I had a great experience for my secret shopper assignment. The employee was very welcoming, and listened to what I had to say. They primarily relied on Novelist for their search, and they could have used more resources. However, I was still happy with the results. After I started the conversation by asking for a science fiction novel to read, they asked me the following questions:
Have you read much science fiction before, or are you new to the genre?
I have read a few of the more popular titles, such as Dune, The Martian, and Star Wars novels.
Would you like something similar to one of those titles?
I would like a book similar to Dune
What did you like about Dune?
I
liked how the author went into full, immersive detail about the
technology, politics, and geography of the world. I also liked the
futuristic space setting.
Would you like a book by the same author?
No, I think I'll try someone else.
Would you like to start a new series, or read a self-contained novel?
A new series would be great.
They then found three books that all seem very interesting. I will likely read these in the near future. It was a very pleasant and successful experience.
What recommendations did the librarian give you? I also asked about sci-fi, but I haven't read very much of it and neither had the librarian who helped me.
ReplyDeleteThey recommended:
DeletePerdido Street Station by China Mieville
Hyperion by Dan Simmons
The Abyss Beyond Dreams by Peter F. Hamiltion
I've read a graphic novel by Mieville before, and I enjoyed it. I've heard of Hyperion, but haven't gotten around to trying it. They all sounded very good!
From the questions that were asked, the librarian obviously had received some RA training. I like that you were not only asked what you had read, but if you would like something similar and why you liked the book. Since Novelist was available, how fortunate that a real interview was conducted and you were not simply referred to Novelist.
ReplyDelete