FictionConnection (Database), Bowkers. Accessed through the San Diego Public Library.Description:
FictionConnection is a database that individuals can use to discover books that have similar qualities to those they already like. When using the search field, the user can enter a title, author, or ISBN or choose to search by all three fields. After the correct book or author has been found, the database provides a list of similar titles. There is also a list of characteristics, such genre, topic, location, and so on, that the user can check to narrow the results.
If the user isn’t sure of an exact title or author by which to search, the database also offers lists of keywords under the headings of topic, genre, setting, character, location, and timeframe. After clicking on the keyword, the user is given a list of books as well as a graph that shows other keywords associated with the original keyword. Each new item that is clicked changes the results slightly. After identifying a title he or she would like to read, the user is able to click the "search my library's catalog" button to find a listing of the item at the local library.
Critical Evaluation:
FictionConnection is a great resource for readers. For those readers like me who often finish a book with a desire to read something along the same vein, this can provide a list of several books to satisfy that desire. Additionally, the keyword list and the related subjects graph offer a way for users to discover new titles they might not otherwise have encountered. The ability to find a wide range of titles or narrow it down to a list with very specific characteristics can satisfy the needs of any type of user. The inclusion of the “search my library’s catalog” button makes the transition between choosing a book and finding its availability in the local library an easy one.
This database is very simple to use. Though it is fairly self-explanatory, there is a help menu with step by step instructions. The instructions include pictures, examples and clear explanations of how to use the database.
Annotation:
This is a database for finding books similar to those you already like.
Company Information:
Bowkers is a company that provides products and resources to publishers, book sellers, and libraries. It began in 1872 with the creation of Publisher’s Weekly. In the 140 years since then, Bowkers has acquired or launched numerous services to benefit those working in the publishing industry and related fields.Genre:
Bowkers's products include not only FictionConnection, but Non-FictionConnection, Ulrich’s Serials Analysis System, BooksInPrint.com, Pubnet, and many more. Most of its products and services do require a login, but they can be accessed through a library or business that has purchased a subscription.
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Curriculum Ties:
For use in any course where a student would need to find a fiction book to read.
Booktalking Ideas:
N/A
Reading Level/Interest Age:
All ages
Challenge Issues:
None
Challenge Defense Ideas:
If there were challenges:
- Require the challenger to fill out a written challenge form with clear reasons stated and examples given.
- If not already familiar with the content, become familiar.
- Refer the challenger to the library's collection policy.
- Refer the challenger to reputable reviews of the books, as well as reviews by those in the book's target audience.
Reasons for Selection:
I have been searching for a resource like this for some time, but I was never aware it existed until I began this project.
