Overhyped Books and What to Do About Them

As everyone with an Internet connection knows, the movie Twilight came out on DVD this past Friday at midnight. Parties, ads, hype...not quite as big as the midnight parties for the Harry Potter books, but close.

I bought the first book in the Twilight series sometime early last year. I did so mostly out of a sense of obligation. I'm a fan of paranormals and YA, so it seemed natural. I'd been hearing a lot about the series, seen the distinctive covers in my local Barnes and Noble, and figured I'd give it shot. It sat on my TBR shelf for months.

By the end of the year, I was sick to death of hearing about the book, the author, and the movie. I found the cast lackluster and not nearly enough incentive to go see a movie I already didn't want to hear anymore about. I finally gave the book to my little sister. She liked it, but thought the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine featured a far superior vampire story.

I hate hype. If I think something is getting massively overplayed in the mediasphere, I tend to avoid it. Rarely has it been worth my time and in the end, I just feel dissatisfied and let down. Bestselling is one thing, but to have it be talked about everywhere I turn just makes me annoyed instead of intrigued.

I've never read the Harry Potter books. That's right, not one. I've accidentally caught snatches of the movies and hope never to have to watch a full one. Until Oprah started doing classics for her Book Club picks, I avoided nearly every one she recommended. Yes, I've read things that were overplayed, some before the hype, some after. And in the end, I'd rather go find something else. Surely there are some great books out there that could use some love and attention?

So, what do I think should be done about books that get too much attention? It's fine to read them - I don't judge anyone for reading and enjoying them. But I do suggest that if you usually only buy books that hit the bestseller lists, to give some of those mid-list authors a try. There are many authors that never quite make that coveted New York Times list, but are certainly worthy of attention. Stroll the aisles of the book store, and pick up a book from someone you've never heard of. Give it a try. You never know, maybe they'll become the next Nora Roberts or Johanna Lindsey.

Nicole