Today Courtney Clark the fabulous blogger behind The Green Mockingbird is our guest poster. Courtney and I connected several years ago when we both judged for the Inspy Awards. Our opinions tracked then, and they continue to now. If you want to know what books you should read next, you definitely need to read Courtney’s blog. She has been doing this blogging gig for six years, along with all her other jobs — baking, running a restaurant, working at a community college . . . . Not sure when she finds the time to read, but I am glad she does. Courtney knows how to get to the essence of a book, and I depend on her recommendations.
While our friendship has continued on social media and through our blog interactions, I had the greatest pleasure meeting her in person in Nashville last week. What a joy! Cannot wait to get together again.
Thanks, Courtney, for sharing with us today!
Three Things I Love About Book Blogging by Courtney Clark
The books!
At the heart of reading and books are the stories. Stories educate, entertain, and increase empathy for other people. When it comes to reviewing books, one happy perk is all the first looks at new releases by my favorite authors. Also, having the opportunity to “read outside of my comfort zone” has allowed me to learn more and discover impactful stories I would not have otherwise considered.
The authors!
It has been a privilege to meet authors through interviews, social media, and the occasional in-person bookish event. Getting to support these authors through sharing about their books and characters is even more special when I can call them friends! Being a book blogger has increased my understanding of the publishing process, too, and all the creative hard work that goes into getting a story on the page.
The blogging community!
The online community of book bloggers and blog readers is fantastic and supportive. I’ve become friends with several wonderful people through blogs and their extended social media. With this interaction I have found new reading recommendations, gushed over the same books and characters, and had ample opportunity to learn from the stories we love. Participation in a few special award events, like the annual INSPYs, has been exciting and enlightening, too!
If you are considering starting a book blog or growing your love for reading into something more, I hope these positive things about book blogging have encouraged you! Thank you for taking the time to read this post. Let’s wish Beckie a happy blogiversary and many more years of reading to come!
Thank you, Beckie, for your kind words and the opportunity to help you celebrate this month!
Thanks so much, Courtney! 🙂
You are amazing, Courtney! I’m so thankful for you