READER SHAMING: A RANT
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- Опубликовано: 26 авг 2024
- Wow, it feels good to get that out!
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SLOW CLAPS MY FRIEND, YES!!!!!
But... but... "classics" isn't a genre. Sherlock Holmes is a classic but it's genre is mystery. The Three Musketeers is a classic but it's genre is historical fiction. The Importance of Being Earnest is a classic but its actually a play. Also, classic novels were written and published across 200 years (or so, depending on your definition of "classic") and across different countries. So, if you hated Tale of Two Cities, which is an English classic from 1859, maybe try a French classic like Candide published in 1759. Or an American classic like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer published 1876.
Go read what you want, but please don't put all classics into the "tedious, long and boring" category. Some are crazy long or tedious or boring, but some are exciting, short or beautiful.
Otherwise, yes. Reading shaming = Bad. Also shaming people for reading at all = bad.
I hate whole 'i dont like classics' thing. Classics have NOTHING in common with each other besides the fact that they're still in print.
Leigh Strommen I get what you're saying but people always refer to them as "classics" that it kind of just became a genre (yes, I know it's not a genre I'm just saying) and personally I've had to read a couple of classics from different genres and I still don't like them. They're just not for me and I'm sure that's the case for a lot of people.
I want to frame this comment and put it on a public space😂
I feel for a lot of people classics are off putting because of the old language and it takes more effort to read than a book that’s published now. Some people have a harder time with that. I can definetly see how it can be super hard and intimidating for someone like Sasha, who has dyslexia.
Leigh Strommen SOMEONE SAID IT THANK YOU
I haven't read it yet, but I find it completely ridiculous how much people are shamed for loving Twilight. Reading isn't always about how amazing the writing is. Sometimes it's just about having fun. It's so stupid that people judge people for enjoying, or reading a book. You made some great points about judging people and reading.
A Fangirl This has nothing to do with your comment but I see you commenting on different booktubers channels and every time I do I’m like “Ah there they are!” Lol
Twilight played a HUGE role in forming what YA is today!
Sierra Thanks! I actually kind of lowkey notice you on a bunch of BookTube videos, too. I didn't even realize how often I comment on BookTube XD. It's just kind of nice to know that people actually notice that.
I think the biggest problem people have with Twilight is how sexist and unhealthy the relationships are
Broadway DQ I haven't read it, so I can't judge, but I just think it's stupid how much people are shamed.
But Classics it's not a genre, there are a lot of sub sections in what we consider classics. Anyway, shaming readers is always wrong but keeping an open mind is the best option for everything. You've always read YA and Fantasy and Historical Fiction and you have been used to the genres and their best moments and their worst. At the same time, you could discover so many amazing books through what we call classics. The reason why they became classics is because they are perfect example for style or topics or themes etc and it's always great to enrich your knowledge through them. For example, if you've read Fitzgerald and you hated The Great Gatsby, try something else, from another genre and time period because not all classics are long and boring, so many are exciting and they speak to your heart and soul like nothing else will ever do. It's quiet unfair to judge ALL CLASSICS after the only two books you've read. I have a solid and strong classic background, i've read so many books that we can consider classics since when i was 10 and they opened my eyes in so many ways. Still, my favorite genre is fantasy and i enjoy reading a lot of Ya too. They don't just make you a posh reader but they also shape your mind and will give you excellent example of writing styles, techniques, tricks etc for writing your own stuff too... The example of Harry Potter is quiet fitting if you want to write books because HP is an excellent reference point for anyone who wants to write fantasy and young adult now because it has set standards in writing quality, in topics, in characterization, in consistency. Shaming people for what they read is dumb but at the same time never limit yourself to what makes you feel comfortable because you already know it. Give everything a chance!
My teacher once alluded to the fact that reading popular fiction is not real reading... I was so freaking annoyed.
KookyKasiaReads That teacher is not the norm!!! Those teachers give other teachers bad names! I’m a English teacher! All reading is real reading! Boom! Read on, and read what you love!!! ❤️
yes! One time my portuguese teacher said that I should not like that much the hunger games, because it is fiction and not a classic -.-
I've had people say that to me before as well and, it's like, what do you mean it's not real reading? wtf is it lol? All the "real reading" my teachers assigned me in school sucked ass anyways so 🤷
I make a big deal out of telling my students the opposite.
*cough* Romeo and Juliet isn’t even nonfiction it never happened *cough*
Reader shaming is trash, everyone should read what they like. Period. My grandmother is 83 years old and she’s the one who got me into the Mortal Instruments.
Shae Whaaat?!! Your grandma is awesome!
Aly Books Yeah, she really is!
Love your grandmother already !
That’s freeking awesome! Say hi to you Grandma
I'd love to meet this grandma
Of course, everyone is free to read whatever book they want but I think that there is also great value in being exposed to other books. There are millions of books in the world that can be explored. The reason why you fell in love with the type of books you read is because you were exposed to it one way or another whether it be through movies, shows, or simply word of mouth. So what if there are other books from different genres or written by other people from other cultures that you can love just as much? Classics aren’t a genre but rather when a book becomes notable at a certain time. Harry Potter and Twilight will probably be noted because they had global appeal at some point. Jane Austen wasn’t regarded as a serious writer until years after her death. Ernest Hemingway’s and Toni Morrison’s debut novels were thought of as the most provocative books for their time periods. They are worth reading because it gives you a new perspective. It can even make you a better writer. I don’t think anyone should judge you for your taste but I also think you should have an open mind.
Jo the Great I agree with you completely! I think that everyone has the right to read whatever they want to, but I also see the hate coming the other way from booktube sometimes, hating on people who love novels in the canon, and degrading them to ‘boring books they make you read in school’.
Jo the Great Queen! 👍👐
Jo the Great I think if someone wants to "have an open mind" to other genres and if they want to expend their reading it should be _their choice_ and no one elses. I love some books that are popular just because I love them not because of " movies, shows, or simply word of mouth". But even if a person likes a certain book just because of "movies, shows, or simply a word of mouth" and don't want to read other books another person deems as "mind opening" it's still their choice and no one elses. This is exactly what's talked about in the video: people who think they know better and it is their mission to guide others to what they think is the right thing to do. If a person wants to open their mind to something else, they would do it on their own. Their life their choices. And reading isn't always about all the things you listed, sometimes it's just for fun.
No offense, but you're the exact type of person this video is talking about. You tried to come about it in a "sweet" and polite way but that doesn't hide the fact that you're exactly THAT type of person.
BettyBookReviews you’ve hit the nail on the head. Because YA is heavily pushed on this platform due to the demographic of our viewers it’s the most popular. This makes it hard for other genres to be able to get the same amount of exposure.
Ayodhya Rathnayake 😂😂😂 thanks love
I get shamed for reading as much as I do. People are constantly telling me I need to go out with friends (which I do, just not as much as they want me to) and that I need to do more than just read all the time. If reading makes me happy, why can’t I do that? I still go out and do things, just not as much as people want me to because they don’t get how amazing reading is.
Bayboo 22 I'm right there with you. Finally someone understands
Ive been there
YES EXACTLY
I feel this on a spiritual level
Same
Classics aren’t a genre lol how u gonna put The Picture of Dorian Gray in the same category as War and Peace?? This is why classics are important to read - they open your mind so much and I don’t see how you can say “I don’t like classics” when classics consist of so many genres??
Mycroft Holmes Hop off your high horse. The grammar I choose to use in an offhand comment is not indicative of my intelligence - however, the snotty reply you just made is certainly indicative of your character. I don’t come to the comment sections of RUclips to use perfect grammar, but I did use it to get my honours degree in English Literature :)
Mycroft Holmes Hello Mr. Holmes😂. How's your brother doing?
I'd like to know if sasha have read at least one "classic novel"... Cause it's stupid to say "i dont like classics" if she hasnt read one.
4:40
The thing with classics though is it isn't a genre. If you don't like Science fiction (or any specific genre) then that's fine. We all have different tastes. But I wouldn't combine classics into a single genre, especially if you have only read two. There are classic novels written in every genre across the board. They're only classics because they were written a long time ago and they are popular and highly praised.
There is nothing wrong with reading things besides classics (I have only read about 10 myself), but don't assume that you don't like classics solely based on the two that you have read. Look for classics in your favorite genres and give them a fair chance. You might be surprised.
I am definetely NOT one to judge based on reading material. I read comic books and I recently read one that I think rivals some classic novels in what it taught me. But, classics aren't a genre. They're a label for older, praised books. No pressure, but I highly recommend people who say that they don't like classics to give them another chance in a genre that you like. Children's classics are often easier to read. I prefer them to adult classics. Children's classics are more written on a teenage reading level imo, so don't shy away from them based just on the label "children's".
IndaGrakus Thank you!
And I do agree with you. You should never shame someone based on what they read or the number of classics that they have read.
I do feel like, however, that people don't give classics a fair chance because the term scares them. Not all classics are created equal. They are written in all different styles with all sorts of different plots. If you hate romance novels then maybe skip Pride and Prejudice and look for another classic to try. You're obviously not going to like a classic romance novel if you don't like romance novels. Pick a genre that you like and read a classic or two in the genre.
Maia Sitter "they're only classics cause they were written a long time ago" ..... personally, that's kind of why I don't like them. And I'm not talking about you specifically, but I freaking HATE it when people start going on about how I should give them a chance and that they are not all the same and I should try something other than romance and ........ the thing is, I know all that, and I did try other genres and I STILL don't like them .... and people just can't rap their minds around the fact that somebody doesn't like classics (in any genre they come in) and it's really annoying.
(And yes, I know your comment wasn't directed to me just as my words weren't directed at you but I just felt like, idk ...... like it's just something that had to be said.)
I feel like a lot of people are put of by classics because of the old language. That’s something all classics have and you can group them together like that. I can definetly see why someone with dyslexia (like Sasha) rather passes on that as it’s harder to read than books published more recently no matter what genre you go into.
siri H If you've given them a fair chance, then that's fine by me. I don't think that it's the end of the world if someone doesn't read classics. And I would never pressure someone to read them. After one piece of what I think is helpful advice, I leave it be and let them decide for themselves. Also, like I said, I recently read a COMIC BOOK that I believe taught me as much as some classic novels did. There is definitely a lot of value in books, no matter their label. Anything can be a blessing in disguise.
Maia Sitter I think a lot of people don’t like them specifically for the reason that they are old. They have language that is hard to understand and lots of things you have to know the context in the time to understand. Lots of times two to actually enjoy it you have to read between the lines a lot and not everyone is good at that.
the irony of you saying that you cannot judge a book if you haven't read it but then saying you don't like classics. How can you judge that you don't like classics based on the fact that you have read two. Classics isn't a genre (it's quite sad you don't know that, considering you went to college). It's just books who have had a huge impact and have withstood the test of time. If for example you have read a Shakespeare play and something by Poe, how can you reasonably assume you wouldn't like Pride and Prejudice or The Lord of the Rings which are part of and classics in some of your favourite genres (namely fantasy and romance). I'm not saying that I condone reader shaming in any way, I also read mostly YA and have read maybe around 15 classics in my time, some of which I hated and some of which I absolutely loved. Of course everyone should read what they want and the only people I will ever force to read classics are my future students when I am an English teacher, but I implore you to just keep an open mind, especially considering you want to be writer. The classics have so much to teach us, when it comes to writing skills. And I'm not saying YA books can't do that. I have learned some great writing as well as life lessons from YA books. I just think you should write off the complete history of literature (because that's what classics are) just because you did not like two of them.
So true...
This comment is spot on. Like you said, it's a strange attitude to have from someone who went to college (allegedly).
I love this video and I love you ♥️
A Clockwork Reader OMG Hannah, you're here! Love your channel 😍😍😍
I have been reader shamed for reading only the classics. Right now, I am learning to read other books because they have been recommended. Just so people know it's not just classics readers shaming others...it seems to be all readers shame others...
Reader shaming is absolutely a thing, but don't put classics into a category of being boring and annoying! It's not a genre, all classics fall into their own genres. Don't hesitate to pick up a few more, check out some of the booktube favorites :)
So true
Sasha giving me Manon vibes with that white wig and red attire
I high key want white hair now
Holly Hearts Books oof Throne of Glass is literally my favorite series closely followed by a court of mist and roses. I just love sarah j maas in general
Well said ✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊✊
Thank you!!
I think it's very important to read the classics so you can understand and appreciate better what was written after them, including most books you like to read. Wouldn't it be great to enjoy them even more?!
I feel you, I didnt read Harry Potter until January of this year and everyone thought I was insane
I know right?!
marilyn esperanza I'm watching that movie right now!
I only just read it freshmen year because ive always had reading trouble but now i love it
I've never read it and never will. I'm not into fantasy at all! I'm an English teacher, lol. No shame.
soggy elbow dude for real, I actually don’t like the Harry Potter books at all, so when people ask me if I read them I’m like, “yeah I have, but I don’t like them. They just weren’t for me” they get so judgy and act as if I can’t read or something
I read a lot of classics for school and some out of curiosity, mostly Hungarian and European Classics and I enjoyed most of them but in a different way when I read for fun.
First of all, I wouldn't say that the collective name of 'Classics' is a genre. There are many kind of genres involved within that category, the books that have passed the test of time. I think that they require a different kind of mindset for someone approaching them. Studying the era which it was published in or when a particular piece of writing was the most popular is essential to understand why it could became a classic. For example, when I was learning about urbanisation and how people became detached from their old customs, I read Père Goriot by Honoré de Balzac which served as an illustration with a story that brought the subject closer to me.
When I was trying to get myself to read American and British classics in English, I found that my language skills have put me off from continuing them (Shakespeare's writing style omg.) but their Hungarian translations were easier to digest. I thought that it must be that I'm not good enough in English. Now I read almost all my "non-classics" books in English, I still find that the language puts me off from Classics.
I wouldn't shame anyone not reading Classics, as I wouldn't shame anyone who only reads 1-2 books a year or less, as they are free to do as they like. All I'm trying to say that Classics get dismissed and alienated from our generation easily due to their outdated writing style and topics.
I kind of got inspired to make a video about this topic and kick start my booktube career. :D
I totally think no one should be reader shamed, and I agree with this vid. but I do think it should be pointed out that classics are not a genre. They are simply old books that have withstood the test of time, and Every classic is a part of a different genre :) Just clearing that up for anyone who was wondering!
I judge everyone who buy books by known plagiarists (Cassandra Claire) or people who can't even write their own book (Zoella). Go to the library, get that for free. Don't give them your money. They don't deserve it.
I think there’s a distinction between fair critiques and attacks.
For example, I agree with you that it’s not appropriate to attack someone for reading slowly, broadly or narrowly (in terms of genre). The examples in your video would be infuriating to me. Good standing up for yourself.
But, I do think it’s fair to notice and comment on trends among some Booktubers with many subscribers.
Most of you read, promote and amplify white authors and white Booktubers almost exclusively.
Noticing and challenging the echo chamber that this creates is fair. Expecting you to do better in this regard is also fair.
Attacking is not. In any event, shame leads to paralysis, when what Booktube really needs is positive change.
thank you this is so true and radiates a lot of what I notice and the hesitation to get as fully invested in the community as I would like/hope to. As a poc
I agree
Thank you for pointing out that Caucasian (White) Booktubers are the most well-known and often promote Caucasian authors! I have always noticed that and wondered if others noticed it as well!
One thing i’ve noticed comes up a lot in booktube videoes, maybe not as much anymore but it definitly did in the past, is when the booktuber is gushing about a book that they like and that is a popular book and they say something like: «if you havent read this book yet what are you doing with your life?» or «if you havent read this book yet you must be living under a rock.»
And i feel like that is also a sortoff reader shaming cause not everyone gets to the popular books when they are at their most popular. You can tell someone that they should read said book but not be rude to them for not having read it yet.
I read mostly classics or horror and I've been shamed for both. I get lots of granny and nerd jokes for the classics and lots of "Gross, what's wrong with you" comments about the horror. I've debated putting dust jackets from YA books I own over classics to avoid shaming at times. It's nice to hear a different perspective on this, I'm both relieved and saddened to hear all genres seem to get shamed.
No one should ever feel shamed for what they’re reading, but I don’t think classics should be put by the wayside. They’re classics for a reason and should be viewed as important for their thought provoking innovation.
SweptAway InPages Agreed! I think classics are much higher quality literature (most often) than newer books and they should be respected for that. But you don’t have to like them. And there’s nothing wrong with licking current lit either. But I do see the writing quality of literature slipping with time and that makes me nervous. I want to produce and preserve what classics provide.
SweptAway InPages so what are you saying exactly? That everyone should read what they want but they also should read classics because they're important ......?
siri H yes you’re basically just repeating what I said 😂
@@MyBarbaricYAWP22 hhhmm sorry. I just thought the whole point of this video was that no one SHOULD read anything that they don't like no matter the reason but ok ......
siri H it’s called challenge yourself. Plus I clearly stated no one should feel ashamed of what they’re reading. Now run along, I’m sure school starts soon for you sweetie.
It’s so amazing that despite having dyslexia you read so much and on top of that you’re an author yourself! You’re such a powerful woman! 💖
I didn't read the Harry Potter series til my 5th year in college. Twilight was the first novel I ever finished. I've never read any classics hahaha Thank you for saying out loud what a lot of us are thinking. Read whatever as long as it makes you happy💕
I have read Harry Potter until I was 27. And happy about it.
Ok, there are many reasons to enjoy many different genres. There are also many reasons for people to not enjoy certain genres. I’m not talking about that here in this comment. If you are pursuing a career in the literary world, you should read classics. Classics are not “just another genre”. They are books that have stood the test of time, stories/writing styles/themes/etc that speak to people of all times and remain relevant in our world and culture. You have to read the books that have been done right before you can go out yourself and create bigger, better books. No, you don’t have to read classics to be a good reader. In fact, I didn’t even know there was a concept of being a ‘good reader’. However, you do need to read classics to be a good writer. And if you say that you aren’t intersted and you don’t want your work to be anything like classics, fine. But your writing isn’t going to stand the test of time. It won’t be upheld. You have to understand the rules first before you can break them.
I think it's less "reading classics makes you a better writer" and more "being a critical reader makes you a better writer."
Like, well established literary fiction is written to a level of complexity that invites a critical eye, and because of that it can be helpful in honing your critical reading tools. But ultimately once you have that skillset applying it to any book of any genre of any level of quality is equally beneficial.
uuuhhhh no, first of all, you FIEND
YASSS
Classics aren't a genre....they're just books that have been in print for over 100 years because people still want to buy and read them. 'Classics' is made up of lots and lots of genres including romance, history, mystery, thriller, crime etc etc etc. I 100% dont condone reader shaming but you really shouldn't limit yourself to not reading classics because you didnt like two...try reading another one of a different genre. You had a copy of Austen's novels, and from what you said you didn't enjoy them. That just means you don't like Austen it doesn't mean you don't like Classics. Maybe try reading a classic from a different country or a different genre. Personally, i wasnt a massive fan of Austen either (although I do appreciate her writing) and initally found Pride and Prejudice quite hard to get into at first, but I love James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle, maybe try them. Remember that Classics are all books written, written before the 1950s. You shouldn't completely condone centuries of literature!!
Yess queen let your voice be heard! Literature is literally so universal! I can’t stand people telling me I need to read something for “educational purposes” and I’m like Ehm no hunny I’m allowed read for fun!!! I actually can’t believe the guy of the train asked you like that! That angers me! I love this rant Sasha! ❤️
I admit (AND APOLOGIZE!!) that I have reader shamed one of my close friends for only reading erotic fantasy novels, but after awhile I got to the point where I just appreciated that I even had a friend who liked reading in the first place. Now we go in bookstores and laugh at each others finds, and love that we both have a common interest in something. I will never reader shame again!
this is... so problematic i dont even know where to begin. whilst there are a lot of good points, it also feels very closed minded and the talk about classics just sounds exactly like shaming someone, which the whole point of this video is not to? idk man as much as i agree with some things, i think this could of been done a bit better.
yaaaaassssss, i still haven't read hunger games or divergent, i'm getting around to it, and i want to start a booktube but i'm too scared until i've read them because i know i'll get reader shamed. even writing this comment i've had to stop myself from putting 'i know i know i should've read them bye now' so many times. knowing you haven't finished harry potter, even though it's for a way better reason than i have for hunger games and divergent, makes me feel so much better
Sammy's Book Corner you should totally start a booktube if that’s what you want to do! Don’t worry about being shamed; unfortunately, this is the Internet, and opinions and preferences aren’t really taken into consideration by most people. Don’t let those people stop you from doing what you want to do. Go for it, girl😊👏
-Seedrian Sparkles- thanms for the motivation
Sammy's Book Corner no problem :)
Lol she made video about reader shaming... By reader shaming
"Classics" is not a genre
You’ve been criticized because it seems like you only read the books you get paid to read
Oh shut up.
Al Paca I was only stating an opinion
@@saradjaroud971 stating an opinion is a way different thing than what you said. You assumed something about a person that, probably, you don't really know personally. Also whether she gets paid or not is none of your business.
Al Paca I’m not saying it’s my business, I’m responding to her wondering why she’s getting hate for the books she reads. And I wasn’t assuming anything, I watch her videos and she discloses the paid promotions and partnerships
@@saradjaroud971 she isn't talking about hate she gets because, as you assumed, she reads only books she is paid to read but because there are book snobs that think unless you read only Murakami, Dickens, Shakespeare etc you are not reading the "correct" books. That's what this video is about. Here we would say. Fulao si ceo futbal.
i feel the same way. i feel like every reader gets a different experience in every book. & not everyone is going to like a book, or dislike it.
I love this. Good job. I have suffered through a lot of this. I still need to read Zenith
People shaming readers for not reading Classics is honestly the most ridiculous type of comment I ever heard.
Reading is not supposed to be a chore. Read what you love to read and if you like to branch out to other genres then that’s awesome and you deserve a praise, not shame!!!
I love reading Fantasy, Historical, Middle Grade and Mystery novels, but I would really love to give Science Fiction, Classics, Contemporaries, and Adult Romance books a chance (but I’m so nervous!!!)!!!
I love reading mangas so much and would love to branch out to Comics and Graphic Novels!!!
Also, don’t know if anyone would care, but I would love to start reading Arabic books which I thought I would never read because my language is not that strong, but I discovered that there are easy ones to read and understand,that is YA, and now I’M SO EXCITED!!!
Dodo Pink I would suggest trying a couple of classics in your favorite genres. If they prove to not be enjoyable, then stop.
I have found that for me children's classics are usually more enjoyable than regular adult classics.
I have been reading. for years and I have never ever experienced any sense of joy in it. Idk why. I tried various books from almost every genre but I have not find or read a book that I loved wholeheartedly like most of readers do.
Maia Sitter Thank you, I will try that method!!!
deezzazter alhabsi Do you like movies/tv shows, games? If yes, then I suggest you try books that are similar to them. Or you can read books based on your hobbies. I hope it helps and you find THE BOOK for you!!!
I was told at age 14 by a teacher I wasn’t old enough to read The Catcher in the Rye, despite the fact I got it from the school library.
I don't have a problem if you like reading Cassandra Clare or Twilight, but I have a problem if you blindly agree with everything in the book.
I started reading with Cassandra Clare novels until I got into the classics like Harry Potter LoTR and some Dickens. I kind of cringed at Cassandra Clare after that and found out some things.
I don't care if you read things like Cassandra Clare, but I have a problem when people portray their opinions as facts. You can enjoy and like TMI, but it's a fact that the author has copied and stolen other people's ideas and that the books have flaws. Also, you can like twilight, but that doesn't make it good, it was enjoyable for you to read but that doesn't automatically make it a masterpiece.
Anyway, it's your business what you read and I wouldn't reader shame someone if he didn't say something insulting or if he didn't downgrade my preferences.
Also, classics are not just a genre.
Fun Fact: Especially Old German 'novels' like Parival, Erec, Tristan and Isolde,... are copied and tweaked versions of other 'novels', because back in that day copyright or ownership was not a thing. Just thought I should mention that. Plus, yes, twilight does have its problems and flaws but you cannot and should not forget what impact it had on many many kids. Just like Harry Potter, it was the book that made everyone suddelny interested in reading!
Ayla Donson I totally agree as someone who loves Mortal Instruments i can admit that they are not the great literary works and have many flaws and cringe writing. It's okay to enjoy something but that doesn't set the standard whether is it good or not
I would encourage everyone to at least try one classic. Challenge yourself, and you might be glad you did.
Clasics are so good!! My faves are Wuthering heights, north and south and the phantom of the opera. Wuthering heights is a book that I will forever go back to, I havent found another book yet that makes me feel the way it did.
Freya Reads I totally agree about Wuthering Heights. I read about five years ago, but it still haunts me. It’s such a good narrative about obsession. I’ve never read North and South, but I feel like I should now!
Wuthering Heights just has that something - I cant figure out
what it is but it's Wuthering Heights - What else can you say? North and South is amazing! John Thorton is a hearthrob! Also you should read Lorna Doone by R.D Blackmore because it's so good! xx
Freya Reads I just remembered that I did see the BBC adaptation of North and South and John Thornton was played by Richard Armitage 😍😍 thanks for the recommendation, I’ll definitely do that! Xx
@@MyBarbaricYAWP22 Richard Armitage is perfect as John Thornton! And Yaya Lorna Doone is brilliant! Xx
Love this video, but classics isnt a genre. Classics have NOTHING in common with each other, i guarantee there are subgenres of classics you'll like. Like i really love beat era "modern classic" writing like catcher in the rye, on the road etc. Because the writing style is very simple and concise and similar to YA in that sense
If I had a Rupee for every time someone mocked me for reading, I would be a millionaire by now and could afford books on my wishlist. Great video!! You out forward points in the best way possible. 😊
Everyone in my high school class tries to get me to stop reading. I love reading and most of them have not even read the books or stories for classes. I'm in honors English 2 and most of the people in that class didn't read the books they were assigned. I have been bullied in multiple ways for years. They say I'm fat, ugly, boring, etc. I listen to old music. I wear out of style clothes. I don't wear makeup often. I read everything from Poe to Rick Riordan, and they don't understand how I could even think about reading and I get so frustrated by that.
I hate it when you read fiction and people are like "You don't get anything out of reading fiction."
Um excuse me?
Reading fiction makes you more creative. Also, reading, no matter what it is decreases stress and increases how well you can focus. Also when you have to jump around to different characters and go into their shoes you learn to be more empathetic and to listen to all sides of the story. There are loads more reasons why reading fiction is good for you, and it's sad that people dismiss the genre entirely for not being real.
Totally agree, especially since fiction can be a great way for talking and sometimes denouncing things that happen in the "real" world and therefore making you think... Plus even if characters are living things that can't be real, they can still be inspiring. Sure, fiction doesn't give you the same knowledge as, say, a book about a certain topic, like science or whatever, but it does give you knowledge, a different type. Oh and it also broadens your mind, your vocabulary... But yeah, sure, we don't get anything out of reading fiction. *facepalm*
I agree with everything, but "classics" is not a damn genre.
My lecturer legit said “you can’t read John green and YA forever” LOL WATCH ME
John Green is some deep shit, he doesnt even KNOW.
Me
Me except with horror as well
I relate sooooo much. My uncle read shames me ALL THE TIME. "Because YA isn't real writing"
I totally agree with everything you've said. I wasn't diagnosed with ADHD until I was 20 and I didn't really get into reading until I read Twilight at 12 years old. Even after then, I wasn't really a big reader because I was easily bored. I read the first Harry Potter book at 10 but I was forced to by my parents to try and get me to read more. I struggled with keeping focus and interest and tbh I hate it when people expect me to be reading as much as others just because I show any interest in books at all. I was also one of the only people who loved Carve The Mark but I still showed my love for it because I didn't care what people would think - though I did take into consideration everyone else's opinions and explained that I understood why they might not have liked it as much as I did. Reader shaming really needs to stop and people need to start understanding everyone else, and not keep high expectations because no one is perfect. Thank you so much for putting this out into the world, Sasha. A lot of people need to hear this and tbh I'd love to see more of these types of videos. Definitely make the video that you were talking about making! I'd love to hear what you have to say about that too 😁
I’m studying Nordic language and literature, currently plowing my way through the Scandinavian canon from the 19th century until today.
I am also listen to the Harry Potter books on Audible for the first time lol. Only watched the movies when I was a kid.
Telling someone that classics are the only thing worth reading is like saying movies after color came, is not really worth your time. Or that you should just watch MUBI movies.
The thing about classics is that some of them are classics because they are great ... and some are classics because they are important in a more literary-historical context. They were a game changer in some way.
Don't worry I only started expanding my taste books
When I was young I only liked graphic books.
Now I'm reading The Hate You Give, re-reading the harry potter series and I'm thinking of reading shadow hunters
I remember when I was in hospital and a cleaner interrupted my reading of Heir of Fire to ask why I’m reading a book like that and not a book about my country, he was saying I should educate myself. This bothered me and after I finished Heir of Fire I haven’t even read much since it bothers me so much. I’m happy you’ve made a video about this ❤️
I'm loving this video, I have heard so many times why I don't read classics, why I haven't read Harry Potter, etc I love your videos and I hope someday you come to Mexico to a book signing of zenith
well said sasha!
I remember When I bought a bunch of classics and the checkout lady said that “i had really good taste in books”
i looked at her and said, i also love vampire romance books 😂
the look she gave me was priceless
i’m also 24 and have just started reading harry potter for the first time
i’m a fan of the twilight books and idc what anyone has to say about that!
and i only read 1 book a week, 3 at the most is a good reading week. i’m not a fast reader. at all.
anyone who feels the need to judge me about how fast and what i read needs a hobby ✌🏽
You should read Carmilla if you haven't read it yet. Do you have any good vampire romance recommendations? I've been obsessed with vampires in literature as of recently haha
i think everyone can read whatever they want, but coming from someone who's loved to read for over 15 years (since i learnt how!) I can say that reading the same genres does not really make you grow as a person, you do not get critical or do not get the ability to distance yourself from what you read (and for instance identify what's problematic etc). I remember being a kid/teen and being scared I would have nothing left to read as an adult because all adult books seemed boring to me back then. However, my tastes changed and now represent the person I am today. In YA you often have the trope of the shy, young girl who lacks self confidence but grows throughout the book, and I no longer relate to these coming-of-age stories. I've learnt so much thanks to reading varied genres, classics, adult contemporaries, and yes some YA and middle grade books too. Therefore, I think the key is diversity. On the other hand, I get where you're coming from, being judgmental is stupid, and disrespectful. Plus forcing yourself never really makes you appreciate a book, but a part of those remarks may be interesting: a big part of reading to me is broadening your mind! :) sometimes getting out of your comfort zone is good!
Me: finishes reading a book
My sister: why don't you put that much focus in reading an educational book, you know the ones that are going to help you in your life.
Me: *sigh
I'm so glad you continued uploading this even after all the post-production drama argh!!!
Ugh I love this so much! Thank you for making this video! Many truths were spoken ✊🏻 I’m sorry for the reader shaming experiences you’ve had. I haven’t been personally shamed yet, but I still feel the possible judgement from others and worry it will happen one day.
Discuss fanfic shaming next! Also thanks for doing this rant, Sasha. Reading is important to so many. Read on guys!
Read What you want when you want and screw everyone else. You do you!!!
blesss
Yes!!! I swear I have not read a lot of popular books like most readers do like Red Queen, Six of Crows, ACOTAR, The Lunar Chronicles Series and more...my family doesn't have the best finance that could provide me to get these books and readers are shaming me for not reading it. As soon as they found out about me not reading them they start to ask questions and making me feel like I'm not a good enough bookworm or book lover or a reader to this community. I love reading and I love books and I just want people to stop making feel that I am obliged to get those books just to be a real reader. Thanks, Sasha for your words of encouragement because it opened my eyes for strength and motivation. I am a reader and I am a book lover as long as I love books and read them, not only for education but also for enjoyment 💖
I like your video so much! I was actually thinking about this "problematic" today so it's a very good coincidence you dropped this! I've seen many videos the past few days talking about YA-readers shaming or the drawbacks of booktube and how it is overwhelmed by teens (lol). I mean, if you like reading and share your content then why would people be pointing at you? Reading is something made for having a great time (and yes sometimes it can also give you life lessons but not always), so if you like reading a certain genre just read it. I get the idea that sometimes you want to try something out of your usual reading habits but you shouldn't feel pressured to do it just to look more mature or idk, such as if reading YA, fantasy or romance would absolutely mean you're immature? Some classics are great but some are bad, and so do some romances and YA books.
Anyway, if you're reading this message, please continue to have fun while reading! At the end of the day it's your tastes and your time that you choose to spend with this little piece of paper 💕
I’ve only read the first Harry Potter book THERE I SAID IT
I only got through 5 pages...
I never read it.
I just found your channel and I LOVED this video! I'm so sick of book shaming/reader shaming (I haven't read LotR) and it just sucks. Following you from now on. Love from Chile!
Thank you SO much for addressing this Sasha. I definitely feel "shamed" as well when I bring up the fact that I really don't read Classics or when I tell people Harry Potter isn't one of my favorite book series (I also didn't read it until I was older). I actually made a video on this myself a while ago :) but yess please make more of these ranty videos. I'm LOVING it
I'm in Library school rn to become a public librarian and I learned that American librarians used to be the gatekeepers of reading and one of their duties was to make sure patrons were doing things to become good American citizens. They would only let patrons read Classics or books that were deemed appropriate for growth, I think this was mainly in the 1800s when public libraries really started taking off, but also led into the 1900s too. Popular fiction was considered trash and you were also trash for reading it 😂 I think it's really interesting how that attitude is so historical and still persistent in today's society despite us having much more freedom and variety with our reading choices.
Ya I agree with you in all the facts and all. Everyone has their own taste and people should respect others taste. But if you think a mediocre book good than you're looking at some particular aspects of the books undermining every other aspect that makes a good book great. You see, classics are not called classics because they are old, but because they are enjoyed by many who are not even fond of the genre in which those classics were written. Because the way was written it looks perfectly real. No cliched scene, no overused troupes. Not many books can achieve those feet and since they are very close to real, they look quite boring sometimes. Why? Because how often you find a real-life story compelling. Even an Erotica can be classic. Now it's completely fine if you're reading a YA book, a fantasy book or any other book and completely engrossed in it even if it's shit because you're looking in the book for something only you enjoy even if it's cliched, overused fucking piss. It only shows how easily you're mind can wrap around a book. Means you're satisfied with only a few things you look in a book, not in whole. So, it's completely fine to take proud in what you read, because no two brain works same.
Sasha! Thank you so much for this video and for saying everything we all feel! So much love and support!
I agree with so much of what you said in this video! Reader shaming is serisouly never okay and I fullheartedly agree with your sentiment that 'you don't have to learn something new about yourself every time you read.' A big part of the reason I read is for escapism and I love a good YA fantasy or romance to achieve that! The thing that does frustrate me with the YA community, and something that I think many people fail to express without coming off as judgmental a*****es, is the lack of genre diversity. YA is often the only genre discussed by many booktubers, and the gems that read a diverse range of genres are often so hard to find. I think that "reader shaming" often comes from a desire for genre diversity in the bookish internet community rather than genuine judgment. Love the vid Sasha!!! You expressed your feelings so eloquently and approachably :)
Another thing I hate is getting judged for being in a reading slump. ITS NOT GOING TO HELP
"At the end of the day, you are all that matters." 6:41 Lovely, thank you for taking the time to create this video Sasha :)
Right on! One time I was reading Tales from Shadowhunter Academy at work on my break and some guy walks into the break room and is like "what's that book about?" and I said something about magical creatures and I felt him judging me for what I read! Like he said "that's a big book" it's like "dude I can read whatever I want!" People also shame me for reading the Fifty Shades of Grey books, like I like them, what's the problem with that? I like that genre and that's all that matters! One time I almost got into a fight with a girl about it, but I walked away proud of what I read! I don't care what anyone else thinks! Thank you for making this video and addressing awesome !sing a huge issue with us readers! You rock Sasha! Keep being awesome!
I was reader shamed so much in college because I would always carry a middle grade or young adult novel with me. One of the most memorable times was when I was in the library working on a paper and someone came over to me and asked me if I loved to read and I said yes. Then they asked me what I book I was reading and I told them the name of the middle grade novel I was reading. They looked at me confused and were like "Oh, well have you read x classic?" and each classic I said no and then they said "Oh, I thought you liked to read /actual/ books." I still get all meh about it even if it was years ago.
Also your story of dyslexia and Harry Potter reminds me of my friends. Although she had the audiobooks and listened and took the story in that way when she was younger she was excited when she was able to read the books when she was in her teens, just to enjoy the story through the format of the book. She said she was happy when she finally got to take herself on that journey rather than have someone narrate it to her.
Loved this Sasha 💕 Totally experienced the same with HP! I have always loved stories but my dyslexia made me hate the act of reading itself. Later fell in love with reading (thank god) in middle school through YA but I had only seen the HP movies and then when this always came up it was so annoying. "So you like reading and fantasy but you haven't read Harry Potter?!" And a nasty look with this sentence.
I hate reading shaming sooo much, it's like you said: people don't know the whole story.
Also would love if you made a video about you not reading as much. And also in general would love more videos dealing with learning disabilities and how it affects you nowadays.
Love you so much Sasha you are incredible!
Thank you for talking about this, I feel like this happens to me when scrolling through my feeds and people are shaming a community that I'm apart of for liking the book or series. Sometimes it does get really disheartening.
imagine being a booktuber and not knowing that "classics" isn't a genre
oh my god i Love this--i used to be so anxious about reading in public because i was so worried about what people would think about the books i choose to read. classics are boring and hard to read and relate to for me! and that's okay! i'm so glad you made this video because reader shaming is Such a problem
All of these are such good points! I definitely relate to the one about how the amount of books you read doesn't equate to your love of reading. Being in university, I haven't been able to read nearly as much as before, and it sucks, but that doesn't mean I love reading any less. Great video!
This is such an interesting video. I love the support you’re offering all these people who have experienced some of these situations. Everyone does have their own opinions on books and shouldn’t be ashamed of them. No reader is the same, and we should respect that in the reading community because, just like in real life, it’s what makes every one of us unique.
Also, don’t feel bad about not finishing Harry Potter yet. I actually quit on it the first time I read it cause the fifth book was so much slower than the fourth one. I just tried again over the summer and finally finished it so you’re not alone
alright alright... you shouldn't judge people. period.
hoWEVER let's just realize that booktube really promotes young adult books in particular and let's be real fam. YA books are (for the most part) pretty bad and super cliché. Yeah they give you that warm feeling inside but they're so shallow and if that's the only thing you're getting out of literature, you could honestly get so many other better and more diverse things out of it! I used to be that person that read strictly YA and I'd get bloody furious if people were like "okay but you could try reading a classic sometime" like stfu let me be. I just wanted to be constantly reading something lighthearted and fun but mAN books can still be fucking awesome and not be about a shy 16 year old beautiful girl who's self conscious about her gorgeous big blue eyes and fights 36 men at once and still manages to not get one. single. scratch on her and ends up with the bad boy who could have any girl on the planet but went for the quiet hard to get girl. like bitch..
MY POINT IS that you shouldn't be ashamed of reading YA books but you shouldn't be reading those books as priorities, if that makes sense (of course you can do whatever the hell you want but trust me, there's so much more to explore in literature than the books explored on booktube...) try giving yourself of challenge of reading about more diverse topics and then once in a while come back to a fun and lighthearted young adult book.
mariana honestly you’re the asshole this video is about. “You shouldn’t reader shame but..”proceeds to do exactly that. YA is just like any other genre sure there are a lot of cliche repetitive awful books but there’s bad books in every genre. I’ve personally read a lot of YA books that have a lot of substance and would be comparable to a classic. The whole point of the video is that people shouldn’t HAVE to read anything. You shouldn’t think you’re better than everyone else because you don’t read YA. Also reading isn’t only about learning. Some people read for fun and that’s ok. Your not better because you read to learn and someone else reads for fun and vice versa.
YA is definitely not mostly bad it’s mostly good with some very popular bad ones. Just had to clarify that because I know your defence would be that you said most not all.
You tried to sound open-minded and not judgmental. you really did but unfortunately, you still managed to fail.
The only difference between YA and regular fiction is the age of the characters and possibly a limit to anything explicit (yeah right) and according to you that's clichè and bad.
So... that's means that's many of Sasha's fans will make a book "bad" or "cliché" because they are the main character. According to you, they are unfit for character hood bacause of they age. I may point out you are therefore ageist... and you also look plain dumb, because you're wrong from my experience.
Good day to you.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS!! I'm so sick of pretentious readers who get all stuck up when you don't read what they THINK or WANT you to read. Smh they really grind my nerves.
A lot of these people will talk down on those who read YA. They're all "that's so childish! It doesn't stimulate you intellectually! You learn nothing from these. You should be more like me and only read high class literature *insert snarky laugh here*" and I'm just like... maybe I don't want to read those types of books all the time? Maybe sometimes I just want to be transported to a happy world? That's totally fine if you don't want to read these types but why do you care so much??
Sorry rant over. I'm just so done with these pseudo intellectuals who put themselves on a pedestal because they read certain types of books.
I feel you girl!! I also have dyslexia but I only was officially diagnosed when I was 13. My mom didn't like the movies and like the entire Harry potter thing you past right through my life. I did start reading a bit earlier because of an amazing teacher I had in elementary school, but those were all stories by well known Dutch authors and hp was never one of them. So with that reasoning, I started and finished the entire series last year, but I was judged so much about everyone around me who knew I am a reader. It was the worst.
thank you for this!!! sasha you’re such a positive person! i for one am not interested in classics, and i read super slowly, but it doesn’t mean that i’m not a “good reader”!
Your glasses are too adorable!!!!
Next time someone judges the books I read, I'll just show them this video because you really got every single point right. What happens to me a lot is that a lot of people who don't read much (for different reasons) make fun of me whenever I mention a book that maybe doesn't have much of a plot and has a lot of romance on it. "That doesn't really count as reading a book, right?"...well, it has words on a piece on paper so I guess it does.
Regarding the classics, I want to read them but in English (if they're originally written in English). An English is not my first language, so it becomes very challenging for me. And I like the challenge but I also know that reading that kind of book is going to take a very long time. And I'm a fast reader, so whenever I can't read a book as fast as I usually do, it does put me off it a little bit.
Thanks for this video. It's so important to send this message.
I completely agree with you, especially about classics! When I was younger I was constantly said that I HAD to read them, but every time I tried they bored me to death (with some exception, which were books that I wanted to read, instead of being forced to read them because they were classics). I have started to read them in the past two years, probably due to the fact that I've been studying literature. But I still love romance and fantasy, and I keep saying this: I must be intrigued by the story, not by the fame of a book!
Omg this is so important to talk about! Reader shaming sucks and it makes you feel bad about something that makes you feel happy! Let people do what they wanttttt!!!
Started reading harry potter at 15, on the 3rd book now, haven't read any Jane Austen, twilight, only read some Shakespeare, and a lot of books that no one knows. This is the right video for me.
Sashaaa !!! You almost made me cry ! Is soo truee !! People who often don't even read are the ones that try to make you feel shame for reading YA novels !
I just started reading Harry Potter last year and I’ve been taking my time with it. I feel like a lot of people judge others when they haven’t read Harry Potter. And a lot of booktubers assume EVERYONE has read Harry Potter and literally spoil it in their videos without putting a spoiler warning. It’s the most annoying thing. The fact that you haven’t finished the series makes me not feel so alone and judged 😊
I agree with this so much!! Whenever I talk to my family about the books I like to read they don't understand how you can possibly learn anything from a book that you read for enjoyment.
I get your point but you’re kinda being the same towards classics in this video. Classics isn’t a genre, it’s a category.
I think I have read the same amount of classics as you
Yeah, probably. That's why you use "amount" instead of "number"
This is such a relatable video, I only started reading Harry Potter this year and I got judged for not reading it earlier on. I feel judged when I read books, even in front of my family. I’m 20 and I feel like they think I should stop reading “ teen fiction”, they call them “kids books”. I’m also embarrassed to tell them I like adult romance as well which sucks but I’m going to be more confident in the genres and books I like.
loved how you handled this topic! Also, the paperback version of Zenith is so beautiful!
Omg yes! Also.....I'm a senior in college and have just started reading Harry Potter books and I love them so far:) love you Sasha!💗💜😊
Hi!!! ILYSM! I’ve had similar situations when reading. Out of my class and friends in the only one who has read the Harry Potter books, and they all tell me that it is rubbish and terrible. My response is don’t judge the books by the films. Although the films are amazing in my opinion, nothing beats the books. And it’s my opinion and I know that they don’t have to like it. But they’ve never read them and they always judge me for reading them.
Great video! I agree wholeheartedly. And even falling out of love with reading is ok. I had a four-month break and now I'm back to reading obsessively.