Welcome to Book Blogging 101, a weekly feature on Parajunkee’s View that answers your questions and strives to share great book blogging tips and some helpful hints to assist you on your book blogging endeavors.
More Drama? Less Drama? What is your say? Take a look at this graphic, I actually whited-out the amount of page views, because I’m embarrassed about how much higher of a viewership I got on Tuesday as compared to my usual crowd. My usually heavy days are Thursday, because of #BB101 and the Hop tonight. As you can see April 24th doubled my usual biggest day draw.
Does Drama Fuel More Page Views? And where do we draw the line?
It became startlingly obvious to me, in recent years, that the bigger the drama the more page views are generated. My most controversial topics on Book Blogging 101 always generate the highest hits. We are talking, double the average amount.
This isn’t news to anyone else either, just think of all the Media outlets, and trash mags that make tons of profits on scandal, intrigue and drama drama drama. Outlets like Gawker Media who get over a million page views from their despicable and very raunchy posts, like the one detailing Christine O’Donnell’s alleged one-night-stand. Over one million on that post alone! And it was utter raunch. That type of stuff gets my stomach all knotted up. But, you can’t deny it draws a crowd.
The fact of the matter is that people want drama, they want to slow down to see that accident. They want to know what all the “talk” is about…and we, as bloggers, are used to passing on the scoop, especially if it involves other bloggers or authors. This also translates to negative reviews. Because, I’ve noticed this also — my negative reviews bring in more page views and definitely more comments. Do I do it on purpose? No. Because, I don’t let page views direct me on how I tailor my blog. But, another blogger might not see it that way.
When is it too much, and how do we know if we are going too far?
Can a blogger just wantonly post about something and consider themselves “provocative” or “aggressive” or even better “snarky”, without repercussions? Do we go so far as to look at those page views climbing and climbing and throw care to the wind and just let it all hang out? There is a reason why Perez Hilton is a common household name these days, and it involves a few adjectives like salacious, immature and even nasty. But, even that infamous blogger has toned down his behavior. Maybe because sometimes, being the name-caller might have some negative feedback that trumps those heavy page view numbers. And sometimes, maybe, just maybe, that little voice of reason, might pipe up and say that we’ve gone a little too far.
So how do we know the difference between stating a provocative opinion or just profiteering off of a scandal?
I personally, see nothing wrong with a little controversial topic here and there. It brings in readers, it keeps the blood flowing and best of all it keeps things from getting stagnant. I’m not a heavy gossiper, but if, in all honesty, something TRUE has been told or revealed, I’m going to talk about it.
I think, and this is just me of course, that the way to know the difference between profiteering and provocative is the passion behind it. If you are seriously passionate about a topic, if you have convictions your words will ring honest and not lecherous. Ask yourself before you post a controversial topic:
What are your motives behind this blog post?
Motives can be as varied as can be, anything from jealousy, to competitive edge, grudges from prior misdeeds and even justice. Just make sure your motives are in check and if you do have ill intentions that they could bite you in the ass later on if they do come to light.
And I’ve been asked this over and over via twitter –
How do you boycott a blog?
- You don’t visit the blog
- You deny their advertisers – even if those advertisers are people that are sponsoring giveaways
- You let their advertisers/sponsors know that you are boycotting the blog because of such and such reason and you will not be purchasing their product because of the support they are giving to the offender
- You state adamantly that you will be boycotting the blog — because a silent boycott has no real impact
- You do not participate in any memes, group activities or functions that are sponsored by the blog, this includes commenting on others blogs that are posting about such sponsored events
- Spread the message
The level of your motivation dictates how far you should go with any boycott situation. If you are ADAMANTLY against SOPA/PIPA then you should go the full nine yards to boycott any blog/website that supports the bill. If you are just mildly annoyed with the bill — well then it would just do you right by not going to the site or not buying the products.
Like I tweeted out earlier, if I were to go so far and say I am going the full extent of boycotting I would probably be restricted to only vanity presses that sell only adult titles as far as books. LOL. Nothing is black and white people and you make your choices and you decide how far you can push yourself.
I can’t get to all the questions, but please ask your BB101 Questions here…bring it on.
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This post is so true. Drama brings in tons of page views. Buzz Worthy News and our Musing Musers posts (which are usually not drama related) always bring in the most page views, even more than negative reviews.
I would like for my positive reviews to get a lot of attention because those books should be read, LOL — but if it was Buzz Worthy no one would read about it right??
Great post. I know that drama does seem to attract people, but I think curiosity does, too. I didn’t know what was happening at first, so I clicked on all the blogs talking about it so I could be more informed. The first post I ever saw about this recent incident was the apology and without being “in the know” I was very confused. Also, these kinds of posts interest people, not because they are filled with drama, but because they are unique. Every review is unique, but sometimes if we haven’t read the book yet, we can’t really feel like we can weigh in and what not.
But I think you’re right about what motivates us and we need to keep ourselves in check. Wonderful post and I’m glad you did this one. We can all learn something from these Book Blogging 101 posts! They are my favorite.
Thanks Megan, I’m glad you find them helpful. Yes, curiosity does draw a crowd, curious of the drama LOL
No I understand your point and sorry to make out that we are all attention seekers, or lurkers or whatever, but it was my quick way of doing it…
I think the big challenge in posting something controversial is being vocal in your opinions without becoming nasty toward the other side. I know I’ve held back on posting certain topics when I’m worried about insulting or alienating those with different ideas. The key is, of course, in the wording, and I just don’t think I’ve mastered being simultaneously opinionated and diplomatic…yet.
Thank you, great point. Its a hard thing to master, in real life and in the written word. It is a lot of rewrites and I always suggest reading aloud.
Leave the drama for yo mama! lol
We all know that drama [and sex] sells. Regardless of the platform, it fuels the gossip mill and people eat it up. That’s why Perez Hilton, TMZ and even crap shows like Jersey Shore *gag* have done so well. I personally boycott all of those. Not because I think I’m above it, okay maybe a little, but because it just proves how classless society can be.
I’m not saying I don’t gossip…I do NOT, however, lie or purposely talk crap about others on social media. If I do feel the need to vent or call someone a scumbag, then I do it in conversation to a trusted friend.
Nonetheless, there will always be drama! Too many people share the world for there NOT to be. The trick is to do it honestly, tactfully and respectfully.
As for the scandal du jour, I, too, will be doing some boycotting
Well put my dear. I’m horrible in real life, spurt it out of the mouth first and think later…which is why twitter can be sooo bad for me. Because it is that instant post thing with no delete button.
My only concern is, she works with a lot of the same advertisers and publishers we do. Are we going to boycott ourselves or take down these advertisers to make a stand? I’m just thinking out loud here. I don’t want to give her any more of my time and I’m even more upset that there are actually people standing up for her and her behavior (WTF IS THAT?!).
You take it as far as you want to go Jen. It’s all a matter of how much does it mean to you? If you could care less, don’t visit, if YOU really really want to take a stand you do a little more…you see what I mean?
It’s like any issue. Say you were anti-abortion. You can be anti-abortion in your heart. You can be anti-abortion with a bumper sticker — or you can be one of those people with a sign outside the clinics. All three of those people have the same thoughts on an issue, just some feel stronger than others.
Sorry to butt my nose in here – but I think this says it perfectly! (I’m big on analogies, and this is perfect for the scenario.)
I suppose I consider myself (and my lil ol’ blog) lucky in this odd stance that I don’t really have sponsors or any of that. I’m bummed that I will take a huge viewership hit from the lack of links on IMM, but I refuse to participate on that one in the future. I’ll find viewers some other way…
-Jac @ For Love and Books
I totally agree Jas. There are other memes similar though, like Mailbox Monday. There are also a few other bloggers starting up alternatives.
Perfect post. Well said & I completely agree. We each make our own choice in this matter & how we react to it. I just hope everyone can be respectful to each other no matter what they decide with this whole thing.
I wish I could sling mud at her. *grumbles*
Put the mud pie down Jenn!! LOL — there will be an alternative!! Yeah. Check back here Saturday… I will not be hosting it though just participating.
Perfect post, as usual! I can’t get enough of this friggin’ blog.
That being said, thank you for letting people know how they can boycott. I will certainly be boycotting The Story Siren after all said drama. I’m not judging anyone who decides not to, so I’d like people to extend me the same courtesy.
Thank you Julia. I hope so too that people on the other side of the fence are as level-headed
Another great and informative post! Thank you!
Thank you Margie
Excellent post. I think it’s important that well-known bloggers like you address this issue of the drama llama that can become pretty dark & nasty. Well done & thank you for this.
It can be nasty, but it can be useful. We can’t be afraid of doing things to avoid persecution, but we should also be mindful of others feelings at the same time. Sometimes it is hard road to follow, but it can be done…and done very well.
Another informative post. I guess a good rule of thumb is keep the controversy and snark down to a tolerable tone and don’t send too much negative karma out there, you don’t want it sneaking back and biting you in the ass. Thanks for taking the stand and helping to spread the word about boycotting the blog. Just seeing the name of that blog made my skin crawl.
Thank you Heidi… no negative karma!! I’m all about that.
Honestly? Not that I don’t agree that what was done was awful, but this seems like it is only to keep the drama going. There’s no point in beating a dead horse. I’m pretty sure she feels awful about it already. I think the issue just needs to come down to discontinuing to follow her, and let that show how you feel. I’m actually getting very irritated with the constant posts about it. It seems like many are just posting because they realized, like you’ve stated above, it brings in pageviews.
Normally I find these posts to be helpful, infortunately for me this week it’s not, just something I’m sick of hearing about. No, I don’t support the actions of The Story Siren, but I also feel that it’s been talked over enough.
How do you defeat the Drama Llama? You don’t acknowledge it.
Honestly, Jenn then don’t read them…that’s it. Same thing goes both ways. I’m sorry you found this post unfortunately unhelpful and your sick of hearing it…but my BB101s are based on questions that people ask me and frankly this is what people have been talking about and questioning me about this week. Call me a slave to my readers because obviously they are reading it.
I think people are PASSIONATE about the situation because of the fact that they put their trust in someone and that trust was lost. I think people are posting about it because they want to take a stand against the wrong that was done. I think the majority of them are not in a desperate search for page views, they are in a desperate search for something to be done.
Personally I don’t want to defeat the drama llama, drama has it’s place. It brings about strong feelings, it brings about a spark within people. My fight is for it done right. To get rid of the insults — like you so carelessly flung around in the comment — and make people aware of the more respectful way of doing things.
Great idea…I don’t think most people don’t really think about the fact that a boycott isn’t really effective unless you state it.
As I’ve been reading all the comments about the TSS situation, I’ve noticed that a lot of people really liked the IMM meme that she started, but they no longer want to participate. You have a really great logo/identity/following, so I wanted to just put it out there that maybe YOU should consider creating a new (similar) meme for all the people who like the discussion, but don’t want to support her.
I love your graphics (Uh, skull with pink bow? Can I haz one?! And this is total cuteness –> http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mJ1Zvc3zUjY/S7a6dD1HVUI/AAAAAAAAA30/e29Np9yNA80/s1600/easter.png) and I think you are the person who could put a new, catchier meme together. You know what you’re doing, on all accounts (social, content, presentation, etc). I think you should totally jump on it!
And if you want to keep this on the down-low for now while you contemplate, you won’t hurt my feelings if you delete this comment.
PS: Thanks for your comment over on my blog, and for your support. At least this crap brought us together. I may be coming to you for some blog redesign one day!
Thank you! The IMM meme is a big one and I’m going to participate in one that will be hosted on a friends blog, I have been asked by a few to do another meme, but I think I already have my plate full with my Social Networking ones that go on tonight and tomorrow. < — that is my line and I’m sticking to it
I’m happy that people keep asking me to do it, but I need at least one or two days to do reviews!
You are welcome and thank you for coming over to visit. I made it a point to check out everything before voicing my opinion, so I’ve been stalking you lately. I feel terrible about what has occurred, but I’m thankful that I found your blog…maybe I’ll stop dressing so monochromatic and get some fashion sense now!
I know what it feels like to have a full plate! And the monochromatic thing? It’s my M.O.
Mind if I ask what IMMish meme you will be participating in? I’ve seen Mailbox Monday but not much else…and there needs to be something else but it will take a huge push to make it work.
A new one, hosted on Saturday, I’ll be participating, not hosting. Same concept…
Er, you know what I was trying to write in my warped first para. Sheesh.
I do notice that my discussion posts over controversial topics ALWAYS get more hits as well. However, I do think there’s a difference between discussing those topics and fueling the proverbial dramatic flames, though the line can be a bit difficult to find at times.
It just takes a bit of conscientiousness… you just have to be aware of what you say and that it could offend someone. I think if you have argument down, fueled by facts and not emotions, it comes a lot easier.
Was just visiting and noticed an error.
“Parajunkee who is otherwise known as Rachel in the real world is the creator of Parajunkee’s View and it’s owner.”
should be *its owner
And a conscientious approach to pointing out grammar issues on someone’s blog is to email them… #justsaying
OMG! I just had to laugh at this one!!! LMFAO
Love your snarky comment back too!
Go get em Rachel
How about you not get defensive & learn the difference between its & it’s? I thought it was just a typo but you’ve even made the error in these comments.
Thank you so much for your grammar services — how much do you charge? Is that all you found? Because, wow, I would have thought there would be much worse errors. I don’t have anyone to proof check me. I try to do my best, but we can’t all be perfectly grammatically correct. It’s sometime I always struggled with in school…
I suppose it just depends on what kind of blogger you want to be. If you want to invite controversy then only post negative reviews with a snarky bent. If you want to drum up drama then only create nasty, provocative, scandalous topical posts.
While that may bring in pageviews, it also brings in a like-minded audience. Those who are not only there to take a peek around, but who like to drum up controversy themselves.
But hey, if that’s what you like, it’s your freedom to do so as a blogger. And I’m no better than the next person who’s a bit of a Lookie Loo. Sometimes the crash is just so horrific you can’t look away. I’m not proud of this, but I do look. So I am probably one of those who contributes to the pageview count. I know I refreshed your site quite a bit yesterday.
That being said I choose not to voice my opinions only because I don’t want the appearance of jumping into the fray only to get readers to come my way. Even if that’s not the reason I’d voice them. But I’d rather have pageviews because I posted a topic of interest – like your BB101 topics – or a review that people were interested in.
I try to only voice my opinion when it directly affects me or someone I’m close with in the blogging community. Though it can’t always be helped.
I’m happy to have other bloggers with more eloquent ways of getting a message across do so and get the pageview counts for their insightful views on controversial subjects.
I think what you said about motivation is important to think about. What are those motivations. Is it to express your outrage? Share your thoughts with your readers? In the heat of the moment it’s easy to do something you might not do after the dust settles and once done you can’t take it back.
Great topic as always!
Exactly Rachel, it really all depends on who you are, blogger or IRL and what crowd you want to draw. I’m a big proponent of karma. It doesn’t mean I don’t have a lot of bad karma out there — it just means that I won’t be surprised when I get what I deserve, whether good or bad. Thank you BTW.
Yes I’m stalking your post, but it’s really because I like to read what other people have to say. These are my favorite types of posts – discussion posts – and they invite way more comments than reviews or other. I always feel like an idiot saying “Great review” over and over even if I love it.
But I totally believe in karma. I have had my own share of bad karma coming back so I know the whole “get what you give” mentality and I’ve tried to be that way as an adult.
But feeling free enough to speak your mind in a non-cruel way like you do is something commendable. (Gosh that sounded pompous.) But I admire that. It does take courage because there are going to be those who love you and those who not-so-much love what you have to say.
I just like that you are willing to open up the discussion. Agree or not with the topic being discussed! It’s nice to have someone willing to put it out there.
I’m never one to post about controversial subject on my blog (what a waste of additional page views LOL) but as you know, I give my two cents on other people’s posts.
I wouldn’t go as far as stop working with my contacts because they work with someone else I don’t support. But I definitely cut all ties from the situation.
See you on saturday for my not-so-quiet boycott
You know me, Tynga. All about the controversy. *snort*
See you on Saturday!!
I agree with the idea of boycotting her website, to a certain extent. As far as not buying a product because they associate with her, well I think that’s going a little overboard. Considering just how many review copies she gets, well that would pretty much cut out all of the publishers.
Also, I really don’t think we should stop commenting on other blogs just because they choose to continue with her meme, IMM. It really is a great meme, and a lot of people like it. So some people will probably continue on with it regardless of their feelings for her. I just don’t think we should “punish” them for that decision.
In no way am I condoning her actions, but I just don’t think others should be punished because of her, and the extensive boycott will do that.
I modified the post because of your comment, BTW. Mainly because I don’t want it to be like — DO THIS or don’t do it at all. Because there are always different levels and gray areas. No matter what. If we were to go full out I think that would leave me reviewing only indie titles and Samhain & Ellora’s Cave titles. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind.
That’s sort of the same way I’ve been feeling too KT– I am not going to be doing my own IMMs anymore, I guess I’ll just be calling it my weekly book haul for now, but I would feel like I’m condemning and punishing all the other bloggers out there who do still want to do IMMs. I mean, it would be NICE if everyone could collectively agree to do the same type of meme under a different name with a Linky at a different site, but I doubt that’s going to happen for awhile.
It really sucks that we all have to do damage control so to speak for someone else’s irresponsible actions. While I personally don’t feel comfortable continuing with IMMs, I don’t want to feel like I’m ostracizing anyone else who still wants to do them :/ Maybe that’s just a super lame way for me to back out from taking a stand, I don’t know.
And holy crap, the LAST thing I want is for the whole freaking book blogging world to be divided into 2 sides– those pro-IMM and those anti-IMM! That would seriously blow.
~Lea @ LC’s Adventures in Libraryland
This is a really well-said post. I’m really big against plagiarism, and while I’m not angry at the people who committed it since I’ve never been in a situation where I’m the victim of it, I’m really ashamed of the person who did it, so I plan on full-out boycotting that blog and I’ve literally severed all ties between me and that blogger. I had to unfollow some of my favorite bloggers and authors, but until they don’t follow that blogger, there’s nothing I can really do, right?
I notice that since the book blogosphere is usually such a tame place, that when there’s something negative of dramatic that we all just POUNCE over it and let everything fly. It’s really disturbing sometimes, but I guess everybody likes to let the rants fly once in a while, right? I think that’s why we’re so attracted to this type of stuff that’s controversial and really “once-in-a-million-years.”
Thanks Eileen. I try. I have been the victim of it and I don’t think I’m even angry about it. I’m just kind of getting angry at the foot soldiers. They are like a bunch of little angry dwarves…oh well. Sorry.
And yes, there is nothing you can do but take your own stand and know that your own principals are in check. Rants can be fun. I think we are just passionate people and we get very little controversy so it’s being repressed.
Ah well, the drama llama. Or llama drama. Always good for some fun and giggles, although I do think the hashtag stuff for The Story Siren case went overboard. I mean, if you make the personal choice not to visit that blog again, then that’s great. But bashing people in public, that’s where I draw the line.
What I do notice is that the drama in the book blogger community has increased severely during this year. First the Goodreads drama, then the author/reviewer drama, now this. It makes me wonder what’s next!
As usual, I found your post very informative. It sure has got me thinking about the consequences of drama on a community.
I have to wonder if the increase in drama has to do with the growing popularity of blogging. With such a large mix of people participating in a once smallish community, personalities are bound to clash!
Thank you ladies. Probably! When any group grows there is more chance of controversy. I really hope nothing is next. But, that would be a flight of fancy, right?
It fascinates me that so people wanting to ban TSS have Cassandra Clare content on their blog. They will support an author accused of plagiarism but turn their back on a member of their own blogging community when she is accused. That just seems incredibly fracked up to me. Is this really what to ya blogging community is all about? If so maybe I should have kept my blog deleted. O_O
For the record, I’m just finding out about the Cassandra Clare incident. I had seen something referenced in a review when her book first came out, but I saw fan fiction and I thought it was some confusion. Now, after seeing this comment and another rather mean-spirited one on the Clarification post I went and looked it up. I mean, you can believe me or not. Call me a hypocrite. I reviewed her book back in 2009…I would go and pull it down now if I didn’t think I would get called on it.
Do I think everyone knows about this story…no probably not. I’m just finding out about it. If they are anti-plagiarism, yes they should hold authors to the same standards as bloggers. Do the research, see what side you believe and make an informed decision whether to support that publisher/author. Is that ironic — I hope not.
How’s this for a provocative opinion…
I feel kind of sad that people had to ASK how to boycott something. Are we so powerless in this day and age that we can’t figure out now to NOT access something we don’t want? Are we that obligated to take in everything that happens on the internet without filtering?
I think your suggestions are great, I guess I’m just kind of depressed that they were even needed.
It’s all about wants and rewards. They aren’t powerless, it’s more about a weakness. We get into routines, with things we want to have — to give that up for a cause becomes almost too much to ask. It is depressing, because I think of how many “real” causes are out there that no-one will fight for because of being too comfortable.
I was pretty confused by this, too, actually. The concept and practice of a boycott isn’t hard if it’s a cause you really believe in. It’s not hard to just unsubscribe from someone and cease participation in activities and memes the person hosts.
What surprises me just as much, though, is that people are STILL posting about this whole thing. I’ve seen a little drama here and there before in the blogging community, but never anything that was blown this far out of proportion, and to be honest, the tone of a lot of people’s comments and posts just leaves me with the impression that the only reason she’s being persecuted like this is because she’s so well-known – like people were just waiting for a moment of weakness to bring someone successful down a notch.
Mistakes were made and acknowledged. Yes, plagiarism is a big problem. I’m not friends with her, I’ve never spoken with her, and while I’ve read some of her posts and participated in IMM, I don’t read her blog religiously or anything. So I’m not White Knighting. I was curious and based on all the facts and evidence (so to speak) that were presented, I feel like everyone is seriously overreacting, and the “victims” in the situation and a lot of their advocates I’ve seen be nothing but misguidedly self-righteous, tacky, and cruel.
All this non-stop, holier-than-thou bullying is, quite frankly, petty and childish, and being that we’re adults, I find it a little more than ridiculous. It’s this apparent desire to cling to the drama like a dog with its jaw firmly latched onto its prey that has me disappointed. I sincerely hope this is the last post I see that references this whole thing, because I’m a little tired of them spamming my feed.
Long story longer, if a person feels that they’re opposed to something (or in this case, really, to someONE) that they need to forgo all association with it (or them), then fine. But people could at least try to be classy about it – you know, without making personal attacks or actively encouraging others to take part in the persecution and perpetuate the drama. I don’t like street evangelists trying to force scripture leaflets into my hands and telling me how I should live my life and telling me what deity to worship OR ELSE. Along that same vein, I don’t have much patience for people going out of their way to tell me I shouldn’t support someone, when the reasons are kind of iffy at best. It’s so all very elementary school – “I don’t like her anymore, so you shouldn’t be friends with her either.” Yeah… *eyeroll*
Look Colleen take this however you want — but I’m kind of tired of people saying they are over a certain situation and then making a huge comment about it with their judgements thrown in…
This post was generic, my BB101 covers topics that are hot in the week and how-tos on how to do something. I didn’t say you have to do this. I’m just letting people know how they can boycott a blog and how they can write about drama but just not to let it go too far.
If you really believe that the victims are “victims” and their actions are misguidedly self-righteous, tacky, and cruel (which is name-calling/judgine in the opposite direction BTW) — well then that is your opinion – see you are letting us know, giving, through comments a leaflet of your own beliefs. So, eyeroll all you want, but you seem to be doing the same thing and seem to have missed the whole point of this post which makes this comment even more bizarre.
I think your post got the most attention from me because it basically said everything that I was feeling from the whole situation. I didn’t at all think of it as posting something to gain page-views. I suck at thinking a long those lines…LMAO. In my opinion, my point in blogging is speaking an opinion whether someone wants to hear it or not…but if your blogging about it, then it must be something your passionate about. If it means writing a review about a book you loved or hated, or if you just had to get something off of your chest, or give praise, or whatever it might be… I know there are a lot of people out there that think about numbers rather than really thinking about their blogging, but if that’s the point, I think they lost the real reason the started blogging in the first place.
Well said, Mindy.
Yeah, there may be some people blogging about it to gain pageviews. I dunno. I can barely tell you anything about blogstats, mine or anyone else’s. The blogs I’ve read on the subject have posted b/c they seem to care deeply about this. I think it would be unfair to assume otherwise unless it’s obvious.
Thank you Mindy, that was a really nice compliment. I didn’t post it to page views. I posted it because I couldn’t hold my metaphorical tongue any longer. I was upset with all the backlash and still am and thought maybe my words could help settle things down a bit. Oh well, one can only hope right. Things seem to be picking up again.
From a marketing stand-point I usually do think about numbers too, I try to weave them into what I love, to make them both work. I want my blog to be great and huge and get a lot of attention of course — but I do not want to sacrifice my voice. It’s why I continue hosting the hops, they are time consuming and I’ve sometimes grown weary of them, but they do generate numbers.
Man, did this put so much on everyone’s minds. Kristi was an inspiration to a lot of people, including us. Now, I agree that Grit & Glamour and Beautifully Invisible are the victims. Kristi did steal their content and should not be treated as the victim, and it was not accident. Not only did she hurt Grit & Glamour and Beautifully Invisible, she also her supporters. She was a good remodel and taught us a lot of things in the book world. We understand everyone makes mistakes but stealing isn’t a mistake. We are not participating in her meme (In My Mailbox), we unsuscribed to her emails, unliked her facebook, and unfollowed her on Twitter.
But I have a bigger question because it is important to me and the others. We are big supporters of reading debut authors and since Kristi has hosted the Debut Author Challenge for the past years, what happens now?
Emi — someone else steps up to the plate and hosts it. Or you do it on your own. Do you need a button and a main posts to do the challenge yourself? You can always just create your own page.
Another great post! I didn’t consider that what I was doing was an actual boycott, but I guess it is. I made the personal decision to stop following her blog and will no longer participate in her memes, but will still visit other bloggers who continue to support her. I would probably stop following anyone who was vicious in her defense and engaged in any bullying, but I haven’t noticed any bad behavior in the blogs I follow (knock wood).
You’re right that drama draws attention. I wasn’t going to post anything as I tend to keep my head down until the storms subside, but plagiarism is just too nasty to ignore, so I had to add my thoughts. I don’t do nasty reviews either, as I always try to mention something I liked even if it’s a book I didn’t enjoy. Don’t want to attract negative karma!
Keep up the great work, as I love your blog!
Hear ya about the karma. I try not to make my reviews nasty, I have written negative, and pointed out the faults. But — sometimes a book just gets under my skin and I have to let people know how I feel about it. Those 2/3 times have been because I felt the books were complete rewrites of other books, with just new characters/settings or so badly written that I channel my inner English teacher. Thank you so much and for commenting. I appreciate the comments the visits and the support.
Funny post – in the sense that I had thought about writing one about dealing with drama yesterday. But I decided not to, because I didn’t want to get involved. My personality is a lot more laid back. I’d prefer not to take a stand even if I have personal opinions. Mostly because I don’t want to get caught in the fray. In doing so, sometimes I don’t stand up for what’s right – which is bad. But I also don’t go overboard and have to regret actions when I look back. Well, usually not. Sometimes I still get caught up.
You know Alison if I was more firmly rooted in the YA community I don’t think I would have either. But, even though I have been reviewing a good deal of YA books I have never considered myself a YA blog. I think your sect of our book blog community needs to regroup and find a steady rhythm. Who was it, Thumper, who said “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”. Sometimes thats a good rule to follow, especially when you feel strongly about something, because it can come out wrong.
I feel with these 101 posts and the fact that my blog has name recognition I can’t stay out of it. I woke up that morning to DMs, @s and emails out the roof. Obviously people wanted to know what I thought about it, so I’ve never been one to bite my tongue. Religion and politics are to never be discussed at the dinner table — anything else is fair game.
Plagiarism of bad — as a writer, I really can’t of anything that evokes the term “nightmare” better. But while that is the root of the problem that we are facing here, the consequences are far more wide spread then I think many of us are seeing.
The greatest strength of the book blogging community is that, the community. This situation seems to be threatening to split us down the middle and that’s a crying shame.
There are consequences for content scheduling and challenges — mainly talking about IMM and Debut Author Challenge here.
There is also considerations of integrity and credibility — both Kristi’s and our own in how we are reacting to what has happened. We may not be getting paid, but many of us work with businesses (publishers / authors / etc.) and are always advised that we need to “be professional”. A controversy like this is a time when one must show what they are made of while “under fire”, so to speak. Unfortunately, some of the behavior I have been seeing is embarrassing (and that’s the most polite way I can say it. BTW, that’s not referring to *you*.)
I have three fears out of this mess:
1. That the quality of our community is going to suffer and either heal very slowly or be unable to be repaired. We are getting to a point where we are not just fighting for or against plagiarism, we are fighting each other. That has to stop.
2. That authors and publishers are going to become suspicious of all bloggers because of what happened here. While the situation did not actually relate to a published work, the integrity of a prolific blog within our community has been shattered. Since we work with words, and plagiarism is the theft of that very thing, this is serious.
3. That authors and publishers will lose respect for bloggers because of the negative behavior that has been displayed in response to this situation. We book bloggers may be a diverse lot with a wide variety of opinions, but for the most part I’d normally have described us as a ‘fun but classy bunch’. Currently I’m picturing the hyenas waiting for Scar to fall over the cliff in The Lion King. Not a pretty image.
Can I understand why people are angry? Why they feel betrayed or shocked? Absolutely! But we need to make sure that we do not become our own worst enemies. I agree with those who have said we all need to find the response we feel is appropriate for this situation. I also personally feel that we must realize that it is foolish to hold others up to our own standards here. We need to respect that others *do* have a right to react in the way they feel is best. (With regard to my concerns above, I’ve never said people *can’t*, but only listed my fears if people *do* continue this line of behavior…)
Hopefully everything about this situation settles down soon so that we can stop focusing on tearing each other apart and instead set our sights on seeing what we need to rebuild to ensure that our wonderful book blogging community can remain strong.
@ Kathleen Ann Coleman, You hit not only right on the head of the nail, but in such a way that you are saying some of the stuff I was thinking this week.
We as a community need to pull out the bandaids and start healing. Not take sides and point fingers, haven’t we done it enough when it comes to authors who behave badly and twitter/goodreads wars the last 4-6 months? Those major uproars have shown publishing houses how we handle situations, causing people to slowly start dividing assets like it’s a divorce.
Tonight, for example, I went to a very mature and wonderful debate/lecture where two opposing sides talked about what they stand for, which on the topic Creationism vs. Evolution. Not only did both professors respect each other, but so did the audience. No one was slinging mud nor was anyone asking questions that were offensive.
That alone reminded me of how vastly different that was to how the book blogging community is presenting itself: VERY unprofessional.
I feel like we should all just take a twitter’cation for the weekend and get some perspective because my theory is Twitter fuels the fire of the forrest we are burning to the ground every hour we keep talking about it.
I believe we might lose a lot of ground with this one also. We are dealing with professional people here, people that base their income off of what is going on and they are using bloggers as a tool to promote their books. If their name is associated with this mess they might just wash their hands on the whole mess, finding more professional outlets. But, I think if as a blogger you strive for professionalism and the quality shows in your reviews and everything you write…maybe pubs/authors will recognize that there still are good outlets for promotion out there.
As one famous writer has states about how “great” gossip can be: “To a philosopher all news, as it is called, is gossip, and they who edit and read it are old women over their tea.” – Henry David Thoreau
And the better quote of a famous actor on gossip: “The only gossip I’m interested in is things from the Weekly World News – ‘Woman’s bra bursts, 11 injured’. That kind of thing.” – Johnny Depp
yes, i agree with this. actually i want to unfollow a blog because of some issues but I couldn’t because the follow button is hidden. i tried to click “manage” in my dashboard but it’s not working. been trying to unfollow the blog but I can’t really do it! do you know other ways to do it? thanks!
If you go to your reader and find the blog I think there is a way to unfollow the blog. Usually if you click on the settings option there is a way.
Adding this here in case other thread is finished: I appreciate the stance that you have taken. I think this is a great post and you make some really valid points. I’m just curious about your thoughts on authors and publishers. Do you think they should expose their brand on a blog that plagiarized other people’s content? How should that all be handled? Will they continue to do to The Story Siren as an outlet to promote their titles, etc. If so, then what does that say?
There is no question that the drama surrounding this scandal has taken it’s toll on the community. A lot of people seem to be divided and it’s a real shame. Boycott a Blog is going to be interesting. How many people will stand by what’s right? Only time will tell.
You can read my thoughts on the subject here: http://darkfaerietales.com/drama-double-standards-deceptiona-bloggers-plagiarism-manifesto.html
I think she might lose some. I can’t predict that she will lose all. I think for the authors that are more tapped into the social community might make recommendations to not be featured on her blog if they have strong feelings about the issues. But unfortunately alot of the time marketing is about numbers and not about issues – unless their is public outcry.
Thanks for standing up also Angela, I know we have gotten a little flack for it, but I’m heartened that the majority have had similar views.
I’ll freely put my hand up and wave it about to admit that I’m drawn in by dramatic or controversial posts and negative reviews. That may be a reflection of my cynical personality, but I also love a good discussion – if everyone loved everything all the time I’d be bored outta my skull.
I have strong feelings on the current situation and although I think it’s a shame that people are divided over this topic, it’s inevitable in any drama that people will pick their sides and nothing is going to convince them to shift. Personally, my boycott will be directed one way and I’ll probably still be visiting IMM posts of those people I follow that choose to still participate. Is that hypocritical? Maybe – but just because someone makes a different choice than me doesn’t make them a bad person in my little world.
Thanks for another great post Rachel. You say all the things I WANT to say in a much more elegant way!
Hiya Kat, I love a discussion too…from both sides. Debates can be very passionate, if both sides of the team has a good substantiated, factual based argument. And of course they don’t get ugly.
I don’t think it is hypocrital BTW — I think you pick your level of participation. Just like any belief system. Does the person that goes to Church everyday believe more than the person that just goes on religious holidays. Not necessarily. It just is a different level of particpation.
Different opinions never makes another person the “bad guy” — it’s how they handle their stance that makes them good or bad in my opinion.
And thank you for visiting. You honor me with your compliments.
What a great BB101 topic. I agree that some type of boycotting, no matter how big or small, should be done. Since her “Clarification” post, TSS has not spoken out again. I have a vision of her sitting in front of her computer, going through the comments on her site and twitter, trying to gauge when it will be safe again for her to resurface. Basically, she is letting the victims take the blame, and watching from a distance how the book blogging community becomes divided. That is just wrong!
I for one, have already made the decision to boycott by not participating in IMM or the DAC (on her site, but I will still be reading the books of course), removing any links to TSS on my blog’s sidebar, and unfollowing via Twitter and Facebook. As someone mentioned here, it will be hard to do a full boycott by also boycotting any other sites, publishers, and/or authors that support her, but at least I know I did something within my reach to show her that what she did was wrong, very wrong, and that not everyone is standing behind her.
I’m very happy to hear that there will be an IMM alternative. Can’t wait to find out what it is. You say it will be revealed today?