Struggling writers might think that becoming a reviewer is a waste of time. Hours spent reading someone else's book and then writing about it could be construed as time taken away from their own precious work. However, becoming a reviewer most definitely has its benefits. Writing a review is still writing and practice really does make perfect. In addition, reading another person's work opens up a whole new world and may provide a window of opportunity. It is possible to discover a niche in the market or a new angle on a previous subject. Reading a wide selection of popular and not so popular books forces the writer to analyse exactly what people want to read and what they don't. Writers can gain insight, knowledge and inspiration from reading what other people have written.

As for writing the review, this becomes a lesson in itself. Often there is a word limit. Readers' Favorite recommends around 250 words. The book needs to be summarized and then an explanation given as to why it was enjoyable or not. It sounds easy enough but it can take time to get all one's thoughts down onto the page in a coherent way. Sentence structure needs to be clear and concise. Vocabulary will naturally expand. The thesaurus suddenly becomes your friend. This is a chance to really hone the skill of writing. Once it is complete, a review may be read by someone else. A piece of writing can, therefore, be reviewed for free. Some review sites may even pay a small sum for reviews. It probably isn't enough to make a living out of but it is a bonus.

Reviewers often have a set time to complete the work. This is an excellent way to train oneself to commit to a deadline. It is surprising what can be written when there are a set number of days or hours to deliver. Reviews can be added to C.V.s. They can be used to prove to prospective employers, agents or publishers that a writer can actually string a sentence together. It is even possible to start a review book blog or website. For those who do not write, reviewing may encourage people to put pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard for the very first time. A latent talent for writing may be developed and a best selling novel be produced.

One thing that must be remembered is that when reviewing someone else's work, honesty and accuracy are crucial. The reviewer is often recommended to choose books that they have an interest in reading. A science fiction writer may, for example, choose to review the genre in which they write. Indeed, it is possible to concentrate on reading one particular genre and becoming an expert on that genre. However, it is wise to remember to be impartial and helpful. The author of the book deserves to have their work read by someone who is unprejudiced and fair. Remember, one day, they may be the one doing the reviewing.