Social media has often come under fire for its negative impacts on society. However, one positive aspect that has emerged is its ability to introduce readers to new and noteworthy books. The annual TikTok Book Awards recently took place in London, where the international book of the year was awarded to Fourth Wing, a fantasy novel by U.S. author Rebecca Yarros. This book gained immense popularity on TikTok, ultimately leading it to the No. 1 spot on The New York Times bestseller list. Yarros expressed her gratitude for the role TikTok played in the success of her book, highlighting the influence of the #BookTok community in spreading the word about Fourth Wing.
Apart from Fourth Wing’s victory, Lisa Jewell’s None of This Is True was honored as the book of the year at the TikTok Book Awards. Jewell, a British author, was ecstatic about the recognition her thriller received, especially considering the stiff competition she faced. She was surprised by the buzz surrounding her book on TikTok and the positive impact it had on its popularity. Jewell’s experience is a testament to the unpredictable nature of social media platforms and their ability to amplify the reach of literary works.
A fascinating insight shared by authors like Yarros and Jewell is the unexpected success of books that deviated from conventional norms. Yarros admitted that the books she was initially hesitant about, considering them too unconventional or bizarre, turned out to be the most popular among TikTok users. This revelation challenges traditional notions of literary success and underscores the influence of digital platforms in shaping reading preferences. It highlights the evolving landscape of the book industry, where unconventional and unique voices find resonance with online communities.
The TikTok Book Awards operate on a democratic principle, with the #BookTok community actively participating in the selection process. A panel of experts nominates the shortlist, but the final winners are determined by the votes of the online community. This inclusive approach not only engages readers but also fosters a sense of ownership and recognition among the members of the #BookTok community. The overwhelming response, with 82,000 people voting in the awards, reflects the growing influence of social media in shaping literary conversations.
TikTok reports a staggering number of videos created under the hashtag #BookTok, indicating the platform’s burgeoning book community. With over 35 million videos dedicated to discussing and recommending books, BookTok has emerged as one of the most vibrant sub-communities on TikTok. This trend signifies a shift in reading habits, as readers increasingly turn to social media for book recommendations and engage in lively discussions about their favorite reads. The TikTok Book Awards serve as a testament to the power of social media in promoting reading culture and celebrating literary achievements.