I'm a bit open minded on stories. Of course, if there is a lot to digest before the story starts to take form in my mind. I skip the story as well as about leaving a review. I refuse to leave a comment on something I have not read at a leisurely pace.
Yes, I am a picky reader. Maybe I have to blame myself for being in a technical field or my horrible upbringing and subsequent issues in life. But still, I grow as a reader and slowly as a writer. I do hunt for good stories and if I gets hooked I leave a comment.
Sometimes its a simple few words. Other times, I just spill out so many questions or reflections on the story. Although, I commented. But wow its something when an author replies. My own curiosity is how much different is the author and what he writes. What I find out, it comes back to STNG Character Mark Twain paraphrased "Well to get to know me its pretty much in my writings"
The real reason that I say I am open minded is because I will read for the story that hits my fancy even if its from a budding writer.
I will work my way through to try to see what story is being conveyed by its writer.
Many of you may say why bother to go through all that trouble.
I met all kinds of people, here and there. I also tutored some kids or TA College Kids. I love to talk to people. If they have a story to tell me and of course, English is not their thing. I still encourage them to tell it. I don't care if its bad or poor. A story is still a story. Its how we young ones learn from our older ones. Gosh, I know my own poor English and its my first and only language. I get better at it, sometimes or I get worst. But I still try to make an effort to write a story.
Of course, If I keep to the motto "I will sell no wine before its time." (Orsen Welles) and a schedule is not an issue. I will try to improve my story.
If I notice that this story is from a budding writer and I like his story. I will try to make an effort to contact or write a review.
Sometimes by reading its style or it content. I could tell the temperament of its writer and write an according message of encouragement that's provided that their email address still works.
Sometimes I cry if it bounces. I could only imagine how many reviews that would not get to its author.
Sometimes I cry that the good story remains unfinished for many unknown reasons.