‘Authors’ push their writings

DEAR MISS MANNERS » With the proliferation of online and desktop publishing, it seems that anyone with a computer and an idea can become an instant “published author.”

How do we, who would rather choose the books we want to read, respond politely to friends and even remote acquaintances who press their books on us, not just to read, but clearly for praise?

I’ve noticed lately that the energy with which these people pursue five-star ratings and praise — but not honest critique — seems to be in inverse proportion to the quality of the work.

The last time I was gifted with a book I would never have picked up, I thanked the person but mentioned that I had several reading projects in front of it. That hasn’t stopped her from checking in frequently for my glowing response.

I did read some of it. Life is too short to continue. How does one deal with this situation?

GENTLE READER » With less effort than you have been. By issuing a time frame for reading the book, you have invited the author to follow up on it by simply waiting a little longer before demanding a response. A simple thank-you for the book — with no explanation of why there will be no future review — will suffice.

If one is requested, you may say, “Oh, I thought it was a present. I’m afraid I do not consider myself a critic, or even much of a writer.” Miss Manners hopes that for your sake, this particular book’s author will eventually find the same humility.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.