I study literature, and watching your channel is a respite after a 2h class with a professor with a very elitist view of literature. Just hearing someone talk about how much they love stories and reading and adventure is the best way to end my day.
You're gonna miss that academic and canon view when you no longer get it. I studied literature as my first degree and it's some of the happiest memories I have and would never have discovered most of the books I love without it
Everyone has a different reason for liking literature could be the art of it all the story the calming sensation I appreciate Merphy for portraying that in her videos
Not every RUclipsr is willing to be so transparent about their experience as a content creator, thank you! You were the first BookTuber I ever watched, all the way back in late 2018/early 2019 when I started becoming an active reader. Your content has helped me go from reading a book or two every year to reading several books every month.
I never connected with reading as a child. It was the most difficult subject for me and I grew to hate it because I tried so hard to learn, it was such a struggle when you were the one that was so behind all the others your whole life developmentally. The youtube book community and readers here, watching your videos and others...as someone who always wanted to love it, I do now and it's an entire new world for me as an adult. So it's incredibly wonderful to get to share in this space with everyone. It doesn't matter anymore about where you are at with your reading level or what the person likes to read, there is someone on here that can be excited with you. And that is wonderful and makes me love reading. I've finally found my spot in fantasy and science fiction and I am very thankful for your channel and your passion and enthusiasm along with many others here.
@Bridget Dupin I’m so glad you found a genre that turned you into a reader. I know children may feel pressured to like reading from well-intentioned teachers and parents, but at the end of the day, each person has to discover the joy on his/her own. Whether you arrived at that discovery younger or older doesn’t matter. What matters is you stuck with it until you found a genre that worked for you, and that’s what’s important😊
Our reading tastes really don't align at all - I'm more thrillers and horror - but I love your discussion videos, behind the scenes, and book industry info. Your attention to research, enthusiasm and passion, and general positive attitude make watching your videos a priority. Hope you continue to enjoy making videos for years to come!
@@Emma.Lou1 I just finished The Island this morning - lots of action. Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn also was a 4.5 star read this month. Jennifer McMahon, Jennifer Hillier, Simone St. James, Gillian Flynn, and Rachel Caine are among my favorite thriller authors. If you like YA, Tiffany D Jackson is always excellent.
Being a youtuber and being in the eyes of the whole world must be very difficult, but it is great that you have this space to talk about what you like and let us share our tastes too, you are one of the best youtubers I know.God bless you.
I wish you do this for as long as the platform exists. Because it's hard to find people excited about books/manga in general. So this little corner of the internet is where I tend to find my kind of people who are gushing and crying about people that don't exist. haha.
I probably don't know about 80% of the titles you are talking about but I wouldn't miss one of your blogs/or vlogs! You are just so enthusiastic about what you are reading that I find myself reading more carefully, rereading some pieces, and enjoying my time spent with books so much more. I've never had someone to talk about books with. You are so lucky to have other readers in your life.
Being a big One Piece fan, I found your channel through those videos and I've come to love your other stuff. I haven't read properly outside of comics and manga since I was a kid but now I really want to.
@@noname3609 It really is haha, I have a guide to enter to the Nasuverse, if you want, give me your e-mail and I will send it to you. Oh that's great, actually I am reading Words of Radiance (and I have already read the Mistborn trilogy)
I hate the way RUclips demonizing creators just because they are doing what they love. The algorithm is worse and worse when it comes to suggestions. Even if I search specific video, it will show me only three videos related to the subjects.
This video or at least the initial answers encapsulates why I love your videos and your style. You're super true to yourself and how you want to do this and it feels real. Nothing feels performative, it's just you.
I think the reason why many people associate you with tekking101 is exactly the reason why you guys won't do a video for clicks. You guys like to chat and talk about things you love in very orthodox way which is sit and talk about the thing you have a video on. From my perspective, Yeah you can add on the animation in between while the long talk(like grandlinereview), you can make the thumbnail more bright and do videos on more flashly and trending topics but the fact that you both don't do it, is also the reason why I love to watch you guys' videos.
I really appreciate how your channel works. I completely understand why other youtubers use clickbait and algorithm trends and the like, but more often than not it makes me lose interest in those channels because they all tend to blur together for me and it can become quite chaotic to try to keep up on it all. Your channel feels like a cozy corner of youtube that sets its own pace and isn't concerned with other things. I like that you haven't changed it for growth and success - there's more heart in it this way.
I think I remember you saying that you didn’t think you were going to get into other mediums but this was like, years ago… people grow and change! 😊 Also, I don’t know about other people, but I find these kinds of videos so interesting! It just makes your audience feel that much closer to you. I remember when you did a video about how much money you made with your channel at the time and I just geeked out on it so much because I had never seen anyone do a video like that, being so honest and really explaining to people how things work. Everybody values honesty, I think. This is a great way to make us feel like we’re a bigger part of your channel (and even of your life a little bit, but not in a creepy way lol). Anyway, great video, keep it up! You’re the first booktuber I started following, back in 2019, and you’re also the one who got me back into reading, so thank you so much for that! ❤
I love the quick and snappy scripted type of video, too, but there's just such a cozy chill vibe to your channel Merphy, it really feels like hanging out with a friend, it's very comfortable
One of the things that I enjoy about your channel is the "casual conversation" aspect of it, and that even though you know it would be good for your channel growth to do X or Y, you still try to keep the channel "you" without going in those "do what's popular right now" directions.
I just want to point out that the sort of cheap ways to make the videos more clickable are exactly what drives me off. So thank you for not giving into them, I appreciate it a lot.
A common point in many of your answers centers on the toxicity of the discourse in the various fandoms. I am just a casual reader (not a booktuber!), and I couldn't agree more. Too many of these fandoms, which are supposedly populated by fans of the respective works, are full of militant and vitriolic haters of all things. It seems the more popular a particular work gets, the more hateful and loud these people get. I know it's the Internet, so terrible people are going to be terrible, but I really don't understand the people who immerse themselves in the things they clearly hate and then work so hard to ensure everyone else hates it too. And these people are fairly effective at utterly destroying online communities. I have had to withdraw from several of these fandoms for the exact reason you provided several times - the discussions aren't fun anymore. The irrational hatred, the refusal to keep things in proportion or perspective, and the incivility just make it pointless.
Don't let the negative comments get you down - they reflect much more about the people writing them than they do you! Have just discovered your channel and am loving it, especially the "different" or creative content!
The behind the scenes was quite interesting to hear about. It's nice to know that even among the Yonko of content creators there is still a lot of care and thought that goes into every detail! I know it's difficult for many people to talk about such personal topics so thank you for being so honest and creating a genuine dialogue. Keep being awesome!
I did not know about your second channel, and I have just subscribed to it. Thank you! also, Fruits Basket got weird, so I absolutely agree with you DNFing the series.
Thank you for making this video! You were one of my inspirations when I started my own channel, so it's great to hear all of your thoughts about the 'Behind the Curtain' stuff! p.s. If it weren't for this channel I never would've read (and loved) the lies of Locke Lamora! 😊
Fruits Basket does have a big tonal change throughout the series. Part of the reason is the mangaka had to take an extended break because of a nerve problem, which required surgery, and then required her to relearn how to draw. So if it feels like the second half of the series was done by a different person that the first half, in a way that's true.
The thought of you disappearing from RUclips makes me incredibly sad. I watch every single video including your vlog channel. I have been watching since you and Daniel Greene collaborated on fantasy for beginners over 2 years now. But, would understand your reasoning behind leaving and would just want you to be happy.
Ayyy I'm the first for once! Also Merph, I got back into reading because of you! Thank you so much for unlocking the door to the many worlds I have read since!
In my opinion you are hands down the best no-spoilers book reviewer that I’ve found! Whenever I find a book that I might be interested in I hope that you have reviewed it. But I guess that is also why the videos don’t do that well initially- people look them up when they want a commentary on the book, not just as a fun video. I am super grateful that you make these videos though!
This was fabulous. I love these behind the Curtain sorta discussions. As someone who has watched your channel for a couple of years, i do love hearing what goes on behind the camera, and the planning process just to get an idea of how creators make content.
Hearing you namedrop Berserk and saying you won't be able to read it due to it's heavy topics, it's sad yet understandable and I respect your decision. Berserk is what I would consider a must read for any person into manga, but as I started recommending them to people I know irl, and telling me that it isn't for them, basically concluding, not everyone will like what you or I like and that's fine, and we sometimes forget about that.
I finally started One Piece! I'm so glad you started reviewing Manga, otherwise I would never have picked it up. Thank you. Not very relevant to the current video, but it's the first one I've watched since I read volume 1.
I don't have the timestamp, but I just wanna add, your vids never feel stagnant. I personally love it when you break into bits. Like the Perona ad read, and the Spy Family ad read and the Wano sock puppets.
Your channel had easily become one of my favorites. I'm always looking forward to your videos, even if I don't read whatever book you're talking about. But usually, our tastes are very similar. I've read some of your favorite books and they've all been high on my liking lists. I usually don't comment but your content brings me immense joy and comfort. So thank you!! Making videos just because you want to is exactly what I've been doing and honestly it's very fun
I think your "just sit and chat" videos are a breath of fresh air in RUclips IMO. You're my favorite booktuber for that reason and I think a lot of us out there feel the same. So continue just as you do ❤️
Hot takes and clickbaity content may help grow a channel, but believe me, some of your fans (like myself) are here to get away from all that drama and just listen to someone who loves books and things. You keep doing your thing Merph. Listening to someone yell about everyone's favorite new thing to hate or politics or whatever is getting tiresome and I love that people like you exist and are doing just fine, even if you're not getting all the clicks. I agree with you that doing what you love is a great strategy for long term sustainability. Keep it up!
I'm guilty of, and I deeply apologize for being that one fan who overly defend One Piece. I still remember a couple years ago trying to write off your little criticisms on some of the arcs. On a rewatch all the criticisms feel more valid and make more sense now, and I'm sorry for all the stress those overly passionate comments have caused.
At the end when you’re talking about all the different channel ideas, you could always do a lifestyle channel in a way. Mix in the Spanish learning and all the hikes and such. I do love the idea of you having a gaming channel. By the end of the year, I’ll be starting to stream games and writing. It doesn’t matter your skill level. I love watching your content for you and I’d love to see what games you enjoy and how you play :) thank you for being such a wonderful person in this community. I still treasure An Unkindness of Magicians and have gotten several others to read and enjoy it because of you 💜
I would absolutely love the idea of a videogame channel. No pressure to actually do it, but you have one definite subscriber in me, if you ever decide to pull the trigger.
Thanks for answering my question! It makes a lot of sense to try and maintain the personal, conversational atmosphere. Having gone through most of your One Piece reviews (that’s how I was introduced to your channel), it feels refreshing to not only hear your opinions but also feel like I’m in the room talking about it! I’m trying to figure out if I want to make videos and I’m still working on my preferences for videos. Thanks, Merphy! Your videos rule. TEAM BUGGY FOREVER 🎉
i just found this channel and it's already warming up to be my comfort channel to relax and discuss manga.. i've always enjoyed reading but i struggle with picking stuff up. your natural enthousiasm when talking about your experiences literally give me so much motivation to pick something up. it feels welcoming and totally not overwhelming. pfff thank you :p and keep up the great work.
I would LOVE hiking videos and gamins videos of some kind. Maybe instead of creating new channels you could just post occasional hiking and gaming vids on your vlog channel? I for sure would love that.
Wow I didn’t expect to actually get picked! Your answer was really insightful, and very good to hear. Keep doing what you enjoy, and try not to mind the downright negative discourse.
Reading is my downtime too. When I am working on a project, it is what I use for my breaks. I read a chapter or a scene and then I continue what I need to do. It is partly why I get so much reading done on busy days, because me be being busy means I'm having more needs for breaks which means more reading. One thing I do plan on doing one day is going for hikes regularly. I am thinking maybe once a month at least, ideally more. Where I just go to some trail and just walk it for a few hours. It sounds absolutely relaxing, and I miss being out among trees and nature and so on.
I’ve been a subscriber to your first channel for a few years and subscribed to your new channel a few months ago. I enjoy both channels and recommend it to others all the time. i’m not a fan of Manga, so i don’t watch those videos, but it doesn’t matter to me at all that you added Manga. I still get to watch all the other stuff that i do like, and i very much enjoy the new channel content.
The fact that you make videos specifically catered to your interests and creating positive conversations, your passion shows! It’s a big reason why I love your channel!
There was a blog by an elderly lady who did literature and knitting pattern reviews I used to read until she passed away. She would always weave in anecdotes, and I related. I loved her sharing that joy with such elegant prose. There are so many opportunities in the closely-wired world.
I love watching some of you guys on BookTube. I envy (only a little) that you CAN talk about them. I have no idea how to break down a book as a whole. I can talk about parts of a book. I can have a conversation and enjoy it but to do what you guys do, no. I have no idea how to do that. So thanks to you guys for growing my TBR by sharing what you do!
I love feeling like I belong to a community. Engaging conversations, etc. That's how it feels to watch your videos! I appreciate you taking the time to actually communicate with your subscribers, that's what makes it an actual community.
I really enjoyed this video. I've been trying to build up the gumption to make RUclips videos for months now, so listening to you talk about being a RUclips creator in general is inspiring.
I love your videos! You are slowly getting me back into reading! Have you read Demon Slayer? I think you would like Tanjiro’s character. He has amazing qualities like loyalty and compassion. Keep up the great work!
I recently discovered your channel and I love how passionate you are with read and discussing as well not always liking every story out there. If you ever have the time or if this interest you, you can read ascendance of a bookworm light novels (if you want to get into them) and or Cross game which is a sports drama, slice of life manga. No clue this is even in your radar but I love this series and sadly it’s the only one of the amazing author s that is licensed in America.
Thank you so much Merph for not being afraid to kinda just do your own thing with your videos. You seem to be pretty balanced in your approach to your channel and your personal life, and it's very inspiring. I'm also constantly inspired by how kind and gracious you are if you do disagree with a different opinion or preference. It's helped me to be more aware of how I respond to others, so thank you!
I’m really glad that when i got back into reading this year that i randomly found your channel. The content is so enjoyable and real. I not only got good books to read from it but i have been able to enjoy a community that i had never considered before. This channel is truly amazing and has opened up so many new content creators for me to watch so thank you!
Merphy, thank you for being so open with your answers! It really helps to know that you struggle with making content sometimes too. I'm on a break right now because I started to get overwhelmed. But seeing your passion for reading is so helpful. I love it! 😊
You and 2kliksphillip are probably my favorite “doing what I want” channels, always an interesting watch. Enjoyed the Q&A! (Plus: we have the same favorite King book, I gotta watch)
Merphy, you're so kind, honest, smart, funny, down-to-earth and engaging that I'd probably watch any video you put out. Games? Travel? Spanish? I'm down! But I'd hate to see you take on too much and burn out. Maybe you can incorporate your other passions into one of your existing channels. Anyway, all the best!
Wow I don't really look at sub count and I didn't realize how big you are now! I remember when you had 30k! I was really happy when you brought back the reading vlogs on your second channel. That's awesome that you found a way to make the type of videos you enjoy like that without negatively affecting the algorithm. I enjoy seeing your fully unscripted thoughts and reactions!
If you ever do a video game channel, you should totally play the Nancy Drew adventure games! Super fun and engaging, and a huge childhood favorite. Also the Myst games are just as great, Myst 3 was always my favourite- doesn’t need prior knowledge to enjoy!
Thank you for sharing your perspective on all this... Good to know that it can be about having fun. When you're having fun, It's more fun for us to watch too!
Omg I'm a big fan of rock climbing you don't know how much cool it would be to have you do sessions or any videos of you rock climbing, indoor or outdoor
Bleach manga. It has two things related to topics you have mentioned. It has a Mexican Japanese character who uses Spanish inspired words for some of his abilities. And two it was a contemporary manga of One Piece and you can see how art work changed over time. And it has a pretty interesting "magic" spirit energy system.
I'm studying social media marketing, so this is actually something I'm interested in as a student but also as a creative. I have to create RUclips videos for the class, so this is a helpful video topic.
Berserk was mentioned. I have been summoned. Berserk actually helped me get past my anxiety about certain subjects. I read it intentionally knowing what I was in for while also keeping in mind, no matter how dark it gets, it’s a book. By facing those fears in a fictional environment , it reduced (and by the end eliminated) the stress that subject matter could bring to me when I encounter it via intrusive thoughts, the news, or other books where I’m not expecting it. I almost look back on Berserk as an experience in exposure therapy, and it genuinely improved my quality of life, despite how hard it was to read in the moment sometimes. I have friends, especially guy friends (if you know, you know), who have an even more personal experience with the story and credit it (the Wounds chapter especially ) with getting them past some really dark times.
First, I wanted to say that I really love your channel especially the discussion videos and your positive and comfy vibe in general. Second I would really recommend “under the whispering door” by TJ Klune. It’s similar to “a man called Ove” and just so phenomenal. The characters, the atmosphere, the themes, … are just really great in my opinion.
Hi Merphy! I just wanted to let you know that, as someone who grew up loving reading and then fell into a huge slump for years as I entered adulthood, your channel was one of the main things that got me out of that slump. Watching you talk about books with passion helped me finally get past that mental block I had after school and life burned me out from reading. From 2015-2021 I finished zero new-to-me books (started a few, re-read a few, but yeah). I found your channel in 2021, and in 2022 I’ve finished 17 books so far, and several of those are big ol’ Sanderson books. Also, I now have a job at a bookstore and it’s possibly the happiest I’ve ever been in a job. So yeah, hopefully this wasn’t too wordy or sappy, but I just wanted to thank you for changing my life a little bit, and helping me feel more like myself this past year than I have in a long time. Also I’d love to see a travel/hiking channel from you! That would be so much fun.
Merphy, I *adore* your personality, your passion, your authenticity and the way you show your passion in your videos! I hope (for my sake 😉) that you will enjoy making videos on booktube for a very long time! ❤️
I'm glad you're able to do what you enjoy in your channels. I think we love seeing you have fun and it gives your channels a very special vibe. I'm not good at interacting, but I always feel like we're hanging out when I watch your vids ☺️
The one time I commented on your channel it was sassy and I really want to apologize for that. I actually have been watching a lot of your videos before that and I love your approach, so I felt bad that the one time I comment it was sassy bc I really think your great.
I always appreciate the vibe you bring to your channel. It's honest and that's why I try to watch all the videos including the second channel. I also love the book reviewsa I have so many books because of you and I'm grateful for it.
Gaming channel, yay! Would be cool (and maybe less stress-free for you) if it were just a livestreamed thing, maybe one video of playing a few hours every week :D
I have enjoyed your content for years! Bits and pieces its taken me a bit to read the same thing but I enjoy that because I can go back in time and watch it all (e.g. One Piece now) but your content is always fun and lifts us up. Plus the rants are funny too.
I love the passion and intensity you bring to the books/manga you talk about. I watch all your videos/vlogs even if it’s on a series/genre I probably have no interest in because it’s just nice to listen to what you have to say.😂 I’d wondered if you or Corey had other jobs outside of RUclips and how you’d balance those with reading and a family. It’s really cool to hear how much of a team you are together on RUclips.
Thank you so much for your honesty! I learned a lot from your answers honestly. Keeping that balance is so important. I hope you keep on enjoying what you do!
I study literature, and watching your channel is a respite after a 2h class with a professor with a very elitist view of literature. Just hearing someone talk about how much they love stories and reading and adventure is the best way to end my day.
You're gonna miss that academic and canon view when you no longer get it. I studied literature as my first degree and it's some of the happiest memories I have and would never have discovered most of the books I love without it
Everyone has a different reason for liking literature could be the art of it all the story the calming sensation I appreciate Merphy for portraying that in her videos
Not every RUclipsr is willing to be so transparent about their experience as a content creator, thank you! You were the first BookTuber I ever watched, all the way back in late 2018/early 2019 when I started becoming an active reader. Your content has helped me go from reading a book or two every year to reading several books every month.
I never connected with reading as a child. It was the most difficult subject for me and I grew to hate it because I tried so hard to learn, it was such a struggle when you were the one that was so behind all the others your whole life developmentally.
The youtube book community and readers here, watching your videos and others...as someone who always wanted to love it, I do now and it's an entire new world for me as an adult. So it's incredibly wonderful to get to share in this space with everyone. It doesn't matter anymore about where you are at with your reading level or what the person likes to read, there is someone on here that can be excited with you. And that is wonderful and makes me love reading. I've finally found my spot in fantasy and science fiction and I am very thankful for your channel and your passion and enthusiasm along with many others here.
@Bridget Dupin I’m so glad you found a genre that turned you into a reader. I know children may feel pressured to like reading from well-intentioned teachers and parents, but at the end of the day, each person has to discover the joy on his/her own. Whether you arrived at that discovery younger or older doesn’t matter. What matters is you stuck with it until you found a genre that worked for you, and that’s what’s important😊
Our reading tastes really don't align at all - I'm more thrillers and horror - but I love your discussion videos, behind the scenes, and book industry info. Your attention to research, enthusiasm and passion, and general positive attitude make watching your videos a priority. Hope you continue to enjoy making videos for years to come!
Do you have any good thriller/mystery reccomendations? I've hit a slump and could really use one, haha
@@Emma.Lou1 I know the books are aimed at kids but I always loved the goosebumps books
@@Emma.Lou1 I just finished The Island this morning - lots of action. Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn also was a 4.5 star read this month. Jennifer McMahon, Jennifer Hillier, Simone St. James, Gillian Flynn, and Rachel Caine are among my favorite thriller authors. If you like YA, Tiffany D Jackson is always excellent.
Being a youtuber and being in the eyes of the whole world must be very difficult, but it is great that you have this space to talk about what you like and let us share our tastes too, you are one of the best youtubers I know.God bless you.
I wish you do this for as long as the platform exists. Because it's hard to find people excited about books/manga in general. So this little corner of the internet is where I tend to find my kind of people who are gushing and crying about people that don't exist. haha.
I probably don't know about 80% of the titles you are talking about but I wouldn't miss one of your blogs/or vlogs! You are just so enthusiastic about what you are reading that I find myself reading more carefully, rereading some pieces, and enjoying my time spent with books so much more.
I've never had someone to talk about books with. You are so lucky to have other readers in your life.
Being a big One Piece fan, I found your channel through those videos and I've come to love your other stuff. I haven't read properly outside of comics and manga since I was a kid but now I really want to.
You should becuz u are missing so much.You could try the cosmere.It is life changing. 😄
Ps: I love One Piece too.
@@noname3609 and try the Nasuverse, it is my absolute favorite fictional universe of all time.
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723 Sounds interesting.
Im into wheel of time and cosmere atm. 😄
@@noname3609 It really is haha, I have a guide to enter to the Nasuverse, if you want, give me your e-mail and I will send it to you.
Oh that's great, actually I am reading Words of Radiance (and I have already read the Mistborn trilogy)
Staying true to yourself is why we love you
I hate the way RUclips demonizing creators just because they are doing what they love. The algorithm is worse and worse when it comes to suggestions. Even if I search specific video, it will show me only three videos related to the subjects.
This video or at least the initial answers encapsulates why I love your videos and your style. You're super true to yourself and how you want to do this and it feels real. Nothing feels performative, it's just you.
I think the reason why many people associate you with tekking101 is exactly the reason why you guys won't do a video for clicks. You guys like to chat and talk about things you love in very orthodox way which is sit and talk about the thing you have a video on. From my perspective, Yeah you can add on the animation in between while the long talk(like grandlinereview), you can make the thumbnail more bright and do videos on more flashly and trending topics but the fact that you both don't do it, is also the reason why I love to watch you guys' videos.
I really appreciate how your channel works. I completely understand why other youtubers use clickbait and algorithm trends and the like, but more often than not it makes me lose interest in those channels because they all tend to blur together for me and it can become quite chaotic to try to keep up on it all.
Your channel feels like a cozy corner of youtube that sets its own pace and isn't concerned with other things. I like that you haven't changed it for growth and success - there's more heart in it this way.
I think I remember you saying that you didn’t think you were going to get into other mediums but this was like, years ago… people grow and change! 😊
Also, I don’t know about other people, but I find these kinds of videos so interesting! It just makes your audience feel that much closer to you. I remember when you did a video about how much money you made with your channel at the time and I just geeked out on it so much because I had never seen anyone do a video like that, being so honest and really explaining to people how things work. Everybody values honesty, I think. This is a great way to make us feel like we’re a bigger part of your channel (and even of your life a little bit, but not in a creepy way lol).
Anyway, great video, keep it up! You’re the first booktuber I started following, back in 2019, and you’re also the one who got me back into reading, so thank you so much for that! ❤
I love the quick and snappy scripted type of video, too, but there's just such a cozy chill vibe to your channel Merphy, it really feels like hanging out with a friend, it's very comfortable
PLEASE make that gaming channel! Disco Elysium is a game with a ton of reading and incredible writing and intrigue
One of the things that I enjoy about your channel is the "casual conversation" aspect of it, and that even though you know it would be good for your channel growth to do X or Y, you still try to keep the channel "you" without going in those "do what's popular right now" directions.
I just want to point out that the sort of cheap ways to make the videos more clickable are exactly what drives me off. So thank you for not giving into them, I appreciate it a lot.
A common point in many of your answers centers on the toxicity of the discourse in the various fandoms. I am just a casual reader (not a booktuber!), and I couldn't agree more. Too many of these fandoms, which are supposedly populated by fans of the respective works, are full of militant and vitriolic haters of all things. It seems the more popular a particular work gets, the more hateful and loud these people get.
I know it's the Internet, so terrible people are going to be terrible, but I really don't understand the people who immerse themselves in the things they clearly hate and then work so hard to ensure everyone else hates it too. And these people are fairly effective at utterly destroying online communities.
I have had to withdraw from several of these fandoms for the exact reason you provided several times - the discussions aren't fun anymore. The irrational hatred, the refusal to keep things in proportion or perspective, and the incivility just make it pointless.
Thanks for making this video! I came from your first hxh arc review and because of you I've started reading books again!
Don't let the negative comments get you down - they reflect much more about the people writing them than they do you! Have just discovered your channel and am loving it, especially the "different" or creative content!
The behind the scenes was quite interesting to hear about. It's nice to know that even among the Yonko of content creators there is still a lot of care and thought that goes into every detail!
I know it's difficult for many people to talk about such personal topics so thank you for being so honest and creating a genuine dialogue. Keep being awesome!
Your channel is definitely a comfort channel to me. I just love how there is such a variety of content on your channel. I really appreciate it. :)
I did not know about your second channel, and I have just subscribed to it. Thank you!
also, Fruits Basket got weird, so I absolutely agree with you DNFing the series.
Thank you for making this video! You were one of my inspirations when I started my own channel, so it's great to hear all of your thoughts about the 'Behind the Curtain' stuff!
p.s. If it weren't for this channel I never would've read (and loved) the lies of Locke Lamora! 😊
Fingers crossed RUclips never stops being fun for you Merphy😎 We’d miss you ❤️
Fruits Basket does have a big tonal change throughout the series. Part of the reason is the mangaka had to take an extended break because of a nerve problem, which required surgery, and then required her to relearn how to draw. So if it feels like the second half of the series was done by a different person that the first half, in a way that's true.
The thought of you disappearing from RUclips makes me incredibly sad. I watch every single video including your vlog channel. I have been watching since you and Daniel Greene collaborated on fantasy for beginners over 2 years now. But, would understand your reasoning behind leaving and would just want you to be happy.
Ayyy I'm the first for once!
Also Merph, I got back into reading because of you! Thank you so much for unlocking the door to the many worlds I have read since!
In my opinion you are hands down the best no-spoilers book reviewer that I’ve found! Whenever I find a book that I might be interested in I hope that you have reviewed it. But I guess that is also why the videos don’t do that well initially- people look them up when they want a commentary on the book, not just as a fun video. I am super grateful that you make these videos though!
This was fabulous. I love these behind the Curtain sorta discussions. As someone who has watched your channel for a couple of years, i do love hearing what goes on behind the camera, and the planning process just to get an idea of how creators make content.
I appreciate that you put the passion before the clout.
Hearing you namedrop Berserk and saying you won't be able to read it due to it's heavy topics, it's sad yet understandable and I respect your decision. Berserk is what I would consider a must read for any person into manga, but as I started recommending them to people I know irl, and telling me that it isn't for them, basically concluding, not everyone will like what you or I like and that's fine, and we sometimes forget about that.
I finally started One Piece! I'm so glad you started reviewing Manga, otherwise I would never have picked it up. Thank you. Not very relevant to the current video, but it's the first one I've watched since I read volume 1.
Thank you for sharing! You're not just one of my favorite BookTubers, but one of my favorite RUclipsrs too. You come across as so real and genuine.
I don't have the timestamp, but I just wanna add, your vids never feel stagnant. I personally love it when you break into bits. Like the Perona ad read, and the Spy Family ad read and the Wano sock puppets.
I just got into reading again and your recommendations have been amazing! Best book tuber😊
Your channel had easily become one of my favorites. I'm always looking forward to your videos, even if I don't read whatever book you're talking about. But usually, our tastes are very similar. I've read some of your favorite books and they've all been high on my liking lists. I usually don't comment but your content brings me immense joy and comfort. So thank you!! Making videos just because you want to is exactly what I've been doing and honestly it's very fun
I think your "just sit and chat" videos are a breath of fresh air in RUclips IMO. You're my favorite booktuber for that reason and I think a lot of us out there feel the same. So continue just as you do ❤️
I want 5 channels because I have to many ideas and know its not realistic. Thank you for the Q&A was a great listen.
Hot takes and clickbaity content may help grow a channel, but believe me, some of your fans (like myself) are here to get away from all that drama and just listen to someone who loves books and things. You keep doing your thing Merph. Listening to someone yell about everyone's favorite new thing to hate or politics or whatever is getting tiresome and I love that people like you exist and are doing just fine, even if you're not getting all the clicks. I agree with you that doing what you love is a great strategy for long term sustainability. Keep it up!
I'm guilty of, and I deeply apologize for being that one fan who overly defend One Piece. I still remember a couple years ago trying to write off your little criticisms on some of the arcs. On a rewatch all the criticisms feel more valid and make more sense now, and I'm sorry for all the stress those overly passionate comments have caused.
At the end when you’re talking about all the different channel ideas, you could always do a lifestyle channel in a way. Mix in the Spanish learning and all the hikes and such. I do love the idea of you having a gaming channel. By the end of the year, I’ll be starting to stream games and writing. It doesn’t matter your skill level. I love watching your content for you and I’d love to see what games you enjoy and how you play :) thank you for being such a wonderful person in this community. I still treasure An Unkindness of Magicians and have gotten several others to read and enjoy it because of you 💜
I would absolutely love the idea of a videogame channel. No pressure to actually do it, but you have one definite subscriber in me, if you ever decide to pull the trigger.
I really like being apart of this community! Thank you for all that you do
Your enthusiasm and intensity about your favorite things really helps my mental space in a huge way.
Thank you very much for your insight and point of view on being a RUclipsr!
Must Protect Merphy at all costs!
you're amazing!! thanks for answering my question 😊
Thanks for answering my question! It makes a lot of sense to try and maintain the personal, conversational atmosphere. Having gone through most of your One Piece reviews (that’s how I was introduced to your channel), it feels refreshing to not only hear your opinions but also feel like I’m in the room talking about it! I’m trying to figure out if I want to make videos and I’m still working on my preferences for videos.
Thanks, Merphy! Your videos rule. TEAM BUGGY FOREVER 🎉
You have authenticity. That's pretty much what draws me to your channel and your vlog channel, and I'm here for it all.
i just found this channel and it's already warming up to be my comfort channel to relax and discuss manga.. i've always enjoyed reading but i struggle with picking stuff up. your natural enthousiasm when talking about your experiences literally give me so much motivation to pick something up. it feels welcoming and totally not overwhelming. pfff
thank you :p and keep up the great work.
I would LOVE hiking videos and gamins videos of some kind. Maybe instead of creating new channels you could just post occasional hiking and gaming vids on your vlog channel? I for sure would love that.
Wow I didn’t expect to actually get picked! Your answer was really insightful, and very good to hear. Keep doing what you enjoy, and try not to mind the downright negative discourse.
Reading is my downtime too. When I am working on a project, it is what I use for my breaks. I read a chapter or a scene and then I continue what I need to do. It is partly why I get so much reading done on busy days, because me be being busy means I'm having more needs for breaks which means more reading. One thing I do plan on doing one day is going for hikes regularly. I am thinking maybe once a month at least, ideally more. Where I just go to some trail and just walk it for a few hours. It sounds absolutely relaxing, and I miss being out among trees and nature and so on.
+1 on the gaming channel idea 💡
A lot of creators face a crisis when the hobby starts to become a job. Glad you were able to keep having fun and make the jump.
I’ve been a subscriber to your first channel for a few years and subscribed to your new channel a few months ago. I enjoy both channels and recommend it to others all the time. i’m not a fan of Manga, so i don’t watch those videos, but it doesn’t matter to me at all that you added Manga. I still get to watch all the other stuff that i do like, and i very much enjoy the new channel content.
The fact that you make videos specifically catered to your interests and creating positive conversations, your passion shows! It’s a big reason why I love your channel!
There was a blog by an elderly lady who did literature and knitting pattern reviews I used to read until she passed away. She would always weave in anecdotes, and I related. I loved her sharing that joy with such elegant prose. There are so many opportunities in the closely-wired world.
I love watching some of you guys on BookTube. I envy (only a little) that you CAN talk about them. I have no idea how to break down a book as a whole. I can talk about parts of a book. I can have a conversation and enjoy it but to do what you guys do, no. I have no idea how to do that. So thanks to you guys for growing my TBR by sharing what you do!
I love feeling like I belong to a community. Engaging conversations, etc. That's how it feels to watch your videos! I appreciate you taking the time to actually communicate with your subscribers, that's what makes it an actual community.
I really enjoyed this video. I've been trying to build up the gumption to make RUclips videos for months now, so listening to you talk about being a RUclips creator in general is inspiring.
I love your videos! You are slowly getting me back into reading!
Have you read Demon Slayer? I think you would like Tanjiro’s character. He has amazing qualities like loyalty and compassion. Keep up the great work!
Really enjoyed this video and love your genuineness. Thanks so much!
I recently discovered your channel and I love how passionate you are with read and discussing as well not always liking every story out there.
If you ever have the time or if this interest you, you can read ascendance of a bookworm light novels (if you want to get into them) and or Cross game which is a sports drama, slice of life manga. No clue this is even in your radar but I love this series and sadly it’s the only one of the amazing author s that is licensed in America.
She is just a beautiful cinnamon roll that we must protect. I can feel the love between you and and ur husband, ur kids are lucky.
Thank you so much Merph for not being afraid to kinda just do your own thing with your videos. You seem to be pretty balanced in your approach to your channel and your personal life, and it's very inspiring. I'm also constantly inspired by how kind and gracious you are if you do disagree with a different opinion or preference. It's helped me to be more aware of how I respond to others, so thank you!
I’m really glad that when i got back into reading this year that i randomly found your channel. The content is so enjoyable and real. I not only got good books to read from it but i have been able to enjoy a community that i had never considered before. This channel is truly amazing and has opened up so many new content creators for me to watch so thank you!
Oh man, I used to LOVE hiking. (My legs don't work so well anymore..) I used to hike to a quiet, pretty spot & read lol
Merphy, thank you for being so open with your answers! It really helps to know that you struggle with making content sometimes too. I'm on a break right now because I started to get overwhelmed.
But seeing your passion for reading is so helpful. I love it! 😊
You and 2kliksphillip are probably my favorite “doing what I want” channels, always an interesting watch. Enjoyed the Q&A!
(Plus: we have the same favorite King book, I gotta watch)
"Valve pls fix." Timeless line tbh
Merphy, you're so kind, honest, smart, funny, down-to-earth and engaging that I'd probably watch any video you put out. Games? Travel? Spanish? I'm down! But I'd hate to see you take on too much and burn out. Maybe you can incorporate your other passions into one of your existing channels. Anyway, all the best!
Wow I don't really look at sub count and I didn't realize how big you are now! I remember when you had 30k! I was really happy when you brought back the reading vlogs on your second channel. That's awesome that you found a way to make the type of videos you enjoy like that without negatively affecting the algorithm. I enjoy seeing your fully unscripted thoughts and reactions!
If you ever do a video game channel, you should totally play the Nancy Drew adventure games! Super fun and engaging, and a huge childhood favorite. Also the Myst games are just as great, Myst 3 was always my favourite- doesn’t need prior knowledge to enjoy!
I would totally watch a gaming channel with you on it! A travel channel also sounds lovely!
Thank you for sharing your perspective on all this... Good to know that it can be about having fun. When you're having fun, It's more fun for us to watch too!
Omg I'm a big fan of rock climbing you don't know how much cool it would be to have you do sessions or any videos of you rock climbing, indoor or outdoor
Bleach manga. It has two things related to topics you have mentioned. It has a Mexican Japanese character who uses Spanish inspired words for some of his abilities. And two it was a contemporary manga of One Piece and you can see how art work changed over time. And it has a pretty interesting "magic" spirit energy system.
I'm studying social media marketing, so this is actually something I'm interested in as a student but also as a creative. I have to create RUclips videos for the class, so this is a helpful video topic.
Berserk was mentioned. I have been summoned.
Berserk actually helped me get past my anxiety about certain subjects. I read it intentionally knowing what I was in for while also keeping in mind, no matter how dark it gets, it’s a book. By facing those fears in a fictional environment , it reduced (and by the end eliminated) the stress that subject matter could bring to me when I encounter it via intrusive thoughts, the news, or other books where I’m not expecting it. I almost look back on Berserk as an experience in exposure therapy, and it genuinely improved my quality of life, despite how hard it was to read in the moment sometimes. I have friends, especially guy friends (if you know, you know), who have an even more personal experience with the story and credit it (the Wounds chapter especially ) with getting them past some really dark times.
You gotta admit Deriving_drunk. Merphy might not read it... how sad we may not see another person become a struggler 😔
First, I wanted to say that I really love your channel especially the discussion videos and your positive and comfy vibe in general.
Second I would really recommend “under the whispering door” by TJ Klune. It’s similar to “a man called Ove” and just so phenomenal. The characters, the atmosphere, the themes, … are just really great in my opinion.
I dont comment often on youtube in general but just want to say I love your channel and the way you talk about things you love! warm regards
Hi Merphy! I just wanted to let you know that, as someone who grew up loving reading and then fell into a huge slump for years as I entered adulthood, your channel was one of the main things that got me out of that slump. Watching you talk about books with passion helped me finally get past that mental block I had after school and life burned me out from reading. From 2015-2021 I finished zero new-to-me books (started a few, re-read a few, but yeah). I found your channel in 2021, and in 2022 I’ve finished 17 books so far, and several of those are big ol’ Sanderson books. Also, I now have a job at a bookstore and it’s possibly the happiest I’ve ever been in a job.
So yeah, hopefully this wasn’t too wordy or sappy, but I just wanted to thank you for changing my life a little bit, and helping me feel more like myself this past year than I have in a long time.
Also I’d love to see a travel/hiking channel from you! That would be so much fun.
more of this type of videos Merph!! such a delight to see you share what goes behind the scenes 🥰 definitely love how genuine and honest you are
I suggest you try out JoJo's bizarre adventure since it's something completely different than your classical manga
Merphy, I *adore* your personality, your passion, your authenticity and the way you show your passion in your videos! I hope (for my sake 😉) that you will enjoy making videos on booktube for a very long time! ❤️
I'm glad you're able to do what you enjoy in your channels. I think we love seeing you have fun and it gives your channels a very special vibe. I'm not good at interacting, but I always feel like we're hanging out when I watch your vids ☺️
The one time I commented on your channel it was sassy and I really want to apologize for that. I actually have been watching a lot of your videos before that and I love your approach, so I felt bad that the one time I comment it was sassy bc I really think your great.
“Our cousins” 🤣🤣 only us people who live in the south worry about that sounding weird 🤣🤣🤣
Got here for One Piece, now I watch all your videos.
I always appreciate the vibe you bring to your channel. It's honest and that's why I try to watch all the videos including the second channel. I also love the book reviewsa I have so many books because of you and I'm grateful for it.
Loved this video Merph! It was nice to see the behind the scenes kind of conversation around the channel. ☺️
Gaming channel, yay!
Would be cool (and maybe less stress-free for you) if it were just a livestreamed thing, maybe one video of playing a few hours every week :D
I have enjoyed your content for years! Bits and pieces its taken me a bit to read the same thing but I enjoy that because I can go back in time and watch it all (e.g. One Piece now) but your content is always fun and lifts us up. Plus the rants are funny too.
Just wanted to let you know that you rock, Murphy 🙂
Thank you so much for this video, you're awesome! I don't always comment but it's good to contribute to the positivity :)
I love the passion and intensity you bring to the books/manga you talk about. I watch all your videos/vlogs even if it’s on a series/genre I probably have no interest in because it’s just nice to listen to what you have to say.😂
I’d wondered if you or Corey had other jobs outside of RUclips and how you’d balance those with reading and a family. It’s really cool to hear how much of a team you are together on RUclips.
Thank you so much for your honesty! I learned a lot from your answers honestly. Keeping that balance is so important. I hope you keep on enjoying what you do!