Book authors: do you feel conflicted when it comes to your reviews? It's tempting to read about yourself, especially in case you come across something especially flattering. On the other hand, it feels vaguely gauche to care so much about what strangers think, right? You're an ar-tiste. Plus, a bad review can just ruin your week.

Well it's not just you. Filmmaker Kevin Smith admits to the Chicago Tribune's Mark Caro that he not only reads his reviews--he actively seeks them out.

I wish I had something specific to say about one of Smith's movies right here so he had more of a chance of tracking it down, but I don't. But Kevin, if you're reading this, scores of self-conscious writers feel your pain.