Here's why:
* Literary criticism is the analysis and evaluation of literary works. It can involve examining the text, its themes, characters, style, and historical context.
* Reviews often express opinions about a novel, which can be considered a form of literary criticism.
* Opinion is a key component of literary criticism. It's not about finding the "right" interpretation, but rather offering a thoughtful and insightful analysis based on the reader's understanding of the work.
While the reader might not be a professional literary critic, their review still engages with the text and offers their own personal perspective on its merits and shortcomings.