Hello. I have read 300+ books per year since I was 12. I am now in my seventies. I just don't talk about it much. Other people are free to think and say what they want, but, they do not know you. I do not think you are faking. I am often surprised about the amount of detail you recall. I was employed full time for most of my life. I have family and friends and I go out to dinner, volunteer, go out to movies and watch RUclips. My house is not a mess. Your reading is not toxic, neither are you
Wow! I'm in my early 30's. I'm so happy to know of a person who did that! Thank you for sharing. If I didn't have vision issues I'd totally do more reading, but I read about 40/year with 1-4 hours per day. You are such an inspiration! 🎉
Oh, I know plenty of people who look down on TV watchers. This usually comes from readers. But I think we should stop criticizing anyone who does things different from ourselves. Read all of the books! Watch all the shows! Cook all of the food! Play all of the games! Whatever. ☺
@@jennfischetto I also like to watch TV shows but I have never had people doubt that I watch them while with books there's some incredulity. In general, I don't place one storytelling device over another - games are as valid as movies, etc. But personally, books and movies are my favorite content format.
@@biznis9965 They're my favorite too. ☺ And I misunderstood somewhat. I didn't realize you were referring to people doubting that you read. I've met people who never read and don't want to, so I know that attitude exists.
I’ve been a subscriber of yours for a long time and have never felt like you pushed any sort of pressure on anyone else to read as much as you. Of course, when you were talking about where your reading had become “toxic” you were speaking from your own perspective and that’s wonderful to have occasional re evaluations on our own practices (that’s what sparked my video too 😂). But from a viewer perspective, your content has always been chill and just you sharing your reading experience with people, not anything else. I did find your discussion on the way you read SO interesting! I can’t read a whole sentence at once, and I read every word individually. If I try to group words together, it breaks my immersion. I find it so interesting that you’re the exact opposite 😂 Anyway, great video, and I (like you) am a big propionate of everyone reading in exactly the way that’s right for them. There are indeed people that say “if you read x amount of books then you aren’t actually reading them” but I try not to listen to that because no one can know what the next person is doing and it’s really not worth worrying about anyway.
As fellow busy mom and content content creator, thanks so much for taking the to watch and leave such a thoughtful comment. I hope you know my "small booktuber" comment was a joke. And I adored your video. I had been thinking about posting this video about slowing down my reading when you posted your essay, so I thought it was so fun that we were having similar thoughts.
I am impressed, that you can read a lot, when you have to read word by word, because that would slow down the speed and so the amount of books you could read? I am a slow reader myself, but that is, because I read with only one eye. I cqn see through both, just not at thebsame time..😂 N3ver inconveenienced my reading though, just the speed and I don't mind that. Lately though, I listen to a lot of audiobooks, because I also like to play videogames, but don't want to have to not read. So I get reading in another way.
Definitely not a toxic RUclipsr, in fact your my favorite for a variety of reasons. As long as reading is your happy place, doesn't stress you out, and doesn't make you feel like you are neglecting your family, I'd say you are doing it right. 📚❤️
I’ve never seen you as anything less than authentic and never toxic. What matters is that you enjoy your reading whether three books a year or three-hundred.
I’m not a BookTuber, but once I found the BookTube community the amount of reading I did went up a lot. I think because I was finding so much more that I was interested in, I listened to audiobooks, and I made time to read.
You're one of the most genuine booktubers out there, I would've never thought you were "faking it". I'm extremely impressed because I never even get to 50 books a year and I actively try to spend as much of my free time as I can reading. But we're all different and that's the beauty of it!
I read 4 maybe 5 books a year, and I’m happy with that. It doesn’t matter how fast I read, it’s more the quality of what I read that is important. And you’re definitely not toxic, you just love to read 👍❤️
This is like a Grandmaster of chess asking if they play too much chess. You are a Grandmaster of books, this isn't really a hobby it's a huge part of your identity. You are an elite reader, one of the best in the world. It's an honor to get recommendations from someone as accomplished as you, I have found so many great reads from watching this vlog. All the people who are the best at what they do have a personality like yours. You have a great way of recommending books in a way that doesn't spoil important details but still tells me if this is something I would love. When it comes to balance, well that's why we have bookmarks, it's pretty easy to take a break and take care of life. Thank you for the best stabby book channel on youtube.
Rachel, I enjoy all your videos. You are not toxic in any way, shape or form. You come across as very genuine and whatever works for you is what you should do. I am a teacher and I taught kids how to read for many years. Some people need to go slowly and some people don’t and that’s OK. I was never an audio reader until recently. I just didn’t really enjoy it. But having gone through a massive reading slump, I have found that audiobooks really help me. I listen to them very quickly, as I also find the 1.0 reading speed very very slow and difficult to follow. Again, please do what works for you and please do not feel badly about what some people may or may not think. That’s their business.
You're the best booktuber in my opinion, so keep doing what you're doing! I appreciate that you read widely and not just popular books and bestsellers. I can always count on your recs for horror books and thrillers. I can't imagine you being toxic or shaming anyone for not reading like you do. Thanks for always staying down to earth, and always giving objective reviews.
📚📚 Honestly, I've never given any booktuber's reading speed or book consumption much thought. I certainly never considered that you were 'faking'. You're a quick reader and you devote lots of time to that reading. So, of course you're going to finish many books. No one should make anyone else feel bad about how much or how little they read. It shouldn't be a competition. I sometimes wish I could get more books read (I probably average about 75 per year ). But that's only because there are so many books that appeal to me. I do spend time doing other things I enjoy, so that factors in as well. Whatever feels right for you......is right for you. I enjoyed this video very much. I'm all for more like it.
No one should or should be made to feel bad for how much they read (or don't read). Recently, my wife started reading again after not doing so for years. She's really enjoying it, but said she felt bad because she wasn't reading as many books as me (last year I read 43 books). I told her the same thing. Read as much or as little as you want as long as it makes you happy. If you think it's affecting your life (e.g. are you late for work because you're reading, are your friends and family neglected because you're reading) then that's a different story. It's like everything in life, balance is essential, but each one of us has to determine where that balance point is for us. I'm certainly impressed by how much you read, but not at all intimidated. I read because I enjoy it too and I'm perfectly happy with the amount I read.
Reading just became an obsessive passion of mine within the last 4 yrs and I did start a channel.....mostly to talk about what I've read, find a community and to work on verbalizing my feelings intelligently. We were actually on Matt's collab from the other day and I do wonder how some tubers read so much. I have a full time job and kids. I love reading and love creating content. This being said, I don't think anyone should judge anyone else's reading habits.....as long as your are taking care of your family AND yourself......F what anyone else thinks. I mean Brian Lee Durfee is the same way......dude can read like a savant and no one questions him. Anyway, keep up the content and thanks for the reviews you put out.
📚 "Small booktuber" lmao! And no I never thought you were faking it, you're actually one of the "super reader" booktubers who I do believe is really reading and comprehending all the books you read!
This is why I could never open myself up to be on Booktube, etc. We are all in different places in life, different obligations, and our reading habits are just as different. I don't refer to any reader as "toxic," and I certainly wouldn't call you that. You seem very genuine, informative, and I'm impressed how much detail you retain. It's good to be reflective and adjust as needed, but we should never feel bad about our hobbies. My reading went way down when my boys were little but as they got older and more independent, time allowed for more reading. Now I'm home all day with teenagers so I have lots of time to do my favorite hobby. I even buddy read with them on occasion and credit my love of reading helped my oldest love books.
So long as youre not skim reading or clout chasing then who cares how much you read. However, If you cant recall a book you just read, then that might be a sign that you need to slow down.
You know what you need and what makes you happy. Read what you enjoy and in whatever speed you like. We are all different and that is awesome. A lot of what you said can be applied to drawing/painting. If you want to get better you need to put in the effort and time and you choose to do it because it makes you happy. Do what you do and only change if YOU yourself need it. 🥰
What a great introspective piece! I applaud your efforts to review yourself and make changes as YOU see fit. I never feel pressured or bullied by this channel for not reading as much as you are able to. I do think your decision to be more selective in your reading choices is a wise one. Reading what is enjoyable to the reader is much more pleasing to hear about. And never ever has it crossed my mind to think you were fake reading! 😮
I definitely don’t think you are toxic. Thank you for being so open and honest about this. There is nothing wrong with examining your habits to see if they are still serving you, but I also think there is nothing wrong with loving what you love. I also speed up audiobooks and podcasts to keep myself more engaged. I like to spend my spare time reading as much as I can. That may change in the future, but I am ok with embracing it right now.
I absolutely loved this video and with a 1 and a half year old and another one on the way, I very much relate to your “scarcity” reading discussion!!! I felt so seen 😂 but it makes me feel better that you said it eventually gets easier to find time as your child grew older lol!
This is the first video that came up of yours in my feed. Just know that people on the internet will find a way to hate on anything and you shouldn't be ashamed of anything that you get enjoyment out of.
This was a very interesting and honest video! Everything in life is a balance and I think for readers that use reading both as their hobby and their de-stressing method it's an especially hard balance to strike. But I think it's an individual process to find that balance. Being aware of the boundaries you need to implement is the first step. Setting them and sticking to them is harder, but can be done with practice! Only the person can say whether their reading is interfering with other aspects of one's life (or becoming "toxic"), and only they can make the changes needed until they feel comfortable again. I think it's an important issue for booktube to talk about bc many people feel an unintended pressure to read fast, more, better, whatever bc they see people reading that way (what ever way that is). But I love booktube bc the vast majority of booktubers are so supportive of any kind of reader (fast, slow, genre specific, etc...). I think this community strives to be encouraging, supportive and kind to any and all who identify as part of it.
You are an inspiration, one of the most endearing and genuine people on RUclips, I have enjoyed your youtube channel and Goodread reviews for several years. You are far from toxic, and anyone doubting the authenticity of your book reviews has not listened to, or read, your reviews. I have discovered so many good books and authors from your reviews. Keep being you, Rachel! We love you just as you are!
I love this channel so much I legit feel happy when a new video drops in my feed. You're one of the most genuine people I've ever watched on RUclips, and never for a second through that you're making up your reading numbers haha. I have a 2 year old so I'm finally getting back to reading more, which feels so, so good. But I'm also reading slower and read more books last year (70) as compared to 25-30 when he was born. And reading slower lets me remember more, I've read a lot of books in my life and so many plots escape my memory because I'd gobble them up till 2am in my early twenties, now I take my sweet time.
I read 46 books last year and I had a couple friends ask me how I got anything done if I read so much. I actually felt awkward. I told them while they’re streaming HBO or whatever, I’m reading. (I do watch some things too) My house is clean and we actually eat food! Ha! People shouldn’t be judged based on how much or how little they read.
Haha yes I love that any number of books can feel "impossible" to other people. And yes I try not to shame anyone, but ppl do watch a remarkable amount of tv
Hi, you are not toxic. More than half the books behind you are on our shelves because of your recommendations (I’m currently reading Ymir, its as great as you said). My partner and I have been watching you for many years. She introduced me to you. I am the SFF fan and she is the horror, true crime, and thriller fan (also Canadians). I’m glad you have a ‘detox plan’ 😂 that comes from self reflection rather than listening to the actual toxic social media comments. Please keep up the great content; and yes we would like to see more personal content. Thank you.
I'm a 100-books-a-year reader most years. That's primarily accomplished through audio and mixing up some manga series in there. What I've noticed personally is that I should let the book decide how fast I read. Sometimes the book carries me along and I can't put it down. Other times, the book is great, but I find it more enjoyable is smaller doses. It's taken a while, but I've learned to just enjoy the ride. I'm still a bit obsessive, so I keep a reading journal and track my progress, but I no longer try to prescribe any grand meaning to those numbers.
Your channel is a favorite because your discussions and reviews are savvy, insightful, and honest. It would be appalling if you let toxicity infect and maybe kill your channel, let alone ruin your reading. I'm glad you're taking steps to curb the negatives and to boost the positives. My rule on ARCs has always been: Send me what ever you wish and I'll review it IF I read it. Pressure I declined without a second thought. No obligations stalked me. I'm down to one eye, and have been through health challenges, so I read what I want, at my own pace, and respond to those books I finish. It's that simple. I do recognize that having a Book Tube channel is different, and I'm not saying do as I do, merely letting you know in the spirit of discussion. Rachel, you're a favorite for all kinds of great reasons. Thrive, please.
Thanks so much for the kind words. You are probably right that I need to relax more about ARCs. And I'm sorry about your eye sight. I hope it doesn't keep you from reading. I always appreciate your comments
You're not a toxic RUclipsr, and I've never felt pressured by you to read more. Nor have I ever thought you were faking or lying to us. I'm not a fast reader, and would like to get thru more, but I also don't want to spend hours every day reading 🤷♀️ Do what you enjoy Rachel. It's all about balance, and a balance that works for us 🥰
Fantastic video as always. Fascinating what you’ve said about your reading habits changing and how your reading related to your family duties. I love seeing your reviews and always look forward to seeing your videos. Family time is precious though and you need to make sure you can do both. Thanks for sharing Rachel.
What a great video! First of all, no, I don't think you are a toxic reader. I have a friend and a coworker who can read a stack of books in one weekend and I am jealous of them (and booktubers) who are able to do this. But it's not their fault that I am a slower reader! On the flip side, I have a friend that thinks that I read fast and I tell her that it's not that I read fast, it's that I read often. And even though I feel the pressure to read it's not because I want to compete with others it's because I have become aware through Booktube and Instagram of so many amazing books that I all want to read RIGHT NOW! Lol I am honestly glad that booktubers read so much or buy so many books because I can selfishly live vicariously through them and their is more content to watch 😉People that say that you won't have time to read when you become a mom I have learned for myself aren't the voracious reader that I am. They were casual readers that were okay with letting it slide when something else came along. Which is fine for them. But for people like us, I will MAKE time to read because I am passionate about it and I would be very unhappy if I didn't have that hobby in my life. These people probably have more time then they think they do but they use it on movies, social media, obsessively cleaning their house, crafts, or whatever else.
I always assumed you must be organized and have a good work ethic because of your dedication to your channel content.I have two other hobbies in addition to reading and I'm happily obsessed with all of them.😄 I think each person has to find their happy spot and it sounds like you're doing that.
Audiobooks are reading! It all counts! Read what you want, when you want to. You are not a toxic RUclipsr. Not by a long shot, and I never thought you were faking. P.S. I spend up audiobooks, too. 1.5x usually works for me but I have had to go up to 2x for some narrators.
From a person who is not engaged with BookTube or anything and only checked some videos to find good recommendations for new books-- It's always fair to reassess your habits and hobbies. I am of the mind that if it's not hurting yourself or others then there's no problem. Reading is a much healthier hobby than other things ppl fall into. Also, the more you read, the quicker you get and the more you refine your tastes to know what you enjoy. It's not a toxic trait, rather, I think it's an indicator of experience in a hobby. Don't think you're toxic or need to slow down, just keep doing what you enjoy so long as it doesn't hurt yourself or others. There's a balance read around family imo (I do and they don't mind) so long as you find that balance you're good
I didn’t think she was a small booktuber but idk. I enjoy your channel bc you offer up a lot of options, which you cdo by reading so much. If you read half as many, I’d still watch. This thoughtful vid is exactly why.
A "small booktuber Merphy Napier" 😂 I don't think a hobby can be toxic. I think that only people's actions and behavior toward others can be toxic. If the pressure to read as much as others cause people stress, which leads to toxic behavior, then yes, maybe their relationship with books might need to be changed. Someone might have an unhealthy relationship with their hobby, but that depends on that person's definition of what unhealthy is, not other people's opinions. I'm envious (in a good way) of your reading ability and many of my booktuber friend's abilities because I read slower comparatively. However, comparison leads to unhappiness, so I try hard to be happy with my reading speed. I still read more books than so many other people and I love using most of my free time reading too. You are certainly not toxic in any way.
Great authentic video. You are not a toxic reader or booktuber. I actually really enjoy your content. I have been an avid reader for years and while from time to time I get into slumps or read much slower, I always come back to books. I read as a hobby like you do for entertainment & escapism but I also read for education for mental stimulation & growth. As a person, I'm also obsessive about what I enjoy & like to use my time productively. I also enjoy watching movies, go out with loved ones etc but that's more social time with people I love. Solo time for me is reading, it relaxes me so dont feel guilty about self love & 'you' time.
Oh my god, are you a long lost relative of mine? The beginning of your video hit me in the feels and reminded me that I'm not alone with my reading obsession! That's an automatic sub from me. Thank you!
Bookworms of the world unite! I used to be a strict completist about finishing about a book - even if I disliked it. Lately, if I've given a book what I feel is a decent chance and still don't like it, I put it down. No hard feelings, I tell it, hope you find your reader.
I just discovered your channel and I love your videos! I find you incredibly relatable, I experience a lot of what you're describing with my own reading. I don't read as many books as you do (I think last year I capped out just shy of 200 books) but it's still enough to elicit the "how do you read so much??" response from everyone in my life. Or rather, everyone who doesn't live with me. (My husband and kids will tell you - my nose is constantly in a book!) It sounds to me like your reading speed is quite fast - mine is very average, and always has been. It hasn't really increased throughout the years. I just spend A LOT of time reading. Like you mention in your video, I too spend hours a day reading, but am pretty clueless about current pop culture as far as TV and movies. It's all about trade-offs. Anyway, I'm rambling. I just wanted to comment and say that a) I love your content and b) I relate.
Everybody is different. I love to read. I envy anyone that can read large amounts of books per year. I’m lucky if I read 50 books a year. I cannot listen to a book, I’ve tried it, it doesn’t work for me. You are my favorite booktuber for many reasons. I enjoy your insight, your enthusiasm, your well educated, you don’t drone on and on plus you have the voice for it. Every time you post a video, I get a message and a smile on my face knowing I’m going to be adding more books on my TBR. And It’s because of you. Thank you. 😊
You be you! I don't read nearly as much as you do....usually between 80 and 100 each year. To be honest, it doesn't surprise me that you read so quickly and that you speed up audio....your speech pattern is fast as well. Good luck on your journey to read more mindfully, but never stop being you! Change your reading habits if it is something you want for yourself, but not to fit into some sort of "acceptability mold". To thine own self be true ❤️
You are the opposite of toxic. I love all of your content. And I admire how much you read! I read a lot too. And I totally get it. But I will never feel bad for reading a lot more than others. It’s a personal choice..and is really none of anyone’s business 😂 Happy Reading!!❤
Hi - I am more jealous of your ability to read that many books. I have many hobbies so that does limit my time that I can devote to reading. I also work full time, and that's something else. I have never seen you as anything except genuine, and I thoroughly enjoy your videos. You are definitely NOT a toxic you tuber!
Thank you for being obsessive over reading!! 📚🚀🤖This is a great and inspiring channel!👍😊I am looking forward to many more years with great book recommendations🧘
You are happy- your reading isn't toxic. And this channel is the equivalent of a Becky Chambers book- a fun, safe, and light hearted place to be. I have OCD- and it's reading related- which really hurts (I am 53 and have been a voracious reader my whole life). I re-read and re-read and re-read sentances compulsively- progressing so slowly that I usually give up in frustration. Audiobooks have saved my reading life! I do an abridged version of that re-reading- sometimes listening to one sentance or one section over and over, but nowhere near as much as with print books and I can enjoy stories again! I can "read" about 65 books a year now, thanks to audiobooks. People telling me audiobooks don't "count"... now THAT'S Toxic!
Keep reading at your enjoyment level! Good for you for evaluating your habits to gauge how your reading impacts your family etc. Reading is only one of my hobbies, so I don't read as much as others, but it comes down to choice, yes! I recently gave up one hobby that was demanding too much of my free time. A month into it, I'm happy about that choice. Now I have more time to read. Keep reviewing because I value them and have used them when purchasing new books.
Reading is so subjective, I think everyone does it a little differently, and I think the real problem is people trying to compare themselves to others. The fact that booktube/bookstagram/booktok is so vast is one of its appeals, imho, in that each person brings a different side to the conversation, and it's by celebrating how each of us reads and enjoys things differently that we get to somewhere profound and interesting. Sure, there's that dopamine hit when a creator likes a book you like, or when you love a book one of your favorite booktubers recommends, but part of what I love about this side of the internet is that so many people enjoy this one thing (staring at words on pieces of paper) and get so many different things out of it. I love that this is in conversation with Merphy's video, as I feel like that's the way these videos SHOULD work, each video building upon and conversing with another, creating a conversation that moves the format forward.
I dont think you need to care what others think. if you enjoy it, you dont need any approval. They dont know you, and you dont need to explain yourself to anyone. Only you will know what works for you. Screw anyone that says otherwise. Be happy, and never try to satisfy online blips or comment sections. Anyone that would call you out for reading and doing what you love is a loser. l love your channel, and you have opened my eyes to so many great books!!
You are definitely not a toxic booktuber. This is such a chill channel, and I’ve heard you mention about your son and was impressed you had time to read. In my mind, when I think of toxic booktuber, reading 200+ plus is not what comes to mind. I acknowledge faster readers and wish I had that time. And yes, most listen to audiobooks at high speeds. My brain can’t process over x2 speed for certain stories. I still read almost every word. The other person who sounds like you is Steve Donoghue who reads constantly. But he always gives the caveat, that’s mostly what he does. And I agree it’s more about enjoying or tackling that challenging book and seeing life differently. The problem with social media is envy, aka trying to live up with the Joneses. Instead, we should appreciate other’s talents and enjoy what they are sharing. The takeaway isn’t to match that level with number. I thought this was a space to enjoy talking about books, the good, bad and ugly in a wider community that we may live in.
Thanks so much. I definitely aim for chill. And yes I just never want to incite competition. I think it's why I don't discuss statistics or focus on number goals.
I really enjoy your channel and have never found you shaming or competitive. I would encourage you like you said to make sure you’re making time for meaningful connections, and maybe consider, if that’s hard, whether you’re over relying on reading as a coping mechanism. Otherwise I think you’re doing great! And no I never thought you were faking that’s silly
Thanks and yes I think it's good for me to evaluate if my habits have become internally toxic. I'm relieved that no one feels I'm externally adding toxicity to the community
I'm constantly comparing myself to others so seeing the people I watch on RUclips read SO much really made me feel like I wasn't reading enough. So I tried to read more and I found myself not enjoying the books because I was only trying to get through to the end so I could add it to my "body count." I've since stopped and have shifted my energy to enjoying what I'm reading and not seeing it as a sprint to the finish line. I now read 1-2 books a month (depending on the length, I seem to like to choose very long books) and I'm happy with that.
No one should have to justify how much or how little they read. Especially since we all read at different speeds and comprehensions. I enjoy this channel, its a great place to get horror recs, and I appreciate it even if I don't comment often. I certainly haven't found you toxic at all, and it has never once crossed my mind that you may not be reading everything you talk about. You seem to have a good grasp on your own reading habits and are making changes based on how you personally feel. I think that is a positive thing, because it's based on self reflection, not on things that random people on the internet have said. Personally I have been trying to read more - Ive been in a reading slump the last few years, and I've found just reading for an hour a day has increased my reading level and speed a lot. I think I've read more books so far this year than I did in total last year! And thats not because it's a competition, its because I love reading and Im finally finding that passion again. But I'm finding its not hard to find some time to read, I do just 30m when I wake up and 30m before I go to bed - I'm not even trying really lol, so I can well imagine how someone might be reading a large number of books when they are really trying to make time for it, by reading on the train, in their lunch breaks, when they have a few moments of peace from the kids etc. So I don't think anyone should say that reading a lot is a bad thing, and I don't feel like anyone should be judged for loving to read. We all spent a lot of time as kids being encouraged to read and to read more and widely (and I know I encouraged my own child to do so), and now as adults people are like "you read too many books, you read the wrong things, you spend too much time reading" and I'm just like, get out of here lol Enjoy what you love and if that is books and reading, don't let anyone tell you differently.
I love the fact that you can read so much, because you get to recommend so many books to us. I am grateful for that. I work about 70 hours a week, but still am able to read about 100+ books a year. Of course reading speed is important. I love to read when I travel, and yes so much enjoyment in reading. You are definitely not a toxic youtuber. I thoroughly enjoy your channel.
@@Yesica1993 I read all the time. Do maybe one audio a month. I read early mornings, during lunch, every evening, on vacation. My children are grown so lot's of free time when home. I have no other hobbies.
I think we just have to find what works for us. Reading habits change and that's fine with me. I read slower than average even with years of experience so I don't think practice always makes you read a lot faster, but I do read about 40ish books a year right now and that's at 1-4 hours per day. It is just my preferred entertainment. Happy Reading!
I’m also wanting to slow down my reading. The last two years I read 150ish books per year. I’m enjoying reading but I feel like I need to spend time doing other things. I started getting more audiobooks so I could read and do chores or driving so that’s nice.
I don't think you're a toxic reader and love that you read so much. I agree, it's about choosing what we do with our time. How much time do people spend scrolling on social media rather than do something productive... I read at every opportunity i get - i'm a mum, a nurse, a runner and am studying but i still make time to read because i love it and it's good for my mental health.
I’ve always wondered why people care how much someone, including me, reads. Last year I read 340+ books because that’s how I choose to spend my time. My husband tells people who’ve asked him about how much I read (ridiculous) my wife is a professional reader 😂. You are in no way toxic. Keep doing what you’re doing!
I'm a slow reader, I really am. I choose really carefully what to read, because I have a bunch of other hobbies and no time for boring games, movies, meetings and books. And when I read a book I really like I read it even slower, because I reread sentences, and paragraphs even whole pages, just because I liked them. I try to read as much as I can, but I'm no RUclipsr and have no viewers to entertain. With that in mind, I genuinely think that when a content creator love what he does it shows. Your chanel is amazing and I have found a lot of all time favourites because of you. If you read the way that makes you happy, your videos will keep to be so awesome and we all will be happy. And thank, Rachel, for everything :)
This is why I re-evaluated the way I engaged with bookish social media, I started to internalise some of the crap which affected my reading. I'm not a booktuber, I can't imagine how much worse that is. Read as much as you like, as fast/slow as you like. It's you consuming the book after all. That's easier said then done to be fair.
My kids didn’t allow me to read during feedings. They were curious about what mom was doing. Little arms reached out for paper books. They tested how far my nipples would stretch as they tried to see my iPad. Now that they’re older I have a lot more time for reading.
Lol! I had the same experience - I panic read during my pregnancy! LOL! I have a seven year old son and found I've read way more after having him. Now that he's reading on his own, we can read together in bed (but he reads out loud, so it's slightly distracting LOL!)
😂 you know that thing on TikTok where people lip sync over audio. My version of this video would have your audio track as pretty much everything I’d say would be the same.
1st off: You're awesome. Nothing to apologize for. 2nd: If you are really worried, check with some professionals (especially education & psychology professionals) who you feel comfortable with. - There is no surer recipe for suffering than asking RUclips comments for constructive advice. (except maybe the same on twitter!) "Ideal Reading Speed" is a chimera and best not chased - more after 3rd -If your family members are feeling detached from you, *listen to them*, talk to them about what they see & what effects them. What they want, and what they need. Being an active part of a group is always about constantly changing vectors of interaction based upon equations with actively changing variables. You've got to be part of the conversation - not skimming the interactions based upon predicted chunking of behaviors. That's not being present, and that's a observation style you are reinforcing from taking the same approach with how you engage with texts. - **Other related points : - Audiobooks: Your natural talking / thinking speed is fast. And I'm a New Yorker! Of Course you need the speaker of the books to do so at a comfortable processing speed - you also need to think about what you want out of a book: Are you assimilating the data of plot points or are you creating an internal virtual reality experience where you are being transported away & fully picturing immersive environments? - Other reviewers/ book tubers: YES. There are MANY young men & women with black bookshelves and matching spined series who are lying about all the books that they read, or what level of completion they read them to, or if they just skim/speed read. To them it is a business & if you treat it that way, you have to be efficient (& sometimes ruthless) because a lot of time is spent on creating/projecting an aura of confidence, competence and marketability & there's not enough hours a in a day. They are a cottage industry using the tools of "Get Ahead in Business" books & Tech Industry tactics of "always make the mark crave more product" so they DO want people to feel insecure about how much they read (& up book sales in the process - Publishers appreciate that!) THIS DOESN'T MEAN YOU ARE TOO! But how can the average "addicted youtube consumer" tell the difference? Those channels keep them so off balance that of course they get defensive. You be you. - Review copies: It is really wonderful that you have such a good work ethic. It's sweet. But I worked publicity for a major publisher & let me tell you, Advanced Reading Copies are valueless. Proofs are printed cheaply & sent out by the ton, & whatever's left around the office after a few months are recycled. They send them to addresses w/o even knowing if that addressee is still a reviewer at a local paper with a circulation of 400. They send them by the box to store chain warehouses to distribute to mall book clerks in *hope* they will read them and throw in a good word when asked. Ebook copies cost them NOTHING. Factor this in when you asses the reciprocal value of your time & effort to finish what may **truly** be a BAD book when just you holding it up on a video that gets 3,000 views on a channel with 21,000 subscribers means HUNDREDS of sales for them - even if you say "This Book Sucks." It is really cool that you want to do your due diligence but they'll get their sales just from you saying "Reading more than 20 pages of this book is unacceptable pain." ALSO - the more books you read (especially in a genre, doubly so books by newer authors who may still be honing their craft or finding a voice) the more (as you said) get better at it. The faster you can see when this AUTHOR X pastiche has nothing new to say and it is going right where you THOUGHT it was going by page 50. It is OK to DNF & tell your viewers that you did & let them decide. It still gets the book held up on screen for the publisher. I'd LOVE a "These 30 Books are a Waste of Paper" video! Not for trolling but because I often buy used books & it's GREAT to know which ones to put back! - Reading speed: You're best served to ask reading/education experts about reading speed and current thought/ studies on the subject as opposed to strangers of various unspecified backgrounds. It really depends on *what* you are reading. History ? Psychology? Quantum Physics Textbook? A lot of what I see you review seems like plot is the goal. If that is the case, speed reading/ data chunking aren't great crimes. I could be wrong - perhaps what you present in your talks looks like that because it's all you look for, or all you can easily represent in videos. Perhaps it's all you see because you are reading too quickly to get anything else. This is usually where the arguments between "Literature and Pulp" or High versus Low culture begin. I'm not trying to open THAT can of worms. Too many shades of grey & personal experiences. However, some books deliberately hinge their meaning on the reader noticing the use of one pronoun or change of tense on page 137, & if you miss it. . . . you miss everything. Those books need a closer reading with more presence in the moment. Have you ever tried to read "Absalom, Absalom!" in a rush? Some books are written to give you a linguistic flow that expects you to sub-vocalize, or perhaps even read the dialogue out loud. Most poetry requests additional readings by the reader & is best read aloud. I'm a fan of John Donne & I need to read it through aloud a few times just to get a sense of what speed & where the emphases lie. On the other hand reading Piers Anthony slower gains you nothing. It's just pulling the bandaid off slower. _____ OK, I've just spent more than an hour of my life giving advice to someone who doesn't even know my bona fides, let alone ME - I hope you read it. You are a voice of energy & positivity & it is *wonderful* to think of you having a happy family life w/ all your reading. Work to ensure THAT. Find the balance. You are energized by your anxieties - let them power you, but not control you. Meant with sincerity and goodwill.
Thanks so much for your kind well thought out message. First, I agree that my families feeling is far more important than the internet. Really I wanted to make this video a place to discuss the topic
You're probably right that I need to chill more about ARCs. I find so many publishers are reluctant to mail to Canada so I try to keep up good relationships (even when I'm giving their book a bad rating
@@TheShadesofOrange I was also kinda suggesting that you can more efficiently try to slow yourself, not by putting on the brakes, but by practicing on books that *require* a slower approach like poetry. It will also help you practice being in the moment -something you mentioned that I thematically reinforced throughout my manifesto. . . er. . . "reply." ;)
If you are a fast reader, then you’re just a fast reader. Period. I know that I could never get anywhere close to what you read a year but I do pick books that you have recommended and read them where if I have not been watching your video I would’ve never known about them so therefore I’m reading more. And you are completely correct in that you have to make time to read. The only thing that I wish booktubers would do is, let us know when they have listened to an audio because that is not the same as reading. You are actually consuming the book but you’re not actually reading it. Audio is much quicker. It actually makes a very big difference in the amount that you consume. And with that being said, maybe people would not feel so bad about not getting as much read or consumed Loved this, great job. 😉
Yes I agree that the audiobook game widely changes a readers numbers. I experience great retention from the audio format, but it's absolutely an advantage over readers who only consume books traditionally
Am I the only person who hear britney spears Toxic in the background?? yes? Ok. My bad. I know you get alot of folks who hate or say you don’t actually read the books- Dont let it get to you. Read however much you want- dont slow down because of ppl on the internet! I do however, enjoy that you and Merphy and other booktubers are talking about this topic. Its a healthy check-in. Proud of u.
I love that you read so much, and share your opinions! I watch booktube precisely because booktubers usually read way more than I do, this makes me trust your/their recommendations, so I can spend my reading time on better books. I really do not understand why booktubers or booktokkers who read a lot are supposedly toxic. It's a hobby, why are viewers feeling threatened or competitive about this? If you like running, or drawing you also don't feel like professional marathon runners or artists are toxic just for being better at it than you are?!
this is such an interesting video! when you mentioned the toxic habit of wanting to get the most out of EVERY single moment of your time & even reading during family time or brushing your teeth... damn, that really hit home. reading makes me happy & i love doing it (it's also one of my main hobbies), but it's so easy to get lost in rushing yourself and no longer being present for other important times in your life. also, it never even crossed my mind that you might be faking it. your reviews are way too in-depth! and i only find your high reading numbers to be inspiring re: continuing to carve out time for reading myself 😊
Between trying to be a writer and trying to read, plus two kids and a wife, it's hard to fit everything in. So many things to read that I want to get to! But I also like to sleep and go outside and see people. Once I see those people, it makes me want to go back inside and read more.
Everybody is different. It all depends on what you enjoy and consider a priority. You are definitely not toxic. Personally, I could read a lot more than I do especially being retired I have the time, but I also love movies and watch a lot of older movies on TCM. Everything is a trade off and the key is to find a balance that makes you happy. You read 300 books a year while I read 60. That's what works for us and that is all that should matter.
I dislike that I tend to read in big bursts. I'll read 10+ books in a month and then not read at all until two months later (another 10 books). I do that with most of my hobbies, actually. I wish I could be more consistent!
I think my husband is the same way with hobbies. He'll go through phases where he'll binge on a hobby and then rotate to something else. I'm more a creature of routine who always does the same things
I'm 47 and knock out 15-20 books per month and I work full time, do part time writing and am raising 2 kids. If I focused on just reading I could finish a 500-600 page book per day. Sounds like the naysayers are a wee bit jealous. You get faster the older you get & the more you read. Just keep on churning 'em out 🤓
I thought it was just me! I just thought because I double the speed that the normal just sounds really slow and not that thats a deliberate choice of the narrator. You learn something new everyday. I don't think you need to do anything unless you feel it benefits you!
Great video. Thanks for sharing your journey. You are the opposite of toxic. You are my faviroute youtuber for a reason that being geniune, informative and your videos just being fun to watch. I read about 80 books a year.
I’ve never felt any toxic reading pressure from you or any thoughts of shaming viewers for how much they do or don’t read. Taking an introspective look and making adjustments based on that is a healthy thing to do occasionally. Happy reading!
Part of the problem is just that so many people don't prioritize reading and/or don't spend a large chunk of time doing it. If you're a heavy reader, 75 pages per hour is no big deal. If you can squeeze in three 20 minute sessions during the day and 1 hour at night, then 3-4 hours on the weekends (1 with your coffee and another at night). That's 3+ books per week (160 per year) without even stretching it. Supplement with an audiobook each week and you can hit 200! It's all about desire and consistency. Of course people who only read 12 books per year (15 minutes per day, roughly), think that 300 is unreachable. The real toxic booktubers are the ones that only read 20 books a year and recycle their 150 book lifetime reading list into dozens of videos to give the illusion of reading a lot. 50+ book "hauls" add to the illusion. Why do they have book hauls of thousands of books on their page if they are only reading a few? I appreciate you, and your content!
Thanks. Yes it sounds like you have some good insight into how people read more. For me, I think the distinction is not prioritizing time rather than saying I don't have time for something
I’ve enjoyed all of your content so keep being your awesome self! I’m reading more science fiction and horror than I ever have before because of you and your channel!✨
📚 I'm a speed audiobook listener as well. I also find the 1.0 speed soooooo slooooow. I usually start at 1.5 and work my way up to a 2.0 at least. The highest I can comfortably listen at 2.7. But that's usually reserved for more lighthearted and fluffy books that I don't need to be fully immersed in.
Hi Rachel, you are definitely not a toxic booktuber. I personally have different amounts of books I read in a year. If I read a lot on my kindle, then I read a lot more books. For some reason I read slower in print books. I never feel less than if I read less than someone else. I think the only way it could be toxic is if there is neglect in the important aspects of life. Like you my hobby is reading. I do enjoy television and movies, but I usually spend more time reading because I prioritize that hobby above the others. The fact that you have thought about and are adjusting your reading habits prove that you don't have toxic behavior. I too love horror and I am just starting to dabble in science fiction. Do you have any recommendations for a beginner? I would really appreciate it! Thank you!
Thank you! As for sci fi...I have some videos coming. But some of the popular ones are good places to start.The Martian, Body Snatchers, The Martian Chronicles etc
My wife is just as busy as I am but usually doubles what I read in a year. I'm usually the one saying hey do you want to watch a movie or go out and she's like sure, right after this chapter so i know what you mean. I don't think you should worry about your reading speed as long as you are enjoying yourself but also don't be afraid to dnf books you are not happy with. Thank you for all the informative videos and great recommendations! 📚
I loved this video. It sounds like you are right on track. Your comment about not letting your reading interfere with your family time is spot on. Yes reading an audiobook while brushing your teeth sounds a bit extreme lol, but you love reading. If you are enjoying it, why slow down? I never thought you were faking. You also didn’t mention the flip side effect you could have on people. You worried about shaming others because you read so much, what about how you motivate others to read more? I’m 60 years old and only in the past few years have I rekindled my love for reading. Even as a child, I loved reading sci-fi, but I didn’t read that much. I always thought that I was a slow reader, but a few years ago I discovered it had nothing to do with my reading speed. It was my ability to focus. I don’t know if I had ADHD as a child or even have it now as an adult lol, but once I realized the issue, I was able to take steps to remedy it. I read 50 books last year where I was lucky to read 1 or 2 if any at all a few years ago. Finding booktubers like you was one of the things that helped motivate me to read again. Keep doing what you love! I started following you because you read the same types of books that I enjoy, and I love your honest reviews. I also don’t understand why some have issues with Audiobooks. It’s still a book. Sometimes that medium is even superior in my opinion (like when the author narrates the book). Anyways, keep up the great work!
You are NOT toxic! I love your channel, and I love how you geek out on your book interests. I always have a book with me (I'm in the Army), and people have often commented on how I always have a book. Though I read slow, my break time is spent reading. Most of the time, I feel that the comments about my reading carry a negative context. The reality, when I was a literature student, I also read my own stuff. When I converted to science, I read between classes. (I read The Decameron between classes.) My wife always said she loved books but didn't have time, I read while she watched true crime on Netflix. I read to my children. I always read before bed - it's part of my nighttime routine. The reality is that reading is good for people, it gives insight, it provides empathy. When my children were young and my wife would need to get up to feed them, I would get up with her and read "child raising" books to her. As we had more children, even she didn't wake up while feeding the kids (we have 5).
Hello. I have read 300+ books per year since I was 12. I am now in my seventies. I just don't talk about it much. Other people are free to think and say what they want, but, they do not know you. I do not think you are faking. I am often surprised about the amount of detail you recall. I was employed full time for most of my life. I have family and friends and I go out to dinner, volunteer, go out to movies and watch RUclips. My house is not a mess. Your reading is not toxic, neither are you
Yes! All of this! I also read 300plus books.
I read 300+ books a year as well. I think some people just read quickly, and it's not good or bad, it's just a different speed.
Thanks. It's so refreshing to hear from someone who reads a lot... as part of a balanced life
Wow! I'm in my early 30's. I'm so happy to know of a person who did that! Thank you for sharing. If I didn't have vision issues I'd totally do more reading, but I read about 40/year with 1-4 hours per day. You are such an inspiration! 🎉
I never hear people accused of watching too much Netflix. Internet, just leave us be! We love to read.
Haha so true!
Oh, I know plenty of people who look down on TV watchers. This usually comes from readers. But I think we should stop criticizing anyone who does things different from ourselves. Read all of the books! Watch all the shows! Cook all of the food! Play all of the games! Whatever. ☺
@@jennfischetto I also like to watch TV shows but I have never had people doubt that I watch them while with books there's some incredulity. In general, I don't place one storytelling device over another - games are as valid as movies, etc. But personally, books and movies are my favorite content format.
@@biznis9965 They're my favorite too. ☺ And I misunderstood somewhat. I didn't realize you were referring to people doubting that you read. I've met people who never read and don't want to, so I know that attitude exists.
@@jennfischetto no, you understand correctly, but as @theshadesoforange says in the video, both happens.
I’ve been a subscriber of yours for a long time and have never felt like you pushed any sort of pressure on anyone else to read as much as you. Of course, when you were talking about where your reading had become “toxic” you were speaking from your own perspective and that’s wonderful to have occasional re evaluations on our own practices (that’s what sparked my video too 😂). But from a viewer perspective, your content has always been chill and just you sharing your reading experience with people, not anything else.
I did find your discussion on the way you read SO interesting! I can’t read a whole sentence at once, and I read every word individually. If I try to group words together, it breaks my immersion. I find it so interesting that you’re the exact opposite 😂
Anyway, great video, and I (like you) am a big propionate of everyone reading in exactly the way that’s right for them. There are indeed people that say “if you read x amount of books then you aren’t actually reading them” but I try not to listen to that because no one can know what the next person is doing and it’s really not worth worrying about anyway.
I just watched your video on that, it was so good :)
As fellow busy mom and content content creator, thanks so much for taking the to watch and leave such a thoughtful comment.
I hope you know my "small booktuber" comment was a joke. And I adored your video. I had been thinking about posting this video about slowing down my reading when you posted your essay, so I thought it was so fun that we were having similar thoughts.
I am impressed, that you can read a lot, when you have to read word by word, because that would slow down the speed and so the amount of books you could read?
I am a slow reader myself, but that is, because I read with only one eye. I cqn see through both, just not at thebsame time..😂 N3ver inconveenienced my reading though, just the speed and I don't mind that.
Lately though, I listen to a lot of audiobooks, because I also like to play videogames, but don't want to have to not read. So I get reading in another way.
Definitely not a toxic RUclipsr, in fact your my favorite for a variety of reasons. As long as reading is your happy place, doesn't stress you out, and doesn't make you feel like you are neglecting your family, I'd say you are doing it right. 📚❤️
Thank you
I’ve never seen you as anything less than authentic and never toxic. What matters is that you enjoy your reading whether three books a year or three-hundred.
Thanks for your kind words
I’m not a BookTuber, but once I found the BookTube community the amount of reading I did went up a lot. I think because I was finding so much more that I was interested in, I listened to audiobooks, and I made time to read.
Totally makes sense! The excitement of the community helped me to read more as well
You're one of the most genuine booktubers out there, I would've never thought you were "faking it". I'm extremely impressed because I never even get to 50 books a year and I actively try to spend as much of my free time as I can reading. But we're all different and that's the beauty of it!
Thanks for such a kind comment
I read 4 maybe 5 books a year, and I’m happy with that. It doesn’t matter how fast I read, it’s more the quality of what I read that is important. And you’re definitely not toxic, you just love to read 👍❤️
Thanks
This is like a Grandmaster of chess asking if they play too much chess. You are a Grandmaster of books, this isn't really a hobby it's a huge part of your identity. You are an elite reader, one of the best in the world. It's an honor to get recommendations from someone as accomplished as you, I have found so many great reads from watching this vlog. All the people who are the best at what they do have a personality like yours. You have a great way of recommending books in a way that doesn't spoil important details but still tells me if this is something I would love. When it comes to balance, well that's why we have bookmarks, it's pretty easy to take a break and take care of life. Thank you for the best stabby book channel on youtube.
Aw thanks. I'm certainly not grandmaster of books... more of an armchair enthusiast
Rachel, I enjoy all your videos. You are not toxic in any way, shape or form. You come across as very genuine and whatever works for you is what you should do. I am a teacher and I taught kids how to read for many years. Some people need to go slowly and some people don’t and that’s OK. I was never an audio reader until recently. I just didn’t really enjoy it. But having gone through a massive reading slump, I have found that audiobooks really help me. I listen to them very quickly, as I also find the 1.0 reading speed very very slow and difficult to follow. Again, please do what works for you and please do not feel badly about what some people may or may not think. That’s their business.
Thank you. Love you weighing in as a teacher. Glad audio has helped you out during reading slumps
You're the best booktuber in my opinion, so keep doing what you're doing! I appreciate that you read widely and not just popular books and bestsellers. I can always count on your recs for horror books and thrillers. I can't imagine you being toxic or shaming anyone for not reading like you do. Thanks for always staying down to earth, and always giving objective reviews.
Hardly the best, but thank you!
📚📚 Honestly, I've never given any booktuber's reading speed or book consumption much thought. I certainly never considered that you were 'faking'.
You're a quick reader and you devote lots of time to that reading. So, of course you're going to finish many books. No one should make anyone else feel bad about how much or how little they read. It shouldn't be a competition.
I sometimes wish I could get more books read (I probably average about 75 per year ). But that's only because there are so many books that appeal to me.
I do spend time doing other things I enjoy, so that factors in as well.
Whatever feels right for you......is right for you.
I enjoyed this video very much. I'm all for more like it.
Thanks. Sounds like a very balanced opinion
No one should or should be made to feel bad for how much they read (or don't read). Recently, my wife started reading again after not doing so for years. She's really enjoying it, but said she felt bad because she wasn't reading as many books as me (last year I read 43 books). I told her the same thing. Read as much or as little as you want as long as it makes you happy. If you think it's affecting your life (e.g. are you late for work because you're reading, are your friends and family neglected because you're reading) then that's a different story. It's like everything in life, balance is essential, but each one of us has to determine where that balance point is for us. I'm certainly impressed by how much you read, but not at all intimidated. I read because I enjoy it too and I'm perfectly happy with the amount I read.
Thanks.. and glad you helped support your wife to not feel bad either
Reading just became an obsessive passion of mine within the last 4 yrs and I did start a channel.....mostly to talk about what I've read, find a community and to work on verbalizing my feelings intelligently. We were actually on Matt's collab from the other day and I do wonder how some tubers read so much. I have a full time job and kids. I love reading and love creating content. This being said, I don't think anyone should judge anyone else's reading habits.....as long as your are taking care of your family AND yourself......F what anyone else thinks. I mean Brian Lee Durfee is the same way......dude can read like a savant and no one questions him. Anyway, keep up the content and thanks for the reviews you put out.
Omg Brian Lee Durfee is next level! And so happy you joined the community
📚 "Small booktuber" lmao! And no I never thought you were faking it, you're actually one of the "super reader" booktubers who I do believe is really reading and comprehending all the books you read!
Thanks... and glad you go my joke
This is why I could never open myself up to be on Booktube, etc. We are all in different places in life, different obligations, and our reading habits are just as different. I don't refer to any reader as "toxic," and I certainly wouldn't call you that. You seem very genuine, informative, and I'm impressed how much detail you retain. It's good to be reflective and adjust as needed, but we should never feel bad about our hobbies.
My reading went way down when my boys were little but as they got older and more independent, time allowed for more reading. Now I'm home all day with teenagers so I have lots of time to do my favorite hobby. I even buddy read with them on occasion and credit my love of reading helped my oldest love books.
Glad to hear that reading gets even easier with time
So long as youre not skim reading or clout chasing then who cares how much you read. However, If you cant recall a book you just read, then that might be a sign that you need to slow down.
I totally agree deity 93
Thanks. Completely agree
You know what you need and what makes you happy. Read what you enjoy and in whatever speed you like. We are all different and that is awesome. A lot of what you said can be applied to drawing/painting. If you want to get better you need to put in the effort and time and you choose to do it because it makes you happy. Do what you do and only change if YOU yourself need it. 🥰
Good point... thank you!
I'm in my 70's and have read 300+books forever,I definitly find you inspiring as oposed to toxic.
Great to hear from another fellow voracious reader! It's so hard when people tell me those numbers are "impossible" and "fake"
What a great introspective piece! I applaud your efforts to review yourself and make changes as YOU see fit. I never feel pressured or bullied by this channel for not reading as much as you are able to. I do think your decision to be more selective in your reading choices is a wise one. Reading what is enjoyable to the reader is much more pleasing to hear about. And never ever has it crossed my mind to think you were fake reading! 😮
Thank you. So glad my space has only felt positive for you
I definitely don’t think you are toxic. Thank you for being so open and honest about this. There is nothing wrong with examining your habits to see if they are still serving you, but I also think there is nothing wrong with loving what you love. I also speed up audiobooks and podcasts to keep myself more engaged. I like to spend my spare time reading as much as I can. That may change in the future, but I am ok with embracing it right now.
Thank you
This channel is the opposite of toxic and you've inspired me to read a lot more!
Aw thanks
I absolutely loved this video and with a 1 and a half year old and another one on the way, I very much relate to your “scarcity” reading discussion!!! I felt so seen 😂 but it makes me feel better that you said it eventually gets easier to find time as your child grew older lol!
I know you have another one got away... but I promise it will eventually get easier
This is the first video that came up of yours in my feed. Just know that people on the internet will find a way to hate on anything and you shouldn't be ashamed of anything that you get enjoyment out of.
Thank you
This was a very interesting and honest video!
Everything in life is a balance and I think for readers that use reading both as their hobby and their de-stressing method it's an especially hard balance to strike. But I think it's an individual process to find that balance. Being aware of the boundaries you need to implement is the first step. Setting them and sticking to them is harder, but can be done with practice! Only the person can say whether their reading is interfering with other aspects of one's life (or becoming "toxic"), and only they can make the changes needed until they feel comfortable again.
I think it's an important issue for booktube to talk about bc many people feel an unintended pressure to read fast, more, better, whatever bc they see people reading that way (what ever way that is). But I love booktube bc the vast majority of booktubers are so supportive of any kind of reader (fast, slow, genre specific, etc...). I think this community strives to be encouraging, supportive and kind to any and all who identify as part of it.
Thank you. And yes I never want to (even unintentionally) make someone feel bad or pressured for how they read.
You are an inspiration, one of the most endearing and genuine people on RUclips, I have enjoyed your youtube channel and Goodread reviews for several years. You are far from toxic, and anyone doubting the authenticity of your book reviews has not listened to, or read, your reviews. I have discovered so many good books and authors from your reviews. Keep being you, Rachel! We love you just as you are!
Aw thanks
I love this channel so much I legit feel happy when a new video drops in my feed. You're one of the most genuine people I've ever watched on RUclips, and never for a second through that you're making up your reading numbers haha. I have a 2 year old so I'm finally getting back to reading more, which feels so, so good. But I'm also reading slower and read more books last year (70) as compared to 25-30 when he was born. And reading slower lets me remember more, I've read a lot of books in my life and so many plots escape my memory because I'd gobble them up till 2am in my early twenties, now I take my sweet time.
Thanks so much! And I promise ages 3 and 4 just get easier finding more time again.
I read 46 books last year and I had a couple friends ask me how I got anything done if I read so much. I actually felt awkward. I told them while they’re streaming HBO or whatever, I’m reading. (I do watch some things too) My house is clean and we actually eat food! Ha! People shouldn’t be judged based on how much or how little they read.
Haha yes I love that any number of books can feel "impossible" to other people. And yes I try not to shame anyone, but ppl do watch a remarkable amount of tv
Hi, you are not toxic. More than half the books behind you are on our shelves because of your recommendations (I’m currently reading Ymir, its as great as you said). My partner and I have been watching you for many years. She introduced me to you. I am the SFF fan and she is the horror, true crime, and thriller fan (also Canadians). I’m glad you have a ‘detox plan’ 😂 that comes from self reflection rather than listening to the actual toxic social media comments. Please keep up the great content; and yes we would like to see more personal content. Thank you.
Oh thanks so much! That's cool that you both watch. I wish I could get my husband into bookish content. So happy your enjoying Ymir
I'm a 100-books-a-year reader most years. That's primarily accomplished through audio and mixing up some manga series in there. What I've noticed personally is that I should let the book decide how fast I read. Sometimes the book carries me along and I can't put it down. Other times, the book is great, but I find it more enjoyable is smaller doses. It's taken a while, but I've learned to just enjoy the ride. I'm still a bit obsessive, so I keep a reading journal and track my progress, but I no longer try to prescribe any grand meaning to those numbers.
Audio definitively helps... but yes I honestly never look at my numbers. Even 300 is a guess
Your channel is a favorite because your discussions and reviews are savvy, insightful, and honest. It would be appalling if you let toxicity infect and maybe kill your channel, let alone ruin your reading. I'm glad you're taking steps to curb the negatives and to boost the positives.
My rule on ARCs has always been: Send me what ever you wish and I'll review it IF I read it. Pressure I declined without a second thought. No obligations stalked me.
I'm down to one eye, and have been through health challenges, so I read what I want, at my own pace, and respond to those books I finish. It's that simple. I do recognize that having a Book Tube channel is different, and I'm not saying do as I do, merely letting you know in the spirit of discussion.
Rachel, you're a favorite for all kinds of great reasons. Thrive, please.
Thanks so much for the kind words. You are probably right that I need to relax more about ARCs. And I'm sorry about your eye sight. I hope it doesn't keep you from reading. I always appreciate your comments
You're not a toxic RUclipsr, and I've never felt pressured by you to read more. Nor have I ever thought you were faking or lying to us. I'm not a fast reader, and would like to get thru more, but I also don't want to spend hours every day reading 🤷♀️ Do what you enjoy Rachel. It's all about balance, and a balance that works for us 🥰
Thanks. Happy to hear it
I think you are an inspiration to me as I’m also trying to read more. Please don’t try to reduce your reading speed, that’s like a super power tbh ☺️
Haha thanks
Fantastic video as always. Fascinating what you’ve said about your reading habits changing and how your reading related to your family duties. I love seeing your reviews and always look forward to seeing your videos. Family time is precious though and you need to make sure you can do both. Thanks for sharing Rachel.
Thanks. I hope I can find the right balance
I love that you read a lot! You always have great recommendations and you always talk about books that I’ve never heard of ☺️
Aw thanks
What a great video! First of all, no, I don't think you are a toxic reader. I have a friend and a coworker who can read a stack of books in one weekend and I am jealous of them (and booktubers) who are able to do this. But it's not their fault that I am a slower reader! On the flip side, I have a friend that thinks that I read fast and I tell her that it's not that I read fast, it's that I read often. And even though I feel the pressure to read it's not because I want to compete with others it's because I have become aware through Booktube and Instagram of so many amazing books that I all want to read RIGHT NOW! Lol I am honestly glad that booktubers read so much or buy so many books because I can selfishly live vicariously through them and their is more content to watch 😉People that say that you won't have time to read when you become a mom I have learned for myself aren't the voracious reader that I am. They were casual readers that were okay with letting it slide when something else came along. Which is fine for them. But for people like us, I will MAKE time to read because I am passionate about it and I would be very unhappy if I didn't have that hobby in my life. These people probably have more time then they think they do but they use it on movies, social media, obsessively cleaning their house, crafts, or whatever else.
Thank you! And yes I've learned that while I have less time now, I can make time for the things that are important to me
I don't see you as toxic at all. You are very passionate which is a beautiful thing to see!
Thanks
I always assumed you must be organized and have a good work ethic because of your dedication to your channel content.I have two other hobbies in addition to reading and I'm happily obsessed with all of them.😄 I think each person has to find their happy spot and it sounds like you're doing that.
Aw thanks. Yes I definitely built productive habits into my day to maximize my reading time
Audiobooks are reading! It all counts! Read what you want, when you want to. You are not a toxic RUclipsr. Not by a long shot, and I never thought you were faking.
P.S. I spend up audiobooks, too. 1.5x usually works for me but I have had to go up to 2x for some narrators.
Thanks for validating my love for audiobooks
From a person who is not engaged with BookTube or anything and only checked some videos to find good recommendations for new books--
It's always fair to reassess your habits and hobbies. I am of the mind that if it's not hurting yourself or others then there's no problem. Reading is a much healthier hobby than other things ppl fall into.
Also, the more you read, the quicker you get and the more you refine your tastes to know what you enjoy. It's not a toxic trait, rather, I think it's an indicator of experience in a hobby.
Don't think you're toxic or need to slow down, just keep doing what you enjoy so long as it doesn't hurt yourself or others. There's a balance read around family imo (I do and they don't mind) so long as you find that balance you're good
Thanks so much
Honestly only you can know if you should slow down your reading. No one else should be telling others how fast or slow or how much to read.
I didn’t think she was a small booktuber but idk. I enjoy your channel bc you offer up a lot of options, which you cdo by reading so much. If you read half as many, I’d still watch. This thoughtful vid is exactly why.
That was meant to be a joke.
Yes I assumed
A "small booktuber Merphy Napier" 😂 I don't think a hobby can be toxic. I think that only people's actions and behavior toward others can be toxic. If the pressure to read as much as others cause people stress, which leads to toxic behavior, then yes, maybe their relationship with books might need to be changed. Someone might have an unhealthy relationship with their hobby, but that depends on that person's definition of what unhealthy is, not other people's opinions. I'm envious (in a good way) of your reading ability and many of my booktuber friend's abilities because I read slower comparatively. However, comparison leads to unhappiness, so I try hard to be happy with my reading speed. I still read more books than so many other people and I love using most of my free time reading too.
You are certainly not toxic in any way.
Thank you... I was hoping someone would catch my little joke. Always love hearing from you Paul
Great authentic video. You are not a toxic reader or booktuber. I actually really enjoy your content. I have been an avid reader for years and while from time to time I get into slumps or read much slower, I always come back to books. I read as a hobby like you do for entertainment & escapism but I also read for education for mental stimulation & growth. As a person, I'm also obsessive about what I enjoy & like to use my time productively. I also enjoy watching movies, go out with loved ones etc but that's more social time with people I love. Solo time for me is reading, it relaxes me so dont feel guilty about self love & 'you' time.
Oh thanks so much. And nice to hear that I'm not the only one who gets obsessive with my hobbies sometimes
Oh my god, are you a long lost relative of mine? The beginning of your video hit me in the feels and reminded me that I'm not alone with my reading obsession! That's an automatic sub from me. Thank you!
We must be cousins!
Bookworms of the world unite! I used to be a strict completist about finishing about a book - even if I disliked it. Lately, if I've given a book what I feel is a decent chance and still don't like it, I put it down. No hard feelings, I tell it, hope you find your reader.
Love how you feel about your dnfs
I just discovered your channel and I love your videos! I find you incredibly relatable, I experience a lot of what you're describing with my own reading. I don't read as many books as you do (I think last year I capped out just shy of 200 books) but it's still enough to elicit the "how do you read so much??" response from everyone in my life. Or rather, everyone who doesn't live with me. (My husband and kids will tell you - my nose is constantly in a book!) It sounds to me like your reading speed is quite fast - mine is very average, and always has been. It hasn't really increased throughout the years. I just spend A LOT of time reading. Like you mention in your video, I too spend hours a day reading, but am pretty clueless about current pop culture as far as TV and movies. It's all about trade-offs. Anyway, I'm rambling. I just wanted to comment and say that a) I love your content and b) I relate.
Thank you! And yes I think people are surprised to learned that voracious readers... just read a lot
Everybody is different. I love to read. I envy anyone that can read large amounts of books per year. I’m lucky if I read 50 books a year. I cannot listen to a book, I’ve tried it, it doesn’t work for me. You are my favorite booktuber for many reasons. I enjoy your insight, your enthusiasm, your well educated, you don’t drone on and on plus you have the voice for it. Every time you post a video, I get a message and a smile on my face knowing I’m going to be adding more books on my TBR. And It’s because of you. Thank you. 😊
Oh thanks so much for your kind comment. I'm glad you don't find it discouraging or frustrating that I read so much these days
We only live once and I say do what you love and fill your time with what brings you joy. 💜💜
Thanks 🥰
You be you! I don't read nearly as much as you do....usually between 80 and 100 each year. To be honest, it doesn't surprise me that you read so quickly and that you speed up audio....your speech pattern is fast as well. Good luck on your journey to read more mindfully, but never stop being you! Change your reading habits if it is something you want for yourself, but not to fit into some sort of "acceptability mold". To thine own self be true ❤️
Thank you... and so funny you mention my speech. I regularly get comments that I talk too slow lol
I truly enjoy your channel, and you are the opposite of toxic! 📚📚📚📚
Aw thanks
You are the opposite of toxic. I love all of your content. And I admire how much you read! I read a lot too. And I totally get it. But I will never feel bad for reading a lot more than others. It’s a personal choice..and is really none of anyone’s business 😂 Happy Reading!!❤
Aw thanks
Hi - I am more jealous of your ability to read that many books. I have many hobbies so that does limit my time that I can devote to reading. I also work full time, and that's something else. I have never seen you as anything except genuine, and I thoroughly enjoy your videos. You are definitely NOT a toxic you tuber!
Thanks. I'm glad any feelings of jealousy didn't taint the enjoyment of our channel
Thank you for being obsessive over reading!! 📚🚀🤖This is a great and inspiring channel!👍😊I am looking forward to many more years with great book recommendations🧘
Aw thanks
You are happy- your reading isn't toxic. And this channel is the equivalent of a Becky Chambers book- a fun, safe, and light hearted place to be.
I have OCD- and it's reading related- which really hurts (I am 53 and have been a voracious reader my whole life). I re-read and re-read and re-read sentances compulsively- progressing so slowly that I usually give up in frustration. Audiobooks have saved my reading life! I do an abridged version of that re-reading- sometimes listening to one sentance or one section over and over, but nowhere near as much as with print books and I can enjoy stories again! I can "read" about 65 books a year now, thanks to audiobooks. People telling me audiobooks don't "count"... now THAT'S Toxic!
Thanks... a Becky Chambers comparison is so sweet... and yes I completely agree that gatekeeper is toxic
Keep reading at your enjoyment level! Good for you for evaluating your habits to gauge how your reading impacts your family etc. Reading is only one of my hobbies, so I don't read as much as others, but it comes down to choice, yes! I recently gave up one hobby that was demanding too much of my free time. A month into it, I'm happy about that choice. Now I have more time to read. Keep reviewing because I value them and have used them when purchasing new books.
Thanks. Sounds like you have a good balance
Nice in-depth self analysis. I don't think you're a toxic tuber. I appreciate your reviews and other inputs. Great channel. 👍
Thanks
Reading is so subjective, I think everyone does it a little differently, and I think the real problem is people trying to compare themselves to others. The fact that booktube/bookstagram/booktok is so vast is one of its appeals, imho, in that each person brings a different side to the conversation, and it's by celebrating how each of us reads and enjoys things differently that we get to somewhere profound and interesting. Sure, there's that dopamine hit when a creator likes a book you like, or when you love a book one of your favorite booktubers recommends, but part of what I love about this side of the internet is that so many people enjoy this one thing (staring at words on pieces of paper) and get so many different things out of it. I love that this is in conversation with Merphy's video, as I feel like that's the way these videos SHOULD work, each video building upon and conversing with another, creating a conversation that moves the format forward.
Thanks for your thoughtful. I also love seeing booktubers build discussions off each other
You talking about being obsessive about your hobbies and that's why you read so much...this put so much of what I feel into words!
Thanks
I dont think you need to care what others think. if you enjoy it, you dont need any approval. They dont know you, and you dont need to explain yourself to anyone. Only you will know what works for you. Screw anyone that says otherwise. Be happy, and never try to satisfy online blips or comment sections. Anyone that would call you out for reading and doing what you love is a loser. l love your channel, and you have opened my eyes to so many great books!!
Thanks
You are definitely not a toxic booktuber. This is such a chill channel, and I’ve heard you mention about your son and was impressed you had time to read. In my mind, when I think of toxic booktuber, reading 200+ plus is not what comes to mind. I acknowledge faster readers and wish I had that time. And yes, most listen to audiobooks at high speeds. My brain can’t process over x2 speed for certain stories. I still read almost every word. The other person who sounds like you is Steve Donoghue who reads constantly. But he always gives the caveat, that’s mostly what he does.
And I agree it’s more about enjoying or tackling that challenging book and seeing life differently.
The problem with social media is envy, aka trying to live up with the Joneses. Instead, we should appreciate other’s talents and enjoy what they are sharing. The takeaway isn’t to match that level with number. I thought this was a space to enjoy talking about books, the good, bad and ugly in a wider community that we may live in.
Thanks so much. I definitely aim for chill. And yes I just never want to incite competition. I think it's why I don't discuss statistics or focus on number goals.
I really enjoy your channel and have never found you shaming or competitive. I would encourage you like you said to make sure you’re making time for meaningful connections, and maybe consider, if that’s hard, whether you’re over relying on reading as a coping mechanism. Otherwise I think you’re doing great!
And no I never thought you were faking that’s silly
Thanks and yes I think it's good for me to evaluate if my habits have become internally toxic. I'm relieved that no one feels I'm externally adding toxicity to the community
your authentic..dont change that for anyone..we love ur channel
Aw thanks
I'm constantly comparing myself to others so seeing the people I watch on RUclips read SO much really made me feel like I wasn't reading enough. So I tried to read more and I found myself not enjoying the books because I was only trying to get through to the end so I could add it to my "body count." I've since stopped and have shifted my energy to enjoying what I'm reading and not seeing it as a sprint to the finish line. I now read 1-2 books a month (depending on the length, I seem to like to choose very long books) and I'm happy with that.
Glad you were able to overcome the comparisons
Don’t worry about others, you do you!
No one should have to justify how much or how little they read. Especially since we all read at different speeds and comprehensions. I enjoy this channel, its a great place to get horror recs, and I appreciate it even if I don't comment often. I certainly haven't found you toxic at all, and it has never once crossed my mind that you may not be reading everything you talk about. You seem to have a good grasp on your own reading habits and are making changes based on how you personally feel. I think that is a positive thing, because it's based on self reflection, not on things that random people on the internet have said. Personally I have been trying to read more - Ive been in a reading slump the last few years, and I've found just reading for an hour a day has increased my reading level and speed a lot. I think I've read more books so far this year than I did in total last year! And thats not because it's a competition, its because I love reading and Im finally finding that passion again. But I'm finding its not hard to find some time to read, I do just 30m when I wake up and 30m before I go to bed - I'm not even trying really lol, so I can well imagine how someone might be reading a large number of books when they are really trying to make time for it, by reading on the train, in their lunch breaks, when they have a few moments of peace from the kids etc. So I don't think anyone should say that reading a lot is a bad thing, and I don't feel like anyone should be judged for loving to read. We all spent a lot of time as kids being encouraged to read and to read more and widely (and I know I encouraged my own child to do so), and now as adults people are like "you read too many books, you read the wrong things, you spend too much time reading" and I'm just like, get out of here lol Enjoy what you love and if that is books and reading, don't let anyone tell you differently.
Thank you for your kind post! I appreciate that you can understand how ppl can find the time. I just struggle when ppl say its impossible
I love the fact that you can read so much, because you get to recommend so many books to us. I am grateful for that. I work about 70 hours a week, but still am able to read about 100+ books a year. Of course reading speed is important. I love to read when I travel, and yes so much enjoyment in reading. You are definitely not a toxic youtuber. I thoroughly enjoy your channel.
Oh thank you. So glad my channel is helpful
@@Yesica1993 I read all the time. Do maybe one audio a month. I read early mornings, during lunch, every evening, on vacation. My children are grown so lot's of free time when home. I have no other hobbies.
Thanks for sharing, I find this so much of what your saying interesting.
I don’t think you’re toxic, and I love your channel!
Thanks
I think we just have to find what works for us. Reading habits change and that's fine with me. I read slower than average even with years of experience so I don't think practice always makes you read a lot faster, but I do read about 40ish books a year right now and that's at 1-4 hours per day. It is just my preferred entertainment. Happy Reading!
Thanks
I’m also wanting to slow down my reading. The last two years I read 150ish books per year. I’m enjoying reading but I feel like I need to spend time doing other things. I started getting more audiobooks so I could read and do chores or driving so that’s nice.
Glad I'm not alone in my desire to slow down a bit
I don't think you're a toxic reader and love that you read so much. I agree, it's about choosing what we do with our time. How much time do people spend scrolling on social media rather than do something productive... I read at every opportunity i get - i'm a mum, a nurse, a runner and am studying but i still make time to read because i love it and it's good for my mental health.
Oh thanks. Yes I've done a lot of reading on productivity and it's really shaped my habits
I’ve always wondered why people care how much someone, including me, reads. Last year I read 340+ books because that’s how I choose to spend my time. My husband tells people who’ve asked him about how much I read (ridiculous) my wife is a professional reader 😂. You are in no way toxic. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Haha I think my husband has said something similar
I'm a slow reader, I really am. I choose really carefully what to read, because I have a bunch of other hobbies and no time for boring games, movies, meetings and books. And when I read a book I really like I read it even slower, because I reread sentences, and paragraphs even whole pages, just because I liked them. I try to read as much as I can, but I'm no RUclipsr and have no viewers to entertain. With that in mind, I genuinely think that when a content creator love what he does it shows. Your chanel is amazing and I have found a lot of all time favourites because of you. If you read the way that makes you happy, your videos will keep to be so awesome and we all will be happy. And thank, Rachel, for everything :)
Thanks. Love that you are intentionally picking out the books that are most likely to be good ones. I think that's a great way to maximize the hobby
This is why I re-evaluated the way I engaged with bookish social media, I started to internalise some of the crap which affected my reading. I'm not a booktuber, I can't imagine how much worse that is.
Read as much as you like, as fast/slow as you like. It's you consuming the book after all. That's easier said then done to be fair.
Thanks. Yes the social media part of booktube is the trickest
My kids didn’t allow me to read during feedings. They were curious about what mom was doing. Little arms reached out for paper books. They tested how far my nipples would stretch as they tried to see my iPad. Now that they’re older I have a lot more time for reading.
Lol thankfully my kid was way more interested in his bottle than what I was doing
Lol! I had the same experience - I panic read during my pregnancy! LOL! I have a seven year old son and found I've read way more after having him. Now that he's reading on his own, we can read together in bed (but he reads out loud, so it's slightly distracting LOL!)
Aww sorry you were in the same boat... but glad you made it to the other side. I'm excited to read side by side with him
😂 you know that thing on TikTok where people lip sync over audio. My version of this video would have your audio track as pretty much everything I’d say would be the same.
Haha aw I'd love to hear your opinions surrounding these topics
@@TheShadesofOrange Maybe I'll do a resonse.....
1st off: You're awesome. Nothing to apologize for.
2nd: If you are really worried, check with some professionals (especially education & psychology professionals) who you feel comfortable with. - There is no surer recipe for suffering than asking RUclips comments for constructive advice.
(except maybe the same on twitter!)
"Ideal Reading Speed" is a chimera and best not chased - more after
3rd -If your family members are feeling detached from you, *listen to them*, talk to them about what they see & what effects them.
What they want, and what they need. Being an active part of a group is always about constantly changing vectors of interaction based upon equations with actively changing variables. You've got to be part of the conversation - not skimming the interactions based upon predicted chunking of behaviors. That's not being present, and that's a observation style you are reinforcing from taking the same approach with how you engage with texts.
- **Other related points :
- Audiobooks: Your natural talking / thinking speed is fast. And I'm a New Yorker! Of Course you need the speaker of the books to do so at a comfortable processing speed - you also need to think about what you want out of a book: Are you assimilating the data of plot points or are you creating an internal virtual reality experience where you are being transported away & fully picturing immersive environments?
- Other reviewers/ book tubers: YES. There are MANY young men & women with black bookshelves and matching spined series who are lying about all the books that they read, or what level of completion they read them to, or if they just skim/speed read. To them it is a business & if you treat it that way, you have to be efficient (& sometimes ruthless) because a lot of time is spent on creating/projecting an aura of confidence, competence and marketability & there's not enough hours a in a day. They are a cottage industry using the tools of "Get Ahead in Business" books & Tech Industry tactics of "always make the mark crave more product" so they DO want people to feel insecure about how much they read (& up book sales in the process - Publishers appreciate that!)
THIS DOESN'T MEAN YOU ARE TOO! But how can the average "addicted youtube consumer" tell the difference? Those channels keep them so off balance that of course they get defensive. You be you.
- Review copies: It is really wonderful that you have such a good work ethic. It's sweet. But I worked publicity for a major publisher & let me tell you, Advanced Reading Copies are valueless. Proofs are printed cheaply & sent out by the ton, & whatever's left around the office after a few months are recycled. They send them to addresses w/o even knowing if that addressee is still a reviewer at a local paper with a circulation of 400. They send them by the box to store chain warehouses to distribute to mall book clerks in *hope* they will read them and throw in a good word when asked. Ebook copies cost them NOTHING. Factor this in when you asses the reciprocal value of your time & effort to finish what may **truly** be a BAD book when just you holding it up on a video that gets 3,000 views on a channel with 21,000 subscribers means HUNDREDS of sales for them - even if you say "This Book Sucks." It is really cool that you want to do your due diligence but they'll get their sales just from you saying "Reading more than 20 pages of this book is unacceptable pain."
ALSO - the more books you read (especially in a genre, doubly so books by newer authors who may still be honing their craft or finding a voice) the more (as you said) get better at it. The faster you can see when this AUTHOR X pastiche has nothing new to say and it is going right where you THOUGHT it was going by page 50. It is OK to DNF & tell your viewers that you did & let them decide. It still gets the book held up on screen for the publisher. I'd LOVE a "These 30 Books are a Waste of Paper" video! Not for trolling but because I often buy used books & it's GREAT to know which ones to put back!
- Reading speed: You're best served to ask reading/education experts about reading speed and current thought/ studies on the subject as opposed to strangers of various unspecified backgrounds. It really depends on *what* you are reading. History ? Psychology? Quantum Physics Textbook? A lot of what I see you review seems like plot is the goal. If that is the case, speed reading/ data chunking aren't great crimes. I could be wrong - perhaps what you present in your talks looks like that because it's all you look for, or all you can easily represent in videos. Perhaps it's all you see because you are reading too quickly to get anything else. This is usually where the arguments between "Literature and Pulp" or High versus Low culture begin. I'm not trying to open THAT can of worms. Too many shades of grey & personal experiences. However, some books deliberately hinge their meaning on the reader noticing the use of one pronoun or change of tense on page 137, & if you miss it. . . . you miss everything. Those books need a closer reading with more presence in the moment. Have you ever tried to read "Absalom, Absalom!" in a rush? Some books are written to give you a linguistic flow that expects you to sub-vocalize, or perhaps even read the dialogue out loud. Most poetry requests additional readings by the reader & is best read aloud. I'm a fan of John Donne & I need to read it through aloud a few times just to get a sense of what speed & where the emphases lie. On the other hand reading Piers Anthony slower gains you nothing. It's just pulling the bandaid off slower.
_____
OK, I've just spent more than an hour of my life giving advice to someone who doesn't even know my bona fides, let alone ME -
I hope you read it.
You are a voice of energy & positivity & it is *wonderful* to think of you having a happy family life w/ all your reading. Work to ensure THAT. Find the balance. You are energized by your anxieties - let them power you, but not control you.
Meant with sincerity and goodwill.
Thanks so much for your kind well thought out message. First, I agree that my families feeling is far more important than the internet. Really I wanted to make this video a place to discuss the topic
You're probably right that I need to chill more about ARCs. I find so many publishers are reluctant to mail to Canada so I try to keep up good relationships (even when I'm giving their book a bad rating
And yes reading speed varies with what I'm reading. I can crush a campy horror slasher really fast. But I read Lolita and other classics much slower
@@TheShadesofOrange Totally - Just offering positive reinforcement. :)
@@TheShadesofOrange I was also kinda suggesting that you can more efficiently try to slow yourself, not by putting on the brakes, but by practicing on books that *require* a slower approach like poetry. It will also help you practice being in the moment -something you mentioned that I thematically reinforced throughout my manifesto. . . er. . . "reply." ;)
If you are a fast reader, then you’re just a fast reader. Period. I know that I could never get anywhere close to what you read a year but I do pick books that you have recommended and read them where if I have not been watching your video I would’ve never known about them so therefore I’m reading more. And you are completely correct in that you have to make time to read. The only thing that I wish booktubers would do is, let us know when they have listened to an audio because that is not the same as reading. You are actually consuming the book but you’re not actually reading it. Audio is much quicker. It actually makes a very big difference in the amount that you consume. And with that being said, maybe people would not feel so bad about not getting as much read or consumed Loved this, great job. 😉
Yes I agree that the audiobook game widely changes a readers numbers. I experience great retention from the audio format, but it's absolutely an advantage over readers who only consume books traditionally
Am I the only person who hear britney spears Toxic in the background?? yes? Ok. My bad.
I know you get alot of folks who hate or say you don’t actually read the books- Dont let it get to you. Read however much you want- dont slow down because of ppl on the internet!
I do however, enjoy that you and Merphy and other booktubers are talking about this topic. Its a healthy check-in. Proud of u.
I definitely had that song playing while editing this lol
I love that you read so much, and share your opinions! I watch booktube precisely because booktubers usually read way more than I do, this makes me trust your/their recommendations, so I can spend my reading time on better books.
I really do not understand why booktubers or booktokkers who read a lot are supposedly toxic. It's a hobby, why are viewers feeling threatened or competitive about this? If you like running, or drawing you also don't feel like professional marathon runners or artists are toxic just for being better at it than you are?!
Thanks
this is such an interesting video! when you mentioned the toxic habit of wanting to get the most out of EVERY single moment of your time & even reading during family time or brushing your teeth... damn, that really hit home. reading makes me happy & i love doing it (it's also one of my main hobbies), but it's so easy to get lost in rushing yourself and no longer being present for other important times in your life.
also, it never even crossed my mind that you might be faking it. your reviews are way too in-depth! and i only find your high reading numbers to be inspiring re: continuing to carve out time for reading myself 😊
Sorry you've also run into moments of struggling to be present. It's such a slippery slope
Between trying to be a writer and trying to read, plus two kids and a wife, it's hard to fit everything in. So many things to read that I want to get to! But I also like to sleep and go outside and see people. Once I see those people, it makes me want to go back inside and read more.
Sounds like you have a healthy balance
Nothing toxic about your amazing hobby. So grateful for your advice on what to read.
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Everybody is different. It all depends on what you enjoy and consider a priority. You are definitely not toxic. Personally, I could read a lot more than I do especially being retired I have the time, but I also love movies and watch a lot of older movies on TCM. Everything is a trade off and the key is to find a balance that makes you happy. You read 300 books a year while I read 60. That's what works for us and that is all that should matter.
Thanks. Appreciate your balanced view
I dislike that I tend to read in big bursts. I'll read 10+ books in a month and then not read at all until two months later (another 10 books). I do that with most of my hobbies, actually. I wish I could be more consistent!
I think my husband is the same way with hobbies. He'll go through phases where he'll binge on a hobby and then rotate to something else. I'm more a creature of routine who always does the same things
I'm 47 and knock out 15-20 books per month and I work full time, do part time writing and am raising 2 kids. If I focused on just reading I could finish a 500-600 page book per day. Sounds like the naysayers are a wee bit jealous. You get faster the older you get & the more you read. Just keep on churning 'em out 🤓
Thanks. I think I struggle when ppl think those numbers are impossible
The more you read, the more you review, the more books I find I love. It is like you are reading for me. ❤ Thanks 🙏. (You are the opposite of toxic)📚
Aw thanks
I thought it was just me! I just thought because I double the speed that the normal just sounds really slow and not that thats a deliberate choice of the narrator. You learn something new everyday. I don't think you need to do anything unless you feel it benefits you!
Yeah I've heard there's a specific pace narrators are taught to read at
Great video. Thanks for sharing your journey. You are the opposite of toxic. You are my faviroute youtuber for a reason that being geniune, informative and your videos just being fun to watch. I read about 80 books a year.
Aw thanks. You're too kind
I’ve never felt any toxic reading pressure from you or any thoughts of shaming viewers for how much they do or don’t read. Taking an introspective look and making adjustments based on that is a healthy thing to do occasionally. Happy reading!
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Part of the problem is just that so many people don't prioritize reading and/or don't spend a large chunk of time doing it. If you're a heavy reader, 75 pages per hour is no big deal. If you can squeeze in three 20 minute sessions during the day and 1 hour at night, then 3-4 hours on the weekends (1 with your coffee and another at night). That's 3+ books per week (160 per year) without even stretching it. Supplement with an audiobook each week and you can hit 200! It's all about desire and consistency. Of course people who only read 12 books per year (15 minutes per day, roughly), think that 300 is unreachable.
The real toxic booktubers are the ones that only read 20 books a year and recycle their 150 book lifetime reading list into dozens of videos to give the illusion of reading a lot. 50+ book "hauls" add to the illusion. Why do they have book hauls of thousands of books on their page if they are only reading a few?
I appreciate you, and your content!
Thanks. Yes it sounds like you have some good insight into how people read more. For me, I think the distinction is not prioritizing time rather than saying I don't have time for something
I’ve enjoyed all of your content so keep being your awesome self! I’m reading more science fiction and horror than I ever have before because of you and your channel!✨
Aw thanks. That's the best compliment
📚 I'm a speed audiobook listener as well. I also find the 1.0 speed soooooo slooooow. I usually start at 1.5 and work my way up to a 2.0 at least. The highest I can comfortably listen at 2.7. But that's usually reserved for more lighthearted and fluffy books that I don't need to be fully immersed in.
Yeah for me it largely depends on the narrator. Some talk so slow
Hi Rachel, you are definitely not a toxic booktuber. I personally have different amounts of books I read in a year. If I read a lot on my kindle, then I read a lot more books. For some reason I read slower in print books. I never feel less than if I read less than someone else. I think the only way it could be toxic is if there is neglect in the important aspects of life. Like you my hobby is reading. I do enjoy television and movies, but I usually spend more time reading because I prioritize that hobby above the others. The fact that you have thought about and are adjusting your reading habits prove that you don't have toxic behavior. I too love horror and I am just starting to dabble in science fiction. Do you have any recommendations for a beginner? I would really appreciate it! Thank you!
Thank you! As for sci fi...I have some videos coming. But some of the popular ones are good places to start.The Martian, Body Snatchers, The Martian Chronicles etc
My wife is just as busy as I am but usually doubles what I read in a year. I'm usually the one saying hey do you want to watch a movie or go out and she's like sure, right after this chapter so i know what you mean. I don't think you should worry about your reading speed as long as you are enjoying yourself but also don't be afraid to dnf books you are not happy with. Thank you for all the informative videos and great recommendations! 📚
Thanks. Love hearing how you & your wife make it work
I change the speed of audiobooks as well, depending on the reader.
Glad it's not just me
I loved this video. It sounds like you are right on track. Your comment about not letting your reading interfere with your family time is spot on. Yes reading an audiobook while brushing your teeth sounds a bit extreme lol, but you love reading. If you are enjoying it, why slow down? I never thought you were faking. You also didn’t mention the flip side effect you could have on people. You worried about shaming others because you read so much, what about how you motivate others to read more? I’m 60 years old and only in the past few years have I rekindled my love for reading. Even as a child, I loved reading sci-fi, but I didn’t read that much. I always thought that I was a slow reader, but a few years ago I discovered it had nothing to do with my reading speed. It was my ability to focus. I don’t know if I had ADHD as a child or even have it now as an adult lol, but once I realized the issue, I was able to take steps to remedy it. I read 50 books last year where I was lucky to read 1 or 2 if any at all a few years ago. Finding booktubers like you was one of the things that helped motivate me to read again. Keep doing what you love! I started following you because you read the same types of books that I enjoy, and I love your honest reviews. I also don’t understand why some have issues with Audiobooks. It’s still a book. Sometimes that medium is even superior in my opinion (like when the author narrates the book). Anyways, keep up the great work!
This is such a nice comment. Thank you. So glad you've been able to get more into reading since it makes you happy
Toxic? Lol, I am glad you are reading a lot of books and share the good ones. Thanks for the content!
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You are NOT toxic!
I love your channel, and I love how you geek out on your book interests. I always have a book with me (I'm in the Army), and people have often commented on how I always have a book. Though I read slow, my break time is spent reading. Most of the time, I feel that the comments about my reading carry a negative context. The reality, when I was a literature student, I also read my own stuff. When I converted to science, I read between classes. (I read The Decameron between classes.) My wife always said she loved books but didn't have time, I read while she watched true crime on Netflix. I read to my children. I always read before bed - it's part of my nighttime routine. The reality is that reading is good for people, it gives insight, it provides empathy. When my children were young and my wife would need to get up to feed them, I would get up with her and read "child raising" books to her. As we had more children, even she didn't wake up while feeding the kids (we have 5).
Loved hearing (reading) how you built into reading into your life. So happy to geek to out with you