Review: Wish I'd read it years ago---very informative with insights into the world of amazon reviewers
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 30, 2013
The author of this book has years as an experienced amazon reviewer who has spent his time on what he calls the "Amazon Jungle" of reviewer forums--as opposed to facebook, etc.  Since I play the review game from both angles, being a top amazon reviewer as well as an author seeking reviews, I found this book doubly interesting!The author gives a great detailed analysis of who amazon reviewers are and what motivates them.I learned some interesting tidbits--such as how spoof reviews are permissible on amazon. (Go to "3 wolf moon short sleeve tee and read the first two reviews for examples.) Also, I hadn't realized that negative votes on reviews count more than helpful votes toward the reviewer's rank. I also learned why most reviews are positive (including mine). Duh! We review only about what we care about and are interested in. Also of interest is how the Canadian amazon differs from the US one. I also learned about shill reviews and "one hit wonder" reviews. But I would argue that some of my own reviews from people who had only reviewed one book (mine) were some of the most critical. I often hit up people who have related blogs or have written articles on the topic of my book--people who have no vested interest in flattering me.This book is worth its cost if you're an author just over the valuable analysis on why you should not contest bad reviews--wish I'd read this years ago!We are given the link to top amazon reviewers as well as how to judge who will be interested in your book, four ways to contact the reviewers, and how to write a letter to them (includes a sample letter).One thing the author states that I have to disagree with (and perhaps amazon changed their procedure recently) is that if you give a gift of the amazon kindle book it will show up as "verified amazon purchase." I've given and been given books and noted that this didn't show up.There's a great section on what not to do, and also how to diplomatically ask the reviewer not to post a negative review, but rather to contact you about any reservations.The author cites a scandal between a top reviewer and the company of a product reviewed that inspired him to write this book and educate people on the system.The book concludes, of course, with the author soliciting a review from the reader for this book!Susan Schenck, award-winning author of The Live Food Factor: The Comprehensive Guide to the Ultimate Diet for Body, Mind, Spirit & PlanetandBeyond Broccoli, Creating a Biologically Balanced Diet When a Vegetarian Diet Doesn't WorkandExpats in Cuenca, Ecuador: The Magic & the MadnessAndHealing a Midlife Crisis on El Camino de Santiago