interviewers are aiming to understand your ability to spot errors, inconsistencies, and areas for improvement in a manuscript, ensuring the final product is polished and high quality.

Example: “I have extensive experience in copy-editing and proofreading. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills to ensure that every piece of work is polished, accurate, and engaging for readers.

My approach involves a thorough review of grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. But it goes beyond mere technicalities. I also focus on improving clarity, coherence, and overall narrative flow.

In terms of proofreading, I am meticulous and detail-oriented. I understand the importance of consistency in style and tone throughout a manuscript.

Working with authors, I respect their voice and vision, making suggestions that enhance rather than alter their original intent. This collaborative process has always been rewarding as it results in a refined final product that both parties are proud of.”

4. How do you handle authors who are resistant to changes?

The art of editing often involves navigating the delicate balance between an author’s vision and the need for changes that enhance readability, marketability, and overall quality of the book. As an editor, you’ll need to negotiate and collaborate effectively with authors, some of whom may initially resist changes to their work. Interviewers want to ensure you have the diplomacy and communication skills necessary to handle such scenarios.

Example: “When dealing with resistant authors, I believe in the power of clear communication. It’s important to explain why certain changes are necessary and how they can enhance their work.

I always respect the author’s vision and try to ensure that any suggested edits align with it. If resistance persists, I would propose a compromise or alternative solution that could satisfy both parties.

Building trust is key, so showing empathy towards an author’s attachment to their work while maintaining professional integrity is crucial.”

5. Can you provide an example of a complex editing project you’ve completed?

The publishing world is filled with complex projects, be it a multilayered novel, a comprehensive textbook or a technical manual. The ability to manage, edit, and successfully complete such projects is a clear indicator of an editor’s skills, experience and tenacity. Therefore, interviewers ask this question to learn more about your editing process, your problem-solving abilities, and how you handle deadlines and pressure.

Example: “One of the most complex editing projects I’ve undertaken was for a debut author’s 500-page historical fiction novel. The manuscript required comprehensive editing, from structural changes to detailed line edits.

The plot was intricate with multiple characters and timelines that needed careful handling to ensure clarity without compromising the story’s richness. It involved extensive research on my part to understand the historical context and validate its accuracy.

I collaborated closely with the author over several months, ensuring their vision remained intact while enhancing readability. This project challenged me to balance creativity with precision, ultimately leading to a well-received published book.”

6. Describe a time when you had to make a critical decision about a book’s content.

Hiring managers ask this to gauge your decision-making skills, particularly in challenging situations. As an editor, you’re the gatekeeper of a book’s content and sometimes have to make tough calls about what stays and what goes. This question gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to make critical decisions that balance the author’s vision, the publisher’s guidelines, and the readers’ expectations.

Example: “In one project, I was editing a historical novel. The author had included some controversial political views that could potentially offend certain readers. After careful consideration, I decided to discuss this with the author.

I expressed my concerns and suggested possible revisions to make the content more balanced while maintaining the integrity of the story. We worked together to find a solution that respected both the author’s creative freedom and potential reader sensitivities.

This experience taught me the importance of open communication and collaboration in dealing with sensitive issues in book editing.”

7. How do you balance maintaining an author’s voice with ensuring clarity and coherence?

This question is asked to gauge your understanding of the delicate balance between preserving an author’s unique style and ensuring the content is easy to understand and well-structured. As an editor, your role is not to rewrite the author’s work, but to enhance it for the target audience. Your answer will also reveal your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and your ability to make critical editorial decisions.

Example: “Balancing an author’s voice with clarity and coherence involves a deep understanding of the manuscript. The key is to respect the unique style of the author, while ensuring that the message is clear to the readers.

I approach this by thoroughly reading the work first, absorbing the tone, rhythm, and nuances. Then I focus on areas where clarity may be compromised without altering the author’s intent or style.

It’s about making subtle adjustments rather than sweeping changes. This delicate balance can only be achieved through open communication with the author, discussing suggested edits and their impact on the narrative. It’s a collaborative process that aims to preserve the author’s voice while enhancing readability.”

8. What is your process for managing multiple editing projects simultaneously?

A book editor’s role involves juggling multiple projects at different stages, each with its own timeline and specific needs. Your potential employer wants to know that you can manage your time and tasks effectively to ensure all books are edited to a high standard and published on schedule. Your ability to handle simultaneous projects without dropping the ball is a key success factor in this role.

Example: “To manage multiple editing projects, I prioritize based on deadlines and complexity. I use project management tools to track each task’s progress and set reminders for important milestones.

For complex tasks, I break them down into manageable parts to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This also allows me to focus on one aspect at a time, ensuring quality work.

Communication is key in managing multiple projects. Regular updates with authors ensure we’re aligned on expectations and changes.

Lastly, I maintain a balance between speed and accuracy. While meeting deadlines is crucial, it shouldn’t compromise the quality of work.”

9. How do you handle editing a book that is not in your personal area of interest or expertise?

Working in the publishing industry isn’t always about indulging in your personal favorite genres or themes. In fact, many times, you’ll be tasked with editing a manuscript that might be far removed from your personal interests or area of expertise. This question is designed to assess your flexibility, adaptability, and commitment to producing quality work, regardless of the subject matter. It also helps interviewers gauge your ability to maintain an objective and professional perspective when dealing with diverse content.

Example: “As a book editor, my role is to ensure the quality of the content regardless of the subject matter. I approach every project with an open mind and willingness to learn.

For topics outside my expertise, I conduct thorough research to familiarize myself with the subject. This helps me understand the author’s perspective and maintain their voice while making necessary edits.

I also engage subject-matter experts when needed for clarity and accuracy. My focus remains on ensuring coherence, grammar, punctuation, and overall flow of the narrative.

Ultimately, my job is about facilitating effective communication between the author and readers, irrespective of the topic.”

10. How familiar are you with the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook?

These are the bibles of the publishing world. If you’re stepping into the shoes of a Book Editor, you need to be well-versed with these style guides. They dictate everything from how to handle punctuation in dialogue to when to spell out numbers and when to use numerals. Knowing these will ensure consistency and accuracy across all the manuscripts you handle, which is why interviewers want to gauge your familiarity with them.

Example: “I have extensive knowledge of both the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook. My familiarity with these guides is crucial to my work as an editor, ensuring consistency in language use.

The Chicago Manual of Style is my go-to guide for book editing. It provides comprehensive rules on grammar, punctuation, citation styles, and formatting text.

On the other hand, I use the AP Stylebook mainly for journalistic writing. It offers concise guidelines on usage, spelling, and punctuation.

Understanding the nuances between these two style guides allows me to adapt to different editorial needs effectively.”

11. Can you describe a time when your editing skills helped resolve a major issue in a manuscript?

As an editor, your ability to identify and resolve issues in a manuscript can make or break a publication. That’s why hiring managers want to assess your problem-solving skills and your ability to handle challenging situations. Demonstrating a situation where you’ve successfully used your editing skills to rectify a serious problem can reassure them of your value and your ability to contribute to the success of their publications.

Example: “During a project on a historical novel, I found that the manuscript was filled with anachronisms. These inaccuracies were not only in the language used but also in the depiction of events and societal norms.

I meticulously researched the era to ensure authenticity. My edits included suggesting changes in dialogue, descriptions, and character behaviors to align with the period. This significantly enhanced the credibility and immersive quality of the book.

The author appreciated my attention to detail and the publisher was pleased with the final product. This experience underscored how crucial thorough editing is for maintaining the integrity of a story.”

12. What steps do you take to ensure accuracy and consistency throughout a book?

Accuracy and consistency are the cornerstone of any well-edited book. As an editor, you’re the safeguard for the author’s reputation and the reader’s experience, ensuring the information is correct, the plot is consistent, and the style is uniform. Employers want to know that you have a systematic approach to maintaining these elements to deliver a high-quality product.

Example: “To ensure accuracy and consistency throughout a book, I start with a thorough initial read to understand the content, style, and voice of the author.

I then create a style guide that includes character details, plot points, themes, and language usage. This serves as a reference for maintaining consistency.

For accuracy, I cross-check facts and data mentioned in the manuscript, ensuring they are correct and up-to-date.

The editing process is iterative – I review multiple drafts, focusing on different elements each time such as grammar, punctuation, flow, or narrative structure.

Lastly, I use professional editing software to catch any overlooked errors. Consistent communication with the author is also key to clarify doubts and discuss suggested changes.”

13. How do you handle tight deadlines and high-pressure situations?

As a book editor, you’re expected to juggle multiple projects, all of which have their own unique deadlines and demands. Any delay can have a domino effect on the publishing schedule, affecting authors, marketing plans, and sales targets. Therefore, your ability to effectively work under pressure and meet tight deadlines is critical. Interviewers ask this question to gauge your stress management, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Example: “In high-pressure situations, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance. This helps me stay organized and focused. During tight deadlines, I use my time management skills to ensure that the work is completed efficiently without compromising quality.

For example, as a book editor, if I have multiple manuscripts to edit, I would first assess each manuscript’s complexity and deadline before allocating time for each task.

I also believe in open communication. If a deadline seems unrealistic, I discuss it with the team or author to find a solution. Stress can be managed through effective planning, organization, and communication.”

14. Can you describe your experience with digital publishing and eBook formatting?

The literary landscape is constantly evolving, and in recent years, digital publishing has become increasingly prevalent. As an editor, you may be required to adapt to these changes and work with different formats, including eBooks. This question helps employers gauge your familiarity with these mediums and your ability to navigate the technical aspects of the job.

Example: “I have extensive experience in digital publishing and eBook formatting. I’ve worked with a variety of software tools like Adobe InDesign, Calibre, and Sigil for eBook creation.

My focus has always been on ensuring readability across different devices. This includes optimizing text display, image placement, and interactive elements such as hyperlinks or footnotes.

In terms of digital publishing, I’ve managed the distribution process on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and Apple iBooks. Understanding metadata optimization to boost visibility is also part of my expertise.

Overall, I’m adept at turning manuscripts into polished eBooks while maintaining author’s intent and reader engagement.”

15. How do you approach editing for different genres or audiences?

The essence of being a book editor lies in understanding the unique requirements of different genres and audiences. Each genre and audience demands a unique approach, style, tone, and language. A children’s book shouldn’t be edited the same way as a medical textbook, and a thriller novel will have different requirements than a historical biography. Therefore, the hiring manager wants to understand your adaptability and versatility in handling diverse editing tasks.

Example: “Understanding the genre and target audience is crucial in editing. For a young adult fiction, I focus on language simplicity, relatability, and engaging plotlines. In contrast, for academic texts, clarity of argument, logical flow, and accuracy are paramount.

For different audiences, cultural sensitivity and inclusivity become important. A children’s book should be age-appropriate and foster positive values, while an international audience requires careful consideration of translations and local idioms.

In essence, my approach to editing varies based on the context but always maintains a balance between preserving the author’s voice and ensuring readability and coherence for the intended readership.”

16. What is your experience with fact-checking and research in non-fiction editing?

Accuracy is paramount when it comes to non-fiction writing. This question is asked to ensure that you, as an editor, understand the importance of verifying the credibility of the content you’re editing. The interviewer wants to know if you can meticulously double-check facts, references, and data to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the published work. Your ability to carry out effective research is also key in this role, as it can aid in fact-checking, and also help to identify gaps or potential enhancements in the content.

Example: “I have extensive experience with fact-checking and research in non-fiction editing. My process involves cross-referencing information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. I also utilize various tools, databases, and online resources for comprehensive verification.

Understanding the subject matter is crucial, so I often delve deeper into topics to gain a better perspective. This helps me identify any potential inaccuracies or inconsistencies within the text.

Maintaining the author’s voice while ensuring factual correctness can be challenging but it’s an aspect I particularly enjoy. It requires a delicate balance of thoroughness and respect for the original work.

In terms of deadlines, I am proficient at managing my time effectively to meet them without compromising on the quality of my work.”

17. How do you ensure you stay updated on publishing industry trends and changes?

The publishing industry is constantly evolving, whether it’s in response to new technologies, shifting reader habits, or the emergence of new genres. As a book editor, you need to have your finger on the pulse of these changes to ensure the books you work on are relevant and competitive. This question helps employers understand how proactive and passionate you are about staying informed and adapting to the industry’s dynamic landscape.

Example: “I regularly attend industry events and webinars to stay informed about the latest trends. I also subscribe to relevant newsletters, blogs, and magazines like Publisher’s Weekly and The Bookseller. Participating in online forums and networking groups where professionals discuss changes and advancements is another method I use. Reading widely within different genres helps me understand market shifts and reader preferences. This combination of strategies ensures that I am up-to-date with the evolving publishing landscape.”

18. Can you discuss a time when you had to work with a difficult author and how you handled it?

The literary world is filled with diverse personalities and working styles, and as an editor, you’ll need to navigate that landscape effectively. Dealing with difficult authors is part of the job, and employers want to ensure you have the patience, tact, and communication skills to maintain positive working relationships even under challenging circumstances. Your ability to handle conflict while preserving the integrity of the work is key to success in this role.

Example: “In one instance, I worked with an author who was very resistant to changes. He had a specific vision for his book and wasn’t open to suggestions.

I approached this situation by first acknowledging his concerns and validating his creative process. Then, I explained the rationale behind my suggestions from a market perspective, emphasizing that my goal was to enhance his work while maintaining his unique voice.

We agreed on a compromise where he would consider some of my edits if I could understand his resistance to others. This approach fostered mutual respect and led to a successful collaboration. The key was clear communication and understanding each other’s perspectives.”

19. How do you handle constructive criticism and feedback on your editing work?

The nature of an editor’s job is deeply collaborative, involving numerous revisions and back-and-forth discussions with authors and other team members. Hence, being able to take feedback and criticism in stride is an essential quality. Interviewers want to ensure that you can respond to feedback positively and use it to improve your work, rather than becoming defensive or resistant to change.

Example: “I view constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth. When feedback is provided on my editing work, I approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. It’s essential in maintaining the quality of the final product.

I always take time to understand the perspective behind the feedback. If something isn’t clear, I ask questions for clarification. Once I have a good understanding, I apply the necessary changes to improve my work.

In this industry, continuous learning is key. So, I appreciate any insights that can help me enhance my skills and deliver better results.”

20. What strategies do you employ to maintain focus during long hours of editing?

The world of book editing requires a keen eye for detail and a high level of focus. This question is asked to understand your personal techniques and strategies for maintaining that focus, especially during prolonged periods of time. The ability to stay concentrated and productive is essential in this role, as it directly impacts the quality of the final product.

Example: “To maintain focus during long hours of editing, I use a combination of time management and mindfulness techniques.

I employ the Pomodoro Technique, working in focused 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between. This helps to maintain mental freshness while preventing fatigue.

Mindfulness exercises like brief meditation sessions aid in maintaining concentration over extended periods. They also help reduce stress which can be common in deadline-driven environments.

Regular physical activity is another strategy I use. A quick walk or stretch break can re-energize both body and mind, enhancing productivity.

Lastly, maintaining a clean and organized workspace aids in minimizing distractions, allowing for sustained focus on the task at hand.”

21. Describe a situation where you had to advocate for a significant change in a manuscript.

Manuscripts are the heart and soul of a writer’s work, and suggesting changes can be sensitive. As an editor, your role isn’t just to catch typos and grammar mistakes—it’s to help shape the overall story or argument and improve the work as a whole. This question is asked to assess your diplomatic skills, your ability to advocate for necessary changes, and your understanding of the delicate balance between preserving the author’s voice and improving the quality of the text.

Example: “In one instance, I was editing a historical fiction manuscript. The author had written an engaging story but relied heavily on modern language. This disrupted the authenticity of the period setting.

I suggested a comprehensive change in dialogue and descriptions to reflect the era accurately. It required careful communication as it meant significant rewrites for the author.

We worked collaboratively, ensuring that the changes enhanced the narrative rather than detracting from the original voice. Ultimately, this improved reader immersion and authenticity of the book’s setting.”

22. How do you maintain an effective working relationship with authors throughout the editing process?

Dance of words and ideas—that’s what the relationship between an author and an editor can be likened to. It’s a delicate balance of respect, communication, and understanding. When interviewers ask this question, they’re looking to gauge your interpersonal skills and your ability to navigate potentially sensitive situations. They want to ensure that you can provide constructive feedback while maintaining a positive working relationship, ultimately contributing to the creation of a strong final product.

Example: “Maintaining an effective working relationship with authors involves open and clear communication. I ensure to understand their vision for the book, respect it, and provide constructive feedback that aligns with this vision.

It’s crucial to be transparent about changes and why they’re necessary while being receptive to their ideas and concerns. This builds trust and fosters a collaborative environment.

Patience is key as well. Editing can be a lengthy process and understanding this helps in managing expectations and maintaining a positive rapport throughout.”

23. Can you discuss your experience with manuscript acquisitions and proposal evaluations?

A big part of the editorial role is identifying and acquiring promising manuscripts that align with the publishing house’s brand and market. Your ability to evaluate proposals and choose the right ones to pursue is directly tied to the success of the books you work on and, ultimately, the success of the publishing house. Therefore, hiring managers want to know about your previous experiences and successes in this area.

Example: “In my experience, manuscript acquisitions involve a thorough review of the work’s quality and marketability. I assess its structure, content flow, coherence, and originality. This helps determine if it aligns with our publishing goals.

Proposal evaluations are equally critical. I examine the author’s writing style, target audience, and potential market competition. It’s also essential to consider the author’s platform and their ability to promote their work.

Both processes require keen attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and an understanding of current market trends.”

24. What is your approach to ensuring a manuscript aligns with a publisher’s style and standards?

As a book editor, your role is far more than just checking for grammar and spelling errors. You are responsible for ensuring that the manuscript aligns with the publisher’s style, tone, and content guidelines. This question allows you to demonstrate your familiarity with different writing styles, your attention to detail, and your ability to maintain the author’s voice while still meeting the publisher’s requirements. It’s a key part of the job, so it’s important to show that you can handle it with finesse.

Example: “To ensure a manuscript aligns with a publisher’s style and standards, I start by thoroughly familiarizing myself with the publisher’s guidelines. This includes understanding their preferred language style, formatting rules, and any specific nuances they may have.

Then, as I review the manuscript, I not only focus on grammar and punctuation but also pay close attention to tone, voice, and structure to ensure it fits within the publisher’s expectations.

I use tools like style guides and editing software for consistency and accuracy. If there are areas of uncertainty or ambiguity, I communicate directly with the author to gain clarity and make necessary adjustments.

In essence, my approach is a combination of careful study, meticulous editing, and open communication.”

25. How do you handle disagreements about edits or changes to a manuscript?

The publishing process can be a delicate dance between editor and author, rife with potential conflict. It’s not just about finding errors or improving readability. You’re dealing with the author’s creative vision and hard work. A great editor knows how to balance maintaining the author’s voice and intentions with improving the work. Interviewers want to ensure you have the skills to navigate these complex relationships and situations.

Example: “When disagreements arise regarding edits or changes to a manuscript, my approach is rooted in open communication and mutual respect. I believe it’s crucial to understand the author’s perspective and vision for their work.

I would provide clear explanations for suggested changes, emphasizing how they enhance the narrative or clarity. If the author disagrees, I’d engage in a constructive dialogue to reach a compromise that respects both our viewpoints.

Ultimately, maintaining the integrity of the story while ensuring high-quality writing is paramount. It’s about striking the right balance between preserving the author’s voice and meeting publishing standards.”

26. How have you improved your editing skills over the years?

The journey of an editor is one of constant learning and skill refinement. As the gatekeeper of content quality, you’re expected to continually improve your ability to catch errors, offer valuable suggestions, and guide authors in developing their best work. By asking this question, interviewers want to understand your commitment to your own professional development and how you’ve actively sought to enhance your editing prowess over time.

Example: “Over the years, I’ve honed my editing skills through continuous learning and practical application. I pursued professional courses in literature and grammar to strengthen my foundational knowledge.

To keep up with industry trends, I regularly attend workshops and webinars on editing techniques and software tools. This has helped me stay updated and improve efficiency.

Practically, I have edited a diverse range of content from academic papers to novels which has broadened my understanding of different writing styles and tones. Each project challenged me and provided an opportunity to learn something new.

Criticism and feedback have been instrumental in my growth. I actively seek them out after every project to understand areas for improvement. By incorporating this feedback, I’ve been able to refine my editing style over time.”

27. What is your experience with collaborative editing processes?

As a book editor, you’re often part of a larger team working to bring a manuscript to life. This question helps the interviewer understand your ability to work collaboratively, take feedback, and incorporate multiple perspectives into the final product. It’s key to ensure that the final book is the best it can possibly be and meets the vision of both the author and the publishing house.

Example: “I have extensive experience with collaborative editing processes. This includes working closely with authors to refine their manuscripts, discussing changes and suggestions in detail.

In this process, I’ve utilized tools like Google Docs for real-time collaboration and tracked changes feature in MS Word for clear communication of edits.

My goal is always to maintain the author’s voice while ensuring clarity and coherence. It requires open communication, respect for differing viewpoints, and a shared commitment to producing high-quality work.”

28. Can you describe a time when your editing helped to significantly improve a book’s success?

A book editor’s primary role is to shape and refine a manuscript to enhance its marketability and reader appeal. By asking this question, hiring managers are looking for evidence of your editorial judgment and your ability to make strategic decisions that positively impact a book’s success. They want to know that you can provide constructive feedback and collaborate effectively with authors to create a compelling final product.

Example: “Yes, I recall working on a historical novel. The manuscript was rich in detail but lacked structure and pace. My role involved reshaping the narrative to create tension and suspense while maintaining historical accuracy.

I suggested changes like rearranging chapters for better flow, enhancing character development, and tightening language for clarity. Post-editing, the book received critical acclaim and became a bestseller. This experience affirmed my belief that effective editing can significantly elevate a book’s success.”

29. How do you approach editing a manuscript that requires extensive revisions?

This question is intended to assess your problem-solving skills, tact, and patience. Editing a manuscript that requires extensive revisions isn’t just about fixing the grammar and punctuation; it’s about understanding the author’s vision, being able to communicate necessary changes without discouraging them, and having the tenacity to work through multiple rounds of edits until the manuscript is polished. Your ability to handle such a daunting task demonstrates your value as a book editor.

Example: “When faced with a manuscript that requires extensive revisions, my first step is to thoroughly read and understand the content. This allows me to identify areas of weakness or confusion.

Next, I communicate with the author to discuss these issues and propose potential solutions. It’s crucial to maintain a collaborative relationship throughout this process.

Then, I prioritize the edits based on their impact on the overall narrative. Structural changes are typically addressed first, followed by smaller-scale language and style adjustments.

Throughout the revision process, I ensure consistency in tone, voice, and style. My goal is always to improve the manuscript while respecting the author’s original intent and voice.”

30. What strategies do you employ to ensure you meet all deadlines and deliver high-quality work?

Deadlines and quality control are core aspects of a book editor’s role. From managing multiple projects simultaneously to ensuring the final manuscript is error-free and polished, editors need to have effective strategies and tools in place. Interviewers ask this question to assess your organizational skills, time management, and attention to detail, which are all essential traits for this job.

Example: “I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. For large projects, I break them down into manageable parts to ensure consistent progress. Using project management tools helps me keep track of deadlines and monitor the quality of work.

To maintain high-quality standards, I constantly update my knowledge in editing techniques and industry trends. Regular feedback from authors is also crucial as it provides different perspectives and aids improvement.

Maintaining a balanced workload and avoiding overcommitting allows for focus on each task at hand, ensuring timely completion without compromising on quality.”

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How to Write a Book Review: A Comprehensive Tutorial With Examples

You don’t need to be a literary expert to craft captivating book reviews. With one in every three readers selecting books based on insightful reviews, your opinions can guide fellow bibliophiles toward their next literary adventure.

Learning how to write a book review will not only help you excel at your assigned tasks, but you’ll also contribute valuable insights to the book-loving community and turn your passion into a professional pursuit.

In this comprehensive guide,  PaperPerk  will walk you through a few simple steps to master the art of writing book reviews so you can confidently embark on this rewarding journey.

What is a Book Review?

A book review is a critical evaluation of a book, offering insights into its content, quality, and impact. It helps readers make informed decisions about whether to read the book.

Writing a book review as an assignment benefits students in multiple ways. Firstly, it teaches them how to write a book review by developing their analytical skills as they evaluate the content, themes, and writing style .

Secondly, it enhances their ability to express opinions and provide constructive criticism. Additionally, book review assignments expose students to various publications and genres, broadening their knowledge.

Furthermore, these tasks foster essential skills for academic success, like critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information. By now, we’re sure you want to learn how to write a book review, so let’s look at the book review template first.

Table of Contents

Book Review Template

How to Write a Book Review- A Step-by-Step Guide

Check out these 5 straightforward steps for composing the best book review.

Step 1: Planning Your Book Review – The Art of Getting Started

You’ve decided to take the plunge and share your thoughts on a book that has captivated (or perhaps disappointed) you. Before you start book reviewing, let’s take a step back and plan your approach. Knowing how to write a book review that’s both informative and engaging is an art in itself.

Choosing Your Literature

First things first, pick the book you want to review. This might seem like a no-brainer, but selecting a book that genuinely interests you will make the review process more enjoyable and your insights more authentic.

Crafting the Master Plan

Next, create an  outline  that covers all the essential points you want to discuss in your review. This will serve as the roadmap for your writing journey.

The Devil is in the Details

As you read, note any information that stands out, whether it overwhelms, underwhelms, or simply intrigues you. Pay attention to:

• The characters and their development
• The plot and its intricacies
• Any themes, symbols, or motifs you find noteworthy

Remember to reserve a body paragraph for each point you want to discuss.

The Key Questions to Ponder

When planning your book review, consider the following questions:

• What’s the plot (if any)? Understanding the driving force behind the book will help you craft a more effective review.
• Is the plot interesting? Did the book hold your attention and keep you turning the pages?
• Are the writing techniques effective? Does the author’s style captivate you, making you want to read (or reread) the text?
• Are the characters or the information believable? Do the characters/plot/information feel real, and can you relate to them?
• Would you recommend the book to anyone? Consider if the book is worthy of being recommended, whether to impress someone or to support a point in a literature class.
• What could be improved? Always keep an eye out for areas that could be improved. Providing constructive criticism can enhance the quality of literature.

Step 2 – Crafting the Perfect Introduction to Write a Book Review

In this second step of “how to write a book review,” we’re focusing on the art of creating a powerful opening that will hook your audience and set the stage for your analysis.

Identify Your Book and Author

Begin by mentioning the book you’ve chosen, including its  title  and the author’s name. This informs your readers and establishes the subject of your review.

Ponder the Title

Next, discuss the mental images or emotions the book’s title evokes in your mind . This helps your readers understand your initial feelings and expectations before diving into the book.

Judge the Book by Its Cover (Just a Little)

Take a moment to talk about the book’s cover. Did it intrigue you? Did it hint at what to expect from the story or the author’s writing style? Sharing your thoughts on the cover can offer a unique perspective on how the book presents itself to potential readers.

Present Your Thesis

Now it’s time to introduce your thesis. This statement should be a concise and insightful summary of your opinion of the book. For example:

“Normal People” by Sally Rooney is a captivating portrayal of the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of love, class, and self-discovery with exceptional depth and authenticity.

Ensure that your thesis is relevant to the points or quotes you plan to discuss throughout your review.

Incorporating these elements into your introduction will create a strong foundation for your book review. Your readers will be eager to learn more about your thoughts and insights on the book, setting the stage for a compelling and thought-provoking analysis.

How to Write a Book Review: Step 3 – Building Brilliant Body Paragraphs

You’ve planned your review and written an attention-grabbing introduction. Now it’s time for the main event: crafting the body paragraphs of your book review. In this step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the art of constructing engaging and insightful body paragraphs that will keep your readers hooked.

Summarize Without Spoilers

Begin by summarizing a specific section of the book, not revealing any major plot twists or spoilers. Your goal is to give your readers a taste of the story without ruining surprises.

Support Your Viewpoint with Quotes

Next, choose three quotes from the book that support your viewpoint or opinion. These quotes should be relevant to the section you’re summarizing and help illustrate your thoughts on the book.

Analyze the Quotes

Write a summary of each quote in your own words, explaining how it made you feel or what it led you to think about the book or the author’s writing. This analysis should provide insight into your perspective and demonstrate your understanding of the text.

Structure Your Body Paragraphs

Dedicate one body paragraph to each quote, ensuring your writing is well-connected, coherent, and easy to understand.

For example:

• In  Jane Eyre , Charlotte Brontë writes, “I am no bird; and no net ensnares me.” This powerful statement highlights Jane’s fierce independence and refusal to be trapped by societal expectations.
• In  Normal People , Sally Rooney explores the complexities of love and friendship when she writes, “It was culture as class performance, literature fetishized for its ability to take educated people on false emotional journeys.” This quote reveals the author’s astute observations on the role of culture and class in shaping personal relationships.
• In  Wuthering Heights , Emily Brontë captures the tumultuous nature of love with the quote, “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” This poignant line emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between the story’s central characters.

By following these guidelines, you’ll create body paragraphs that are both captivating and insightful, enhancing your book review and providing your readers with a deeper understanding of the literary work. 

How to Write a Book Review: Step 4 – Crafting a Captivating Conclusion

You’ve navigated through planning, introductions, and body paragraphs with finesse. Now it’s time to wrap up your book review with a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression . In this final step of “How to write a Book Review,” we’ll explore the art of writing a memorable and persuasive conclusion.

Summarize Your Analysis

Begin by summarizing the key points you’ve presented in the body paragraphs. This helps to remind your readers of the insights and arguments you’ve shared throughout your review.

Offer Your Final Conclusion

Next, provide a conclusion that reflects your overall feelings about the book. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression and persuade your readers to consider your perspective.

Address the Book’s Appeal

Now, answer the question: Is this book worth reading? Be clear about who would enjoy the book and who might not. Discuss the taste preferences and circumstances that make the book more appealing to some readers than others.

For example:  The Alchemist is a book that can enchant a young teen, but those who are already well-versed in classic literature might find it less engaging.

Be Subtle and Balanced

Avoid simply stating whether you “liked” or “disliked” the book. Instead, use nuanced language to convey your message. Highlight the pros and cons of reading the type of literature you’ve reviewed, offering a balanced perspective.

Bringing It All Together

By following these guidelines, you’ll craft a conclusion that leaves your readers with a clear understanding of your thoughts and opinions on the book. Your review will be a valuable resource for those considering whether to pick up the book, and your witty and insightful analysis will make your review a pleasure to read. So conquer the world of book reviews, one captivating conclusion at a time!

How to Write a Book Review: Step 5 – Rating the Book (Optional)

You’ve masterfully crafted your book review, from the introduction to the conclusion. But wait, there’s one more step you might consider before calling it a day: rating the book. In this optional step of “how to write a book review,” we’ll explore the benefits and methods of assigning a rating to the book you’ve reviewed.

Why Rate the Book?

Sometimes, when writing a professional book review, it may not be appropriate to state whether you liked or disliked the book. In such cases, assigning a rating can be an effective way to get your message across without explicitly sharing your personal opinion.

How to Rate the Book

There are various rating systems you can use to evaluate the book, such as:

• A star rating (e.g., 1 to 5 stars)
• A numerical score (e.g., 1 to 10)
• A letter grade (e.g., A+ to F)

Choose a rating system that best suits your style and the format of your review. Be consistent in your rating criteria, considering writing quality, character development, plot, and overall enjoyment.

Tips for Rating the Book

Here are some tips for rating the book effectively:

• Be honest: Your rating should reflect your true feelings about the book. Don’t inflate or deflate your rating based on external factors, such as the book’s popularity or the author’s reputation.
• Be fair: Consider the book’s merits and shortcomings when rating. Even if you didn’t enjoy the book, recognize its strengths and acknowledge them in your rating.
• Be clear: Explain the rationale behind your rating so your readers understand the factors that influenced your evaluation.

Wrapping Up

By including a rating in your book review, you provide your readers with additional insight into your thoughts on the book. While this step is optional, it can be a valuable tool for conveying your message subtly yet effectively. So, rate those books confidently, adding a touch of wit and wisdom to your book reviews.

Additional Tips on How to Write a Book Review: A Guide

In this segment, we’ll explore additional tips on how to write a book review. Get ready to captivate your readers and make your review a memorable one!

Hook ’em with an Intriguing Introduction

Keep your introduction precise and to the point. Readers have the attention span of a goldfish these days, so don’t let them swim away in boredom. Start with a bang and keep them hooked!

Embrace the World of Fiction

When learning how to write a book review, remember that reviewing fiction is often more engaging and effective. If your professor hasn’t assigned you a specific book, dive into the realm of fiction and select a novel that piques your interest.

Opinionated with Gusto

Don’t shy away from adding your own opinion to your review. A good book review always features the writer’s viewpoint and constructive criticism. After all, your readers want to know what  you  think!

Express Your Love (or Lack Thereof)

If you adored the book, let your readers know! Use phrases like “I’ll definitely return to this book again” to convey your enthusiasm. Conversely, be honest but respectful even if the book wasn’t your cup of tea.

Templates and Examples and Expert Help: Your Trusty Sidekicks

Feeling lost? You can always get help from formats, book review examples or online  college paper writing service  platforms. These trusty sidekicks will help you navigate the world of book reviews with ease. 

Be a Champion for New Writers and Literature

Remember to uplift new writers and pieces of literature. If you want to suggest improvements, do so kindly and constructively. There’s no need to be mean about anyone’s books – we’re all in this literary adventure together!

Criticize with Clarity, Not Cruelty

When adding criticism to your review, be clear but not mean. Remember, there’s a fine line between constructive criticism and cruelty. Tread lightly and keep your reader’s feelings in mind.

Avoid the Comparison Trap

Resist the urge to compare one writer’s book with another. Every book holds its worth, and comparing them will only confuse your reader. Stick to discussing the book at hand, and let it shine in its own light.

Top 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Writing a book review can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when you balance analysis, wit, and personal insights. However, some common mistakes can kill the brilliance of your review. 

In this section of “How to write a book review,” we’ll explore the top 7 blunders writers commit and how to steer clear of them, with a dash of  modernist literature  examples and tips for students writing book reviews as assignments.

Succumbing to the Lure of Plot Summaries

Mistake: Diving headfirst into a plot summary instead of dissecting the book’s themes, characters, and writing style.

Example: “The Bell Jar chronicles the life of a young woman who experiences a mental breakdown.”

How to Avoid: Delve into the book’s deeper aspects, such as its portrayal of mental health, societal expectations, and the author’s distinctive narrative voice. Offer thoughtful insights and reflections, making your review a treasure trove of analysis.

Unleashing the Spoiler Kraken

Mistake: Spilling major plot twists or the ending without providing a spoiler warning, effectively ruining the reading experience for potential readers.

Example: “In Metamorphosis, the protagonist’s transformation into a monstrous insect leads to…”

How to Avoid: Tread carefully when discussing significant plot developments, and consider using spoiler warnings. Focus on the impact of these plot points on the overall narrative, character growth, or thematic resonance.

Riding the Personal Bias Express

Mistake: Allowing personal bias to hijack the review without providing sufficient evidence or reasoning to support opinions.

Example: “I detest books about existential crises, so The Sun Also Rises was a snoozefest.”

How to Avoid: While personal opinions are valid, it’s crucial to back them up with specific examples from the book. Discuss aspects like writing style, character development, or pacing to support your evaluation and provide a more balanced perspective.

Wielding the Vague Language Saber

Mistake: Resorting to generic, vague language that fails to capture the nuances of the book and can come across as clichéd.

Example: “This book was mind-blowing. It’s a must-read for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Use precise and descriptive language to express your thoughts. Employ specific examples and quotations to highlight memorable scenes, the author’s unique writing style, or the impact of the book’s themes on readers.

Ignoring the Contextualization Compass

Mistake: Neglecting to provide context about the author, genre, or cultural relevance of the book, leaving readers without a proper frame of reference.

Example: “This book is dull and unoriginal.”

How to Avoid: Offer readers a broader understanding by discussing the author’s background, the genre conventions the book adheres to or subverts, and any societal or historical contexts that inform the narrative. This helps readers appreciate the book’s uniqueness and relevance.

Overindulging in Personal Preferences

Mistake: Letting personal preferences overshadow an objective assessment of the book’s merits.

Example: “I don’t like stream-of-consciousness writing, so this book is automatically bad.”

How to Avoid: Acknowledge personal preferences but strive to evaluate the book objectively. Focus on the book’s strengths and weaknesses, considering how well it achieves its goals within its genre or intended audience.

Forgetting the Target Audience Telescope

Mistake: Failing to mention the book’s target audience or who might enjoy it, leading to confusion for potential readers.

Example: “This book is great for everyone.”

How to Avoid: Contemplate the book’s intended audience, genre, and themes. Mention who might particularly enjoy the book based on these factors, whether it’s fans of a specific genre, readers interested in character-driven stories, or those seeking thought-provoking narratives.

By dodging these common pitfalls, writers can craft insightful, balanced, and engaging book reviews that help readers make informed decisions about their reading choices.

These tips are particularly beneficial for students writing book reviews as assignments, as they ensure a well-rounded and thoughtful analysis.!

Many students requested us to cover how to write a book review. This thorough guide is sure to help you. At Paperperk, professionals are dedicated to helping students find their balance. We understand the importance of good grades, so we offer the finest writing service , ensuring students stay ahead of the curve. So seek expert help because only Paperperk is your perfect solution!

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How to Answer Common Interview Questions: A Cheat Sheet

• 09 Apr 2019

After sending out countless cover letters and resumes , you’re starting to line up interviews. If you’re in a full-force job hunt, you may find yourself speaking with multiple companies within a week—all at different stages in the interview process.

No matter how much interviewing experience you may have, each hiring manager deserves to meet with a well-prepared candidate. Coming to your interview prepared not only shows you’re serious about your interest in the position, but that you respect their time.

With this in mind, here are four common interview questions you should start preparing for now if you want to land your next job.

Common Interview Questions to Be Prepared for

1. “tell me about yourself.”.

Although technically not a question, it's a common opening line. This prompt roughly translates to, “What’s your story?” and your response can set the tone for the entire interview.

Here’s how you can make your story a best seller:

Consider Your Audience : Research a company in advance to assess their culture and determine which details are most relevant to share.

Create an Outline : Avoid losing your audience by creating an easy-to-follow storyline. Focus on having a beginning, middle, and end. Consider using the template below to get started:

• “I’m currently a Business Analyst for…”
• “I work on…”
• “I previously worked as…”
• “I studied…”
• “I decided to transition because…”
• “Now that I have experience in…”
• “After completing my degree…”
• “I'm eager to work on…”

Practice, Practice, Practice: The goal is not to memorize a script, but rather to familiarize yourself with your own highlight reel. Play with the order of the template depending on the biggest selling points of your experience. People typically remember the first and last thing they hear, so prioritize accordingly and keep it concise. A 30- to 60-second response is best.

Why Is This Question Important?

It's a foundation for other common job-seeking scenarios, such as explaining why you're leaving your current role, an elevator pitch at a networking event, or as an outline for a cover letter. Think of it as an opening statement that you can repurpose for different situations.

2. "What Is Your Biggest Strength?"

As tempting as it may be to list every buzzword possible, interviewers will have heard them all. Leave a lasting impression with an anecdotal response that demonstrates the skills they’re looking for in a candidate. For example: “I have been known to work well under a tight schedule. In my current role…” You can also use situations from different points in your career.

Keep in mind the tips from the prompt above and use the S.T.A.R Method to structure your response:

• Situation: Set the scene
• Task: Explain your end goal
• Action: Outline the steps you took to achieve your task
• Result: Note the result of your action

If you’re invited to an interview, whether by phone or in person, it means your resume has already convinced the hiring manager that you meet the baseline requirements for the job. This question is an opportunity for you to “wow” them by demonstrating the kind of value you can bring to their organization. Career changers can leverage specific examples to highlight transferable skills. Use the S.T.A.R. Method for any behavioral questions, also known as “Tell Me of a Time” questions. Typical behavioral questions seek examples of leadership, problem-solving, or growth.

Related: How to Follow up After a Job Interview the Right Way

3. “What Is Your Biggest Weakness?”

Of course, you don’t want to admit to being anything but the perfect candidate. The secret is to use this as an opportunity to demonstrate how you’ve grown in your career.

For instance, you may have struggled with difficult conversations in the past, but have since honed your skills through a negotiations course . Alternatively, if you’ve found it challenging to understand various financial aspects of your job or industry, demonstrate that you’ve built financial skills to address that weakness.

If you can’t think of a weakness, find someone in your support system whom you trust to be honest with you.

Remember to use a direct example following the S.T.A.R. Method and take control of the narrative with the following tips:

• Keep it work-related
• Talk about it in a positive light; it's not a weakness, but rather an area of growth
• Outline the actions steps taken, or currently being taken, to address it

Interviewers ask this question to gauge your self-awareness and get a sense of your weaknesses. By doing the work to understand your weaknesses, and explaining how you’ve proactively taken steps to improve yourself, you can be a more attractive candidate.

The answer to this question can proactively address any missing skills or experience on your resume (for example, taking a course to learn business fundamentals ). It will also demonstrate your problem-solving skills and build your confidence.

4. “Do You Have Any Questions for Us?”

This is your opportunity to show interest and determine if the role or company is a good fit. Always have at least one question prepared.

If you can’t think of anything to ask, consider pulling questions from the following categories:

• Ask the interviewers questions about their roles and experience with the company
• Learn more about how much you would interact with your interviewers on the job
• Actively listen to what interviewers have to say and ask follow-up questions for clarification
• Learn more about their approach to work/life balance
• Inquire about professional development opportunities
• Confirm what their performance review process is like
• Consider asking for an office tour
• Understand the history of the role and why it's currently vacant
• Learn who you'll report to and ask about their management styles
• Study the job posting and highlight any areas you want to discuss in more detail
• Consider directly asking about any concerns they may have with your application
• Inquire about the interview process and how many steps will be involved
• Confirm a timeline for their decision and determine if you can follow up in the meantime

Interviews aren’t just for the hiring manager; they’re for you, too. No matter the outcome of the interview, the more questions you ask, the more you'll learn about the job market for future reference. Think critically about any questions you’d like to ask that can’t be answered on your own with research.

Related: 3 Great Questions to Ask in an Interview

Landing the Job

Preparation is vital to a successful job interview. By practicing your responses to these common interview questions, you can make a positive impression on hiring managers and land the job of your dreams .

As you practice these questions and answers, pay special attention to any areas where you struggle to articulate yourself clearly and effectively. Ask yourself whether it’s due to jitters and limited interviewing practice, or because of a lack of confidence.

If it’s due to a lack of confidence, consider different ways you can become more confident. Completing a business course that’s relevant to your desired career can be an effective means of growing your confidence through education and skill-building.

Are you interested in additional career development advice ? Download our free guide on how to advance your career with essential business skills and explore our other articles, including " 9 Virtual Interview Tips to Help You Land Your Next Job " and " How to Properly Follow Up After an Interview ."

This post was updated on September 11, 2020. It was originally published on April 9, 2019.

About the Author

‘My Sister’s Keeper’ Author Jodi Picoult Had a ‘Really Terrible Experience’ With the Cameron Diaz-Starring Movie: My Book Is the ‘Story That I Intended’

By Jack Dunn

• ‘City of Dreams’ Filmmakers Give Away $1 Million in Preview Tickets to Human Trafficking Organizations, Churches and More – Film News in Brief 12 hours ago
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In an interview with People magazine about her new book “By Any Other Name,” author Jodi Picoult revealed her inspiration for the novel came from the “terrible experience” she had with the 2009 film adaptation of “My Sister’s Keeper.”

“It kind of goes back to when I had a really terrible experience turning ‘My Sister’s Keeper’ into a film,” Picoult said. “It took me a long time to kind of wrap my head around the fact that they didn’t ruin my book. My book is still there. And anyone who reads my book is still getting the story that I intended.”

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Picoult’s latest novel, “By Any Other Name,” tells the story of two female authors. One is Emilia Bassano, based on a real woman who historians think may have been behind some of Shakespeare’s most acclaimed works. The second is Melina Green, a modern-day playwright who gains recognition after her play is submitted to a festival under her Black friend’s name.

Other films adapted from Picoult’s novels include “Salem Falls,” “The Tenth,” “Plain Truth” and “The Pact.”

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System Design Interview – An insider's guide

• ISBN-13 979-8664653403
• Publication date June 12, 2020
• Language English
• Dimensions 6 x 0.73 x 9 inches
• Print length 320 pages
• See all details

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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B08CMF2CQF
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (June 12, 2020)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8664653403
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 15.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.73 x 9 inches
• #1 in Object-Oriented Design
• #3 in Job Interviewing (Books)
• #6 in Job Hunting (Books)

About the author

Alex Xu is an experienced software engineer and entrepreneur. Previously, he worked at Twitter, Apple and Zynga. He can be found online at linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-xu-a8131b11/) and twitter (@alexxubyte)

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 73% 17% 6% 2% 2% 73%
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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to read and useful for senior software engineers preparing for an interview. They appreciate the author's consistent procedure and clear, detailed examples. Readers also appreciate the great system design overview. However, some feel the content is shallow and poorly written.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book comprehensible, useful for prep work, and adequate for beginners. They also say it explains abstract concepts well and is well organized. Readers appreciate that the author doesn't use pompous jargon to make himself sound smart. They say the writing is good and provides a consistent procedure that helps keep them focused.

"The book is pretty good. It’s easy to read. There are lots of design diagrams . If you are a visual person, you will love the book...." Read more

"...also purchased some online tutorial, but this is still the best resource for SD interview . Must have!" Read more

"...The book is very well organized ...." Read more

"Like it. Very useful !" Read more

Customers find the book excellent, right to the point, and practical. They also say the content is almost enough for each question.

"The book is pretty good . It’s easy to read. There are lots of design diagrams. If you are a visual person, you will love the book...." Read more

"The content of the book is pretty good . It's a decent walkthrough of high level concepts. But it is painful to read sometimes...." Read more

"...This has been one of my favorite books to read ." Read more

"A great and easy to read book" Read more

Customers find the examples in the book very clear and detailed. They say it covers most areas in building scalable distributed systems and provides many systems design examples.

"...Plus, there's a bunch of real-world examples , so it's not just theory—you actually see how it works in practice.The best part?..." Read more

"The book has nice real-world examples " Read more

"...It is a fairly easy read that covers a variety of topics and hits on several key points of system design...." Read more

"...I would still highly recommend this book, since it comprehensively enumerates the elements and the challenges of the system design that one needs to..." Read more

Customers find the book provides a great system design overview that demonstrates and explains the big pictures and contexts that developers need to understand.

"It is the best book that discusses the system design so far!..." Read more

"...It demonstrates and explains the big pictures and contexts which developers need to understand and work within for their detailed implementation...." Read more

"I have finished the book in 2 weeks. It contains most popular system design questions and their sample solutions...." Read more

"...There are 15 articulated system designs ...." Read more

Customers find the book shallow and poorly written. They also say it lacks depth and focused questions. Readers also mention that the book frequently references larger topics that they have to go online to. They say the book provides an abstract overview but doesn't help much for deeper knowledge.

"...It’s tailored towards junior and semi-senior engineers. Some chapters are not deep enough ...." Read more

"...he wants to go in-depth or surface on a topic; the depth level is all over the place ...." Read more

"...Some of them spend pages on some subtle details that probably no one would have time to that deep in, and the other chapters, barely scratch the..." Read more

"...The only downside is the book frequently references larger topics that you have to go online to read about...." Read more

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Can You Guess These Novels That Originally Got Bad Times Reviews?

By J. D. Biersdorfer Aug. 26, 2024

• Share full article

Welcome to Lit Trivia, the Book Review’s regular quiz about books, authors and literary culture. This week’s installment challenges you to identify classic novels from the descriptions in their original — and, well, not wholly positive — reviews in the pages of The New York Times. In the five multiple-choice questions below, tap or click on the answer you think is correct. After the last question, you’ll find links to the books if you’d like to do some further reading.

“One can say that it is much too long because its material — the cavortings and miseries of an American bomber squadron stationed in late World War II Italy — is repetitive and monotonous. Or one can say that it is too short because none of its many interesting characters and actions is given enough play to become a controlling interest.”

“Gravity’s Rainbow”

“Heart of Darkness”

“Slaughterhouse-Five”

“Still, even when I try, in the light of these palely lurid pages, to take the Moral Majority seriously, no shiver of recognition ensues. I just can’t see the intolerance of the far right, presently directed not only at abortion clinics and homosexuals but also at high school libraries and small-town schoolteachers, as leading to a super-biblical puritanism by which procreation will be insisted on and reading of any kind banned.”

“The Handmaid’s Tale”

“The Hunger Games”

“Parable of the Sower”

“The Dispossessed”

“This book though, it’s too long. Gets kind of monotonous. And he should’ve cut out a lot about these jerks and all at that crumby school. They depress me. They really do.”

“The Outsiders”

“The Catcher in the Rye”

“The Chocolate War”

“The Giver”

“The author undoubtedly meant her to be queer, but she is altogether too queer. She was only 11 years old when she reached the house in Prince Edward’s Island that was to be her home, but, in spite of her tender years, and in spite of the fact that, excepting for four months spent in the asylum, she had passed all her life with illiterate folks and had bad almost no schooling, she talked to the farmer and his sister as though she had borrowed Bernard Shaw’s vocabulary, Alfred Austin’s sentimentality and the reasoning powers of a Justice of the Supreme Court.”

“Emily of New Moon”

“Anne of Green Gables”

“Julie of the Wolves”

“Island of the Blue Dolphins”

“It is not so much a novel as a long affectionate lark inspired by the so-called ‘beat’ generation, and an example of the degree to which some of the most original work being done in this country has come to depend upon the bizarre and the offbeat for its creative stimulus.”

“The Cry of the Owl”

“Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas”

“On the Road”

“A Coney Island of the Mind”

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Biden dismisses age questions in interview as he tries to salvage reelection effort

U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden addressed crowds ahead of a concert held on the White House’s South Lawn as part of July 4th celebrations on Thursday.

President Joe Biden said his disastrous debate performance last week was a “bad episode” and there were “no indications of any serious condition” in an ABC interview.

After President Joe Biden’s ABC interview, members of the media confronted him at a tarmac in Madison, Wisconsin. When asked whether he was going drop out of the race, Biden said he was, “completely ruling it out”.

President Joe Biden defiantly declared that he’s staying in the race during a campaign rally Friday in Madison, Wisconsin.

President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign rally at Sherman Middle School in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign rally at Sherman Middle School in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

President Joe Biden responds to questions from the traveling press as he arrives at Delaware Air National Guard Base in New Castle, Del., Friday, July 5, 2024, from a campaign rally in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

President Joe Biden points as he arrives on Air Force One at Dane County Regional Airport to attend a campaign rally in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Supporters arrive before President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign event at Sherman Middle School in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Supporters of President Joe Biden hold signs at a campaign rally at Sherman Middle School in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

President Joe Biden waves as he arrives to board Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to a campaign trip in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

President Joe Biden salutes as he boards Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., en route to a campaign trip in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

President Joe Biden waits for the start of the Independence Day firework display over the National Mall from the balcony of the White House, Thursday, July 4, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

President Joe Biden, right, greets supporters at a campaign rally at Sherman Middle School in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

California Gov. Gavin Newsom poses as State Representative Nick Pisciottano points to him during a campaign stop supporting President Joe Biden on Friday, July 5, 2024, outside Pittsburgh. The stop was held at a Biden Harris campaign head quarters. (Benjamin B. Braun/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP)

President Joe Biden, from right, is greeted by Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, former Gov. Jim Doyle and Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wis., as he arrives at Dane County Regional Airport to attend a campaign rally in Madison, Wis., Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

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MADISON, Wis. (AP) — President Joe Biden, fighting to save his endangered reelection effort, used a highly anticipated TV interview to repeatedly reject taking an independent medical evaluation that would show voters he is up for serving another term in office while blaming his disastrous debate performance on a “bad episode” and saying there were “no indications of any serious condition.”

“Look, I have a cognitive test every single day,” Biden told ABC’s George Stephanopoulos, referring to the tasks he faces daily in a rigorous job. “Every day, I have that test. Everything I do. You know, not only am I campaigning, but I’m running the world.”

The 81-year-old Biden made it through the 22-minute interview Friday without any major blunders that would inflict further damage to his imperiled candidacy. But it appeared unlikely to fully tamp down concerns about his age and fitness for another four years and his ability to defeat Donald Trump in November.

On Saturday, another Democratic lawmaker joined close to a half dozen in saying Biden should not run again. Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota said that given what she saw and heard in the debate, and Biden’s “lack of a forceful response” afterward, he should step aside “and allow for a new generation of leaders to step forward.”

Craig posted one of the Democrats’ key suburban wins in the 2018 midterms and could be a barometer for districts that were vital for Biden in 2020.

The interview left Biden in a standoff against a not-insignificant faction of his party with four months to go until Election Day, and with just weeks until the Democratic National Convention. The drawn-out spectacle could benefit Biden’s efforts to remain in the race by limiting the party’s options to replace him. But it also could be a distraction from vital efforts to frame the 2024 race as a referendum on Trump.

During the interview, Biden insisted he was not more frail than earlier in his presidency. He said he undergoes “ongoing assessment” by his personal doctors and they “don’t hesitate to tell me” if something is wrong.

“Can I run the 100 in 10 flat? No. But I’m still in good shape,” Biden said.

As for the debate, “I didn’t listen to my instincts in terms of preparing,” Biden said.

Biden suggested that Trump’s disruptions — from just a few feet away — had flustered him: “I realized that, even when I was answering a question and they turned his mic off, he was still shouting and I let it distract me. I’m not blaming it on that. But I realized that I just wasn’t in control.”

At times, Biden rambled during the interview, which ABC said aired in full and without edits. At one point, he started to explain his debate performance, then veered to a New York Times poll, then pivoted to the lies Trump told during the debate. Biden also referred to the midterm “red wave” as occurring in 2020, rather than 2022.

The debate was a critical moment in Joe Biden and Donald Trump’s presidential rematch to make their cases before a national television audience. But debate-watchers seem to agree that Biden had a bad night.

• Biden is defiantly vowing to keep running for reelection. The growing pressure from within his Democratic Party to withdraw continues after a disastrous debate performance raised questions about his readiness. “No one is pushing me out,” Biden says.
• Kamala Harris is holding the line for Biden. At campaign events, she concedes that Biden didn’t do well but emphasizes the stakes of the election as she tries to rally anxious Democrats.
• Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, has kept a low profile . The strategy comes as Trump and his campaign revel in a series of legal and political victories heading into the Republican National Convention.
• A cold, too much prep, not feeling great and jet lag: Here are President Joe Biden’s evolving reasons for his terrible performance in last week’s presidential debate .

Asked how he might turn the race around, Biden argued that one key would be large and energetic rallies like the one he held Friday in Wisconsin. When reminded that Trump routinely draws larger crowds, the president laid into his opponent.

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“Trump is a pathological liar,” Biden said, accusing Trump of bungling the federal response to the COVID pandemic and failing to create jobs. “You ever see something that Trump did that benefited someone else and not him?”

The interview, paired with a weekend campaign in battleground Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, was part of Biden’s rigorous effort to course correct from his rocky debate performance. But internal party frustrations continue to fester, with one influential Democratic senator working on a nascent push to encourage the president to exit the race and Democrats quietly chatting about where they would go next if the president drops out — or what it would mean if he stays in.

“It’s President Biden’s decision whether or not he remains in the race. Voters select our nominee and they chose him,” said California Rep. Ro Khanna, a member of the Biden campaign’s national advisory board that works as a gathering of his top surrogates. “Now, he needs to prove to those voters that he is up to the job and that will require more than just this one interview.”

One Democrat who watched said they found Biden to be still shaky under controlled conditions and predicted more will call on him to leave the race.

Still, in Wisconsin, Biden was focused on proving his capacity to serve another term. When asked whether he would halt his campaign, he told reporters he was “completely ruling that out” and said he is “positive” he could serve another four years. At a rally in front of hundreds of supporters he acknowledged his subpar debate performance but insisted, “I am running, and I’m going to win again.”

While private angst among Democratic lawmakers, donors and strategists has been running deep since the debate, most in the party have held public fire as they wait to see if the president can restore confidence with his weekend travel and his handling of the interview. Top Biden campaign officials were texting lawmakers encouraging them to refrain from public comments about the situation and give the president a chance to respond, according to a Democrat granted anonymity to discuss the situation.

To that end, Sen. Mark Warner reached out to fellow senators throughout this week to discuss whether to ask Biden to exit the race, according to three people familiar with the effort who requested anonymity to talk about private conversations. The Virginia Democrat’s moves are notable given his chairmanship of the Senate Intelligence Committee and his reputation as a lawmaker who is supportive of Biden and has working relationships with colleagues in both parties. Warner’s effort was first reported by The Washington Post.

The strategy remains fluid. One of the people with knowledge of Warner’s effort said there are enough Senate Democrats concerned enough about Biden’s capacity to run for reelection to take some sort of action, although there was yet no consensus on what that plan would be. Some of the Democratic senators could meet as soon as Monday on how to move forward.

The top Democrats on House committees are planning to meet virtually Sunday to discuss the situation, according to a person familiar with the gathering granted anonymity to talk about it.

At least five House Democrats have called for Biden to step down as the nominee. While not going that far, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said in a carefully worded statement Friday that Biden now has a decision to make on “the best way forward.”

“I urge him to listen to the American people and carefully evaluate whether he remains our best hope to defeat Donald Trump,” Healey said.

In the interview, Biden was asked how he might be persuaded to leave the race. He laughed and replied, “If the Lord Almighty comes down and tells me that, I might do that.”

There were also a few signs of discontent at Biden’s campaign rally Friday, with one person onstage waving a sign that read “Pass the torch Joe” as the president came out. His motorcade was also greeted at the middle school by a few people urging him to move on.

But Rebecca Green, a 52-year-old environmental scientist from Madison, said she found Biden’s energy reassuring. “We were just waiting for him to come out strong and fighting again, the way we know he is.”

Many Democratic lawmakers, who are hearing from constituents at home during the holiday week, are deeply frustrated and split on whether Biden should stay or go. Privately, discussions among the House Democrats flared this week as word spread that some of them were drafting public letters suggesting the president should quit the race.

Biden appears to have pulled his family closer while attempting to prove that he’s still the Democrats’ best option.

The ubiquitous presence of Hunter Biden in the West Wing since the debate has become an uncomfortable dynamic for many staffers, according to two Democrats close to the White House who requested anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter.

For many staffers, the sight of Hunter Biden, just weeks after his conviction on felony gun charges , taking a larger role in advising his father has been unsettling and a questionable choice, they said.

In a hastily organized gathering with more than 20 Democratic governors Wednesday evening, Biden acknowledged he needs to sleep more and limit evening events so he can be rested for the job. In trying to explain away those comments, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stressed that Biden “works around the clock” but that he “also recognizes the importance of striking a balance and taking care of himself.”

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who attended the meeting, said Biden “certainly engaged with us on complicated matters.”

“But then again, this is something that he needs to not just reassure Democratic governors on, but he needs to reassure the American people,” Beshear said.

Kim reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Todd Richmond in Madison, Joey Cappelletti in Saugatuck, Michigan, Dylan Lovan in Louisville, Kentucky, and Will Weissert, Zeke Miller, Mary Clare Jalonick, Aamer Madhani, Lisa Mascaro and Josh Boak in Washington contributed to this report.

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Interview highlights

‘the west wing’ was my inspiration. 25 years on i got to meet president bartlet.

Scott Detrow

Inside 'The West Wing,' 25 years later

Martin Sheen, who played President Jed Bartlet in The West Wing , in conversation with All Things Considered host Scott Detrow in the NPR studios. Mhari Shaw/for NPR hide caption

Air Force One takeoffs are often a frantic moment for the reporters who travel with the president. You are loading onto the plane, stowing your bags, buckling in and then frantically dashing off a pool report documenting what the president did — or didn’t — say to the press before boarding.

You’re trying to do all of that before the massive blue and white Boeing 747 steeply climbs into the sky and out of the range of cell service. And for radio reporters like me, you’re often also trying to upload and share audio files of the president’s statements during that brief window of cell service.

But whenever I traveled with President Biden during my time covering the White House, I always made sure to take a quiet moment of reflection right after that manic flurry. I would slip on headphones, make sure none of the other reporters could see my cell phone screen and pull up … the theme of The West Wing .

"The West Wing" theme song.

Why? Because like so many other Millennials who now populate Washington, D.C., the late ‘90s/early aughts NBC drama was my entry point to the world of politics and government. It was a key factor in pushing me in the direction of spending my life reporting on politics. And it was always worth it to pause for that moment of appreciation of how my life had ended up in a place where I was inhabiting a corner of the show's real-life world.

Melissa Fitzgerald starred as Carol Fitzpatrick in The West Wing . Mhari Shaw/for NPR hide caption

I can still remember the first episode I ever watched (Season 2! Somebody’s Going To Emergency, Somebody’s Going To Jail ). I remember channel surfing on our clunky big 2001 television, stumbling on it mid-episode, and immediately being sucked into the snappy, on-the-move dialogue — the idealism, the big ideas about what the country and what politics ought to be about.

I was hooked and stayed hooked. And when I went to college, the show was an easy early conversation point that helped me identify who my kind of people were in a new environment. The same cycle repeated itself when I graduated from college and started my first job in a new town. “You like The West Wing ? Me too! Let’s watch it!” (I ended up married to one of the people I had one of those early West Wing -powered conversations with.)

The cast of The West Wing on set. Getty Images/Hulton Archive hide caption

Now, 25 years after the first season, the show can at times feel corny and dated. Real-life politics are far more cynical and disorganized. The tribal, existential nature of the Trump era makes the show feel like it’s of a different epoch.

But I still return to the comfort of The West Wing over and over again. And even though my DVD player is in a dark corner of my basement gathering dust, my wife and I know that neither of us will ever part with our duplicate collections of the show’s entire run. (She had all the individual seasons. I splurged for the blue faux briefcase series collection the week it came out. There was an immediate unspoken agreement when we moved in together that both collections would remain.)

So when NPR was offered the opportunity to interview President Jed Bartlet — er, I mean actor Martin Sheen — and co-star Melissa Fitzgerald about the show’s legacy, I dashed through the hallways of the newsroom with the excitement and energy the show’s characters displayed in their iconic Aaron Sorkin-powered “walk and talks.”

The occasion? A new book Fitzgerald co-wrote with fellow cast member Mary McCormack, called, What’s Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, Its Cast and Crew, and Its Enduring Legacy of Service .

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Martin Sheen says every time he hears the theme song to The West Wing he's transported straight back to that time. Mhari Shaw/for NPR hide caption

Scott Detrow: There's this whole generation of people who first caught the bug of politics or got the bug of public service watching this show when they were teenagers or early on in their careers. And they said, “I want to move to Washington.” Then they move to Washington. And a lot of it goes back to the show. And I'm wondering, Melissa, when did you first notice that and how have you seen that change over the years?

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Melissa Fitzgerald: It is so heartening to hear so many young people — and even last night we were in a sandwich shop and a 20-year-old came up and said, “I was inspired to be here because of The West Wing .” I just find it was such a hopeful, aspirational show. And to see that this generation, several generations, have been inspired to come and live lives in public service, it’s a wonderful feeling. And walking around D.C. when Martin [Sheen] comes to town, it's like being with Elvis.

Detrow: And that's still the case now, 25 years after the first?

Fitzgerald: Perhaps even more so. Maybe not more so than when it was on the air, but now I mean, you've noticed it, too — there's so many young people.

Martin Sheen: A lot of young people now are being introduced to the show, and many of them tell us that it happened during the pandemic. That they were kind of locked indoors and that they began to look for things to inspire them or to entertain them. They found The West Wing , and in a lot of ways they found themselves, their true selves.

The longest "walk and talk" from "The West Wing."

Detrow: One of the interesting things that’s in the book, and that’s — and Martin, this might embarrass you for a moment so just, you know, brace yourself accordingly — that Melissa and Mary write and quote so many people on the cast about how you purposely set a tone on set.

Fitzgerald: One of my first days at work, I remember coming on to set and seeing Martin and he was shaking hands with every single background artist and introducing himself and welcoming. It just felt like he was welcoming everyone to this family. And that's not usual on a set. It's who Martin is. He is the most inclusive, kind man who treats everybody with dignity and respect. And we have all benefited from that.

Sheen: And well, thank you very much. However, the only criticism that I had with Melissa and Mary was they have got to find people who simply do not like me and they didn't do enough research.

The new book, What’s Next , reflects on the legacy of The West Wing . Mhari Shaw/for NPR hide caption

'Hacks' peeks behind the curtain of a changing comedy world

Detrow: One of the things you did was — and in all of the different podcasts and DVD extras I've consumed over the years I hadn't heard about this before — you organized an annual trip to Vegas?

Sheen: Yes, our bingo bus party. [It was] our Christmas gift to all of the people that you normally do not see on camera. They call them extras. I hate that term And so we wanted to celebrate them every Christmas. I started with one bus and by the second season we were at two buses, and we play bingo in the bus as we get to Vegas. It was great fun.

Detrow: In the spirit of the book, I want to ask both of you a few favorites. And, Melissa, I'll start with you. What's your favorite episode?

Fitzgerald: There are so many it is really hard for me to say, but I love In Excelsis Deo . I think that is a beautiful episode. And the themes of that, you know what we owe those who have given so much to our country. And, you know, it's the one about the veteran and Toby and everyone knows that episode because it's so beautifully done.

Sheen: My overall favorite hands down is In Excelsis Deo , and my brother Mike was a combat Marine and in Korea and I just could not stop thinking of him when we did it. It's still hard to talk about.

The opening to "The West Wing" episode "In Excelsis Deo."

Detrow: My favorite episode is probably in 17 People , when Toby (Ziegler, played by Richard Schiff) figures out that the president is hiding a big secret. I recently rewatched the episode where that all comes to a head: Two Cathedrals . President Bartlet is debating whether or not to run for another term. And I watched this the other day and I just could not get over how line for line so many scenes in that episode could have applied to what we saw just play out with President Biden and Vice President Harris and this decision of whether or not to run for another term.

Sheen: That’s the most courageous decision I've ever seen a politician make in my lifetime.

Detrow: Why is that?

All Things Considered host Scott Detrow (center) with Martin Sheen and Melissa Fitzgerald. Mhari Shaw/for NPR hide caption

Sheen: Because he took the most powerful office in the world and he made it human. And he put it before his own ambition, before his own legacy.

Detrow: When you close your eyes and you think of The West Wing experience a quarter century later, what to you is The West Wing ?

Sheen: The theme. I cannot hear that theme and not go right into it. And all those extraordinary young faces appear. And then it all floods back with gratitude and praise. I just can't believe that I was part of that.

Fitzgerald: I see the people and the family that was created from that show. That's been one of the greatest gifts of my whole life. If The West Wing was a love letter to public service, then What's Next is a love letter to The West Wing , the army of people it took to make it, the fans who loved it and the people who were inspired by it. And we hope that we honored our time together and we hope that the wingnuts love it.

The interview with Martin Sheen and Melissa Fitzgerald was produced by Karen Zamora and edited by William Troop.

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• martin sheen