Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Mark the Page- Bookmarks Magazine

Have you seen Bookmarks magazine? I borrowed an issue from a friend, then my husband got me a subscription for Christmas, and I have to say I'm really enjoying it.

A bimonthly glossy publication, it's a magazine of book reviews culled from newspapers and magazines across the country- kind of like a Reader's Digest of book reviews. Each issue has sections on upcoming books, books out in paperback soon, book clubs, special topics, just to start. This week I received the March/April 2011 issue, featuring a page on recent book awards, a special section on books about baseball, an article on "The Literary Physician" profiling authors Atul Gawande and Abraham Verghese, a profile of author Susan Vreeland and more.

It's so fun! I love how the editors quote from multiple reviews then summarize critical reception of a given book. I've been enjoying whiling away a morning here and there with coverage of mainstream books from mainstream publishers in mainstream categories. So you'll get good coverage of "name" authors and big houses but I would like to see them include a monthly feature on small presses and/or translated works, as well as some more depth of niche genres like science fiction (although they do include a small review section on sf covering well-known authors like Iain Banks), romance, young adult and even children's. But I suppose it's hard to do everything.

Have you read Bookmarks? It's an information-packed, well-produced magazine that will definitely keep you up to date on what's available at your local bookstore and library, and give you some things to look for when you walk in. It's $5.95 an issue or $27.95 for a six-issue subscription (other rate plans are available). Check it out!


FTC Disclosure: I am not affiliated with Bookmarks magazine nor did I receive a review copy/issue.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

I LOVE my Bookmarks subscription! My best friend got it for me for Christmas two years ago and has renewed it every year since. We both gush over it, and I add many books to my to-read list with each issue. I haven't read the most recent yet; I'm saving it for when I have some time to really sit down and enjoy it.

mrs peel said...

It looks very interesting! I'll try to get a copy of it very soon. Meanwhile I'll subscribe to the newsletter.

(Diane) Bibliophile By the Sea said...

I just started getting this magazine in january and am really enjoying it as well. Good pub for the price. I love Booklist too, but it's pricey so I read that one at the library.

Jules said...

I've only read one issue, but I did get a subscription to it for my birthday, so it should be in my mailbox any day now. It's a fantastic magazine!

bermudaonion said...

I've had this on my Christmas wish list the last few years, but Santa hasn't brought it yet. I think he's afraid it will make my tbr pile even bigger.

rhapsodyinbooks said...

I got it for myself for Christmas and am really enjoying it. (Unlike Kathy, I have given up having faith in Santa and taken to doing these things for myself!)

Zibilee said...

I have read this at the bookstore and considered getting my own subscription, but have never actually gone through with it. Now, having read your thoughts on how wonderful it is, I might just have to do that!

Anonymous said...

I will definitely check it out. Thanks for the review.

Kathleen said...

I love Bookmarks. I have subscribed and unsubscribed at various times over the last few years. This magazine definitely feeds my book addiction!

Wendy said...

One of my most favorite magazines EVER! I'm jealous that you already got the latest edition!! Where's mine? *pout* Glad you're enjoying your subscription!!

Danielle said...

Sounds wonderful! Thanks for suggesting it!

Valerie said...

I discovered this mag last month, with the issue you have pictured. I was impressed, but I like to read at least two issues of any mag before deciding to subscribe, so have been checking back for the next one!

Pam said...

The library where I work has a subscription to Bookmarks. I'm pretty sure the Director and I are the only people who ever look at it. LOL! It is chock full of great information.

Anonymous said...

I've checked them out of the library and keep telling myself I should get it sent to the house!