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What Is BookTok?

BookTok is a vibrant subcommunity on TikTok where passionate readers and authors share book reviews, recommendations, discussions, and literary content through engaging short-form videos.

This niche has significantly influenced book trends and sales, making it a powerful platform for discovering new books and connecting with like-minded literature enthusiasts. 

More About BookTok:

BookTok is the short form of ‘Book TikTok.’ It came into existence when TikTok and the world of books collided, creating a community of readers and authors passionate about literature. This community interacts primarily through the use of hashtags, making it easy for anyone to join the conversation.

The community was born when a particular TikTok user began posting videos about their favorite books. Soon after, other users joined in, and BookTok started gaining traction. Today, most BookTok creators are women and teens who post videos on various genres, including romance, young adult fantasy, and young adult fiction. 

BookTok gained immense popularity when readers began sharing their book reviews and recommendations, resonating with a vast number of TikTok users. As of now, BookTok has garnered more than 112 billion views on TikTok. This trend has also had a significant impact on the publishing industry, influencing book sales and literary trends globally.

Let’s take a look at some examples of BookTok on TikTok.

Screenshots showcasing popular BookTok videos on TikTok, highlighting trends in book recommendations and literary discussions


For instance, several book titles have made repeated comebacks on bestseller lists after going viral on BookTok. This phenomenon has led to a 9% overall growth in the US print book market. The young adult genre, in particular, saw a sales boom post-2020, and adult fiction saw a 25% increase in sales following its popularity on BookTok in 2021.


Benefits of BookTok for Readers and Authors


If you’re a TikTok user, joining the BookTok community is straightforward. Open a TikTok account, search for BookTok hashtags or users you prefer, and start following and interacting with their content. Over time, you can also start posting your own book-related content to engage with the community.


BookTok is primarily used for sharing book reviews, recommendations, and discussions. Users also create themed videos, such as "Books That Made Me Cry" or "Underrated Gems," to engage with their followers. The community fosters a collaborative environment where readers and authors can connect and share their love for books.

By leveraging the power of BookTok and understanding the TikTok Algorithm, both readers and authors can find new opportunities to explore and share their literary interests. Whether you’re looking for your next great read or trying to get your book noticed, BookTok offers a dynamic and engaging platform to meet your literary needs.

Related Terms

Frequently asked questions

What is BookTok and how did it start?

BookTok is a vibrant subcommunity on TikTok where book enthusiasts share reviews, recommendations, and discussions about their favorite reads. It began when TikTok users started creating engaging videos about books, using hashtags like #BookTok to connect with fellow readers. This trend has rapidly grown, with millions of users participating and influencing book sales and trends globally.

How can I join the BookTok community?

Joining BookTok is simple. If you already have a TikTok account, you can start by searching for popular BookTok hashtags such as #BookTok, #BookRecommendations, or #BookReview. Follow creators whose content resonates with you, engage with their videos, and even share your own book-related content.

What are the benefits of BookTok for authors and publishers?

BookTok offers tremendous opportunities for authors and publishers. It provides a platform to reach a passionate and engaged audience, increasing visibility and driving book sales. Lesser-known authors can gain recognition and build a fan base, while publishers can tap into trending genres and reader preferences to market their books effectively.

Why has BookTok become so popular among readers?

BookTok's popularity stems from its community-driven nature and the authenticity of its content. Readers appreciate the genuine reviews and recommendations from fellow book lovers. The short, engaging video format makes it easy to discover new books and genres. Additionally, BookTok fosters a sense of belonging and shared enthusiasm for reading.

Frequently asked questions

What is BookTok and how did it start?
How can I join the BookTok community?

Joining BookTok is simple:

  • Existing TikTok account: If you already have a TikTok account, you're ready to get started.
  • Search for hashtags: Look for popular BookTok hashtags like #BookTok, #BookRecommendations, or #BookReview.
  • Follow creators: Follow creators whose content resonates with your reading interests.
  • Engage with content: Interact with their videos by liking, commenting, and sharing.
  • Share your content: Create and share your own book-related content to join the community.
What are the benefits of BookTok for authors and publishers?
Why has BookTok become so popular among readers?

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