As you've probably noticed, I've had a bunch of book review/giveaways going on over the past several months. And, for some reason, while I was knitting last night before going to bed, I started wondering if anyone had developed the wrong idea about it. I mean, no one has said anything to me....but it just started nagging at me.
It's probably more obvious with indie designer pattern collections than published books, but -- I'd like to go on the record and say that no one is paying me to do book or pattern reviews. The only thing I receive from publishers for doing a review is a copy of the book...but those books are what I use for the giveaways (which I vowed to myself to do, even when I really want to keep the books!), and I pay the postage to send them to the winners myself. The only exceptions are when I review a pattern collection that comes in digital form (I usually get a copy of the files as well) and the last giveaway, when I received my own copy of ISLAND in addition to the giveaway copy (which was a huge treat!).
As I've become more busy with designing and taking care of a little guy whose sole purpose in life seems to be destroying the house, I know that my blog content has really suffered. Doing knitting book and pattern reviews here and there has given me something to talk about when I can't seem to find my voice, and doing giveaways with the books I review allows me a way to give back to you guys for sticking with me.
Maybe this is completely coming out of nowhere, but I just wanted to let you know. Thanks for listening. :)
7 comments:
I sure hope no one would get a bad thought about it! I appreciate a chance to get a new book to check out vicariously.
It's all completely and utterly appropriate for a Blogger to share their expert opinion on their subject, as well as host giveaways. In fact, I expect it. Don't feel guilty. And thank you for your generosity! :)
I always appreciate a good giveaway, especially when it's accompanied by a review from a blogger who's opinion I trust. Keep up the great work!
I just love giveaways - hosting them and winning them :) And, there's so many fab collections coming out at the moment - it's exciting to be able to spread the word.
I'm not sure that anyone expects knitting bloggers are paid for reviewing books - do they? The odd book is a lovely treat though.
Don't worry! Having kids has a tendency to limit your time to do much of anything. And giveaways are fun :)
Ditto to all of the above. Don't worry; we have your back! ;)
I have to admit it never occurred to me! I certainly hope people would realize a mother, especially one with a very young child, is a very busy person! I'm just so pleased whenever I see there's a new Yarniad post :) Thanks for continuing to put content out there. And, I'm quite intrigued by the pattern sneak peek!
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