Core Viewpoint - The Associated Press (AP) has decided to discontinue its book review section due to a declining audience and the inability to sustain the necessary resources for planning, writing, and editing book reviews, signaling a broader decline in traditional book criticism [1][3][9]. Group 1: Decline of Traditional Book Reviews - The decline of book reviews has been a long-standing issue, with critics noting a lack of sharp criticism and a tendency towards bland praise in the industry [5][14]. - The rise of social media and platforms like Amazon and Goodreads has transformed how book reviews are disseminated, allowing for a more democratized and diverse range of opinions, but also leading to a dilution of traditional review standards [6][23]. - The AP's decision is part of a larger trend where traditional media outlets are reducing or eliminating their book review sections, as they struggle to maintain resources in the face of changing reader habits and preferences [9][11]. Group 2: Impact of New Media - Social media platforms, particularly Xiaohongshu, have become significant for book marketing, with publishers investing heavily in influencer marketing rather than traditional reviews [16][17]. - The shift towards social media has led to a more fragmented and less authoritative landscape for book recommendations, raising concerns about the quality and reliability of reviews [23][24]. - Despite the rise of new platforms, traditional book reviews still hold unique value in guiding readers towards impactful literature and supporting new authors, emphasizing the need for serious criticism in the literary landscape [25][26].