Wouldn’t our existence be monotonous and bland if we didn’t share our lives, thoughts, events and experiences? Sharing with family and friends is at the core of living and so it is with books.
Finishing a book I am always keen to talk about it with a person close to me, chatting away about the story, the characters development and the emotions evoked. At times (not nearly often enough!) I take a step further and with joy review the book and as a writer, I fully appreciate what this means to fellow authors.
Personally, I treasure every single review! I’m uplifted and heartened by this precious gift of time and energy. This is true for one recent review for my book “The Storyteller Speaks” and within a few paragraphs it delivered a positive punch to my spirits. It is an incredible feeling when someone is deeply touched and affected by one’s work and a terrific boost to one’s writely self. I promise that being mentioned in the same sentence with the outstanding Alice Munro has not gone to my head!
“The Storyteller Speaks” is a beautifully written book of timeless stories, poetry and flash fiction.
Annika Perry writes a carefully constructed, powerful, multi-layered story. She skilfully foreshadows events and a life less than ordinary.
Annika Perry has the gift of a true story teller. She engages the reader to emotionally connect with the characters and stories: My heart aches for an inconsolable child. I have an unexpected visceral reaction to an accident. I am transported to the exact moment in time where I hear the silence. I realize courage can come in many colours. I am moved by the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
“The Storyteller Speaks” reminds me of the powerful stories written by Alice Munro. They are stories that never leave me. The words forever change me. I continue to savour these stories, of ordinary people living a remarkable life. I highly recommend “The Storyteller Speaks.”
Review by Erica Henault on Goodreads
Many thanks to Erica for her review and in the time I’ve known her I value her warm friendship, honesty and humour. Her love of life, family and friends shines through her wonderful and inspirational blog at Behind the Scenery ‘Grateful for the Present Moment’. Do take a closer look at her posts as they brim with her passion of ‘… sharing new perspectives with each other and learning from each other … always observing and paying attention, especially to the lessons that begin in whispers, lessons that get louder and louder.’
“Infinitely more important than sharing one’s material wealth is sharing the wealth of ourselves our time and energy, our passion and commitment, and, above all, our love.” William Simon
*Quote from Erica Henault’s review of “The Storyteller Speaks”.
“The Storyteller Speaks” is available to purchase on all Amazon websites including Amazon UK and Amazon US as well as directly from myself for an autographed copy of the book!
Annika Perry 
What a beautiful and heartfelt review by Erica. One of these days I will read your book Annika. ☺️
Miriam, I feel blessed with such a wonderful thoughtful review and I am more than aware of the time and work it takes to write reviews!
What a beautiful book cover and your post is beautiful too. Books are everything, our minds, our journey, our arc. I will check out your work for sure.
Eilidh, thank you for your reflective comment and I totally agree that books are our everything! It’s lovely to meet likeminded people! 😀Ahh … I’m so glad you like my book cover and the review of The Storyteller Speaks … enjoy if you have a chance to read it!
Hi Annika
Just yesterday I posted about book reviews and wish I had come here sooner because I would have linked this post (maybe I still can)
But I was responding to an author adapting to a one star review and well
The way you write about reviews here was part of the essence I was going after
—
And Erika:Erica sure did a detailed review and thanks for sharing snippets here
Just wonderful
Hi Yvette, I really wanted to do justice to Annika’s beautiful writing and “The Storyteller Speaks.” I spoke/wrote from the heart.❤️. I look forward to reading your post on this subject. 🙂
😊☀️☀️☀️☀️
Yvette, you are so right about reviews needing to capture the essence of a book and Erica does exactly that and more! 😀It gives readers the chance to assess whether the book is for them or not, as each reader is unique in what they are looking for in a book. Thank you so much for wanting to link this post with yours and if you edit your post you can still do that! I really appreciate the thought. I was very taken with your post about reviews and the star system and will comment full soon. Wishing you a lovely Sunday! 😀
Oh Annika – thanks for that awesome reply! Woo hoo
I will update the post
And maybe later this summer I can email you regarding oskar’s quest book – or al of your books – but not sure if you knew you were on my list of such thors to feature at some point!
—
Also since we talked I found a short post from a blogger named Brenda Poulos and she had the breakdown of the a book critique – revue and endorsement –
I loved it and will add the link to my post so check for that the next time you come back
And no hurry in that but super excited to have connected with you in all of this
—
Anyhow – the post from Brenda is good and all – but I wouod add one more category – something like an “informal review” or “informal book plug”
Because that seems to be more of the direction I am heading in. I have a desire to want to do quick book plugs – very subjective and with the my too takeaways and maybe a caveat or two – and not sure what to class it but it works for me
—
And side note – I used the star system for book reviewing about five years agai and it was the last time I will ever do that – I literally crushed an author with two stars when I lived his book and that never came across – !! The perception of stars and the comparative analyses and stars ???
I want those stars for blenders, mattresses and speakers like the awesome Hyberboom
But not books!
Especially not indie authors who have art more than a product to push!
And as you noted in your comment – a good review to reach the goal of allowing a reader enough insight to “assess whether or not the book” is what they are looking for at that time.
Okay – good day to you amiga
This is a lovely post, Annika, about sharing what we have read. Erica also wrote a very just and deserving review of your book. These days it is refreshing to read words filled with generous, honest praise. These words, Erica’s and yours, touch my heart, as your book did. ❤
Carol, bless you for your wonderful comment! ❤️🌺 It means a lot that all elements of the post touched your heart, I know Erica’s review lit up my soul! Thank you also so much for your kind words about my book and your own special review of it earlier! ❤️
That was an outstanding review. How exciting for you. When I find a good book I also love to tell people that might be interested in it. I’ve started your book and hope to get more reading time soon.
Marlene, outstanding sums up the review exactly! You can imagine how overjoyed I was and still am!! 😀 It’s given my spirits such a lift and my creativity a real boost! Ahh … how wonderful that you are reading my book and enjoy! Hope you are keeping well and your sister improving daily! X
Annika!! I just bought your book because it sounds fabulous and if it is anything like the stories of yours I have already read, I know I am going to love it! Congratulations on the review and for being so darn talented. I hope you are doing well. Happy New Year!! 😃
Yeah!! Tanya, it’s wonderful to see you back! 😀😀How are you keeping? Ahh … thank you so much for buying my book and your kind words about my writing … I’m you’ll enjoy the book as much as my short stories featured here. The review is such a gift and these are unquantifiable! Wishing you a very Happy New Year … keep well and safe! Hugs xx
Wonderful 😊
Thank you, Shristy!
How wonderful, Annika!!
Absoutely, Jennie! I feel very lucky indeed!
😀
That’s a really great review, and a great way to start the New Year. Perhaps this year will be a good year after all!
Ste J, how true that this is a wonderful way to start the year for me and the review has given such a boost to my spirits! I’m hoping to be able to concentrate on creative projects much more in the year ahead! Happy New Year to you!
A lovely review! Congratulations!
Thank you, Debra! It was a joy to read and lovely to share here!
What a wonderful review from Erica and well deserved, Annika. Your book and your beautiful writing enhance the lives of your readers and this is an incredible start to a new year. Wishing you softer days ahead, my friend. 💗💗💗
Lauren, bless you for your wonderful comment, it warms my heart no end! It has given me a huge lift as the new year begins and yes, may there be many softer days ahead. Wishing you and your family well, my friend! xx ❤️
What a beautiful review given here Annika.. and your own gift of words adds sparkle to many lives…
Wishing you a wonderful Happy New Earth year Annika… Lots of love and well wishes for your New Year of creativity to begin… ❤
Love and Hugs Sue ❤
Ahh … thank you so much, Sue! It’s lovely to see you here and I’ve been wondering how you are getting on. I wish you a very Happy New Year as well, may it become a safer one for us all and hopefully soon we can see our families and friends a little. Here’s to creativity taking the lead in 2021. with much love, xx ❤️
Thank you Annika, likewise my friend ❤️🙏❤️
I am grateful that you embraced your gift of storytelling, Annika. Your words give hope and inspiration – you shed light into dark places. Happy New Year!
Rebecca, my heart is filled with joy and I feel uplifted as I read your wonderful comment. It means so much and has given me a new impetus for 2021!
We need to embrace creativity more than ever in the days ahead. Hugs and more hugs!
I feel the same way, Rebecca, about the “need to embrace creativity more than ever in the days ahead.” Annika truly has a gift of storytelling. Her words make a difference and I love your insightful observation “…shed light into dark places.”
Hi Erica – I am delighted that we connected and we are on the same side of the world – British Columbia. Looking forward to following your posts! Happy New Year!!
Annika, I love this heartfelt post and agree completely. What an exquisite review from Erica — and so well deserved too. This kind of review is the perfect way to start an author’s year. Hugs on the wing!
Ahh … thank you so much, Teagan! That’s so kind of you! As the craziness continues I really wanted to start 2021 with something positve – celebrating friendships as well as my book through the review! hugs back and wishing you well! xx
What a wonderful review and a great way to start the year, Annika! It makes me happy to read such a beautiful and spot on review about your own book, because you give so much to others (readers and writers) with your reviews. And yes, you can hold your head high and claim your place right next to Alice Munro. I’m serious, if you’ve never thought of Munro as your comp author, now it’s confirmed.
Here’s to another year of writing and reading! Happy New Year!xx
Khaya, I’m blushing at your kind compliment and no, I never thought myself in the same literary level as Alice Munro … just reading your and Erica’s words give me such a boost (kick!) and I’m holding my head high! 😀 It is a great way to start the year and I, we, need something positive to cling onto at the moment and move forward. Wishing you a wonderful year of writing and reading, as well, my friend! Can’t wait to see what you publish this year! hugs xx
Congratulations on a wonderful review Annika. Reading is too often seen as just a passive, solitary pursuit, but of course it’s great when it’s shared!
Absolutely, Andrea and I love sharing about books! My reading genre range has expanded massivley since I started blogging and discussing books with fellow bibliophiles.
Congratulations on a moving review, Annika!
Erica has such a gentle soul.
Pat, you are so right about Erica and meeting her here on WP has been like coming a long lost friend! The review means so much to me as did your wonderful review at the start of 2020! Thank you!
A beautiful comment coming from a beautiful soul. Thank you, Pat.
Hugs, Erica 🙂
Congratulations on the wonderful review, Annika! Erica has a way with words, too.
Mark, I totally agree about Erica having a way with words … such a direct, tangible and personal expression to her review it’s hard to believe she has not been writing them for very long! She’s a natural, reaching into the heart of books!
What an amazing review. Your book sounds like a delightful read. It’s on my list. 🙂
Ahhh … that’s wonderful, Norah! 😀 Enjoy when you have a chance to read it! Xx
I will. 🙂
What a fantastic review! It’s true that writers are so very grateful for all the reviews their readers write.
It definitely is, Nicki and I’m blessed with so many thoughtful and in-depth reviews of my book! I never really appreciated the value of reviews until a published writer myself!
Is this going to make your month, or what?! 🙂 Great way to start the year.
Hooray!! Betsy, so true and I’ve just been rereading all the reviews for The Storyteller Speaks and my spirits are soaring! Wishing you a great start to the year! Xx😀
That’s a terrific way to boost your spirits any time you’re feeling down! Healthier than alcohol or chocolate too! 🙂
Congratulations on the wonderful review of The Storyteller Speaks! You’re so right that readers’ responses such as Erica’s help give us that writerly affirmation we need from time to time. I’m a fan of Alice Munro’s work, so I know that comparision is high praise indeed!
Liz, although I’d heard and read about Alice Munro I must admit I hadn’t read any of her work! A lapse I rectified immediately upon reading Erica’s review and I’m in awe of Munro’s writing and books! The joy and boost of the review will stay with me!
Gorgeous review from Erica, Annika. Congrats! I do look forward to reading this book! ❤
Absolutely, Debby … it is a wonderful review! A great start to the New Year to share it here! 😀
Absolutely!!!! ❤
A fantastic review, Annika! Congratulations!
Thank you so much, Jan! 😀❤️
You deserve wonderful reviews, the stories are powerful and so well written.
Georgina, thank you so much and recall your wonderful review very well too … means a lot to me! X
Great review, Annika. That should serve to inspire you in writing the next one. 🙂 The very best to you in 2021! –Curt
So true, Curt! 😀 It is a terrific boost and it feel incredible to know one’s work touches others so profoundly. Wishing you and Peggy a happy and healthy New Year! 😀
I’m always pleased when I see a post from you, Annika. The best to you and your family as well. –Curt
Happy New Year, Annika! I love your book! I actually reread it last year.
Hope all is well and your 2021 is good.
Wow! Inese, it’s fantastic that you reread my book last year … an honour indeed which means so much to me! Wishing you a very Happy New Year and keep safe and well! Xx
Thank you! X
What a beautiful review, Annika! Such reviews do, indeed, provide a “terrific boost to one’s writely self.” I look forward to reading 🙂
Rosaliene, reviews such as these are precious and give such a lift to the spirit! A real gem! How exciting that you are hoping to read The Storyteller Speaks — enjoy! 😀
A thrilling review, Annika, congrats! It’s wonderful when someone connects so deeply with our words- makes it all worthwhile 🙂
Happy New Year!
Exactly, Jacquie! 😀 It gives me goosebumps to read how profoundly my writing touches others and this review came just at the right time when things were particularly tough! Wishing you a very Happy New Year too! X
Beautiful review for a remarkable book! 💞
Bless! ❤️ Thank you so much, Bette and thank you again for your wonderful recent review too! It means so much to me! Hugs xx
Erica has a way with the words and her review is indeed a treat! Well-deserved Annika. Wishing you a wonderful 2021.
How true, Balroop! 😀 Erica writes wonderfully and is a natural at reviewing books! This is a wonderful one and I’m overjoyed how my stories have touched her. Likewise, thank you again for your amazing, detailed review which captures so many of its themes! Wishing you all well for the New Year, my friend! xx
I watched a Star Trek episode long ago where the particular race of aliens had no literature, music, or art. Those beautiful forms of communicating were absent from their society. Your words make me think of that.
Jacqui, what an interesting concept and one that makes me feel very sad … what a forlorn existence! I’m intrigued by how my post has triggered the memory of this episode — may it never become a reality on our planet!
We do communicate volumes without words, don’t we? I’ve actually considered that in my prehistoric fiction, a time prior to art, music, body adornment, all of that.
I can understand completely why Erica’s review made your heart soar, Annika. What a beautiful reflection on your stories and so well deserved. And a wonderful way to start the new year. 😀 ❤
Bless, thank you so much, Diana! 😀 Your kind words and warm support is wonderful … as is your review of my book soon after it came out! Thank you! Definitely, a great and uplifting way to start the year! xx❤️
What a wonderful review, Annika. I’d have been dancing round the room 🙂
Mary, even if I’ve stopped physically dancing my spirit is still soaring … a fantastic uplifting feeling! 😀
Such a lovely gift and tribute to your work, Annika! Well deserved for sure. Cheers to you! xo
Thank you so much, Natalie and I totally agree … a precious gift and tribute which means so much to me! xx
Dear Annika, I am very touched, waking up to this beautiful and heartfelt post. Thank you for your kindness, including me in your post.❤️ You bring up wonderful points about writing reviews. I enjoy sharing books with friends and family. I appreciate reading reviews. Yet, I have only recently started writing reviews. Anna Quindlen’s quote resonates with me. I have been “home” most of the holiday season and transported by my books.
The Storyteller Speaks” is a beautiful book! I get immediate goosebumps when I recall each one of the stories. The words have forever changed me. The gift of a true Storyteller. ❤️
I am still in awe and very happy how our paths serendipitously crossed on Jill’s blog. I look forward to reading more of your stories. Most of all, Annika, I appreciate sharing our “precious gift of time and energy.” Happy New Year!xx❤️
Dear Erica, heartfelt thanks again for your wonderful and moving review … and for your lovely comment here! Meeting you on WP feels like coming across a kindred friend who I was just waiting to meet! Wow! Goosebumps when you recall my stories – that is amazing to know and you have given me such a boost! Oh, the travels via books this year are a godsend and it is a wonder how we can be home for all those trips and experiences! Here’s to a new year filled with books, travels (in all its forms) and friendships! hugs xx ❤️
I am glad you read some of Alice Munro’s stories and books. You are the first author I have read that immediately reminded me of Alice Munro.❤️ I also greatly enjoy your blog posts, Annika. Entertaining and often pull at my heartstrings.❤️ I hope you continue writing and sharing your gift of storytelling. I wholeheartedly agree on the kindred spirit. I look forward to sharing, connecting, reading in this New Year filled with infinite possibilities.xx
Congratulations on a wonderful review, Annika!
Thank you so much, Lavinia … as you can imagine I was wonderfully surprised and it’s a joy to share here!
Annika, it’s all about words! Always. Enjoyed the post as I have your book. May 2021 bring you good health, happiness and peace. oxox
Mary Ann, bless! 😀 Thank you so much! Wishing you happiness and joy in 2021 and may you be able to return to your music concerts during the year. x
Annika, it is my hope and wish to return to music concerts. Meanwhile, I am enjoying my weekly church choir – small group but nice. Be well. ox
That is a wonderful way to welcome what I hope will be a fabulous 2021, now that the millennia is finally an adult. (Wish I could say the same about some of our leaders). Congratulations, Annika.
Pat, I was wondering about the first post of the year when this came to me and so glad you enjoyed it as a way to welcome in the New Year! Haha! I hadn’t thought about the century/millenia becoming 21 and totally agree about your brackets comment! So true!
Big glass of your favorite beverage (adult or not) to toast the New Year and its theoretical maturity.
A great review, congratulations dear Annika. Happy New Year 2021 to you and to your family.
Kamal, thank you so much and it was a wonderful boost to read the review! Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy 2021! xx
You are always welcome Annika and yes a fantastic boost to read the review. Wishing you too the same.
What a great review! Congratulations. The best gift! Happy New Year!!
Absolutely the best gift!! 😀😀 Wishing you and yours a very Happy New Year, Darlene! Take care xx
How lovely, Annika! Happy New Year 🎈🎊🎆
Thank you so much, Marina! 😀 Wishing you a very Happy New Year! xx
How wonderful to read such a beautiful review written by and for two of my favorite people! Congratulations, Annika. A well deserved review indeed. Happy New Year! I hope your mum continues to do well. ❤️
Back at you, Jill, for one of my favourite people! I mentioned to Annika how I am still in awe and very happy how our paths serendipitously crossed on your blog. Annika’s book “Oskar’s Quest” had just arrived for four-year-old Abby’s birthday (my granddaughter). Your generosity of spirit creates a ripple effect, Jill. Thank you for making a difference! ❤️
Thank you for your kind words, Erica. xo
Ahhh, bless you, Jill for your most wonderful and special comment – that’s just how I feel too about you and Erica! ❤️ I never fail to be astounded how close friendships can be forged from afar when never met in person – a blessing indeed! 😀 I was deeply touched by Erica’s thoughtful and heartfelt review which reached into the core of the collection and a delight to share here! Hope you’re having a lovely Sunday! All well here (so far, thankfully) and about to enjoy Sunday dinner with my family and mother! xx
Yes, a true blessing. Enjoy your Sunday dinner with your family. xo
Happy New Year! May 2021 be a good one!
And a very Happy New Year to you Maja! 😀 Indeed, we all hope and pray for a much better year. x
A lovely review – congratulations. 🙂
Absolutely, Lynette and a wonderful surprise to brighten some tough days in the autumn! 😀
Awww Annika!! This is wonderful. Likewise, as soon as I finish a book I have to talk about it but with only seeing the students it’s usually to them. They comply, bless them, but they’re not excited. I LOVE your books. I really must review the second on here. I’ll do that this year, promise! Have a wonderful 2021. I’m with you all the way. X
Charley, I’m smiling at your students and I bet your passion for books is infectious and what a gift to pass on a love of all things literary! Thank you so much for reading my books and I’m so happy you love them! Your support and enthusiasm means a lot to me! ❤️Hope you’re having a good start to the New Year! Xx
What a wonderful review! Thank you for sharing, Annika. 🙂
Definitely wonderful, Gwen and I feel blessed! 😀 It’s lovely to share it here and introduce Erica to others!
What a lovely review, thoughtfully written!
Anne, I totally agree and you can imagine my tears of joy as I read it! 😀 It really reinforces the reason I love to write and share my work! Xx
It’s wonderful to see a deserving writer (you) receive praise.
Ahh … thank you so much, Anne! xx
Annika, what a wonderful post to start the New Year. Your love for literature, for writing and
sharing always shines through.
Erica’s review is great and I am touched by the beauty of it. As I read “The Storyteller Speaks” I know how deeply it touched me. I would be hard put to say which is my favourite story as I am taken with so many.
I would like to quote you :” Sharing with family and friends is at the core of living and so it is with books.”
I feel your joy in this line.
When can we hope to see a new book from you?
I wish you a good and ‘writeful’ new year, Annika. xo
miriam
Miriam, thank you so much for your lovely and warm comment! ❤️😀 I love the idea of a ‘writeful’ new year and I do hope this can become a reality! Ahh … how lovely that you also enjoyed my book so much and I must admit I have difficulty deciding on my favourite story – it often depends what mood I’m in. I’m delighted you enjoyed my post so much and that it shows my love for literature and writing – that is exactly what I hoped to convey here! Here’s to many happy reading hours … and sharing about the books near and far! hugs xx
Wonderful! I have yet to read it but I’m sure I will 🙂 🙂
Bless! 😀 That would be lovely! Wishing you a sunny and joyful Sunday! Xx
Sitting up on the roof with a calm blue sea in the distance. I might stir myself to make lunch 🤣💕