I've been reading Dani Pettrey and I'm just not sure about adding her books to our library. Has anyone read anything by her. If so, I would like to know what you think. Is she an acceptable author? Sometimes I think I'm being too prudish so I really would like some honest opinions.
Thanks in advance.
Debbie
Replies
I usually use Amazon as a wide variety of readers have opinions whether Christian feedback or not. I also use goodreads.com. Just look for book and click on title of book. After 30 years, I sometimes doubt myself too and re-think if OK for a series or author. I also stick to my guns when a patron asks for a book or certain author. I do not do political books (new pastor asked if I could add Al Gore's book 5-6 years ago; Sr. pastor suggested something more theological). A Librarian is not always an easy task and sometimes you are the bad guy. But like I said earlier, you are not being prudish, just practical and the books have to have a strong biblical basis or for children, good morals as well. Also, just because an author you like recommends another author, that's isn't always the final judgment. Read for yourself and you'll be fine. Let me know how it goes!
Can I ask where you go for reviews, Bev? I read the whole series. Her books were recommended in the back of one of Dee Henderson's books. I love Dee Henderson so I thought Dani Pettrey would be okay. They write a lot alike but some of the subject matter was a little too "real" for me in the Alaskan Courage Series.
I recently pulled a whole author because I thought since some other books were already in the library that this author was okay. I think this is when I began to doubt myself. I was librarian for a few years, gave it up and then came back. Some of the books added while I was out of the loop have not been up to my standards and I have quietly taken them out of circulation.
I actually have the last two of the series here at home to read. I read the first two and enjoyed them, as did another lady who reads quite a few of our purchases before they are processed. It has been some time since I read the first two, so I'm curious about what the last ones have to offer. If I have a problem with them, I'll let you know! Thanks for the question, Debbie, and the good advice too, Bev.
Last week I asked one of our prolific readers to read a book by a popular author whom she has really enjoyed, but she brought the book back saying, "I just can't read it. I didn't want those images in my mind!" . . . I asked another reader for her opinion, telling her not to feel obligated if she didn't like it, so I'm looking forward to seeing what she says. I am finding that just because the author has been trustworthy in the past doesn't mean they will continue to be that way. :)
I looked at a few reliable resources to see about reviews for author, Dani Pettrey. There are four books in the current series. Some state that the book #4 was quickly written just to conclude the series. What I do on a regular basis when I'm not sure, I check them out of the public library (we have a great system whereas there are 4 counties in our systems) to review. I know you've been reading the book, so I say go with your first instinct. I had to smile when you said "too prudish". There is no such thing. You have the responsibility of providing quality books for your congregation, so the decision is within you. I especially check out and read all of the middle / YA books to ensure quality. Sometimes Book #1 can be great, and bingo Book#2 is a zinger that I wouldn't put in the library. See what over feedback you get. Be cautious and conscientious is not prudish.