SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – An emerging TikTok community is getting more and more of its users off of their phones – and nose deep into a book.
#BookTok first emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, as users used the online space as a replacement book club. Recommendations span from fantasy adventures to steamy romances. Some of the most popular books include “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas, “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black, and “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros.
“BookTokers” share videos recommending their favorite series, reacting to crazy scenes, or gushing about their favorite fictional couples. These clips are taking over TikTok’s algorithms, with users’ For You pages often swamped with BookTok content.
Coffey is one of many TikTok users to make videos about their reading journey.
But the popularity is swaying users – often young adults – to start reading again. Teenager Kira Coffey said she was in the midst of a reading slump when #BookTok started to appear on her algorithm. Curious about some recommendations, Coffey bought some books to read. She was immediately hooked, immediately filling her shelves and making “BookToks” of her own.
“[The books] are so accessible, and easy for anyone to read,” Coffey said. “You can talk to people about it, and the environment around it makes it more fun to read a book.”
Romance is one of the most popular genres on BookTok.
#BookTok has an offscreen effect as well, which is increasing traction for local bookstores. Patrick McGrath owns Books End, a used book store located in Syracuse. Customers have mentioned #BookTok to McGrath, and he’s pleased that TikTok is reinvigorating an interest in books.
“Screens came later in my life, but people growing up now, it’s constant,” McGrath said. “I think it’s been helpful because we’re seeing it on there, and it’s inspiring people to have the tactical sensation of having an actual book in their hand.”
But despite all of the excitement, Coffey hopes that the true meaning behind reading is not lost.
“Sometimes, [BookTok] can push you down a wormhole of thinking reading is just for pure entertainment,” Coffey said. “When it could be so much more.”