If you ever find yourself scrolling on TikTok and come across a video with a hashtag for BookTok, you’ve officially entered the domain of bookworms. On this cozy, nerdy side of TikTok, you’ll discover book recommendations, meet fellow literary buffs, and discover a community of wonderful people. BookTok is a place for readers, daydreamers, world-builders, and writers.
The Story of a Writer
Two years ago, I found myself at a university studying a topic I thought was my safest option. My passion for writing only intensified as I attempted to push it aside. Life continued to get busier, but somehow my dreams lingered in the back of my mind. My desire to push my limits, pursue my passion, and write my stories only intensified.
After some time, I realized life was truly about achieving your goals and following your heart. It’s about making yourself happy and living a life that you are prioritized within. I decided to drop everything and focus on my writing. Having no clue where to go from there, I turned to BookTok. At the very least, I figured I could share my passion for reading.
My Experience With BookTok as a Writer
Months flew by as I became a part of a digital community of book lovers. I was able to connect with other readers and writers who gave me tips on how to outline a novel, organize character portfolios, and eventually self-publish. I gained friends from all across the world, many of whom encouraged me to share my stories.
Though I was nervous to expose my work to others, I was eager to get my foot in the door and knew that my story was worth telling. The BookTok community persuaded me to push myself outside of my comfort zone and even assisted me through a simple self-publication process, sharing advice along the way.
As time went on, I continued to gain more followers, which eventually led to me making more friends. Connections were formed, and when my work was officially released, I had a lineup of people who were eager to support me by purchasing my book.
Why BookTok Could Benefit You
If you’re a fellow writer like me, and you’re stuck on where to go from here, start by forming connections with others. To put a spin on the popular phrase, it takes a village to publish a book! Without the encouragement from other writers, the support from various readers, and the advice from experienced authors, I never would’ve shared my work with the world.
BookTok can help you befriend other writers, gain future readers, and find unique ideas for your story. Most importantly, BookTok welcomes you with open arms. Every member of the community is either passionate about sharing their story or passionate about discovering a story like yours.
Your Story is Worth Telling
Regardless of what you do for a living, where you live in the world, or what stage of the writing process you’re in, I encourage you to continue writing and look into self-publishing. The written word is one that continues to influence the lives of many, and your story is worth telling! There are readers out in the world who are craving a story like the one you might create some day.
I will be the first to admit that you will hit a few bumps in the road, but it’s important to lean on your fellow writers and grow from your mistakes. A community such as BookTok can help guide you through any issues that may arise.
The Pros of Self-Publishing
Many assume that if you’re unable to find a literary agent, your book will not get published. I’m here to tell you that is just not true! Self-publication is becoming much more popular due to the creative freedom it gives writers.
There are many organizations, such as Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing program, that allow writers to swiftly and easily publish their work. The process is a much cheaper option, allows writers to be limitlessly creative, and gives readers quick access to self-published work. If traditional publishing doesn’t seem to be the right fit, consider self-publishing instead.
If there’s only one thing you took away from this article, I hope you’ve been persuaded to join the writing community. On BookTok, we support, guide, and uplift one another. Whether we’ve traditionally published, self-published, or are still in the drafting phases, we’re eager to collaborate!
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