From: Judith Ridge <judith.ridge_at_gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:36:56 +1100

2009/11/16 Stohr-Hunt, Tricia

Dear Friends,

I am acutely aware that we are now at the halfway point in the month, but I did have one last question regarding reviewing. I would love for folks to share their thoughts on anonymous v. signed reviews. What are the differences, if any? Are there advantages for both reviewer and reader in anonymous reviews? Disadvantages? There are times when I find anonymous reviews to be different in tone, and on occasion, not written with the ki nd of professional courtesy I would expect from a reviewer. I suppose I’m asking, why anonymity at all? I know there are certain names I look for, and when I find reviews written by those folks, I feel I can trust them. So, why not put our names to reviews we write?

I don't do much reviewing these days, but I feel very strongly that you shouldn't publish any review you're not prepared to have your name attached to. Writers do not have the luxury of anonymity when their work is under scrutiny, why should reviewers? If you believe you have written a fair, well-thought-through, informed and defensible review, then you should have the courage of your convictions and not be anonymous.

Judith

Judith Ridge Western Sydney Young People's Literature Officer

Arts and Cultural Development Blacktown City Council PO Box 63 (62 Flushcombe Road) Blacktown NSW 2148 AUSTRALIA

-- My work blog: http://westword.wordpress.com/ My personal blog: http://www.misrule.com.au/s9y/ My personal website: http://www.misrule.com.au
Received on Tue 17 Nov 2009 05:36:56 AM CST