Square’s research shows that\u00a044 percent of respondents said that it\u2019s very or extremely important that the tone of the review isn\u2019t overly positive or negative.<\/p>\n

I understand this — and hope you can, too.<\/p>\n

It reminds me of how I approach audience evaluations after I’ve presented at a conference or event. I toss out the form that gushes about my presentation — that one was probably completed by a friend. I do the same for the worst one (some people are never happy). I focus on everything in between to learn and grow.<\/p>\n

This applies to books, too. As readers scan peer reviews, they intuitively focus on what’s in between the five-star review that shouts, “Best book ever!” and the one-star, “Hated it.”<\/p>\n