Welcome to Open Shelf Reviews
Helping books get discovered.
We're excited to read your book and have it evaluated by a professional reviewer who understands the world of books, and what it takes for a great title to find its readers.
Our reviewers are experienced educators and publishing professionals who have built their careers around reading, recommending, and discovering books. An Open Shelf Review brings that expertise to your book through an independent editorial assessment, proprietary Reader & Market Readiness Ratings, and constructive feedback designed to give you a fresh perspective on your title and its potential audience.
Part of a family of trusted brands
Open Shelf Reviews is part of the Media Source family of trusted brands, including Junior Library Guild, Library Journal, School Library Journal, and The Horn Book.
Together, these brands bring decades of experience helping connect books with the people who discover, recommend, purchase, and read them.
Here's what your review includes
- 1.
An independent editorial assessment
An honest, independent editorial evaluation by an experienced reviewer, offering an informed perspective on your book's strengths, opportunities, and potential audience.
- 2.
Reader & Market Readiness Ratings
Our proprietary ratings offer insight into how your book may resonate with readers and how ready it is for the marketplace.
- 3.
Constructive feedback
Thoughtful observations designed to give you useful perspective on your book, its audience, and opportunities for strengthening its appeal.
- 4.
The opportunity to be published on Open Shelf Reviews
You'll have the choice to approve your review for publication on our website, giving readers, educators, librarians, booksellers, and others a new way to discover your book.
Choose the right review for your book
Picture Books
Illustrated books up to 64 pages.
A 250–300 word review
Up to 6 weeks
Young Readers
Over 64 pages, up to Young Adult novels.
A 300–350 word review
Up to 6 weeks
Novella, Poetry & Shorter Nonfiction
Approximately 128 pages.
A 300–350 word review
Up to 6 weeks
Standard Fiction & Nonfiction
Fiction or Nonfiction. Over 100,000 words, add $150.
A review of up to 400 words
Up to 6 weeks
Not sure you chose the right tier?
No problem. After submission, our team will confirm the appropriate category. If an adjustment is needed, we'll make it before your book is assigned.
Want to compare pricing first? See the Review Tiers.
Why a Professional Review Matters
Publishing makes your book available. Reviews can help make it discoverable.
An independent editorial review gives your book added credibility and provides a useful perspective for the people who discover, recommend, purchase, and read books.
Build trust
An independent editorial assessment gives librarians, booksellers, educators, and readers another perspective on your book.
Strengthen your marketing
An approved review can provide credible, shareable content for your website, social media, press materials, and other book marketing.
Understand your audience
Reader & Market Readiness Ratings and constructive editorial feedback give you a clearer perspective on how your book may connect with its potential audience.
You're almost there!
Once your payment is complete, you'll be ready to submit your book and begin the review process.
We're excited to be part of your book's journey and look forward to helping your book find its readers.