Appeal Factors

Appeal Factors are those aspects of a book that engage the reader, which make it a "good read". If you understand appeal factors it is more likely that you will be able to guide a reader on to something else which is likely to be enjoyed. This list is by no means exhaustive - and remember, many of these apply both to fiction and non-fiction.

Characterisation

• ability to identify with characters (empathy)
• believable
• known or continuing characters (from previous books)
• likeable characters
• strong characterisation

Pace

• page turner
• compelling - couldn't put it down
• fast-moving
• leisurely or gentle pace
• lots of action
• 'rip-roaring'
• simple story, easy to read

Background detail, mood, setting and tone

• authentic
• believable
• familiarity (location, culture etc.)
• funny/quirky
• gritty (realism)
• insightful (into another tome, culture etc)
• timeframe : contemporary, historical, futuristic
• well researched

Story

• autobiographical
• plot- multi-layered, intricate, complicated, unpredictable
• familiarity with the subject
• entertaining, escapist, fun
• human interest, personal relationships
• romantic
• topical or contemporary
• satisfying conclusion
• suspenseful
• unconventional, unusual

Writing Style

• appealing
• 'beautifully crafted'
• humorous/witty/satirical
• plenty of descriptive detail
• 'well-written'
• factual or narrative

Genre

• action
• biographical
• crime/true crime
• fantasy
• historical fiction
• horror
• mystery and suspense
• romance
• science fiction
• supernatural
• thriller: legal, political etc

Why the reader chose the book

• award winner
• best seller
• catchy blurb
• familiarity ( with genre, series, author)
• liked the cover
• movie tie-in
• personal interest
• recommended or reviewed

What the reader felt about the book

• emotionally involved
• happy/sad
• challenged
• reassured
• learnt something new
• satisfied

A patron's appeal factors can change: they may enjoy different types of book at different times. Remember to ask if they are in the mood for something similar or something completely different.