TikTok algorithms decide our TBRs (To Be Read) — has the literary charm of dusty bookshelves lost its place?

BookTok’s taste is dramatic and unapologetically emotional, from hot, steamy romance to high-stakes thrillers, a wide range to indulge in. However, it makes one question whether they are genuinely good. Or did they simply end up in the hands of an influencer with a huge fanbase? That doesn’t seem to matter because BookTok is changing the publishing industry. Through engagement, books are gaining popularity while influencing sales. Trends are significant. If a book doesn’t sparkle in a 30-second clip, its precious context may not see the light of day.

A shelf-worthy book is one that respectfully earned its place through timeless relevance, emotional resonance, and skilled craftsmanship. They become personal: gifted, revisited, and quoted. Additionally, both have their pros and cons, which is why both are important. One compensates for the other where it lacks.

📱 BookTok Discovery

✅ Pros

• Instant visibility: Viral books get massive exposure fast.
• Community buzz: Readers share reactions, fan theories, and emotional responses in real time.
• Emotional appeal: Many BookTok hits tap into raw, relatable themes—grief, love, trauma, and healing.
• Trend-driven: Easy to find what’s popular now, especially among Gen Z and millennial readers.

❌ Cons

• Hype over substance: Some books trend for aesthetic or shock value, not literary depth.
• Repetitive tropes: Romance, fantasy, and trauma often dominate, leaving little room for genre diversity.
• Algorithm bias: Discovery is shaped by engagement, not necessarily quality.
• Short shelf life: Viral books can fade quickly once the trend dies.

📚 Bookshelf Discovery

✅ Pros

• Timeless quality: Books found through libraries, recommendations, or curated lists often have a lasting impact.
• Genre diversity: You’re more likely to stumble upon memoirs, essays, historical fiction, or regional literature.
• Intentional reading: Readers choose based on interest, not trend—leading to deeper engagement.
• Design appreciation: Physical books offer tactile joy, thoughtful typography, and emotional tone.

❌ Cons

• Less visibility: Shelf-worthy books may not trend or get algorithmic boosts.
• Slower discovery: Finding gems takes time, research, or trusted recommendations.
• Perceived elitism: Some readers feel intimidated by “literary” labels or classics.
• Limited access: Not all readers have libraries or curated bookstores nearby.

The true magic is in picking stories that resonate with you. Find those that allow you to explore the quiet nooks of literary depth. Or chase the excitement of popular titles. The bookshelf keeps the fire going even though BookTok can start it. The question is which stories survive rather than which side prevails.

Which book has had the biggest impact on you recently? Let’s discuss it in the comments.

Written by Poeticalfeels—creative designer, story critic, and beta reader