In a tech-driven era where smartphones and computers dominate our attention, it’s easy to assume reading has been reduced to endless scrolling. But against all odds, books are having a viral moment—thanks to TikTok. Specifically, #BookTok, a corner of the app dedicated to sharing emotional, humorous, and heartfelt content on literature, is turning traditional reading into a modern sensation. The movement brings new life to bookshelves, boosts publishing sales, and—most importantly—makes reading cool again. BookTok is significantly impacting how we approach reading and its cultural relevance today.
The BookTok Phenomenon
BookTok, a vibrant and growing subset of TikTok, revolutionizes how readers discover and engage with literature. What began as casual clips of book recommendations evolved into a global movement, with millions of users sharing their love for reading through short videos. Creators use humor, aesthetic visuals, and vivid storytelling to turn individual recommendations into community-wide trends.
Themes such as “books with unforgettable endings” or “fantasy worlds you won’t want to leave” bring readers together, while hashtags like #BookTok and #BookRecommendations have collectively amassed billions of views. The platform thrives on its ability to turn books into cultural touchpoints, sparking discussions that resonate with readers of all ages.
This phenomenon also reshapes the publishing industry, catapulting new and older titles alike to bestseller lists. According to The New York Times, Colleen Hoover’s It Ends with Us and Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles saw explosive success due to the emotional, candid reactions from BookTok creators. By making reading an accessible and interactive experience, BookTok transforms literature into a form of entertainment that fits seamlessly into the digital age.
Clips and Examples
What makes BookTok so engaging is the creativity and personality its creators bring. From reenactments of dramatic book scenes to thoughtful reviews and personal reflections, BookTok videos go beyond simple recommendations, creating an immersive experience that draws viewers into the world of reading.
One of the most prominent trends right now is the “cozy fantasy” genre, featuring books like Travis Baldree’s Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust. Creators such as Noelle Gallagher craft serene, atmospheric videos showcasing steaming coffee mugs, cozy bookstores, and tranquil nature scenes. These visuals are paired with soothing commentary that captures the heartwarming themes of these stories, creating an inviting space for viewers to unwind and escape.
Another theme dominating BookTok is the “romantasy” wave, led by books like Sarah J. Maas’ Roses and Rebecca Yarros’s Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorns. Creators like Marianna (@mariannasreads) create vibrant content that brings these fantastical worlds to life. Her videos often feature visually striking edits with glowing magical effects, dramatic soundtracks, and engaging commentary that highlights the emotional tension of these stories. From ranking her favorite book characters to sharing “starter packs” for those new to romantasy, Marianna consistently connects with her audience through immersive content.
The “dark academia” aesthetic also captivates readers with books like M.L. Rio’s If We Were Villains at the forefront. Rachel Claire’s videos are especially notable in this trend, using shadowy, candlelit settings paired with classical piano music. Her clips often feature quotes layered over slow-motion footage of gothic architecture or vintage notebooks, evoking an intellectual and mysterious allure that feels pulled straight from the pages of these novels.
Greeley Perspective: How Students Feel About BookTok
While BookTok has undeniably shaped reading trends globally, its impact on the Greeley community reveals a range of perspectives. Some students find it a valuable tool for discovering books, while others remain skeptical of its influence.
Sophomore Preston Ng shares a neutral view on the platform: “BookTok does not influence me in any way.” He also believes it hasn’t made reading more social or accessible at Greeley. “We don’t read the same books,” he adds, highlighting a disconnect between BookTok trends and the preferences of Greeley students.
In contrast, Sophomore Karina Saenger finds value in BookTok’s recommendations. “[It] gives me suggestions on genres I like and books I haven’t read that others find entertaining,” she explains. While the trends often align with her interests, they occasionally push her toward books outside her usual choices. However, Karina also recognizes the risk of overhype. “I’ve enjoyed books like Caraval and Once Upon a Broken Heart…but [BookTok] makes them seem more emotional or intense than they are,” she reflects.
Junior Millie Schwartz, however, takes a more critical view. “BookTok hasn’t influenced what I read,” she says, adding that her friends’ attempts to recommend books from the platform don’t sway her. She describes BookTok’s promotional tactics as ineffective. “The books just don’t align with what [we] actually read, no matter how they try to promote them,” she comments.
Meanwhile, Sophomore Olga Makarova offers a broader perspective on BookTok’s presence, even though it doesn’t influence her reading choices. “I feel like it influences students because it’s promoted on social media, which the majority of students use,” she explains, acknowledging the platform’s reach and impact.
The varied responses from Greeley students reflect the multifaceted impact of BookTok. For some, it’s an exciting option for discovering new reads and connecting with a community of readers. For others, it feels overhyped or disconnected from their preferences. This divide highlights how personal tastes and experiences shape the influence of viral trends.
Despite differing opinions, BookTok has undeniably transformed how people engage with literature, blending the timeless appeal of storytelling with the immediacy of social media. By turning reading into a communal and visual experience, it has drawn in younger, more diverse audiences and energized the literary world. In a digital age, BookTok reaffirms that the love of storytelling—and its power to connect us—remains as strong as ever.
The BookTok Reading List
Want to explore BookTok? Here are some popular titles to dive into:
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
Verity by Colleen Hoover
The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Circe by Madeline Miller
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Babel by R.F. Kuang
