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Read Slowly - Take Notes - Apply the Ideas

Is Your Book Any Good?

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Hey Reader,

The eighteenth-century Scottish philosopher David Hume said that when we think about art, we should not confuse the question, “Do I like it?” with the question, “Is it good?” This idea is worth considering when you judge the next book that you read.

After all, what makes a book good? How do you know you’re reading something worth your time? Well, you may not like what you’re reading, but that doesn’t change whether it’s good or not. There are objective criteria that make a work of literature “good.”

Think about it. How important is conflict in a story? Without conflict, there’s no reason to turn the page and keep reading. So, conflict, when used correctly, is a requirement for good storytelling. Now, you may not like the conflict in your book, but that doesn’t make the book bad.

It just means that you don’t like it. Something to chew on for the week.

Until next Wednesday, read slowly – take notes – apply the ideas.

-Eddy

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New This Week: ​

Book Recommendation The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz Listen to the Podcast The Framework of Fiction: A Guide to Understanding Plot Master Class The 30-Day Focused Reader Challenge

Book Recommendation

The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao

If you're looking for a novel that’s embedded with cultural significance, some magical realism, and spans a family saga, check out The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book tells the story of Oscar, an overweight Dominican-American who dreams of becoming a famous writer while trying to overcome his virginity. The novel also describes the dark history of the Dominican Republic under dictator Rafael Trujillo.

Díaz's writing is punchy, mixing English and a little Spanish in a way that makes the characters almost palpable. This book is a powerful mix of humor, history, and emotion, making it a good read for people who love taking an honest look at the insanities of life.

Get the Book →

Listen to The Podcast

The Framework of Fiction: A Guide to Understanding Plot

Join me as I break down the five pivotal plot points that structure every compelling story—from exposition to resolution. Learn how these elements craft the narrative arc and enhance your reading experience. This episode not only deepens your appreciation for literature but also recommends a masterpiece, 'The Grapes of Wrath', to see theory in action.

Listen Here →

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​ Most Popular Post ​Are You "Getting Through" Books?​ Total Members 179 Next Live Event Book Club Tuesday @ 8:30 p.m. EST ​

Sometimes it's nice to have a quiet space full of friends who love to read. Our private reading community is a great way to attend live events, meet other readers, and learn new ideas.

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Eddy Hood

The 30-Day Focused Reader Challenge

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Every day, I'm asked, "How do I read more books?" Many people want to read but feel like they can't sit for longer than a few minutes without checking on the phone, the kids, and the email. That's why I created the 30-Day Focused Reader Challenge.