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BookTok and the Transformation of Reading Culture Among Young People

    

    Social media has become an important part of daily life for many young people. Platforms such as TikTok no longer function only as places for entertainment; they also influence trends, interests, and habits. One trend that has gained significant attention is BookTok, a community on TikTok where users share book reviews, recommendations, reactions, and discussions. BookTok has changed the way young people discover and engage with literature.

    BookTok became popular because of its short and engaging content. Users create videos discussing books they enjoy, emotional reactions to stories, or recommendations for different genres. Many books gain popularity after becoming viral on the platform. Titles that were released years ago often return to bestseller lists because readers share positive reviews and attract new audiences. As a result, young people who previously had little interest in reading become more curious about books and literature.

    BookTok also brings several positive effects to reading culture. First, it encourages young people to read more frequently. Many readers become motivated after watching recommendations from other users with similar interests. Second, BookTok provides exposure for both popular and lesser-known authors. New writers receive opportunities to reach larger audiences through social media. Third, the platform creates online communities where readers discuss stories, characters, and themes. These discussions help readers connect with others and create a more interactive reading experience.

    Despite these advantages, BookTok also creates some concerns. Many readers choose books based on popularity rather than literary value. Viral books often receive more attention while other works remain overlooked. In addition, recommendations sometimes become repetitive because similar books appear continuously on users' pages. This pattern limits readers from exploring different genres and literary works.

    BookTok has transformed reading culture among young people in many ways. The platform increases interest in reading, supports authors, and builds reading communities. At the same time, it creates a trend-based reading culture where popularity strongly influences choices. Social media continues to shape how people interact with literature, and BookTok shows how digital platforms affect modern reading habits.


Journalist: Aissah Nindy Putri Krisdianto

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