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1. All book reviews should be from a family values perspective. That is to mention anything like vulgar language, violence, sex or sexual innuendo, age-appropriate relationships, alcohol and drug use, etc. Think of it as pointing out anything that would be in a movie review as a reason for its rating. So, please include at least a paragraph about this. If it’s clean, then say so. If it’s mild, then say so. If it’s graphic and makes it difficult to get through the book, then say so.

2. As many of you have noticed, book reviews typically receive a low score for “sourcing.” And it’s the nature of book, movie, CD, DVD and other reviews to not have outside sources as they are based on the opinion of the writer. So book reviews will get a lower score every time. Deseret Connect folks are aware and do understand the concern. But the rating system isn’t changing.

3. It’s OK to not give a book a positive review. However, you must back it up as to why, as you would back up a positive review.

4. Avoid using first person and second person. Please use third person as much as possible.

5. Avoid using quotes or questions in the first paragraph. That’s a pretty standard journalism practice. Please use single quotes in a headline around the book title and double quotes (not italics) around a book title in the story. Use both first and last names of the author in the body of the article.

6. Please check on where the author is from and always mention if an author has any Utah ties or if there is a Utah mention in the book. Also, mention if there are any mentions or ties to the LDS Church, even if it’s a book in the General Book Review group.

7. The Deseret News policy is that the reviewer can keep the product they review. Please hang on to it until the review runs just in case an editor has questions. If you are unable to complete a review for any variety of reasons, please let me know and we’ll work out returning the book. (I don’t expect anyone to read a book they aren’t comfortable with.) Advance review copies aren’t to be sold and usually say so on the cover.

8. Please follow the instructions included in the assignment. When you claim a book review, please email me the book’s title, your name and mailing address so I can send a copy of the book to you. Also, watch the word count. Most book reviews are 350 to 400 words. If you feel that it needs more space, then let me know.

9. If you would like to pitch a book review, please do so. I cannot reimburse for these books. I’ll let you know if the book has already been reviewed and what the possibility of publication is. I am more inclined to approve proposals for recently-published books.

10. Pay attention to deadlines. Some books are associated with book signings and only have a narrow window when they can run. Others run on a space-available basis as space and news varies from week to week. If you have a question about a deadline or are unable to meet a deadline, please let me know ASAP.

11. Many times, authors or publicists will see a review on a particular book and contact that reviewer directly about reviewing their product. It’s up to you how this is handled. If you would like to pitch their book for review, I’ll consider it like I do other pitches. If you would prefer to not have to deal with them, feel free to refer them to me.

12. On the “age range,” this is especially important for books for children and young adults. Please select the range you feel is appropriate for the book.

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of the list. If you have any questions or need clarification about any of these or need, please let me know. My email address is rappleye@desnews.com.

Thanks!

Christine Rappleye
Book review editor
Deseret News and Mormon Times
rappleye@desnews.com