Quote:
Originally Posted by gmw
Most people on MobileRead have been good, though I've seen a few that have obviously been less than thrilled with their feedback. However you don't have to read far on the 'net to discover more extreme examples.
In this case you did literally ask for comments both good and bad, but the thing to remember is that simply publishing a book is effectively "asking for it" - so don't be surprised when it comes. (I've remain unscathed so far, but whether that's a good thing or a bad thing is unclear, since people like to see a few bad reviews so they know - or think they know - the reviews aren't all fake.  )
It's a matter of taste. I guess that is true of all books, but Hailey was notable for his meticulously accurate detail rather than the inventiveness or excitement of his stories, so you need to be a fan such detailed work. Lots of people did like him very much - reaching bestseller status with many of his books, back when that still meant something.
Trivia: His book Airport was made into a movie of the same name, which was followed by various sequels ... which inspired the (comedy) movie Flying High! (or Airplane! depending on where you live). I think I've seen the original Airport movie once, and don't really remember it, but I've seen Flying High! several times and can even remember pieces of the dialogue. |
I would also recommend his wife's book to authors. Lots of insight.