-
Speak loudly enough to be heard.
-
Private conversations during the discussion are discouraged.
-
Speak briefly when it is your turn.
-
Listen carefully to the substance of what is being said.
-
Respond to the comments of others.
-
Talk with each other rather than to the chairperson.
-
No right or wrong answers exists.
-
Acknowledge positive points first.
-
After all positive points have been made, discuss negatives.
-
Speak only to the terms, criteria, and definitions for the award.
-
Avoid generalities such as "This was a nice book" without critical analysis of why this is so.
-
Make comparisons but only to those other books being considered for the award. Do not consider the author's past work.
-
Each participant is expected to have read the books and to express their opinions to the group.
