BookTok: The Social Media Phenomenon Revolutionizing the World of Literature

In 2025, we have all seen it—scrolling through social media, a single video of a popularized book or series sparks our interest, and soon after, we find ourselves bombarded with even more recommendations. 

These rapidly expanding online communities, especially “BookTok” and “Bookstagram,” have opened the door to reading for many, and have played a significant role in the success of numerous book series. While the movement did not start at a particular point, it erupted in August 2020 when influencer Kate Wilson posted a series of quotes from books that “say I love you without actually saying I love you.” That video accrued over a million views, with her account, @kateslibrary, continuously growing in popularity as a wholesome “comfort space.”

A notable example of books surging in popularity with this growing movement has been the A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas. Maas sold millions of print copies in 2024, making her one of the year’s best-selling authors. Many view her as the “poster child” of BookTok, with content on her books brimming throughout the platform and contributing to her success. 

Yet while it may initially seem like any other social media trend, BookTok may prove to be the most influential of them all. In an age of widespread technology addiction that decreases many people’s interest in other activities, BookTok stands out as doing the opposite. Instead of continuing to doomscroll, BookTok viewers are more likely to grab a copy of a viral book from their local or school library and join the literary bandwagon. BookTok thus serves to merge interests, spotlighting novels from otherwise overlooked shelves and putting them into the hands of viewers.

Content creators like Brooklyn and Bailey McKnight have joined the trend, frequently discussing books on Instagram. Bailey recently started a new book-based YouTube series, much to the excitement of her subscribers who commented the likes of “Petition to make this a permanent series on the B and B channel” and “LIVING for the book content.”

Although some argue that BookTok has stifled reader’s curiosity in the book selection process, the contrary is true. Many of these readers would have likely not read books at all if they had not seen these trends. BookTok can prevent doomscrolling, re-instilling a passion for reading that can then spur creativity in the selection process. Literary content on various accounts may convince viewers to further develop their interest in reading and provide hope for the growth of literacy in the future.

The benefits of reading are undeniable; despite students’ busy schedules, reading for just a few minutes each day can reduce stress, improve concentration and expand vocabulary. Reading ultimately allows students to become better learners and more well-rounded individuals.

Whether a book is discovered through BookTok or a conversation at school, picking up the book and immersing oneself in the world of literature can provide an accessible escape that enriches the mind, fosters creativity and deepens a lifelong appreciation for reading.

Written by Nisha Khatri

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons and Xia Hua