Post originally by Jay at 2004-03-09 10:39:38
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"There is a big difference between commercial reviews and academic book reviews."

No, there isn't. The only difference is the level of detail, as a commercial review is much shorter in length due to space limitations. Otherwise, a review is a study in the strengths and weaknesses of the given product, and if one outweighs the other. If, in the opinion of the author, one does, then it's their duty to report it.

"An Academic book review is aimed at helping a researcher ascertain whether a book will have the necessary information that she needs. A Commercial book review discusses whether the book is worth spending money on - and it is more opinion based."

Semantics. In both cases the review is soley based on an opinion of percieved value of the content, whether that value be monetary or academic.