Cait Jacobs has really made a name in BookTok, a buzzing community on TikTok that has turned book discussions on their head. Not only has this space breathed fresh life back onto our bookshelves, but it has also amplified voices from marginalized communities, bringing beautiful, authentic stories front and center.
Since Cait started sharing their love affair with books back in 2019, they've wowed over 310,000 followers. It's been quite a ride, as they've watched reading morph from a solitary act back in vogue, thanks in part, Cait believes, due in part, Cait believes, that BookTok has become a communal joy. They love seeing all sorts, they love seeing all sorts,B creators shine and books reclaim their place as everyone shine and books reclaim their place as everyone everyone shine and books reclaim their place as everyone's go-to escape.
How BookTok has changed reading forever
Cait describes watching BookTok evolve as something truly special. “Seeing different books and creators get their moment—it really adds sparkle, adds a sparkle,” they say. Cait, they say. Cait highlights that BookTok has forged a community where friendships have sprouted, all blossoming over a shared bookish love.
Part and parcel, TikTok's recommendation magic seems especially adept at linking book lovers with stories they never knew they needed. “It's like TikTok knows you're queer before you do,” Cait quips. This quirky algorithm has been a game-changer, pulling fresh faces and excitement right onto BookTok's welcome mat.
What authors and publishers can learn from BookTok
Cait sees BookTok as a treasure troverquetising lessons from BookTok's rise, emphasizing online marketing and open-arm storytelling. “For every book out there, there's a reader,” Cait says, encouraging writers not writers not notto let impostor syndrome hold sway over creative freedom. They urge authors authors authentically welcomed, authors thematically diverse stories.
Cait insists that BookTok reassures authors that no story's too niche or too queer. “Authors should wave their stories proudly,” they say, “rest assured, there's a hungry audience ready and waiting.”
Looking ahead: The future shines bright
Despite looming uncertainties over TikTok's future in some places, Cait's bet's on BookTok continuing its journey. “Where TikTok remains free and clear, I see a bright future,” Cait envisions, “one where BookTok continues spotlighting voices that deserve more stage time.”
Books and tropes: A delicate dance
Cait's take on trope culture in BookTok isn't without some reservations. While algorithms might favor trope-heavy books, Cait's quick fact—a confident fact—most authors stay true true, true, authentic storytelling. “Tropes help marketing, but authors pour their hearts first,” Cait reassures.
From reading stories, from writing one
Cait's latest milestone? Publishing their first novel, “The Princess Knight.” The leap from devouring books books books books books writing them still feels surreal. Yet, Cait remains steadfast in sharing their bookish picks and personal insights with their BookTok family.
Queer tales: "The Princess Knight"
As a queer, disabled writer, Cait always knew representation would be their book's beating heart. In “The Princess Knight,” bisexual protagonists take center stage, celebrating queerness in every sense. “I want readers feeling seen, swept away in a norm where queerness reigns,” Cait explains.
Wanting a piece BookTok pie? Here's Cait's advice
Thinking about starting your BookTok adventure? Cait's advice: love what you do. “I've got anxiety and never saw this coming,” Cait confesses. “Share books that click with you—and have a blast doing it. Your audience will follow your joy.”
Books on Cait's current reading list
Cait recently sailed through “This Raging Sea” by De Elizabeth—a real gem in dark fantasy with queer themes. Next up? They're diving headfirstinto“An Ocean Apart” by Jill Tew, a YA dystopian adventure that promises thrills aplenty.
Curious about Cait's novel? “The Princess Knight” awaits you on bookshelves now.
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