While not a new phenomenon, I’ve suddenly been hearing about DNF (Did Not Finish) lists all week. Most notably made famous by Goodreads, even the New York Times mentioned it today in its morning newsletter. I’m not a fan.
Some books aren’t for everyone. I didn’t grow up reading Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys or Dr. Seuss, but instead read Charlotte Zolotow and other oddities. I actually read the World Book encyclopedia as a kid. Yeah, I know, I was a nerdy kid. But, horrors, I would have never marked those other books DNF. It’s a lazy way to give a bad a review.
As a reader, I don’t like everything, even in the genre I do enjoy. There’s a boxed set of a cozy mystery sitting on the shelf loaned to me by a friend. I’ve barely cracked the first book. It’s not for me, but I’m not going to tell my friend and I’m not going on Goodreads to say so.
As an author, I know my crime novels aren’t for everyone. Sure, I try to create twisty plots, compelling characters and a satisfying ending. I try to keep the pace pushing you to the end, so that you do finish. But if you don’t (my husband is still halfway through my murder mystery “Sixty”) that’s OK. There are others who do and enjoy it.
Instead of DNF lists, I’d rather know why the reader didn’t connect with the book. And, just because a book is on someone’s DNF list doesn’t mean I won’t try it.
What about you? Do you keep DNF lists, and would you read a book on one? Why? Leave me a note in the comments.
I’ll be attending these book fairs this fall. Come out and support your indie and local authors!
Kansas Book Festival, Washburn University, Topeka, Sept. 26
Boozy Book Fest, Kansas City, Oct. 3
Heartland Book Festival, Kansas City Oct. 3
Your creative sister,
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Yvette Walker is a journalist, educator, and the founder of Positively Joy Ministries. Her ministry supports this publication, a podcast, publishing her many books, and opportunities to share the message of joy as a speaker.
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