Have you ever thought about how TikTok is changing what books we pick up? BookTok is a fast-growing corner of TikTok. It shows us new books through fun social media trends and chat. There are over 5 million videos tagged with #BookTok. These videos have been watched over 21.9 billion times around the world¹. So, your next favorite find might be just one video away.

Key Takeaways

• BookTok content has amassed over 21.9 billion views globally¹.
• BookTok has influenced the sale of over 20 million books in 2021 alone².
• TikTok videos help new books gain popularity quickly, such as “They Both Die at the End” by Adam Silvera¹.
• BookTok creators like Chloe Gong and Kengo have made significant impacts on book sales¹.
• Stores like Barnes & Noble have dedicated sections for popular TikTok books¹.

What is BookTok?

BookTok is a lively part of TikTok that’s all about books. It’s where people share their favorite reads and talk about them in videos. The hashtag #BookTok has made these videos into a global hit, bringing book lovers together.

The Origins of BookTok

BookTok was born during the pandemic to connect book lovers when we were apart. It quickly became popular because anyone could join and talk about books. By November 2023, videos about books on TikTok topped 60 billion, showing how many people love to talk about their favorite reads³.

The videos range from quick summaries to detailed character analyses, creating a welcoming community. Users enjoy sharing their book discussions, feeling like they belong with fellow readers.

Why BookTok Became so Popular

There are a few reasons why BookTok took off. It’s a great place for authors to promote their work, leading to big jumps in book sales. Many titles found their way to The New York Times Bestseller list thanks to BookTok’s help³.

Barnes and Noble even set up special BookTok displays to drive more sales³. Sales for the top 90 authors on BookTok doubled from 2020 to 2021, showing its growing influence⁴. The platform brings readers closer to authors, making for lively discussions about different books and genres.

The Atlas Six

One standout success on BookTok is “The Atlas Six” by Olivie Blake. It went from self-publishing on Kindle to getting a deal with Tor Books, all thanks to BookTok³. Book recommendations on the app often lead to new bestseller lists for these titles⁵.

In 2021, adult fiction sales jumped by 25% because of BookTok, showing its impact⁵.

BookTok does more than boost sales; it broadens bookshelves too. It’s not just a few books that get talked about; a wide range of publishing works get their chance. Even someone like Madison Fairbanks, who is in her sixties, has found new book interests through the app⁴. BookTok is now a central place for discussing and discovering new books, building a strong book-loving community.

How to Get Started with BookTok

Exploring BookTok on TikTok is like diving into a vast sea of literature. It’s great for both avid readers and those looking to share their love. Setting up your BookTok is simple. It’s a guide to the exciting literary world just for you.

Creating Your BookTok Account

Start by downloading TikTok from your app store. It’s free and easy⁶. Signing up is straightforward. Use your phone, email, or social media to get started⁶. Add book details to your profile, like your favorite genres and other social accounts⁷.

You can begin posting with just your smartphone. But, for better videos, consider a ring light and a tripod⁷. Keep your videos short, under one minute, to make them fun and interesting⁶.

Navigating the BookTok Hashtags

Using hashtags is key to reaching more people and joining book chats. Start with tags like #BookTok and #fyp. Liking and sharing posts with these tags helps build community⁸. Post often to get noticed. For example, posting three times a day helped Bookshop.org gain followers fast⁸.

Posting one to two videos weekly is usually recommended⁷. But you can post more if you like. Make sure your video captions are both interesting and useful⁷. Staying on top of trends and keeping a unique style can also attract more followers⁸.

Joining challenges and going live can also help you connect with others on BookTok⁶. Quality content and genuine interactions are more important than just numbers of followers⁸. Share your experiences and book recommendations to add to the BookTok community.

Trending Books on BookTok

BookTok is a top spot for finding *trending books* and *reading lists*. The #BookTok hashtag has over 112 billion views. This shows the community’s big influence on what people read².

Popular Genres

BookTok loves *YA romance*, thrillers, fantasy, and mystery. Books about racism, LGBTQ+ topics, and classism are also popular. For instance, “Tender Is the Flesh” by Agustina Bazterrica has over 211,000 Goodreads ratings. It’s a hit on BookTok with eight million posts talking about it. It hooks readers with its thrilling story⁹. Authors like Lucy Score who write *steamy romance novels* are also quite sought after².

Top Viral Books

Many books have become famous thanks to BookTok. “Twisted Love” by Ana Huang got over 897,000 Goodreads ratings and 44 million TikTok posts. Books like “Red White and Royal Blue” and “A Little Life” have also gained a lot of attention⁹.

The ACOTAR series from 2015 is a stand-out fantasy series on BookTok. It has inspired many creative videos⁹. BookTok has something for everyone. Whether you like YA romance, fantasy, or mysteries, you’ll find great suggestions here. The book “With Knives Out Vibes” is also doing well, showing how much power BookTok has².

Book Recommendations from BookTok Influencers

BookTok is changing how people find new books. It gives great advice for all kinds of readers. The creators on BookTok have a big role in changing what and how people read.

Top BookTok Influencers to Follow

@aymansbooks, with 892.4K followers and 102.6M likes, is a top influencer. So is @thebooksiveloved, who has 553.3K followers. @ezeekat, @abbysbooks, and @amyjordanj are also big names¹⁰. They have large followings and share their love for reading. Their fans really trust their book recommendations.

Influencers’ Favorite Picks

Many BookTok influencers have books they love to suggest. Chloe Gong’s book These Violent Delights made it big, thanks to BookTok. Angie Cruz’s book, How Not to Drown in a Glass of Water, got a lot of attention too, recommended by @LupitaReads¹⁰.

Leila Mottley’s Nightcrawling got famous because of influencers like @jackbenedwards¹⁰. The book The Atlas Six and Kristin Hannah’s The Women also did really well. Emily Henry’s People We Meet on Vacation sold a lot after influencers talked about it¹¹.

Faith Young, as @hellyeahbooks, talks about popular BookTok books. Books like Caraval, Heartless, and A Court of Thorns and Roses are popular for their love stories. Young readers really like these¹².

Influencer	Followers	Popular Book Recommendations
@aymansbooks	892.4K	These Violent Delights
@thebooksiveloved	553.3K	The Guest List
@ezeekat	549.6K	The Midnight Library
@abbysbooks	462.4K	Before Your Memory Fades
@amyjordanj	385.7K	Nightcrawling

Following these BookTok influencers helps you find books you’ll love. They recommend books perfect for you, just a click away.

The Impact of BookTok on the Book Community

BookTok has really changed how we see books. It started in 2020 and it’s already hit over 202 billion views on #BookTok¹³. This has got people reading more. In fact, book sales have hit their highest point in almost 20 years, thanks to BookTok¹⁴. Almost six out of ten young people say BookTok has helped them find a love for reading¹⁴

BookTok trends are helping many writers become more famous. Things that go big on BookTok can make a book sell a lot, like what happened with Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing book. It sold out and cost over $100 after¹³. Because of this, bookstores are making sure they catch onto these popular “BookTok books”¹⁵.

But, all this quick fame has brought its own problems. Some books are being published fast and sometimes they’re not that good¹³. Even so, BookTok has gotten many more people interested in reading, no matter their age¹³..

On TikTok, people seem to like YA romance and fantasy books the most¹⁴. This has started talks about needing more diverse and varied kinds of book recommendations. Because of how TikTok’s app works, it sometimes doesn’t show enough books by authors from different backgrounds¹⁴. Looking for books outside of what’s only popular on BookTok can make the conversation richer and more open.

Some debates on BookTok have been about the quality of books and whether they’re too exclusive¹⁴. While many tweets show a liking for romance and sex in books, some worry that modern books might not be remembered in the future¹⁵. But, what’s clear is that BookTok is getting more people excited about reading, no matter the book.

Without a doubt, BookTok has really made its mark on readers. It’s an amazing way to connect readers and start new trends. But, it also makes us think about important things, like having more diverse books for everyone.

Why YA Romance and Thrillers Dominate BookTok

YA romance and thrillers are huge on BookTok. They’re the favorite genres there. The hashtag #BookTok got about 94.2 billion views by December 7, 2022. Clearly, these genres click with young readers¹⁶.

Understanding the Appeal

YA romance and thrillers have stories that young adults love. Their themes and emotions hit home. They discuss love without the old shame, making readers really get into books and talk about them more¹⁷. A big 68% of young folks said BookTok made them try new books¹⁶.

BookTok offers real content and honest reviews. The platform has also brought new words like ‘Spice’ and ‘TBR’ into the reading community. This has created a cool new language and culture on BookTok¹⁷.

Examples of Popular Books in These Genres

In YA romance, books by Colleen Hoover are a big hit because of BookTok¹⁶. Also, the series “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas is very popular¹⁶. Even though some say they glamorize bad relationships, readers still love them¹⁶.

Here’s a table showing the impact of top YA romance and thrillers on BookTok:

Book Title	Author	Genre	BookTok Impact
It Ends with Us	Colleen Hoover	YA Romance	Surge in popularity16
A Court of Thorns and Roses	Sarah J. Maas	Romantic Thriller	Viral engagements16
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo	Taylor Jenkins Reid	YA Romance	Chart dominance17

BookTok’s Role in Highlighting Diverse Voices

BookTok is now a key place for celebrating different voices in books. It shows that there are many stories out there. In 2018, only 11% of published books were by authors of color. This shows the need for more variety in literature¹⁸. BookTok uses special hashtags like #BlackBookTok and #LGBTQBookTok to highlight these writers¹⁹

Yet, authors who are BIPOC face challenges. It’s hard for them to get noticed sometimes. This happens because of issues like not showing posts with certain hashtags¹⁸. To really find and promote these varied voices, we need to do more. Even with over 167.3 billion views on #BookTok, it’s still hard sometimes²⁰

Creating Book Reviews and Recommendations on BookTok

Making book reviews and recommendations for BookTok needs both creativity and true feelings. By talking to a big crowd, BookTok can make a book more famous. This happens through its trends.

Tips for Engaging Content

TikTok has more than a billion people every month. So, make sure your book content hits hard²¹. Keep your videos short, under 15 seconds. Make sure they grab attention right away to get people really watching²². Try to share new stuff two to four times daily²¹. Remember, honest and excited reviews can really touch people.

Show your story visually to really get people interested. Also, talk back to comments and be part of live talks and trends⁶. Playing with filters, effects, and music will make your posts better.

Using the Right Hashtags

The right hashtags are key for sharing your bookish posts widely. The #BookTok tag has been seen over 77 billion times around the world²¹. Start with 3-5 good hashtags. Skip popular ones that don’t relate to your topic much²². Also, joining in tags like #StitchThis and talking to other BookTok folks can grow your fanbase²¹.

To get your posts more views, make your titles clear and direct. Add things people can do, like comment or share, to your videos. Don’t make them too long to keep everyone watching until the end⁶. Once you have 1,000 followers, you can start posting links in your bio to promote your books or your website²¹.

Follow these hints to really use BookTok well. You can make your book reviews and recommendations really shine on this fun platform.

BookTok Trends to Watch

Keeping up with BookTok can show you what books are about to be popular. The BookTok hashtag on TikTok has over 100 billion views⁹. It is mainly young women who boost these trends and suggest new books to read²³.

Emerging Trends in the Literary World

Fantasy and romance are big genres on BookTok, often mixed into “romantasy”²⁴. Books like “A Court of Mist and Fury” and “The Song of Achilles” have become hits²³⁹. TikTok book groups are demanding more stories with deep characters and complex plots, making the storytelling scene more varied.

Indie authors are getting their big break thanks to BookTok users. This has changed the book market, increasing sales and determining what books stores carry²⁴. The BookTok Awards also shed light on top reads, with Dolly Alderton’s memoir once winning “best book to end a reading slump”²³.

Classic Books Making a Comeback

Classic books are back in style, fueled by the “dark academia” look²⁴. “Pride and Prejudice” won recognition at the BookTok Awards, proving classic stories are still loved²³. “A Little Life” has also touched readers deeply, again becoming a hit⁹.

Books like “Six of Crows” and “Tender Is the Flesh” are now in the spotlight⁹. BookTok has had a big impact on what books are popular, with influencer Caroline Hardman pointing out its effect on publishers²³.

Curious about BookTok’s influence on your reading list? See this article for more.

The Benefits and Shortcomings of BookTok

BookTok has brought readers together in a vibrant community. Authors now find big success through BookTok, getting their books known widely²⁵. This breakthrough significantly boosts book sales at stores like Barnes and Noble²⁵. Most recommended books on BookTok are for teens and young adults, with 94% aimed at them²⁶.

Fostering a Literary Community

BookTok helps readers feel like part of a big family. With over 112 billion views, it’s a key place for talking about books²⁷. Many folks discuss favorite authors, fueling the love for books further²⁶. By sharing their thoughts, readers build strong relationships over their favorite reads. Genres like Young Adult Fiction and Adult Fiction have seen more sales after 2020, showing BookTok’s positive impact²⁷.

Potential Drawbacks

However, BookTok is not all positive. It sometimes shines a light on unhealthy relationships, in 76% of cases²⁶. This can be concerning for young viewers, as it might seem like something to admire²⁵. To stay safe, it’s wise to check a book’s reviews on platforms like GoodReads or Amazon. Most readers wish for more awareness of these issues surrounding some books²⁶. This ensures you enjoy BookTok without its possible negative impacts.

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FAQ

What is BookTok?

BookTok is a TikTok community that shares book recommendations, reviews, and talks about literature. It became very popular during the pandemic. People love it because it’s welcoming and shares the joy of reading.

How do I create a BookTok account?

To join BookTok, first, download the TikTok app. Next, make an account and start looking at books using hashtags. Use tags like #BookTok, #fyp, and #ReadTok to find book content. Like, share, and comment on videos. Also, share your own reviews and book suggestions.

Which genres are most popular on BookTok?

YA romance and thrillers are big hits on BookTok. They draw readers in with their stories and themes. Since BookTok has many young members, these genres are especially loved.

Who are some top BookTok influencers to follow?

Top BookTok influencers offer great book suggestions. They have many fans on TikTok. If you follow them, you might find more books you’ll like.

How does BookTok impact the book community?

BookTok is changing how people choose their next book. It’s making some books very popular, but it’s also shining a light on not-so-famous stories. Young people are reading more because of it.

Why do YA romance and thrillers dominate BookTok?

YA romance and thrillers are favorites on BookTok. Their stories and themes connect well with its users. Since many BookTok members are young, these genres shine.

How does BookTok promote diverse voices?

BookTok is all about diverse stories. It highlights books by and about different people. By doing this, it opens up the world of literature to more readers.

What tips can help create engaging book reviews and recommendations on BookTok?

Create videos that are real and full of excitement about the books. Use common hashtags to reach more people. Keep your videos short and add some visual storytelling. Always be honest and show your own style. That will help you get noticed.

What are some emerging trends on BookTok?

Classic books are making a comeback. Also, stories that mix different genres are becoming popular. Plus, indie authors are getting more attention. Knowing these trends early can help you find new and exciting books.

What are the benefits and shortcomings of BookTok?

BookTok is great for bringing readers together and boosting the book market. However, it can sometimes make unhealthy relationships in books seem like they’re okay. It could also build up too much excitement about some books. Using platforms like GoodReads and Amazon can give you more insight before you decide to read a book.

Source Links

1. https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us/tiktok-made-me-read-it-booktok – TikTok made me read it: #BookTok
2. https://www.today.com/popculture/books/booktok-tiktok-books-list-rcna70986 – 21 books beloved by TikTok and why they went viral
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BookTok – BookTok
4. https://lithub.com/booktok-is-good-actually-on-the-undersung-joys-of-a-vast-and-multifarious-platform/ – BookTok is Good, Actually: On the Undersung Joys of a Vast and Multifarious Platform
5. https://www.socialpilot.co/social-media-terms/what-is-booktok – What Is BookTok? Understanding the TikTok Trend That’s Bringing Books to Life
6. https://www.millcitypress.net/blog/marketing-blog/social-media/how-to-create-a-booktok-account/ – How to Create a BookTok Account
7. https://bookish.netgalley.com/bookish-lifestyle/05/2023/how-to-start-a-booktok-tiktok/ – How to Start a BookTok – Bookish
8. https://bookriot.com/how-to-start-a-booktok/ – How to Start a BookTok | Book Riot
9. https://reviewed.usatoday.com/lifestyle/features/booktok-books-trending – The top 10 most popular BookTok books trending right now
10. https://blog.hootsuite.com/booktok/ – Everything You Need to Know About Booktok + 5 Best Books
11. https://www.rd.com/list/booktok-books/ – 30 BookTok Books That Are Actually Worth the Hype
12. https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/jun/25/the-rise-of-booktok-meet-the-teen-influencers-pushing-books-up-the-charts – The rise of BookTok: meet the teen influencers pushing books up the charts
13. https://bmgator.org/38998/featured-2/the-booktok-effect/ – The #BookTok Effect
14. https://www.rockandart.org/the-impact-of-booktok/ – The Impact Of BookTok | Rock & Art
15. https://medium.com/@franwrites/yes-booktok-gets-people-reading-but-at-what-cost-2c573a74eb2a – Yes, BookTok gets people reading, but at what cost?
16. https://www.empowordjournalism.com/all-articles/how-booktok-is-impacting-ya-fiction-on-the-bestseller-charts/ – How BookTok is Impacting YA Fiction on the Bestseller Charts – Empoword Journalism
17. https://www.profwritingacademy.com/how-booktok-revolutionised-the-romance-genre – How BookTok revolutionised the Romance genre – Professional Writing Academy
18. https://www.thecut.com/2022/11/booktok-racial-bias-tiktok-algorithm.html – BookTok’s Racial Bias
19. https://www.thedailystar.net/daily-star-books/news/when-booktok-amplifies-diversity-who-controls-the-narrative-3316296 – When BookTok amplifies diversity, who controls the narrative?
20. https://thesocialinstitute.com/blog/social-media-is-igniting-students-passion-for-reading-through-booktok/ – Social media is igniting students’ passion for reading through #BookTok
21. https://publishdrive.com/how-to-tiktok-booktok-for-authors.html – Guide on How to Use BookTok as an Author: Get Your Book on BookTok
22. https://caitsbooks.com/2020/10/02/booktok-tips/ – BookTok Tips + Tricks
23. https://theconversation.com/how-booktok-trends-are-influencing-what-you-read-whether-you-use-tiktok-or-not-213311 – How BookTok trends are influencing what you read – whether you use TikTok or not
24. https://www.jhunewsletter.com/article/2024/04/booktok-trends-and-community – BookTok: Trends and community
25. https://www.maristcircle.com/opinion/2023/2/10/the-pros-and-cons-of-booktok-is-this-social-media-phenomenon-actually-beneficial – Pros and Cons of “BookTok” — MARIST CIRCLE
26. https://dragonspiritnews.org/881/arts-entertainment/the-pros-and-cons-of-booktok/ – The Pros and Cons of BookTok
27. https://theunisverse.com/2906/showcase/the-pros-and-cons-of-booktok/ – The Pros and Cons of BookTok