i think my only problem with booktube is that i think it's very difficult to find people who don't do mostly YA books. no hate for the people who do, i have nothing against YA novels, they're just not my thing, it's more the search system of youtube that almost only show me YA channels.
HisNeverland I didn't realised this until i read this comment. I think that it's because lots of booktubers are younger and so they post YA, they are also more popular are more younger viewers than older viewers on youtube
I agree!! I am starting to make my own booktube videos. I will discuss a little bit of YA if I feel like it, but I will be discussing a little bit more variety.
I had no idea there was booktube drama! As a viewer my only frustration is how hard it is to find people who aren't reviewing YA and top ten stuff. I have worked in libraries and bookshops and it fascinates me how many hugely popular genres are completely underrepresented on booktube. I do loathe tags as they feel like filler. The only hauls I enjoy are thrift store ones. One thing that really put me off hauls is discovering that some of the biggest haulers I used to see were in debt. I can't enjoy a haul knowing that person is crying about their credit card bill on social media! TBH it seems that the problems on booktube are the same as on any part of youtube. It seems that every part of youtube ends up being filled with very 'samey' videos and it is often not the most intelligent/creative people who end up with the biggest subscriber numbers.
100% agree. That's the nice thing about subscriptions and having a tailored feed - you really can pick and choose the content you want to watch and support!
YES!! This is exactly what I always think whenever I see those videos! There really is something for everyone on TH-cam, you just have to look for it. 👍🏻
Lesley, you hit the nail on the head with this one. The 'problem with BookTube' is that a lot of people want to have a problem with something that is inherently innocent and not worth complaining about. I started my own channel because I wanted to talk about books I liked, nothing more nothing less, and I don't do TBRs either, or hauls even that much! I just subscribe to the people I like, and that's all there is to it 😊
For many (myself included) booktube is a hobby - I work full time and sometimes the only videos I have time to make properly are hauls and wrap ups, and the occasional tag. Discussion videos and reviews are great but they take time and energy that not everyone has. The bottom line for me is just live and let live!
Great video! I agree that BookTube is what you make of it. I myself got really tired of my own videos and how I was just doing the same thing over and over without trying anything new. Not to say that wrap ups and everything aren't fun to watch because I watch other people's... I just agree with the statement you should make content you would want to watch. I've taken a little break but I'm definitely trying to work on doing more of what I like and what makes me happy for sure!
Yes, so well said. I can only agree with everything you said. I unsubbed from so many people because I just wasn't interested in their videos no matter how many other people liked them. BookTube has grown so much it is impossible to watch everyone and stay in touch with what everyone is reading/doing/talking about. So like you said, I made it into what I want from it and ignore what doesn't interest me or even makes me angry (which there is little of).
So true! I rarely hear any drama because I don't follow anyone who is the sort to start it and I hear about it second or third hand. I really like all the people I'm subscribed to and know that I will always hear of something new or see a good review.
Thanks for bringing up this topic. Early on in my channel I realized that TBRs weren't for me so I cut them. Like you, I felt guilty when I wasn't strictly following my lineup. Booktube has given my reading more of a routine but there's a limit. I don't buy a lot of books for a few reasons - lack of resources (I live Germany), lack of money, and my wanderlust lifestyle. At first I was afraid that no one would subscribe to my channel because of this but I eventually said screw it and started focusing on other content. And what do you know, people still came. I think there's pressure on booktubers to put out a specific type of content and it can be hard to ignore that when people who do tons of bookhauls get more views. But I stopped caring when I realized that my favorite booktubers are those who are just genuinely themselves and don't seem to try to conform to booktube standards. Great discussion :)
Leslie, i am agree with you. This is true. If you bored to watch something you do not want just leave it. I was subscribing to thousand channels and now check them and most of them leave them. You are nice and honest.
I completely agree. When I first started Booktube, we were a very very small community. Over the years Booktube exploded and it grew so much...which is awesome, because now there are so many different kind of booktubers out there that you can choose and pick whichever you like best. Personally I think just watch and subscribe to people you are really interested in. So I guess live and let live. Create and let create.
Thank you for also not having a TBR list for the immediate future! I feel the same way, when I am ready for the next book I look at my shelves and pick a book based on what I feel like reading next, which changes all the time for me.
Booktube is such a tiny subset of the TH-cam universe, and fortunately a fairly friendly and accepting bunch. I like that. I do think it can be a bit of a bubble and the majority (myself included mind you) are doing variations on a theme. TBRs, hauls, tags, reviews, wrap-ups and discussions on the various merits of. I’m curious where the community moves to from here as it grows and matures. I want to know where the booktubers out there are that are willing to make glorious mistakes and try something new.
Thank you for this Lesley!!!! I completely agree with everything you said and I think you put it across in a very thoughtful, kind way. It really bothers me that people think there is a problem as I worry it makes something we all do as a hobby into something stressful and pressured. I'm of the same mindset, I only subscribe if I really enjoy the content and I wouldn't watch a video that annoyed me - because really what would be the point! Also I think everyone should 100% be left to make decisions about their own content without people saying it isn't 'original' enough. And lastly I don't understand when people can't find channels that have videos other than hauls and wrap ups - there are so so many channels out there that offer a variety of content types of people just make the effort to look for it! Anyways great video and I'm so glad to see a positive video about booktube :D
I totally agree with what you said here. BookTube is what you make of it. I have unsubscribe to many channels that I found I just wasn't enjoying anymore. As a content creator I try not to worry about what others do on their channels and just do what I want to do. I enjoy the variety that BookTube provides.
I love BookTube. I watch quite a few BookTubers and have made a few videos myself, mostly BookTubeathon related. I like to watch library hauls, since I mostly can only get books from the library. I like variety and am usually able to enjoy different videos, though I do find that I have mixed feelings about watching bookshelf tours.
This is the perfect approach to booktube. I haven't made a wrap up video in a while just because I wasn't enjoying them. Everyone has their preferences and the great thing is there's a part of booktube for everyone :)
Thank you so much for this! I cannot agree more! As a creator, you need to create the videos that you want to watch. I think when these videos start surfacing I just feel like it is a personal issue that the creator has with themselves. So I get frustrated when they attack 'BookTube' as a whole. There are so many BookTubers that have creative content, you just need to look for them. I would hate for videos like these to discourage anyone from starting a channel. Just do whatever makes you happy. You do you!
I completely agree with you. Booktube is what you make of it, and there is such a large variety of booktubers out there that you can easily find people who share a similar taste. I recently branched out on my channel and don't only make videos about books which has been such a delight. People should make the content they want and watch the content they want. It's pretty simple. We don't need to impose our own personal goals or ideals on other people. It's cool when a lot of people on Booktube do similar things, like when we just come together, but those moments are few and far between. That's not necessarily a bad thing. It just means there is more variety on Booktube with different people doing different things that appeal to different people. Booktube doesn't really have much of a problem in my opinion apart from taking itself just a little too seriously sometimes. Ramble ramble Sanaa rambles.
the reason i subscribed is because you dont seem stuck on " i have to only make such and such videos" and because your being very obviously honest and from the heart.
I completely agree. I started my channel because I wanted to talk about books, yes, but also so I could have a place to practice my English, that's my main reason to keep on making videos (to practice, push myself and not being shy speaking in another language). It's kind of a selfish reason to make videos but it's what works for me (as a subscriber, I do enjoy listening to people talk about books they love and all, of course, and have discussions).
Hello from Brazil. I've found your channel and I am in love with it. Your videos are the ones I was looking for. It is not all about YA and showing books you bought... I mean you make great suggestions and your comments are enriching. Thank you.
For a little while there I felt like I needed to make the videos other people were making... but then I realized, like you said, my audience can tell I don't enjoy doing these. And so I just make the videos I want to make. For me it has never been about how many subscribers or comments... it's always been about having fun and having dialogue. I love being able to talk to people about books I read to to get their feedback. And I love that I have my certain booktubers who's taste I rely on to find new books. Sometimes I do find I watch people whose taste I don't align with a ton, but who I just think are lovely people. I still do find books I want to read from their channels, but for me it can often be more about personality than anything when deciding if I want to stay subscribed to someone.
I'm not sure if there's this HUGE problem with Booktube, the again, I've been a content creator for only 1 month, so perhaps I'm out of the loop. I do k ow that these peoblem/issues with Booktube videos and responses are my favorite because then I get to see people challenge the norm. Perhaps Booktube overall should be challenging the norm; we shouldn't be stuck in the repetitive cycle of TBR(a video series that I don't make either and instead I write a blog post), wrap-up, tag, haul, unboxing, etc. Thanks for the video Lesley, you've given me some wonderful food for thought.
Great video! I'm new to booktube, and I'm still working on my first video, but I recognize some of the things you talk about. One thing that surprised me is how few reviews some channels make. Reviews are the thing that attracted me to booktube and what I want to do myself. It was a bit surprising to me that that wasn't the focus, but that many channels are mostly about hauls and wrap-ups, etc. I had no idea that people even did that before I started my blog. Though bookhauls do give you a good idea of whether those people have the same taste in books as you.
Great video, I agree with everything you said. When I started making videos I knew that I wasn't going to make monthly TBR videos. I knew that I would feel pressured to read books that maybe I don't feel like reading at that moment and that can ifluence the way I feel about that book. I like to watch book hauls, but I realized that sometimes they are very repetitive. It took me a while to find the booktubers I enjoy watching. It's a little bit harder to find smaller booktubers that maybe I would really like.
I think it's easy to get sucked in by what's "popular" in the booktube community, but you like you said in the end we have to make content that we want to make regardless of whether it's what other people on booktube are doing or not. People can definitely sense whether you're really into it or not. Great video👍🏼
I really liked this video, Lesley. I can say I agree with you in every point mentioned. To me it's vital to enjoy my own content, I worried a little when a certain week I didn't post a video because of a lack of time or ideas, but this is not about having pressure doing it just because of having more subscribers or views. In the end, it's all about the passion we have for a hobby that used to be a very "solitary" thing. :)
I agree! For me, my BookTube experience has really enriched my reading life. I read other genres now as a result that I probably would not have tried otherwise. I read more in general and it has helped me to come out of my shell so to speak to read and discuss books with people I don't even know in real life. I truly believe BookTube and TH-cam for that matter is what you make it. Find what works for you and do that, if something or someone is bothering you, don't watch their videos and unsubscribe. The power is in your hands. Thank you, Leslie for this video and allowing us to share our opinions also in a mature manner. Looking forward to your next video! 😊
I agree. It can be a good or bad experience depending on what you are trying to get out of it. For me I enjoy it all. I have unsubscribed to people in the past as I want what I watch to be fun/ interesting etc. I sometimes see people comment on others videos with hate and negativity when they could just not watch or unsubscribe. The book tube community is so big now you can always find someone awesome.
Yes! You totally hit the nail on the head! I've seen the "problems with Booktube" videos before and I got worried about my content because I seem to stick to those regular videos. I ended getting to a place where I don't really care what others say about the videos we should make. I make the types of videos that I like to watch from other people. The only thing that was bothering me, was that everyone one I was watching was talking about the same books, over again! so as you suggested in this video I've been unsubscribing from people whose opinions I don't trust and also looking for people that read different books than I do, such as yourself, so I can expand my horizons. Your 100% correct, Booktube is what you make of it, so make the best experience for yourself.
Every time "problems with Booktube" come up I get frustrated enough that I try to just ignore it. This is because my issue with the complainers is that no one should be making their videos solely for others. Everyone should be making videos because talking about books makes them happy and some people like to talk about books using different methods than others but if making a certain type of book video is difficult for someone or they don't enjoy it they really shouldn't do it just because so many others do. I also completely agree with you that everyone here can find channels that cater to their taste so when people say "the problem with Booktube is..." and they proceed to make a generalization about a large group of channels I think "well clearly you are not following the right booktubers for your taste. So it isn't that there is anything wrong with their content, just that it isn't to your taste.". Also when people say " I wish there was more of...on Booktube", if that person doesn't already create videos pertaining to whatever topic they think isn't discussed enough I think "if you want more of it, why aren't you doing it?". Okay sorry that was a bit of a rant lol. This was an excellent topic and I 100% agree with all of your points :)
I totally agree and really appreciate the kind and level headed way you made your point. I think the only real problem with booktube is that some people haven't really become fully aware of the true variety there is on here. While at first glance I'm sure it looks rather mono culture, it doesn't take that much digging to reveal the crazy world just beneath the surface.
I think you are right on the money. I think this applies to any creative endeavour too. Thanks to the internet nowadays we can always find at least one other person (though usually loads of them) that share our interests, so if we make videos or write stories or make drawings we would like to watch/read/see, then others will want to do the same. Thanks for this video cause this needs to be said more and be taken more into account all over, not only in TH-cam.
This was a great video to watch, as I'm new to booktube and would love to start up my channel soon. :) I've been researching and this has been one of the most helpful videos yet. I love your opinions on subscribing and how we should make videos we want to do not just what others are doing. It's so true.
I think I found the good end of book tube because every time I open a video fearing drama, I’m instead pleasantly surprised by a rational and open reflection. ❤️
As usual a very well put discussion video. I am very eclectic with my taste in books so I subscribe to a range of different book tubers. I try to keep out of any dramas on book tube lol have enough worries in my everyday life.
I'm mostly bored of people claiming that "everyone" on Booktube just does YA. There are so many content creators out there talking about all kinds of fiction. Maybe they're harder to find, or they have fewer subscribers, but they are out there. That said, while I may not be interested in children's lit or middle grade, I love this channel because of the presentation style and the thoughtful discussion/dialog. So it's always going to be a mix of things that draws you to a particular person.
I have definitely learned to focus on the things about booktube that I enjoy. It took me a while to figure out what that is, but after years of watching and making videos, it has become more and more clear to me. I am bored with most "routine" videos, so I enjoy channels who come up with more original ideas or put an original spin on the standard booktube formats. As a creator, it's hard to always live up to that standard, so I do slip in a wrap-up or a tag every now and again when I am out of ideas or short on time but still want to make a video. What is great is that with the way booktube has grown, it's definitely possible to find channels and people that you like. So I don't think there is a problem (as long as you don't focus on numbers at least, because it is sometimes frustrating to see how quantity tends to "win" over quality on youtube.)
Trueeeee it always feels so extra when people talk about issues with booktube all the time... it's a good conversation to have but sometimes it just feels like clutter
I found this very interesting, personally for me I don't worry about it, I make the videos I want to make (usually hauls and wrap ups) and I don't stick to one genre, I know a lot of success on booktube seems to be with YA novels but I don't read very many YA books and that works for me, I have almost 200 subscribers and although it isn't a lot I'm really pleased that almost 200 people were interested in what I might show next :)
Bless this video. I don't have a problem with Booktube. I think it's great that people talk about books and make others want to buy books more because it means physical books are totally not dying out in culture. It's almost like free advertisement for books, even though I don't yet have any videos or published books out there.
I am pretty new to booktube. I have been doing a book review blog for years but just started on youtube as a content creator. I love doing book reviews. I like watching hauls and tbr but def dont think they are right for me creation wise. Like you, I read whatever I am in the mood for and that can change day to day sometimes.
Oh Lesley, wonderful and articulate as always. I totally agree with you booktube is what you make it and thats why it is so wonderful. I also live in a bit of a bubble and so always miss the 'drama' but im glad of that. 😊 xx
I realize this video is almost a year old, but I found it so helpful. I've been feeling discouraged because my videos get no views unless I pay to promote them, and even then I get no comments. I have 11 subscribers, and most of them are friends/family. That being said, I only have five videos so far, so I know it is too early for me to really be successful, but it' still discouraging. I was on the verge of filming a video that I had no interest in making because I though it would get views. Then I watched this video (I was already subscribed to you) and I feel encouraged. Even if I don't get views/subscribers right away, I'm going to continue making the videos that I want to make. Thanks!
I love the idea of making your own booktube. I have a hard time unsubscribing from people because I don't want to hurt their feelings, but let's be honest, they have no idea it's me! Ugh. Even so, I scan my sub feed and pick the videos that I know I want to watch, and put those I might watch into my Watch Later list. Works pretty well. I really think that there isn't a lot we CAN do on Booktube, content wise. Reviews, hauls, wrap-ups, TBRs (I can't do those either, I never stuck to them when I did!), discussions.... I'm not sure we will ever stray far from these basics. Maybe we could be more in-depth or more artsy, but that's about it. For myself, I often feel that my content isn't what I want it to be, but I have a full-time job, a boyfriend, a dog, and I'm sick a lot; I'm restricted by time and energy, so I kind of have to deal with what I have. Honestly though, I just enjoy the process of making videos, so I make whatever I have a reason to make... if that's a haul, so be it. Lately I've been trying to do what I can when I can and just be satisfied with that. Great video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this topic. Also I love your mug!
I use book tube to give me ideas for when I go to the Library and Bookshop. I can't afford to buy books regularly but have a list of suggestions for when I can. It has made me read YA and there are some great books in that genre and I look at the classics. It's interesting to see why the bloggers read the books they do.
I completely agree, booktube is what you make it. Or at least, your booktube 'experience' is what you make it. I enjoy watching some hauls, but I don't buy enough books to make haul videos. I tend to shy away from in-depth reviews because I don't want to be spoiled, nor do I want to spoil other people. Though I do understand that book reviews are the backbone that booktube was built on. Do what you want it's your channel, and it's your time.
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I adore what you said 99% I also don't make TBR videos, i prefer Book reviews & Book discussion and also Poetry reading and of course some motivation videos for beginner readers. I want to make booktube as i want not imitate famous Booktubers. I think we have to do it in our way honestly, not pretending like others did. Thanks
I'm like you, I have a few dozen booktubers I subscribe to that I really love to watch and who have similar tastes to myself. And so I never really have a problem with booktube in general.
Lovely video! I found it difficult when I started watching Booktube to find people who reviewed the kind of books I was interested in, rather than YA. However, now I've found my niche and really love the people I'm subscribed to! xoxo
Adding to the chorus of YES! I think there can sometimes be general issues that come up on TH-cam, but BookTube is small enough that I think it's able to self-regulate. I also think that most of the time any "problems with BookTube" stem from people trying to be "nice" or from people thinking that others aren't being "nice"? Subscribe to who you want to subscribe to, watch the videos you want to watch and participate in discussions that you want to be part of. No need to worry about being "nice"... just be yourself! BookTube is definitely what you make of it whether you're a creator or a viewer. I only subscribe to people that I enjoy watching and even within that, like you, I tailor the videos I watch. For example, I've stopped making and watching hauls altogether because I realized that, generally, I don't enjoy them.
I follow so few booktubers that I didn't even know that there was a problem, but everything you said sounds exactly right! This video reminded me that I'd like to follow more booktubers. Could you recommend some of your favorites?
Oh, I just loved this video so much! I think that sometimes it can be so easy to get caught in this kind of negativity cycle, where one person's negative opinions kind of snowball into this tone of general conversation, and what we really need is to come back to the positive. I feel like that's what this video is! A bit of advice that I wish booktube (and creative communities as a whole) would keep in mind when the time comes :D
I agree, you need to find channels that tailor to your interests and try to not watch every video out there to keep up - it can turn you bonkers. Every so often I see a recommended video in my feed about the 'problems of Booktube' - which honestly I'm not so clued in about anymore. Perhaps a year ago I might have when I was subscribed to a lot of youtubers and being a content creator. It was very easy then to get saturated with the same content. But now I have very much slimmed the no. of booktubers on my subscribers list (people who I find interesting and do not mind watching every video they make) and I'm sane for it.
Great video! I completely agree that booktube is what you make it, and I think that's the best way to stay happy with your channel and its content, just doing what pleases you- which may of course change over time. I've only been making videos for about 5 months, so I'm still figuring things out a bit, but I find that I most enjoy wrap ups, reviews, and recommendations, and I'm hopeless at tbrs so I don't make them!! As a subscriber I feel that I follow and enjoy a lot of really great channels, and that if you look then there are channels to suit most book tastes- one thing I would like to find more of however is channels for children's books. I've started trying to talk more about kids books this year (and I love the kids lit aspects of your channel) but if you had any recommendations for other channels that talk about children's literature, then I would like to be subscribed to more of those. I mainly subscribe to channels that focus on literary fiction/classics, but children's literature is definitely my other bookish love, and I've yet to find many kids lit booktubers.
Hi there, I've being watching your channel for a long time, primarily because I share your love for the classics. I'm currently attempting to make some videos myself, and join the Booktube community (for the love of books) What you just share in this video resolve part of my anxieties of joining the community, I was worried about following the trends of Book TBRs, because sometimes I pick up something to read for a month and then my plans completely change and I end up reading something entirely different. So, thank you for the advise and you are right, we should create the experience we want to have.
Yup! You hit it right on the head. I feel if more booktubers did this, there wouldn't be as many who are displeased with booktube. Sure, it'll never be perfect, but it would be a happier experience overall. Great vid! :)
Yes, quite. The only problem I have with booktube is the number of 'problem with booktube' videos that get made. Which obviously this video is not one. This is the sensible answer that needs throwing at them. Damn right. :D
At the point I am only a viewer, so I don't really understand what the fuss is. If viewers are complaining about content then find different channels. When I come across a video I like, I will often subscribe and check out a few videos. If most of their content is not my taste I unsubscribe and move on. I've found I prefer the smaller booktubers, they seem more authentic, less attempt to be showy, and less YA which I don't enjoy. This is a great discussion. Love your videos!
Great video I think you address been happening in a very kind, open and respectful way. I also agree Booktube is what we make it. I have been a subscriber for a while now and I can tell you some of the channels I followed when I started watching booktube I am no longer subscribe too and it has nothing to the creator or their content but me. The types of content we connect with is influenced but so many different factors and is as fluid and ever changing as we are. I believe if we are having trouble finding particular type of content, create it. Chances you’re not the only one looking for it.
Great video! We all need to just focus on making the content we want to make 😊 I don't worry about the majority in this matter. I would rather have a small amount of followers that enjoy the content that I make, than having a large amount that aren't really interested in it.
I agree with you! I LOVE to read, and I do watch and follow other booktubers, I have for a while before restarting my channel, I enjoy the "personality" of the channel they could read the dictionary but if it's entertaining I am going to subscribe to them.
I don't think that booktube has any problems, I just think that there is a lot of diversity and therefore people clash in views of what content they make :) And to be honest, a lot of diversity and debate is a good thing as long as it is respectful.
Hi! I'm new to booktube and I watched this video and liked what you said. I was only finding YA channels and although I do enjoy them now and then I would like to find something more diverse. Do you think you can recommend some channels that are more like that ? At a glance I noticed you read east of Eden ,which I read ,so I subscribed :) looking forward to watching the rest of your reviews . Thanks ! ~M
I concur with what you've said especially the phrase 'Booktube is what you make it'. I think the real problem lies in the lack of originality of content; everyone is doing what anyone else is doing whether tbrs, bookhauls, monthly wrap-ups &c. Why watch Booktuber A when Booktuber B is making the same kind of videos. The people who do out-of-the-ordinary content are either too obscure to even get a glimpse of the spotlight or have stopped producing videos since a very small crowd watched them (or were displeased with how Booktube generally works) There's also the fear of straying too far from what 'Traditional Booktube' is. This is a concurrent - well not issue - but theme that Booktube is afraid of something new and fresh. I wonder why? What is driving this community stagnant of new thoughts and ideas? Lastly I wouldn't venture into the depths of YA lit. as I expect some drama to ensue from it but I will have to say that you either make YA videos or you remain with a few subscribers and views, this is how I personally see the current state. It's like a tenacious old man that hardly accept things that are alien to him. Thank you for the video and discussion.
Subbed. I know this video is old, but it was super refreshing to see someone talk about the “standards” of creating a BookTube channel. I totally agree with you. You should create content that you want to create. I look forward to watching more of your content. =) x
Thanks for your thoughts! It's good that you got your thoughts out so clearly. Everyone has the right to their own opinion. BookTube is what you make it. Exactly! You don't have to do the same videos either. It's your own channel :)
Perhaps we're too new to have had much drama yet, or maybe its just that no one is watching, but we haven't had any trouble yet. Besides Dalton's wardrobe.
I only really have one major issue with book youtubers, there doesn't seem to be many male book youtubers (that I have found so far anyway, fairly new), it seems to be very female dominated, which is perfectly fine, but at times I find it hard to relate when it comes to what I get out of certain books and even the types of books I read. The guys I have found on here are all reading young adult/teenage romance series, and I could never get into that crap even when I was in the demographic.
There is a large portion of booktube that I am simply not interested in so I just ignore it. I subscribe to about a dozen booktubers, and a handful of those are people I have followed for a long time. You are actually the first one I ever subscribed to (must be about three years ago now) and I still watch all of your videos except the ones about children's literature because it doesn't interest me as much. If I come across a new booktuber, I have a quick look through their channel to see what sort of videos they do; if I think their channels looks appealing, I give them a test run. If I haven't seen many of their videos after a couple of months I tend to do a bit of weeding out in my list of subscriptions.
Really great video! I agree with TBR videos but my case is with book hauls. I don't like it and I don't see it. My subscribers have never been a grinch to me but there's always someone - that cames from WHATEVER place - bitching around. And also I don't subscribe to booktubers with tastes different from mine. I guess it's better, right? Like u said. :) all the best, rachel
I WROTE A REALLY LONG COMMENT AND IT GOT DELETED IM SAD ok so basically I have been on both sides and here's what I think: Basically I used to love booktube so much but it feels like a book series you used to love so you reread it and realize your tastes have changed and it tints the experience as a whole. For me, here's why. When I loved booktube my opinions on books were similar enough to people that all the main booktubers, who were the most fun to watch. And when they got excited about stuff I liked or would like it was exciting and comfortable and interesting, now I literally can't find one single booktube channel that seems to fit my tastes as far as I can tell, and outside of a few booktubers I feel like the quality of videos goes down, also I used to like pg booktube humor which made the videos more fun to watch, now I find it annoying. Also, after viewing so much of the same type of videos they don't intrigue me anymore. The sheer fact that people were talking about books and making videos about books was enough to make me love booktube at first, but maybe I got spoiled with that because it doesn't feel the same anymore. I also have pet peeves that seem to relate to all the channels. Like one is how they give the same type of reviews when talking about books which is like "I really liked this book, would highly recommend" and then they might throw in one slightly different comment like "I loved how the character's parents were involved" that everyone else already says but sounds unique. Like I love discussions that I found in my English class, where we dissected characters and related things to themes and talked about how they reflected society, politics, religion etc. And I like fan theories and changing the canon story and stuff like that but it's not on booktube. I just remembered there is one booktuber who I like to watch, and that's because of the things I mentioned earlier, she has seems to have similar booktastes as me (or at least she hates the same books as me) and she's funny/fun to watch for me, and that's LilyCReads, but she hardly ever posts so if that's the extent of my love of booktube I think the love is sorta dead. Which is sad. But oh well.
how do you find booktubers? I put booktube in the search but I came to a lot of how to make these videos. I'd love to follow non-fiction book tubers since that's what I write.
That's actually a great way to find booktubers - most likely everyone who made those "how to booktube" videos is a booktuber. Then you can see if those people have "recommended channels" - a lot of those are likely other booktubers. After watching several channels like this, TH-cam will start recommending more booktube channels for you! :)
I'm a bit late to this party, but whatever... :) I have no problem with people making whatever kind of video they want - obviously, it's their time and energy and they get to choose how to spend it. No one is being forced to watch videos they don't find interesting! So I wouldn't say there's a "problem" with Booktube. I will say, though, that I've had a really hard time finding Booktubers who read the same types of books that I read. I follow several whose personalities I just like, even if I'm not in love with their book choices, but it would be really nice to find some videos with recommendations that I would take seriously, too. I tend to read mostly non-fiction, and I've done a ton of searching, but still haven't found many who read the same. Which makes me think I just need to start my own channel ;) but that's not an option for me right now. Oh well, life goes on! :) If you know of any nonfiction-focused Booktubers, please let me know!
As a booktube viewer I have been confused with those "the problem with BT" videos where a booktuber complains that they don't get as many views if they do this kind of videos and everyones just making the same videos month after month - I read book reviews from the paper all the time and let me tell you - the format hasn't changed for many many decades! But I love to read them as I love to watch wrap up videos..because I use the information when checking out and choosing new books. And I feel it's a bit funny just to make videos for views..and complain that people have to like what you want them to like. If you really want to make videos for money you have to please the crowd. It's just the way it is.. But what's wrong with having a smaller channel and loving what you are doing?
i think my only problem with booktube is that i think it's very difficult to find people who don't do mostly YA books. no hate for the people who do, i have nothing against YA novels, they're just not my thing, it's more the search system of youtube that almost only show me YA channels.
HisNeverland I didn't realised this until i read this comment. I think that it's because lots of booktubers are younger and so they post YA, they are also more popular are more younger viewers than older viewers on youtube
I agree!! I am starting to make my own booktube videos. I will discuss a little bit of YA if I feel like it, but I will be discussing a little bit more variety.
Any recommendations?
Such simple advice but people need to hear it.
finally a booktuber that isn't obsessed with YA! :))
I had no idea there was booktube drama! As a viewer my only frustration is how hard it is to find people who aren't reviewing YA and top ten stuff. I have worked in libraries and bookshops and it fascinates me how many hugely popular genres are completely underrepresented on booktube. I do loathe tags as they feel like filler. The only hauls I enjoy are thrift store ones. One thing that really put me off hauls is discovering that some of the biggest haulers I used to see were in debt. I can't enjoy a haul knowing that person is crying about their credit card bill on social media!
TBH it seems that the problems on booktube are the same as on any part of youtube. It seems that every part of youtube ends up being filled with very 'samey' videos and it is often not the most intelligent/creative people who end up with the biggest subscriber numbers.
100% agree. That's the nice thing about subscriptions and having a tailored feed - you really can pick and choose the content you want to watch and support!
YES!! This is exactly what I always think whenever I see those videos! There really is something for everyone on TH-cam, you just have to look for it. 👍🏻
Lesley, you hit the nail on the head with this one. The 'problem with BookTube' is that a lot of people want to have a problem with something that is inherently innocent and not worth complaining about. I started my own channel because I wanted to talk about books I liked, nothing more nothing less, and I don't do TBRs either, or hauls even that much! I just subscribe to the people I like, and that's all there is to it 😊
For many (myself included) booktube is a hobby - I work full time and sometimes the only videos I have time to make properly are hauls and wrap ups, and the occasional tag. Discussion videos and reviews are great but they take time and energy that not everyone has. The bottom line for me is just live and let live!
Great video! I agree that BookTube is what you make of it. I myself got really tired of my own videos and how I was just doing the same thing over and over without trying anything new. Not to say that wrap ups and everything aren't fun to watch because I watch other people's... I just agree with the statement you should make content you would want to watch. I've taken a little break but I'm definitely trying to work on doing more of what I like and what makes me happy for sure!
I agree 100%! Booktube is definitely what you choose to make of it. Thank you Leslie.
Yes, so well said. I can only agree with everything you said. I unsubbed from so many people because I just wasn't interested in their videos no matter how many other people liked them. BookTube has grown so much it is impossible to watch everyone and stay in touch with what everyone is reading/doing/talking about. So like you said, I made it into what I want from it and ignore what doesn't interest me or even makes me angry (which there is little of).
So true! I rarely hear any drama because I don't follow anyone who is the sort to start it and I hear about it second or third hand. I really like all the people I'm subscribed to and know that I will always hear of something new or see a good review.
Me too, i don't know this topic. May be because i make booktube videos in arabic/ moroccan dialect hhhh
Thanks for bringing up this topic. Early on in my channel I realized that TBRs weren't for me so I cut them. Like you, I felt guilty when I wasn't strictly following my lineup. Booktube has given my reading more of a routine but there's a limit.
I don't buy a lot of books for a few reasons - lack of resources (I live Germany), lack of money, and my wanderlust lifestyle. At first I was afraid that no one would subscribe to my channel because of this but I eventually said screw it and started focusing on other content. And what do you know, people still came. I think there's pressure on booktubers to put out a specific type of content and it can be hard to ignore that when people who do tons of bookhauls get more views. But I stopped caring when I realized that my favorite booktubers are those who are just genuinely themselves and don't seem to try to conform to booktube standards.
Great discussion :)
Leslie, i am agree with you. This is true. If you bored to watch something you do not want just leave it. I was subscribing to thousand channels and now check them and most of them leave them. You are nice and honest.
Perfectly articulated and made me realise why I enjoy your videos so much!
I completely agree. When I first started Booktube, we were a very very small community. Over the years Booktube exploded and it grew so much...which is awesome, because now there are so many different kind of booktubers out there that you can choose and pick whichever you like best. Personally I think just watch and subscribe to people you are really interested in. So I guess live and let live. Create and let create.
Thank you for also not having a TBR list for the immediate future! I feel the same way, when I am ready for the next book I look at my shelves and pick a book based on what I feel like reading next, which changes all the time for me.
Booktube is such a tiny subset of the TH-cam universe, and fortunately a fairly friendly and accepting bunch. I like that. I do think it can be a bit of a bubble and the majority (myself included mind you) are doing variations on a theme. TBRs, hauls, tags, reviews, wrap-ups and discussions on the various merits of. I’m curious where the community moves to from here as it grows and matures. I want to know where the booktubers out there are that are willing to make glorious mistakes and try something new.
Thank you for this Lesley!!!! I completely agree with everything you said and I think you put it across in a very thoughtful, kind way. It really bothers me that people think there is a problem as I worry it makes something we all do as a hobby into something stressful and pressured. I'm of the same mindset, I only subscribe if I really enjoy the content and I wouldn't watch a video that annoyed me - because really what would be the point! Also I think everyone should 100% be left to make decisions about their own content without people saying it isn't 'original' enough. And lastly I don't understand when people can't find channels that have videos other than hauls and wrap ups - there are so so many channels out there that offer a variety of content types of people just make the effort to look for it! Anyways great video and I'm so glad to see a positive video about booktube :D
I totally agree with what you said here. BookTube is what you make of it. I have unsubscribe to many channels that I found I just wasn't enjoying anymore. As a content creator I try not to worry about what others do on their channels and just do what I want to do. I enjoy the variety that BookTube provides.
I love BookTube. I watch quite a few BookTubers and have made a few videos myself, mostly BookTubeathon related. I like to watch library hauls, since I mostly can only get books from the library. I like variety and am usually able to enjoy different videos, though I do find that I have mixed feelings about watching bookshelf tours.
I just wish I could find more BookTubers who are into the classics.
Indeed - any tips for a novice on how to find such channels? Thank you!
This is the perfect approach to booktube. I haven't made a wrap up video in a while just because I wasn't enjoying them. Everyone has their preferences and the great thing is there's a part of booktube for everyone :)
Thank you so much for this! I cannot agree more! As a creator, you need to create the videos that you want to watch. I think when these videos start surfacing I just feel like it is a personal issue that the creator has with themselves. So I get frustrated when they attack 'BookTube' as a whole. There are so many BookTubers that have creative content, you just need to look for them. I would hate for videos like these to discourage anyone from starting a channel. Just do whatever makes you happy. You do you!
I completely agree with you. Booktube is what you make of it, and there is such a large variety of booktubers out there that you can easily find people who share a similar taste. I recently branched out on my channel and don't only make videos about books which has been such a delight. People should make the content they want and watch the content they want. It's pretty simple. We don't need to impose our own personal goals or ideals on other people. It's cool when a lot of people on Booktube do similar things, like when we just come together, but those moments are few and far between. That's not necessarily a bad thing. It just means there is more variety on Booktube with different people doing different things that appeal to different people. Booktube doesn't really have much of a problem in my opinion apart from taking itself just a little too seriously sometimes. Ramble ramble Sanaa rambles.
the reason i subscribed is because you dont seem stuck on " i have to only make such and such videos" and because your being very obviously honest and from the heart.
I completely agree. I started my channel because I wanted to talk about books, yes, but also so I could have a place to practice my English, that's my main reason to keep on making videos (to practice, push myself and not being shy speaking in another language). It's kind of a selfish reason to make videos but it's what works for me (as a subscriber, I do enjoy listening to people talk about books they love and all, of course, and have discussions).
Hello from Brazil. I've found your channel and I am in love with it. Your videos are the ones I was looking for. It is not all about YA and showing books you bought... I mean you make great suggestions and your comments are enriching. Thank you.
For a little while there I felt like I needed to make the videos other people were making... but then I realized, like you said, my audience can tell I don't enjoy doing these. And so I just make the videos I want to make. For me it has never been about how many subscribers or comments... it's always been about having fun and having dialogue. I love being able to talk to people about books I read to to get their feedback. And I love that I have my certain booktubers who's taste I rely on to find new books. Sometimes I do find I watch people whose taste I don't align with a ton, but who I just think are lovely people. I still do find books I want to read from their channels, but for me it can often be more about personality than anything when deciding if I want to stay subscribed to someone.
I'm not sure if there's this HUGE problem with Booktube, the again, I've been a content creator for only 1 month, so perhaps I'm out of the loop. I do k ow that these peoblem/issues with Booktube videos and responses are my favorite because then I get to see people challenge the norm. Perhaps Booktube overall should be challenging the norm; we shouldn't be stuck in the repetitive cycle of TBR(a video series that I don't make either and instead I write a blog post), wrap-up, tag, haul, unboxing, etc. Thanks for the video Lesley, you've given me some wonderful food for thought.
Great video! I'm new to booktube, and I'm still working on my first video, but I recognize some of the things you talk about. One thing that surprised me is how few reviews some channels make. Reviews are the thing that attracted me to booktube and what I want to do myself. It was a bit surprising to me that that wasn't the focus, but that many channels are mostly about hauls and wrap-ups, etc. I had no idea that people even did that before I started my blog. Though bookhauls do give you a good idea of whether those people have the same taste in books as you.
Great video, I agree with everything you said. When I started making videos I knew that I wasn't going to make monthly TBR videos. I knew that I would feel pressured to read books that maybe I don't feel like reading at that moment and that can ifluence the way I feel about that book. I like to watch book hauls, but I realized that sometimes they are very repetitive. It took me a while to find the booktubers I enjoy watching. It's a little bit harder to find smaller booktubers that maybe I would really like.
I think it's easy to get sucked in by what's "popular" in the booktube community, but you like you said in the end we have to make content that we want to make regardless of whether it's what other people on booktube are doing or not. People can definitely sense whether you're really into it or not. Great video👍🏼
I really liked this video, Lesley. I can say I agree with you in every point mentioned. To me it's vital to enjoy my own content, I worried a little when a certain week I didn't post a video because of a lack of time or ideas, but this is not about having pressure doing it just because of having more subscribers or views. In the end, it's all about the passion we have for a hobby that used to be a very "solitary" thing. :)
I agree! For me, my BookTube experience has really enriched my reading life. I read other genres now as a result that I probably would not have tried otherwise. I read more in general and it has helped me to come out of my shell so to speak to read and discuss books with people I don't even know in real life. I truly believe BookTube and TH-cam for that matter is what you make it. Find what works for you and do that, if something or someone is bothering you, don't watch their videos and unsubscribe. The power is in your hands. Thank you, Leslie for this video and allowing us to share our opinions also in a mature manner. Looking forward to your next video! 😊
I agree. It can be a good or bad experience depending on what you are trying to get out of it. For me I enjoy it all. I have unsubscribed to people in the past as I want what I watch to be fun/ interesting etc. I sometimes see people comment on others videos with hate and negativity when they could just not watch or unsubscribe. The book tube community is so big now you can always find someone awesome.
Yes! You totally hit the nail on the head! I've seen the "problems with Booktube" videos before and I got worried about my content because I seem to stick to those regular videos. I ended getting to a place where I don't really care what others say about the videos we should make. I make the types of videos that I like to watch from other people.
The only thing that was bothering me, was that everyone one I was watching was talking about the same books, over again! so as you suggested in this video I've been unsubscribing from people whose opinions I don't trust and also looking for people that read different books than I do, such as yourself, so I can expand my horizons. Your 100% correct, Booktube is what you make of it, so make the best experience for yourself.
Every time "problems with Booktube" come up I get frustrated enough that I try to just ignore it. This is because my issue with the complainers is that no one should be making their videos solely for others. Everyone should be making videos because talking about books makes them happy and some people like to talk about books using different methods than others but if making a certain type of book video is difficult for someone or they don't enjoy it they really shouldn't do it just because so many others do. I also completely agree with you that everyone here can find channels that cater to their taste so when people say "the problem with Booktube is..." and they proceed to make a generalization about a large group of channels I think "well clearly you are not following the right booktubers for your taste. So it isn't that there is anything wrong with their content, just that it isn't to your taste.". Also when people say " I wish there was more of...on Booktube", if that person doesn't already create videos pertaining to whatever topic they think isn't discussed enough I think "if you want more of it, why aren't you doing it?". Okay sorry that was a bit of a rant lol. This was an excellent topic and I 100% agree with all of your points :)
I totally agree and really appreciate the kind and level headed way you made your point. I think the only real problem with booktube is that some people haven't really become fully aware of the true variety there is on here.
While at first glance I'm sure it looks rather mono culture, it doesn't take that much digging to reveal the crazy world just beneath the surface.
I think you are right on the money. I think this applies to any creative endeavour too. Thanks to the internet nowadays we can always find at least one other person (though usually loads of them) that share our interests, so if we make videos or write stories or make drawings we would like to watch/read/see, then others will want to do the same. Thanks for this video cause this needs to be said more and be taken more into account all over, not only in TH-cam.
This was a great video to watch, as I'm new to booktube and would love to start up my channel soon. :) I've been researching and this has been one of the most helpful videos yet. I love your opinions on subscribing and how we should make videos we want to do not just what others are doing. It's so true.
I think I found the good end of book tube because every time I open a video fearing drama, I’m instead pleasantly surprised by a rational and open reflection. ❤️
As usual a very well put discussion video.
I am very eclectic with my taste in books so I subscribe to a range of different book tubers.
I try to keep out of any dramas on book tube lol have enough worries in my everyday life.
I'm mostly bored of people claiming that "everyone" on Booktube just does YA. There are so many content creators out there talking about all kinds of fiction. Maybe they're harder to find, or they have fewer subscribers, but they are out there. That said, while I may not be interested in children's lit or middle grade, I love this channel because of the presentation style and the thoughtful discussion/dialog. So it's always going to be a mix of things that draws you to a particular person.
I have definitely learned to focus on the things about booktube that I enjoy. It took me a while to figure out what that is, but after years of watching and making videos, it has become more and more clear to me. I am bored with most "routine" videos, so I enjoy channels who come up with more original ideas or put an original spin on the standard booktube formats. As a creator, it's hard to always live up to that standard, so I do slip in a wrap-up or a tag every now and again when I am out of ideas or short on time but still want to make a video. What is great is that with the way booktube has grown, it's definitely possible to find channels and people that you like. So I don't think there is a problem (as long as you don't focus on numbers at least, because it is sometimes frustrating to see how quantity tends to "win" over quality on youtube.)
I unsubd all ur recent videos are about kids books now this. You make obvious points. lighten up.
Trueeeee it always feels so extra when people talk about issues with booktube all the time... it's a good conversation to have but sometimes it just feels like clutter
I found this very interesting, personally for me I don't worry about it, I make the videos I want to make (usually hauls and wrap ups) and I don't stick to one genre, I know a lot of success on booktube seems to be with YA novels but I don't read very many YA books and that works for me, I have almost 200 subscribers and although it isn't a lot I'm really pleased that almost 200 people were interested in what I might show next :)
Bless this video. I don't have a problem with Booktube. I think it's great that people talk about books and make others want to buy books more because it means physical books are totally not dying out in culture. It's almost like free advertisement for books, even though I don't yet have any videos or published books out there.
I am pretty new to booktube. I have been doing a book review blog for years but just started on youtube as a content creator.
I love doing book reviews. I like watching hauls and tbr but def dont think they are right for me creation wise. Like you, I read whatever I am in the mood for and that can change day to day sometimes.
Oh Lesley, wonderful and articulate as always. I totally agree with you booktube is what you make it and thats why it is so wonderful. I also live in a bit of a bubble and so always miss the 'drama' but im glad of that. 😊 xx
I realize this video is almost a year old, but I found it so helpful. I've been feeling discouraged because my videos get no views unless I pay to promote them, and even then I get no comments. I have 11 subscribers, and most of them are friends/family. That being said, I only have five videos so far, so I know it is too early for me to really be successful, but it' still discouraging. I was on the verge of filming a video that I had no interest in making because I though it would get views. Then I watched this video (I was already subscribed to you) and I feel encouraged. Even if I don't get views/subscribers right away, I'm going to continue making the videos that I want to make. Thanks!
I love the idea of making your own booktube. I have a hard time unsubscribing from people because I don't want to hurt their feelings, but let's be honest, they have no idea it's me! Ugh. Even so, I scan my sub feed and pick the videos that I know I want to watch, and put those I might watch into my Watch Later list. Works pretty well.
I really think that there isn't a lot we CAN do on Booktube, content wise. Reviews, hauls, wrap-ups, TBRs (I can't do those either, I never stuck to them when I did!), discussions.... I'm not sure we will ever stray far from these basics. Maybe we could be more in-depth or more artsy, but that's about it.
For myself, I often feel that my content isn't what I want it to be, but I have a full-time job, a boyfriend, a dog, and I'm sick a lot; I'm restricted by time and energy, so I kind of have to deal with what I have. Honestly though, I just enjoy the process of making videos, so I make whatever I have a reason to make... if that's a haul, so be it. Lately I've been trying to do what I can when I can and just be satisfied with that.
Great video! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this topic. Also I love your mug!
So - your hair is perfect. I also love the way that you edit your videos.
I use book tube to give me ideas for when I go to the Library and Bookshop. I can't afford to buy books regularly but have a list of suggestions for when I can. It has made me read YA and there are some great books in that genre and I look at the classics. It's interesting to see why the bloggers read the books they do.
I completely agree, booktube is what you make it. Or at least, your booktube 'experience' is what you make it.
I enjoy watching some hauls, but I don't buy enough books to make haul videos. I tend to shy away from in-depth reviews because I don't want to be spoiled, nor do I want to spoil other people. Though I do understand that book reviews are the backbone that booktube was built on.
Do what you want it's your channel, and it's your time.
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I adore what you said 99%
I also don't make TBR videos, i prefer Book reviews & Book discussion and also Poetry reading and of course some motivation videos for beginner readers. I want to make booktube as i want not imitate famous Booktubers. I think we have to do it in our way honestly, not pretending like others did.
Thanks
I completely agree! People should be making content that interests them and also watch what they want to watch.
I'm like you, I have a few dozen booktubers I subscribe to that I really love to watch and who have similar tastes to myself. And so I never really have a problem with booktube in general.
Lovely video! I found it difficult when I started watching Booktube to find people who reviewed the kind of books I was interested in, rather than YA. However, now I've found my niche and really love the people I'm subscribed to! xoxo
Adding to the chorus of YES! I think there can sometimes be general issues that come up on TH-cam, but BookTube is small enough that I think it's able to self-regulate. I also think that most of the time any "problems with BookTube" stem from people trying to be "nice" or from people thinking that others aren't being "nice"? Subscribe to who you want to subscribe to, watch the videos you want to watch and participate in discussions that you want to be part of. No need to worry about being "nice"... just be yourself!
BookTube is definitely what you make of it whether you're a creator or a viewer. I only subscribe to people that I enjoy watching and even within that, like you, I tailor the videos I watch. For example, I've stopped making and watching hauls altogether because I realized that, generally, I don't enjoy them.
I follow so few booktubers that I didn't even know that there was a problem, but everything you said sounds exactly right! This video reminded me that I'd like to follow more booktubers. Could you recommend some of your favorites?
Oh, I just loved this video so much! I think that sometimes it can be so easy to get caught in this kind of negativity cycle, where one person's negative opinions kind of snowball into this tone of general conversation, and what we really need is to come back to the positive. I feel like that's what this video is! A bit of advice that I wish booktube (and creative communities as a whole) would keep in mind when the time comes :D
you know you made the neatest point i have heard on this subject, book tube really is what you make of it.
I agree, you need to find channels that tailor to your interests and try to not watch every video out there to keep up - it can turn you bonkers. Every so often I see a recommended video in my feed about the 'problems of Booktube' - which honestly I'm not so clued in about anymore. Perhaps a year ago I might have when I was subscribed to a lot of youtubers and being a content creator. It was very easy then to get saturated with the same content.
But now I have very much slimmed the no. of booktubers on my subscribers list (people who I find interesting and do not mind watching every video they make) and I'm sane for it.
Wow! I love your take on BookTube. I am all about doing your own thing, and you just got a new subscriber. 🙂
Great video! I completely agree that booktube is what you make it, and I think that's the best way to stay happy with your channel and its content, just doing what pleases you- which may of course change over time. I've only been making videos for about 5 months, so I'm still figuring things out a bit, but I find that I most enjoy wrap ups, reviews, and recommendations, and I'm hopeless at tbrs so I don't make them!! As a subscriber I feel that I follow and enjoy a lot of really great channels, and that if you look then there are channels to suit most book tastes- one thing I would like to find more of however is channels for children's books. I've started trying to talk more about kids books this year (and I love the kids lit aspects of your channel) but if you had any recommendations for other channels that talk about children's literature, then I would like to be subscribed to more of those. I mainly subscribe to channels that focus on literary fiction/classics, but children's literature is definitely my other bookish love, and I've yet to find many kids lit booktubers.
Hi there, I've being watching your channel for a long time, primarily because I share your love for the classics. I'm currently attempting to make some videos myself, and join the Booktube community (for the love of books) What you just share in this video resolve part of my anxieties of joining the community, I was worried about following the trends of Book TBRs, because sometimes I pick up something to read for a month and then my plans completely change and I end up reading something entirely different. So, thank you for the advise and you are right, we should create the experience we want to have.
Yup! You hit it right on the head. I feel if more booktubers did this, there wouldn't be as many who are displeased with booktube. Sure, it'll never be perfect, but it would be a happier experience overall. Great vid! :)
Yes, quite. The only problem I have with booktube is the number of 'problem with booktube' videos that get made. Which obviously this video is not one. This is the sensible answer that needs throwing at them. Damn right. :D
YAS. Everything you've said is what I'm trying to do with my channel.
I just found your channel and subscribed! Great video! Simple advice is sometimes the best.
P.S. Your opening is wonderful!
At the point I am only a viewer, so I don't really understand what the fuss is. If viewers are complaining about content then find different channels. When I come across a video I like, I will often subscribe and check out a few videos. If most of their content is not my taste I unsubscribe and move on. I've found I prefer the smaller booktubers, they seem more authentic, less attempt to be showy, and less YA which I don't enjoy. This is a great discussion. Love your videos!
THIS THIS THIS A MILLION TIMES THIS. My love for you knows no bounds
Great video I think you address been happening in a very kind, open and respectful way. I also agree Booktube is what we make it. I have been a subscriber for a while now and I can tell you some of the channels I followed when I started watching booktube I am no longer subscribe too and it has nothing to the creator or their content but me. The types of content we connect with is influenced but so many different factors and is as fluid and ever changing as we are. I believe if we are having trouble finding particular type of content, create it. Chances you’re not the only one looking for it.
I’ve been looking for you for so long!!
I am just getting involved with Booktube and this was enlightening. I am looking forward to making Booktube a great experience for me. :)
Great video! We all need to just focus on making the content we want to make 😊 I don't worry about the majority in this matter. I would rather have a small amount of followers that enjoy the content that I make, than having a large amount that aren't really interested in it.
Your video is very Interesting and very important. I agree with every word you said.
I agree with you! I LOVE to read, and I do watch and follow other booktubers, I have for a while before restarting my channel, I enjoy the "personality" of the channel they could read the dictionary but if it's entertaining I am going to subscribe to them.
ooooh myyy goooood. where did you get that mug? i HAVE to have that. sorry ;)
I don't think that booktube has any problems, I just think that there is a lot of diversity and therefore people clash in views of what content they make :) And to be honest, a lot of diversity and debate is a good thing as long as it is respectful.
Hi! I'm new to booktube and I watched this video and liked what you said. I was only finding YA channels and although I do enjoy them now and then I would like to find something more diverse. Do you think you can recommend some channels that are more like that ? At a glance I noticed you read east of Eden ,which I read ,so I subscribed :) looking forward to watching the rest of your reviews . Thanks ! ~M
I concur with what you've said especially the phrase 'Booktube is what you make it'.
I think the real problem lies in the lack of originality of content; everyone is doing what anyone else is doing whether tbrs, bookhauls, monthly wrap-ups &c. Why watch Booktuber A when Booktuber B is making the same kind of videos. The people who do out-of-the-ordinary content are either too obscure to even get a glimpse of the spotlight or have stopped producing videos since a very small crowd watched them (or were displeased with how Booktube generally works)
There's also the fear of straying too far from what 'Traditional Booktube' is. This is a concurrent - well not issue - but theme that Booktube is afraid of something new and fresh. I wonder why? What is driving this community stagnant of new thoughts and ideas?
Lastly I wouldn't venture into the depths of YA lit. as I expect some drama to ensue from it but I will have to say that you either make YA videos or you remain with a few subscribers and views, this is how I personally see the current state. It's like a tenacious old man that hardly accept things that are alien to him.
Thank you for the video and discussion.
I would say that Lesley disproves that last point as she doesn't review ya books and has over 16,000 subscribers :)
+MercysBookishMusings That point wasn't aimed at Lesley but at the general state if BT.
Thank you for your comment.
Subbed. I know this video is old, but it was super refreshing to see someone talk about the “standards” of creating a BookTube channel. I totally agree with you. You should create content that you want to create. I look forward to watching more of your content. =) x
Thanks for your thoughts! It's good that you got your thoughts out so clearly. Everyone has the right to their own opinion. BookTube is what you make it. Exactly! You don't have to do the same videos either. It's your own channel :)
Perhaps we're too new to have had much drama yet, or maybe its just that no one is watching, but we haven't had any trouble yet. Besides Dalton's wardrobe.
Just came across this one, and I concur. Be yourself. Do BookTube your own way.
As a new booktuber, this was nice to hear :)
I fully agree. Very well said. :)
I only really have one major issue with book youtubers, there doesn't seem to be many male book youtubers (that I have found so far anyway, fairly new), it seems to be very female dominated, which is perfectly fine, but at times I find it hard to relate when it comes to what I get out of certain books and even the types of books I read.
The guys I have found on here are all reading young adult/teenage romance series, and I could never get into that crap even when I was in the demographic.
So insightful. Thank you for this advice and the interesting video!
-Anton
There is a large portion of booktube that I am simply not interested in so I just ignore it. I subscribe to about a dozen booktubers, and a handful of those are people I have followed for a long time. You are actually the first one I ever subscribed to (must be about three years ago now) and I still watch all of your videos except the ones about children's literature because it doesn't interest me as much. If I come across a new booktuber, I have a quick look through their channel to see what sort of videos they do; if I think their channels looks appealing, I give them a test run. If I haven't seen many of their videos after a couple of months I tend to do a bit of weeding out in my list of subscriptions.
Can anyone help me out with some suggestions of channels who focus more on classics and/or Gothic novels?
Great video! All of that being said, do you (or anyone else out there!) have any recommendations for channels that discuss more middle-grade fiction?
PeruseProject does a fair share of middle grade book reviews as well as Sue's Book Nook.
+Phaedra Alwell Thanks! I'm subscribed to PeruseProject, but I'll check out the other one as well. :-)
+Tracy Murphy I hope you find some others as well! I would like to find some more that do children's literature in general as well as middle grade.
I would suggest Connor O'Brien for middle grade as well, he talks about some interesting books.
Really great video! I agree with TBR videos but my case is with book hauls. I don't like it and I don't see it. My subscribers have never been a grinch to me but there's always someone - that cames from WHATEVER place - bitching around. And also I don't subscribe to booktubers with tastes different from mine. I guess it's better, right? Like u said. :) all the best, rachel
Do you live near Sydney? Do you read mysteries? Happy hollidays!
I WROTE A REALLY LONG COMMENT AND IT GOT DELETED IM SAD
ok so basically I have been on both sides and here's what I think:
Basically I used to love booktube so much but it feels like a book series you used to love so you reread it and realize your tastes have changed and it tints the experience as a whole. For me, here's why. When I loved booktube my opinions on books were similar enough to people that all the main booktubers, who were the most fun to watch. And when they got excited about stuff I liked or would like it was exciting and comfortable and interesting, now I literally can't find one single booktube channel that seems to fit my tastes as far as I can tell, and outside of a few booktubers I feel like the quality of videos goes down, also I used to like pg booktube humor which made the videos more fun to watch, now I find it annoying. Also, after viewing so much of the same type of videos they don't intrigue me anymore. The sheer fact that people were talking about books and making videos about books was enough to make me love booktube at first, but maybe I got spoiled with that because it doesn't feel the same anymore. I also have pet peeves that seem to relate to all the channels. Like one is how they give the same type of reviews when talking about books which is like "I really liked this book, would highly recommend" and then they might throw in one slightly different comment like "I loved how the character's parents were involved" that everyone else already says but sounds unique. Like I love discussions that I found in my English class, where we dissected characters and related things to themes and talked about how they reflected society, politics, religion etc. And I like fan theories and changing the canon story and stuff like that but it's not on booktube.
I just remembered there is one booktuber who I like to watch, and that's because of the things I mentioned earlier, she has seems to have similar booktastes as me (or at least she hates the same books as me) and she's funny/fun to watch for me, and that's LilyCReads, but she hardly ever posts so if that's the extent of my love of booktube I think the love is sorta dead. Which is sad. But oh well.
how do you find booktubers? I put booktube in the search but I came to a
lot of how to make these videos. I'd love to follow non-fiction book
tubers since that's what I write.
That's actually a great way to find booktubers - most likely everyone who made those "how to booktube" videos is a booktuber. Then you can see if those people have "recommended channels" - a lot of those are likely other booktubers. After watching several channels like this, TH-cam will start recommending more booktube channels for you! :)
I'm a bit late to this party, but whatever... :) I have no problem with people making whatever kind of video they want - obviously, it's their time and energy and they get to choose how to spend it. No one is being forced to watch videos they don't find interesting! So I wouldn't say there's a "problem" with Booktube. I will say, though, that I've had a really hard time finding Booktubers who read the same types of books that I read. I follow several whose personalities I just like, even if I'm not in love with their book choices, but it would be really nice to find some videos with recommendations that I would take seriously, too. I tend to read mostly non-fiction, and I've done a ton of searching, but still haven't found many who read the same. Which makes me think I just need to start my own channel ;) but that's not an option for me right now. Oh well, life goes on! :) If you know of any nonfiction-focused Booktubers, please let me know!
As a booktube viewer I have been confused with those "the problem with BT" videos where a booktuber complains that they don't get as many views if they do this kind of videos and everyones just making the same videos month after month - I read book reviews from the paper all the time and let me tell you - the format hasn't changed for many many decades! But I love to read them as I love to watch wrap up videos..because I use the information when checking out and choosing new books. And I feel it's a bit funny just to make videos for views..and complain that people have to like what you want them to like. If you really want to make videos for money you have to please the crowd. It's just the way it is.. But what's wrong with having a smaller channel and loving what you are doing?
I completely agree. Well said. =0)