Quote:
Originally Posted by Maggie Leung
Of course a popular novel can be badly written.
A book can have a compelling storyline, engaging characters, etc., and still be badly written -- with clunky sentences, notable inconsistencies, structural problems and such. Despite problems, books can still entertain and grab people.
It takes talent to write a book that can engage many people, even a badly written one. Good editors can help fix bad writing, but the heart of a story must come from the writer.
Who am I to judge? I'm a reader and can judge whatever I want, as you can. I try to avoid knocking others' book choices, though. Whatever they read and enjoy, more power to 'em.
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In reading the responses, Maggie's really seem to hit exactly what I was thinking. I have read many series that were badly written, but were engaging enough in plot or characterization that it kept me coming back for more. In every "popular" series, there is just something that attracts the readers and keeps them there. The type of book I have trouble reading has more to do with excessive grammar or spelling errors. I am then easily distracted (proofing in my head), or I am confused by the misused words or punctuation. If I have to stop and say "huh" and it wasn't an intended plot device then...