I don’t often weigh in on the various dramas in book blogging fandom. Most of the time, I don’t care enough to get involved. This is my space, and seeing as how it’s a very small one, the drama doesn’t tend to make it here.
In this case, however, I have something to say. The question of whether or not authors should comment on reviews and discussions of their work has been a hotly contested one for as long as there has been work to be read. I’m sure even the first stories chiseled into a cave wall or painted on a vase invited their own criticism.
The question of whether it is wise for an author to respond to discussions of their work is beyond the scope of this post. (Note: It usually isn’t.) But it’s also not my place to make that decision for an author. If I post something publicly, then I cannot be upset when the public – including the author – responds. If I didn’t want those responses, I would have made it private.
Authors *are* fans. In some cases, authors are the ultimate fans. Can anyone argue, for instance, that Brandon Sanderson is not the ultimate Wheel of Time fan? (Spoiler: not with me, you can’t.) There is room in fandom for everyone, including content creators.
On the other hand, I don’t own fandom. If I did, you can believe I would be making some changes. The great thing is that NO ONE owns fandom. But I do own this space. This is my world; I am Creator here.
And in my world, everyone who can maintain civil discourse and type a coherent sentence is welcome, regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, creed, ability, fandom of choice, and yes – even publishing status.
Be you welcome and merry, my friends.
