Goodreads Author Data

Marketing Insights looks at the primary contributor’s Goodreads author page and key audience engagement metrics. Your latest data can be found in the Goodreads section of the Author Engagement panel.

Author page

Authors should have a complete, accurate, and up-to-date profile on Goodreads.

• Author listing
  Ensure that the author has an updated Goodreads profile and is accurately connected to all their titles. Authors should join the Goodreads Author Program to improve their presence on the site and better connect with fans.
• Author bio
  Include a rich, personal bio, with as much detail as possible. The bio here may be casual and personal, as authors are talking directly to readers. Be sure to mention important book titles, especially the most recent book, in the bio.
• Author photo
  Include a recent picture of the author.

Note that Marketing Insights assesses only whether or not a contributor has a Goodreads page, photo, and bio, not the quality, accuracy, or completeness of the data.

Author audience

Monitor reader engagement for your authors on Goodreads for a view into reader interest, demand, satisfaction, word of mouth, and more.

• Author reviews and ratings
  See total reviews and ratings across the author’s works. Authors should have as many legitimate and positive customer reviews and ratings as possible. Encourage readers and fans to submit reviews on Goodreads (via newsletters, social media postings, and other direct outreach).
• Average star rating
  Average customer ratings on Goodreads should be 4 stars and up. A history of highly rated works is a strong signal of consumer sentiment and satisfaction.
• Number of followers
  Goodreads members can follow author, which will find readers receiving updates on that author's activities and publications.

Other items to consider

Authors can improve their page and encourage engagement with additional details and active participation in the Goodreads community.

• Add any upcoming events, such as book signings and speaking engagements.
• Enable Ask the Author to allow fans to interact with the author.
• Link to the author's website and blog (if applicable).
• Authors may participate in the Goodreads community both as an author and as a reader. Authors should add/rate their favorite books, create shelves and lists, connect with friends and fans, join groups, create and participate in Q&As and discussions on relevant topics.

Note: Marketing Insights currently provides data for the primary author of the book only (the first author listed for the title on Goodreads).

References & Resources

• Goodreads Author Program [Goodreads]
• Author Program Resources [Goodreads]
• Author Guidelines [Goodreads]
• Author Program Help/FAQ [Goodreads]
• Authors and Advertisers Blog [Goodreads]