The best book recommendations come from readers. Thanks to social media, it is easier than ever to reach out to those with similar interests and ask for suggestions concerning new authors, titles, and genres. Overall, my experience online is positive, primarily because I cultivate it to my tastes.
When I first heard the term “doom scrolling,” I was uncomfortable. I understood the concept but couldn’t understand why anyone would purposefully fill their social media timelines with a constant barrage of real or imagined tragedy. I’ve followed people who became so wrapped up in controversy that it became their entire personality, so I discretely hit “unfollow” and went on my merry way. Because I read and write, my social media pages are geared toward books and authors, with a generous dollop of humor mixed in for good measure.
I follow several Christian reader and writer groups on Facebook, where I get most of my recommendations. When someone reads a book they love, they enthusiastically share their discovery. My virtual TBR is out of control — and I love it. I won’t run out of great books any time soon. This is also where I enjoy quality literary memes.
On Threads, I click “follow” on posts by Christian authors looking for readers and readers looking for Christian authors. Threads has an excellent book lovers’ community with something for everyone. Indies are particularly loved there.
X, formerly Twitter, still has a strong author presence, but the focus tends to be on why we write and what inspires us. Since I write novels about recovering from spiritual abuse, I follow writers who write non-fiction books and articles concerning today’s church climate. Instead of declaring it “sad” that “the church” is under attack, I separate the organizations developed or hijacked by narcissistic leadership from the “real” church of individual believers. Those individuals stand up as whistle-blowers, demanding that God’s name be separated from evil deeds and coverups.
Read the articles here: https://x.com/rickpidcock/status/1779982978682089959
When it comes to TikTok, I admit I get distracted by cat videos—a LOT of cat videos—but I also make it a point to follow every suggested Christian author (booktok). Sometimes, the videos provide background on how they developed a character or announce a new release. I admit my own TikTok game is weak—it’s the introvert in me—but I try to keep my books somewhat represented on the platform. To see what a great TikTok author video—by the phenomenal Robin Patchen—looks like, click the link: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLaYPdVe/
Stories on Instagram are my go-to for daily updates. Their automatic flow from one poster to another is perfect for early-morning scrolling. Authors share vacation pics, family events, and book ads all in one place. Readers excitedly offer reviews (bookstagram) and recommend what they’ve enjoyed to others. The best thing about IG? It’s pretty. Soooo pretty.
YouTube is where I listen to the podcasts that inspire me. Even when the subject matter is gritty, I can’t help but admire the guests who use their experiences to help and support others find justice. For an excellent example of this, click the link and watch the episode of Preacher Boys featuring three phenomenal advocates for change: https://youtu.be/y4LJ1qShaSU?si=cwd_8hYLBID5OHpQ
Occasionally, I’ll write down the names of authors on a site and head over to Amazon, Goodreads, and BookBut to follow them there as well. If they have an author page, I’ve probably liked it.
If you have a favorite author, take a few minutes today to follow them on every social platform you visit. If you aren’t into social media, that’s fine—to each their own—but please don’t discourage those who are. Readers and writers are communicating with each other now more than ever before, and that’s a beautiful thing.
Marbeth Skwarczynski, Author 