I Am Determined

I heard something interesting from the lady who stocks the books and magazines at Sam’s and Wal-Mart's.

It seems more and more people are starting to read--again.  From what the lady told me she has talked to a number of people (many parents) who are fed up with the whole e-book thing and social media snippet phenomenon.

People want a book in their hands, to flip through its pages that are actually printed on paper books and periodicals.  Coincidentally gamers are turning away from video games in droves and are starting to play more board and role-playing games.

From all appearances there is an electronic revolt going on.  I see it with comic books also.  Other than archive comic books that are too expensive for collectors to purchase comic book lovers are opting away from electronic versions.

Many comic book lovers are sticking with printed comic books (and abandoning the whole alternate cover fiasco) and trade paperback reprint collections.

I see a glimmer of hope.

I’ve also noticed that the proliferation of YouTube and other video reviews of toys, games, etc., has created a backlash of sorts.

While some of the sites deserve merit many of them are little more than fan boys who have terrible onscreen personalities, a lack of communication skills and know little about the books (especially older comic books) they ‘review’.

Many of the online sites are little more than ‘how much is it worth’ and ‘how to get rich off comic books, or other collectibles’.

Give me substance.  Give me content that teaches me something and where I actually learn something new.  Most sites do not offer anything of substance.

I’m encouraged.  I noticed n the last month or so that my blog, Facebook and Twitter sites are picking up steam and garnering more readers-especially my blog.

I’ve seen the readership almost triple and not just domestically but internationally as well.

I am determined to hound, cajole, insist and persuade publishers and manufacturers to provide more review samples on a consistent basis.

I strive to write clear, to-the-point, concise and entertaining reviews. 

I want my readers to learn something or at least spark in them the desire to do more research, read, voice their own opinion and communicate in writing or in person.

Ironically the whole social media phenomenon has had the opposite effect.

As smart phones, tablets and other electronic devices (along with the Internet) deluge consumers with trivia and an unending flow of worthless information, consumer social skills have suffered.

How many times have you gone to a restaurant or other gatherings of families and friends and noticed everyone is on their devices and are totally oblivious to those around them?

That’s outrageous, pitiful and most of all alarming!  Does no one speak person-to-person anymore?

I encourage, you, the consumer, to read reviews, buy a book and spend a few enjoyable hours engulfed in its pages, buy a product and form your own opinion and not that of mass media and most of all to ponder-to take the time to slow down, relax and think.

You might be surprised at what you discover.