Nice layout and easy navigation..really a nice website overall. Just a nice header to go with the theme of ur site seems pending!!
It looks very nice. Good luck to you. Keep up the good work and you will get your own original ideas to bring the blog further.
Not too in love with either the size of the font, or the type of font; as viewed on FireFox2. Can't say which I would change. And the header has the 'Allbooks.com...-splitting the green line. Not too certain if that is intentional.
I think the overall problem is obviously not that of content (because you have that in spades) but more the way your presenting it. Books are a complex subject, and reading them is a dieing art. I think your theme should reflect this by being a bit more unique.
I agree Maybe place the full post on the front page rather then requiring people to hit the "continue" link For me, having so many posts on the front page with very little actual content causes my eyes to jump around and I lose interest. Also, what about adding thumbnail pictures of the book cover to each post?
Good suggestions. Been wanting to add book covers, but with my affiliate code, and I'm still looking for a fitting plugin. Anyone know a good one? I guess I could reduce the # of posts on the front page but post full posts instead. As far as making it unique: Could you give me an example? Something like custom buttons? I really appreciate all the input. This is my first serious blog and I want to make it the best it can be.
What are you using now? I haven't found an Amazon RSS plug in that does images too. The best way is just the simple widget with individual books. I have seen XML feeds at work, but they are too big for my tastes..I may hack one up pretty soon here, I too would like CD covers on my blog from a feed. You could use the RSS feed to list books, maybe from a sub category..it will give title, maybe author and a short description. (with your affiliate code, of course) I am a big fan of custom buttons, I say go for it. A header would be great...it doesn't have to be as predictable as a bookshelf, or reading glasses. I prefer to use images that insinuate , rather than right on the money. (JMO) Looks good...very clean.
When I visit a site, I am visiting it for the content, not really for the design of it. To me, simplicity works best. If a site is clean, is easy on the eyes, has good navigation, but most importantly, has good content, then I'm going to stay longer. You are on the right track. Don't let anyone tell you differently. My only suggestion is to include the full post rather than just an excerpt for each one and reduce the number of posts on your front page to no more than 5 Best of luck with your site!
I have listened to each one of you and made changes accordingly. I also like a simply, clean design better. Tomorrow I'll make a good banner. Turns out that nothing was wrong with the Amazon widgets and codes, my ad-blocker just didn't show it... I know, embarrassing. It's fixed now and looks good with the covers and info in it. I know that more will come as time passes and ideas start coming.