Karis Hudgins

You’ve probably walked into a Barnes & Noble and seen the brightly lit section labeled “BookTok” displaying books by authors such as Colleen Hoover, Emily Henry, and Sarah J. Mass. But what is BookTok? BookTok is the term used to describe a community on TikTok that revolves around reading books. Despite it’s growing popularity, critics often voice concern that BookTok has “ruined the reading experience.” On the contrary, BookTok has created a welcoming and inclusive online community that has introduced a new generation to the realm of literature, redefines what it means to be a reader, and connects book lovers worldwide. 

In the age of digital media, it must be acknowledged that attention spans have shortened. Social media, specifically TikTok videos and Instagram reels have thrived on this; BookTok is no exception. The short-form content captures the attention and interest of a wide range of readers and non-readers. Popular videos span from book reviews and book hauls to challenges such as silent book reviews and 24-hour readathons. While catering to the modern algorithm of social media is seen as indulgent by some, for BookTok, it serves a bigger purpose: inclusivity and accessibility. 

Browsing the library in search of a book to read can be an overwhelming task that may discourage potential readers. However, using BookTok as a tool for literature discovery allows readers to connect with different genres, meet fellow readers, and learn about up-and-coming authors. The world of literature is now more inclusive and accessible than ever before. Publishers Association found that almost two-thirds of sixteen to twenty-five years olds reported BookTok pushed them to discover their passion for reading. With the pressure of academic reading, many of us often forget that reading can- and should- be an enjoyable activity. This is what BookTok reminds us of. Being a reader is not defined by how many books you read in a month, how often you pick up a book, or what genre you’re drawn to; but rather the joy derived from the experience. 

Another common criticism is that literature is no longer taken as seriously due to the increase in popularity of romance and fantasy novels that BookTok promotes. Leah Rachel von Essen, blogger and book reviewer, addresses this complaint perfectly. She states, “There is a well-documented trend of people hating on things that teenage girls like and devaluing anything powered by teen girls… In other words, reading isn’t ruined because young people aren’t reading the books you’d like them to read.” Essen digs at the issue at large; the value of literature is not dependent on genre or book-length. The popularity of authors like Colleen Hoover, Emily Henry, and Sarah J. Mass shows us it’s okay to read for pure pleasure. Discussions around literature have been shifted from the once traditional conversation of “What did you learn?” to “What did you enjoy?”- highlighting BookTok’s positive influence on people’s attitudes surrounding the purpose of reading. 

BookTok has not ruined the reading experience. Rather, it has transformed reading into a newfound hobby for many and nurtured others’ existing love for books. Embracing online communities that promote inclusivity, accessibility, and healthy hobbies is crucial for guiding social media in a positive direction. While we may never see an online space entirely free of negativity, BookTok very well may be the closest we’ve come so far.