Rating systems of any kind are all deeply personal. Where some people might give a book 5 stars because they enjoyed it, others might give it 4 because, although they enjoyed the book just as much, they didn’t find it life-changing.
I think it is deeply important for a reader to know what the reviewer means when they use a star rating system. Otherwise, things might get lost in communication. As such, I will always have my own guideline readily available for reference here.
Five stars: This is for books I really loved and would re-read. Either now or at some point in my life.
Four stars: Books I enjoyed reading, flaws and all. Might or might not re-read. Certainly good enough to recommend.
Three stars: While I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it either. More neutral, likely would not re-read.
Two stars: Did not enjoy. Finished but had to push through all the way to the end. Would not recommend.
One star: Did not finish. For some reason or other could not work through it.
Now, these ratings are only a reflection of how I felt towards a book at the time of reading. They are not meant to be some final judgement. My opinion on the matter may also change with a second read-through.
This rating system is also potentially subject to change as I get more into writing.
All opinions are, of course, deeply personal and not a reflection of what you, as the reader, will draw from the book. I encourage everyone to develop their own thoughts and ideas and discuss them respectfully.
If you’re interested, you may find my statement on AI and Plagiarism right here.