LIES that BookTok keeps telling you 👎🏻🚫
BookTok is full of amazing creators and content and I'd be lying if I said I didn't doomscroll it. BUT a lot of creators do lie (at least a little bit) about what they're reading and how fast they're reading.
There is definitely some toxicity being spread on BookTok, especially relating to what people "should" be doing. A lot of these "shoulds" are really harmful because they're based on lies.
LIES THAT BOOKTOK TELLS YOU:
❌ You must read a specific number of books monthly.
There is no set quantity of books you have to read each month to call yourself a reader. Anyone who likes to read is a reader in my opinion. A lot of BookTokers who read 10+ books each month tend to read shorter, easier to finish books. And there's NOTHING wrong with that BUT that is something completely different from reading lengthily classics.
❌ You should buy new books frequently.
There's no need to buy books all the time especially when your shelf is full of unread books. Many people can't afford to buy brand new books all the time. Using the public library or second-hand shops are just as good!!! Plus a lot of BookTokers have money to do this (again, nothing wrong with how they want to spend their money) BUT don't feel pressured to buy new books.
❌ You're reading the "wrong" book.
The wrong book quite literally does NOT exist and the right one doesn't exist either. Any book that you enjoy reading and find interesting/compelling is the right book. A lot of BookTokers claim readers have to read certain genres or books in order to call themselves a reader. This just is NOT true!!!!!
#lemon8bookclub #unpopularbookopinions #booktokmademebuy #booktok #reader
BookTok has quickly become a vibrant community where readers share their book recommendations, opinions, and reading challenges. However, as with any popular social media platform, some misinformation and unrealistic standards can spread among creators and viewers. The three major lies identified—pressure to read a certain number of books monthly, the need to frequently purchase new books, and the existence of "wrong" books—reflect unrealistic expectations that can discourage and overwhelm readers. Firstly, the idea that readers must finish a set number of books each month is misleading. Reading is a personal journey, and the pace depends on individual schedules, interests, and reading material complexity. Many BookTokers who claim to read 10 or more books monthly often focus on shorter or less complex books. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that, but readers should feel empowered to choose books that fit their preferences and life demands without shame or pressure. Secondly, the misconception that readers should constantly buy new books creates financial pressure and can detract from other affordable reading options. Libraries, e-books, and second-hand bookstores are valuable resources that offer rich reading experiences without the high cost. Not everyone has the budget to purchase new books regularly, and it's important to recognize that reading is accessible in many forms. Finally, the concept of "wrong" books is truly unfounded. There is no universal right or wrong book, only books that resonate differently with each reader. Encouraging diverse reading experiences helps foster a love for literature and supports mental well-being. Readers should seek enjoyment and engagement rather than adhere to external standards dictating acceptable genres or titles. Understanding these misleading messages is crucial for creating a positive reading environment on BookTok and beyond. Readers should feel free to set their own goals, explore books that excite them, and utilize resources available to maintain a healthy and enjoyable reading life. Ultimately, celebrating individual tastes and pacing can help nurture a genuine and lasting connection to literature.
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