With new technology and trending apps comes cause and effect. TikTok has impacted a community only a few would think of: Readers. Within the realms of TikTok, different parts are depending on your interests. For the reading community, it can be known as ‘Booktok.’ The videos that consume this part of the app have anything and everything to do with reading. Creators post reviews, edits, relatable videos, and more to talk to fellow book lovers or get new people to try it out. This has worked as multiple books have been seen all over the app, not just the book side. Thus allowing an audience to the world of stories.
The effect of booktok can be found in bookstores, libraries, and even retail stores. The PCHS library has had a handful of students ask for books they’ve seen on the app.
“We have [seen students ask for books they’ve seen on TikTok], especially Colleen Hoover. We’ve had a few of those,” said librarian Valorie Stokes.
Hoover has been one of the many authors that have gone viral. Her most famous, “It Ends with Us,” has a hashtag of 2.8 billion views. Because of this, authors now use TikTok to advertise their book, hoping it gets big. “It Ends with Us” was published in 2016, but 2020 saw a sudden rise in sales. The growing popularity of reading affects students’ interest and helps authors.
Though it has intrigued some people, some might wonder if teens will stick to this new popularity of reading.
“I think it is possible that, initially, they might get enthused by the latest TikTok title. Still, I think it has the potential to get them even more interested in that certain genre or more from that certain author. I haven’t heard of any negative effects on reading per se. I think social media itself, if they’re too involved, tends to make their stamina for reading not what it could be,” said Stokes.
Ultimately, it is up to the person who picks up a popular book to continue reading. Right now, BookTok has 184.0 Billion views on the app; this may be a trend that will stick.
If you are a reader or don’t know where to start, check out the PCHS library recommendations flip through.
