Challenging BookTok Norms

Melissa Garbato,a 28-year-old from Monselice,Italy,is making waves on TikTok with her profile,aptly named “No books of the Bookts here.” Since 2021, she has been curating content that steers clear of popular BookTok titles, focusing instead on lesser-known literary gems, notably within Japanese literature. Her dedication has garnered a following of over 53,000 enthusiasts.

From Pandemic Reading to TikTok Sensation

Garbato’s journey began somewhat serendipitously. “I opened the profile a little at random,” she explains. “There was no thought behind, at the beginning.” after a hiatus from reading, the pandemic reignited her passion. Spotting the nascent BookTok community,she decided to share her literary rediscoveries. A deep dive into the works of haruki Murakami proved pivotal, propelling her into the world of content creation. TikTok’s immediacy made it the perfect platform for her.

Decoding the “No booktok Books Here” Ethos

The profile name, @melissabastaleggiare, plays on words, embodying both “lemon balm, stop reading” (a playful jab at excessive reading) and “lemon balm, just read” (suggesting reading as a source of well-being). The “No booktok books here” tagline isn’t about superiority, but rather a clear signal to her audience.Garbato clarifies, “I wanted people to understand that on my profile it would not have found those who are considered the books of the Booktok… I am out of targets for books designed for the youngest, perhaps to their first reading experience.” While she acknowledges past phases with authors like John Green and series like shadowhunters, her current focus lies elsewhere.

A Lifelong Captivation with Japan

Garbato’s passion for japanese culture is deeply rooted. Holding degrees in Japanese Language and Culture, she credits her father’s influence for her early exposure to manga and anime. “In general, the interest in this culture I think it is a bit due to the influence of my father, because it has always been a fan of Japanese culture and history, so I grew up since I was a child between manga and anime.” While language acquisition presented initial challenges, her unwavering passion fueled her studies.

Recommendations for Newcomers to Japanese Literature

garbato’s taste leans towards the more challenging and introspective side of Japanese literature. “I admit that I am passionate about a somewhat hardcore Japanese literature, very different from the current editorial proposal, which instead is once again to make the reader feel good.” For those seeking profound reading experiences, she suggests Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human and the works of Mieko Kawakami. These authors offer a stark contrast to the often feel-good narratives dominating contemporary literature.

If you are looking for slightly stronger and introspective reading experiences, I can propose the disqualified of Osamu Dazai, or the author Mieko Kawakami, of which I actually read almost everything

Melissa Garbato

The Rewards of Content Creation

While the original article ends abruptly, it’s significant to consider the broader context of content creation.Many creators find satisfaction in building communities and sharing their passions. Monetization strategies vary, but can include brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and direct support from followers. The impact of BookTok on the publishing industry is undeniable, with many titles experiencing significant sales boosts due to viral trends. However, creators like Garbato remind us of the importance of diverse voices and perspectives within the literary landscape.

The Evolving Landscape of Book Reviews

In an era where digital content reigns supreme, the role of the book reviewer is undergoing a significant change.Once confined to customary print media, book reviews now thrive in the digital sphere, with platforms like YouTube, blogs, and social media providing avenues for passionate readers to share their insights. This shift has opened doors for collaborations and, occasionally, paid partnerships, a relatively new phenomenon in the book review world.

The Allure of Paid Partnerships

While many book reviewers embark on their journey fueled by a genuine love for literature, the prospect of earning income from their passion is becoming increasingly appealing. Paid partnerships, typically initiated by publishing houses, involve reviewers receiving compensation for reading and reviewing specific books. This arrangement acknowledges the time and effort invested in creating thoughtful and engaging content.

However, the pursuit of monetization is not always the primary motivation.As one reviewer notes:

I did not start the project with the intention of gaining something in terms of money. Lately, though, I realize that we invest a lot of time and energy, and that when I decide what register I take it as a second job.

Balancing Passion and Profession

The journey of a book reviewer often involves juggling multiple responsibilities. Many reviewers hold full-time jobs while dedicating their free time to reading, writing, and creating content. This delicate balance requires careful time management and a deep commitment to their craft.

For example, one reviewer currently works as a receptionist and back-office employee at a medical hotel, demonstrating the diverse backgrounds and skillsets that individuals bring to the world of book reviewing.

Dreaming of a Literary Career

For many passionate book reviewers, the ultimate goal is to transform their hobby into a full-fledged career within the publishing industry.This could involve working directly for a publishing house, managing social media accounts, or curating book collections focused on specific themes or genres, such as Japanese literature.

The reviewer quoted earlier expresses this aspiration:

By creating content I realized that I would really like to work for a publishing house,also in the social media management or taking care of publishing necklaces that are dealing with Japan.

Essential Reads: Recommendations from a Reviewer

When asked about their favorite book, the reviewer highlighted Solenoid by Mircea Cărtărescu, praising its masterful storytelling and the immersive experience it offers, despite requiring significant concentration. Furthermore, the reviewer recommends Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes as a must-read for everyone, citing its profound impact and thought-provoking themes.

The Future of Book Reviewing

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the role of the book reviewer will undoubtedly adapt and expand. With the rise of audiobooks, virtual reality experiences, and interactive storytelling, reviewers will need to embrace new formats and platforms to reach wider audiences. The key to success will lie in maintaining a genuine passion for literature, a commitment to quality content, and a willingness to experiment with innovative approaches.