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Ever heard someone say, “Print is dead?” Well, the thriving BookTok community is here to prove them dead wrong.
TikTok users have viewed the #BookTok hashtag over 75.1 billion times, and publishers have claimed it has reignited a love for reading, especially among Gen Z and millennials.
So what is this unique community? And how can publishers and booksellers forge authentic connections with prominent #BookTok creators to find the best book promotion ideas? You’ll just have to read to the end to find out.
What is BookTok?
BookTok is a community of readers within TikTok where people can discuss their latest reads, favorite stories, and TBR (to be read) lists.
@amys_bookshelf If only 😭🙏🏻 #Books #BookTok #Bookish #Bookworm #FavouriteBooks #AlwaysReading #NeverEndingTBR ♬ Originalton – Alisa
And beyond the overarching #BookTok category, there are sub-communities, like #AustenTok, #ThrillerTok, and #PoetryTok.
@jackbenedwards I hope it doesn’t require much Persuasion to get you to join the #TikTokBookClub !!!! the first book we’re reading is this Jane Austen classic!! #austentok #booktok ♬ original sound – MARLEE😈
And while BookTok is a place for people to connect about their love of reading, it’s also a major industry disruptor. According to eMarketer and NPD Group, BookTok helped fuel a 9% year-over-year increase in book sales in 2021, and as of July 2022, sales for print books are up another 50% from 2021.
This major surge in interest may seem too good to be true, but publishers, bookstores, and authors alike should consider getting in on the action.
Why is BookTok so popular?
BookTok is so popular because it feels like a best friend giving you their thoughts on different stories. The recommendations are truly authentic.
While the videos may contain some of the same content a person would include in a Goodreads review, the format is more dynamic and attention-grabbing. And the ability to comment and engage with the curator allows for advanced discussions.