The truth about me.

[@womenwotreads]

To be honest Willow I think people like your channel cos it's you, and won't care about genre changes . That's why I like it , cos you're on it and you're awesome. That said Fantasy and scifi are my favourite genres so I'm excited . Wishing you lots of fun in 2025 and beyond 🥰

[@butterflygirlenergy]

@@womenwotreads This is so true 🙏❤️

[@anayrre2062]

Yes I totally agree, I'm one of those people. I don't read horror but I watch every single horror video. I like seeing willow being totally excited or totally upset about a book ☺️

[@katereinsch4789]

I have anxiety and depression and lately (probably because of all the horrors in the world) I decided to fill my brain with positive things. Stay away from the constant influx of devastation. Focus on positive and light things. Maybe it‘s the time that we live in. So I‘m thrilled with all the changes that you announce and I look forward to happy times here on the blog and for you personally. ❤ You should be happy. We all should. Whatever else are we here for.

[@tinahatch7440]

As an autistic woman with lifelong depression and anxiety, I deeply appreciate your candor. I think your audience is here for YOU and your insights, no matter what you're reading or want to talk about. Or, at least, that's why I'm here! ❤

[@Stitchcraft_by_Gillian]

Do what is right for your mental health, that's the most important thing. What drew me to your channel most was your enthusiasm and love for books, and if you're reading things that make you happy then that will show even more 😊

[@thingsbeginningwithj]

Good for you. As a fellow sufferer of health anxiety I applaud your honesty and taking a stand against the darkness. My coming here has never really been about the content of the books, I just really love you as a presenter! So I'll be sticking around 😊

[@KT-iv1ks]

I agree ❤

[@crystalotus6861]

I cannot read horror, the world has always been terrifying enough. But I've watched your channel and look forward to your videos because of you, no matter the subject. Personally, I will love this change. Do what makes you happy, I'll be here! ❤

[@CrisOnTheInternet]

I used to be a fan of horror movies and now I barely watch them, everything we consume affect us in a positive or negative way.

[@matsspill9085]

So real Willow❤ your health and wellbeing should be the priority. I struggled with health anxiety in my early twenties and it was exhausting. I wish you a lasting recovery ❤

[@reginaldloggins3618]

I’ve just found your channel an hour ago with your review on Murakami and fell in love with your analysis, so I had to find out more about what you do here. And then I saw this! I already love your authenticity and am grateful for the volumes of videos you’ve already done. Being as genuine and open as you are here will keep me interested in what you have to say for a long time. You just keep being you…you’re a gift to this world. Thank you.

[@Can18AL]

I’m a recent subscriber and did so because of how you dissect and explore what you read. I just wanted to say this video struck a chord with me, albeit a painful one. It felt so familiar. I have been turning to true crime and binge eating for a long time to help cope with the intense anxiety I have, and in recent months have taken a step towards fantasy and sci fi as the genres that brought me hope and joy as a child. At the same time, i have been trying to take care of myself, my mind and body, more responsibly because the results of my own self destructive behavior were scaring me. I guess I just wanted to say I understand, at least in part, the turmoil you are coping with, and to see you candidly discuss how you are seeking to help yourself while still being grateful for the good you have and the job you love (which you happen to be very good at!) was very encouraging, especially when changing self destructive behavior can be so damn difficult. So, well done, you are not alone, and your story was a meaningful and moving encouragement to me today. Thank you very much.❤

[@RoundSeal]

I'm really glad you were able to identify an issue and do something about it. Horror has always felt like a warm, moss-lined den for me to curl up in, but not every genre is going to be healthy for everyone. It's good not to force yourself just to fit a niche or to do what people expect. I'm personally really excited about you moving into SFF! I also started on it and have drifted away, but have been really eager to get back into it. I'm looking forward to having fun watching the videos you're having fun with! 💚

[@Adam-qi7no]

I hear you - constant anxiety is just exhausting, isn't it. Even the days where it's not attached to anything specific... you have the 'first day back at school' feeling and have no idea why. And I can well imagine that being constantly immersed in horror fiction can wear you down without you even really noticing. I can write horror fine because I'm fully in control of it, and I don't really do the super dark and horrific stuff, but I can find watching horror films in particular really stressful on the occasions I take the plunge (I mostly just like the spooky ones). I can totally get that a non-stop input of death and brutality might take a toll, especially as you get older... I used to really like the Alistair McLean 'men on a mission' war films when I was little, but now it often just feels like two hours of murdering presented as entertainment. I've always felt like escapism is the most underrated aspect of the creative arts; it may actually be the most important.

[@JaneEllenMusic]

Can't wait to see the new you; it's bound to be exciting. You're brilliant, and you deserve all the happiness you can find. Thanks for continuing your channel!

[@Eden.Lovejoy]

Yes. Feed your mind the happiness it requires. I was in a dark place for 9 months last year and it was like living in a never-ending nightmare. I clung to darkness and horror like a blanket as well. Do what you need. We will be here.

[@kanyari]

I am here for your enthusiasm, honestly. So as long as you are happily proclaiming about a book, I'm listening. Good luck!

[@raerae22781]

Willow! I am so excited for this new change! I first found your channel through another booktuber that you had done a collaboration with (I don't even remember who) and tracked you down through an inquiry in my facebook book group. I was sad that you were reviewing books that I had no interest in, but I still watched your videos from time to time. Now that you'll be doing fantasy and sci-fi, I will watch every single one of them. Also, about your mental health discussion, you absolutely have to do what makes you happy. You may lose a handful of subscribers, but you'll gain even more. Either way, your happiness and mental health is more important than ANY amount of subscribers. I'm sure I can speak for at least some of us that we are here for YOU, not necessarily what you post. You have a beautiful soul and I'm so happy to have stumbled across your booktube. Also, thank you for being very open about your mental health. You are not alone.

[@Shaegeeksout]

This video is truly so important. Thank you so much for opening up about it. As a human with anxiety, I know that I can't do horror. I am too sensitive for the content inside them. I don't necessarily read only light and fluffy things, but I seek out things I love. Much luck on your journey of loving your reading again Willow! ❤❤

[@cosmictwin8514]

Proud of you! I think you are setting a great example for people suffering with mental illness. That they need to take care of themselves. I appreciate you!!

[@lorekinotter]

I can't tell you how excited this makes me! I read SF / Fantasy for exactly the reasons you listed - they make me happy. I stumbled upon one of your videos where you were specifically reviewing fantasy books and started following you right then, getting very excited any time your videos were about fantasy novels. I empathize with the journey you're on and I thank you for modeling true self care. I will be here to ride the joy with you!

[@Bonnie-cu5hx]

I suffer from anxiety and depression and lately I have to avoid the news and talking about flu 😷 it's a trigger for my mental health. You are an amazing person and a inspiration for me I found your channel. I can relate to comfort eating I'm struggling but keeping my weight in focus gosh it's a hella rollercoaster for US with mental health. Much love and we're here for you 🦋🌞

[@carrcallen1]

Thank you for sharing this. Your message was so powerful, and I want to express my gratitude for all the amazing book recommendations you’ve given. ❤I started following you because your taste in books aligns so closely with mine … well, except for the horror-I haven’t quite gotten into that yet too much… Your reviews are not only insightful but also beautifully articulated, and the way you speak about books is truly inspiring. I even screen recorded what you said about Kazuo Ishiguro, who is my favorite writer, because it resonated with me so much. Also, I just want to say that you are beautiful-not only in how you present yourself, but in the way you share your thoughts and passion with such honesty and openness. Thank you for being you.❤

[@zsuzsablom8731]

You have an open demeanor and feel to me like a friend. I appreciate that you are willing to share the genuine you. It takes being vulnerable to do that. We won't let you down. 💗

[@lavender3717]

I found your channel through your videos about Sayaka Murata and I've loved your horror content, but ultimately what I come to this channel for is you! You're a fantastic critic and such a captivating speaker and I'll watch your videos whether I'm familiar with the books or not. I'm really glad you're looking after your mental health ❤

[@parkerbrown-nesbit1747]

Sending you love, light, healing, and hugs.

[@MC-su3sd]

Hi - I randomly came across this video and clicked on it once I heard health anxiety. I’m in the middle of one of my worst flares of it myself at the moment. It feels like fate that I came across this video (though it’s probably just the algorithm) because I love book videos. Sending love and healing! I hope those of us who suffer with anxiety can come to peace with it.

[@gamewrit0058]

❤🥄🥄🥄

[@annamariakalapati1734]

Appreciate this video and appreciate you Willow! Can relate so much to what you're saying and I am here for whatever comes next! xx

[@butterflygirlenergy]

Do what you love and what brings you joy! 🎉 You shine in the light! 💗 I love to see and feel joy in people. I am here for this! ❤️❤️

[@indiancarateume9980]

I've been following your channel from past 2 years . I love your critiques , explanation, thoughts , opinion about the books you read. It helped me a lot over the years to discover so many great books and authors. I'm 22 and learning a lot from you , and it's so inspiring how you sharing your health problems and wellbeings with us. I hope you'll find your happiness through reading again. As a high fantacy and si-fi reader I'm more than happy with your decision. Waiting for more more great recommendations from you.❤

[@jessicamalloy8372]

You're great and I will continue to support you really no matter what. Keep at it and do you!

[@jamesbest9038]

I haven’t read half of the books you talk about. I just love to hear you talk about them. Kudos to you for being real!

[@ez3748]

art really deeply affects my mood and mental state as well! i had to stop listening to all my favourite musicians bc i realised hearing people sing about how sad they were wasn't helping me feel better. i'm so looking forward to you reviewing more happy books going forward!!

[@mariareadsssf]

Your mental health is the most important. I was honestly so happy when you got back into Fantasy. I actually found your channel in 2021 after I read "Piranesi". From my own experience I can only do Horror a few times when I am in a really good mental place, so for example I purchased Tananarive Due's "The Reformatory" to support her as an author, but I saved it for when I'll be emotionally ready for it. I know it is an important work, but I also want to be in a right mindset for it.

[@pxlmoth]

I'd just found you while finding out about Caliban and the Witch, which was calming my own anxiety away from my circumstance - and then felt like checking your latest. What a validating and exponentially assuring message. I can relate so much. Wishing you clarity, fortitude, and fun, Willow.

[@elizabethgriffith8684]

Girl! This is your channel gosh darn! You read and talk about whatever you love! I love your videos because you are intelligent, witty, and downright hilarious. I honeslty haven't read most of the books you talk about. And although I love when a book gets spooky or gothic and consider myself a Shirley Jackson stan for life, horror is a tiny tiny tiny percentage of the books and media I consume. Honestly I've been hoping to get more into fantasy myself because it was also what my childhood and teenage self was obsessed with but don't know where to start and am very much looking forward to your reviews and recs:)

[@eva-odessa]

Good to hear you're being kinder to yourself, I'm always happy to listen to you talk about books, whatever the genre. Take care!

[@Runey16]

I'm a viewer here for the insights you bring to what you read, no matter the genre or even my interest in that particular book! So happy for you that you're doing what's best for you!

[@banrions]

as someone who also def has health anxiety, i absolutely feel for and relate to you. proud of you for doing what you need. as someone who does still find enjoyment in horror, and has liked quite a few of your recs over the years, this a slight bummer for me, but i'm so glad that you're doing what you need to, and that def takes precedence. and as someone who also LOVES fantasy and scifi and reads those just as much (if not moreso, usually) than horror, i'm thrilled for more of that!

[@nightshade44637]

Good on you! I'm glad you have a path that works for your needs and focus. As a person with Complex PTSD from trauma I totally get the need to listen to your mental health needs. I found comfort and healing in horror but I have definitely had to take breaks and go where my heart takes me for big chunks of my life too. I do think most of your followers here are glad to go wherever it is you choose to go with your reading writing, and reviews and I hope you find good healing and experiences with your changes!

[@claudiajones7724]

We have SO much in common. I too live with anxiety, wrestling it daily. Thank goodness I took up meditation during Covid, though of late I'm back on meds as well. I live in the U.S., and things are pretty sucky at the moment. It's a real struggle, exhausting at times. Yeah, happy books. Happy input = Happy output. Girls just wanna have fun. I think I was meant to find your channel, which I did a few months back. I too was a huge fan of Comics, Scifi and Fantasy as a kid and young woman. I've come back to it in the last year or so, and I'm turning 71 in February. Loving Fantasy. Even Romantasy, I must confess. I love your channel, Willow. Love your approach, your insights, your occasional fierceness. Thanks so much for your honesty in this video. I'm here for the long run.

[@naastyaaaaaaaaa]

As an avid SFF reader I'm SO excited for this chapter of your channel! Hope it brings you all the joy and comfort you are looking for.❤ As for us - we'll stick around!)

[@MeganHargreaves-vf7xd]

I came about 3 years ago for the translated fiction content, I stayed and enjoyed the horror content, and i’m looking forward to the fantasy/sci-fi content ! I love this channel because I love watching *you* and hearing *your* opinions on whatever it is that you happen to be reading- and knowing that you’re having fun and doing what makes you happy only makes the watching better ! take care of yourself, Willow, you make great content and you deserve to have fun whilst you work :)

[@Stoof67]

I just stumbled across your channel but I resonate with this so much. I’ve been dealing with a physical illness and a lot of trauma and anxiety due to it. I also grew up reading fantasy and sci fi but got lost in reading/watching horror and thrillers and really dark subjects which were just feeding into my depression and anxiety. I’ve had to completely stop consuming things that provoke fear and have been sticking to genres like fantasy, sci fi and romance and its actually made quite a difference. Subscribed!!

[@RichardCharter]

Thank you Willow for your vulnerability and for speaking your truth. I started following you three years ago when you mainly reviewed books in translation, and I've stayed through all the shifts and changes. It's amazing to get excited about new book recs, but simply hearing about genres, authors and ideas that I wouldn't otherwise have been interested in has been refreshing in itself. I'm looking forward to what comes next.

[@AnaClaudiaBertiniCiencia]

Your self-analysis is very honest, precise and deep, Willow. Take Persephone’s myth as an analogy: walking through darkness built her, but going to light was also part of her cycle of life. Personally, I LOVE every suggestion you give, seriously! So take care of yoursef, I will be here. You’re precious and you deserve joy and colour! 🩷💚💛🩵🧡💜 (PS - I relate in many ways to the struggles you said you have. It’s tough, but with therapy and care I have grown stronger and healthy - and you will, too.)

[@amandapowers6084]

I relate to this so much! I love reading. I enjoyed getting into horror, but it gets to be a lot & no joke, I was looking up “happy stuff” to read last night… looking forward to the fantasy, scifi, and comic books!!

[@Aquiwer]

Willow, I have been following you for several years and have stuck around because I love hearing your thoughts and discussions on books no matter what they are. You are an amazing presenter and I’m excited for all the fantasy and sci-fi books I’m going to have to add to my tbr 😅💕

[@ads2903]

Love your channel because of your exuberance and enthusiasm about books, i'm here for whatever path you choose. All the best Willow ❤

[@cindyr4918]

Thank you for your honesty- it is so refreshing! Glad to hear you are prioritizing your health. I can’t wait to hear about the new books you will share. Personally, I’m a big fan of cozy fantasy and general fantasy (and some sci fi + definitely graphic novels).

[@TheLunaLibrarian]

Thank you for being so honest about what you’re going through. I also have severe anxiety and part of my OCD is medical anxiety. It can be terrifying and debilitating and it’s hard for people to understand. I’m sorry you also struggle, but it’s nice to know I’m not alone 💜

[@tequilasunset4651]

This is a really thoughtful explanation! I subscribed because my taste generally aligns with what fiction you recommend, and I love how you articulate these recommendations. Not a horror fan, but I don't mind any pivots you make - whats important is you fuel yourself with what keeps you passionate about reading, and it sounds like that's whats best for you with or without an audience's approval.

[@MichelleMarie-nm6kr]

I’ve had health anxiety and generalized anxiety since I’ve been a teenager and I’m 51 now. It’s a daily struggle. Thank you for being transparent.

[@nemo5288]

I found you for the books in translation, I stuck around when you were reading horror and guess what, I’m going to keep sticking around while you read sci fi and fantasy. I watch you for you Willow. And also as a reader I read all genres. So I also ready fantasy and sci fi and as a fellow mental ill person, seeing your joy might encourage me to give up some of what I’m reading and join you on the fun side of things. Also as a reader I am so sick of being stuck in a box because most people stick to their one genre. So I love how you keep changing things up. Let’s freaking go!!! I’m excited

[@jcrunolfson1971]

I started following you because I love your insights and the way you talk about books. Fantasy, in particular, is my bread and butter; it's what I most enjoy reading, and it's what I have published the most. I'm very excited for this new direction in your reading, and I hope it helps your mental health. As a fellow sufferer, I am all for prioritizing what helps.

[@brambleberry_png]

I'm just happy to see you excited to read more of what you want to read and what makes you happy. I think most people are watching your videos for you and maybe a little bit for the books. 💜

[@themerryspinster905]

I love your honesty, and am looking forward to your thoughts on what you read next. I am not up to date on the newest fantasy/sci fi (I've mostly been a historical fiction/gothics reader). I'll be tuning in to broaden my reading!

[@BritneyT.]

I'm glad to see that you're taking better care of yourself. Regardless of content, I'm excited to see you and your channel in all of it's forms. 🧡

[@LeeKempter]

Willow, you are friggen fabulous. I learn so much from you. The way you are in touch with how you feel, the clues you have to try and make yourself better. You are so clever and I thank you every time I see one of your videos. You are amazing and I am so pleased that you are my friend.

[@niccc9476]

Completely here for you reading what you want to read! Thank you for sharing and being open about these things, take care and be kind to yourself

[@ronjaj.addams-ramstedt1023]

Seconded!

[@callum_mclaughlin]

Sounds like a very wise move! Do what's right for you and the right people will follow along happily 💛

[@HolisticLibrarian]

I’m new to your channel and I love anything you discuss no matter what the genre. I’m a big fantasy sci-fi fan myself. Good for you for making this video! You’re an inspiration. I suffer from anxiety and depression and reading has always been my comfort. Take good care of yourself and have fun!

[@2nicolerenee]

This is amazing you realized this about yourself, and I support you 100%. Not going anywhere. I actually went through this realization about myself a few years ago. I was consuming almost nothing but horror media, books, movies, tv shows, and I finally realized the toll it was taking on me. That's why a few years back, I started to notice when I couldn't handle horror and when it was actually harming me mentally, and have since started to purposefully space it out and only consume things that make me feel good when I feel this way. Like when I binge horror in October, I spend November and December reading and watching mostly cozy things, to help get me back to a better state of mind. Even now, I'm still not fully ready to jump back into horror. Squid Game just came out and although I've been looking forward to it for years, I know I can't handle it just yet. I cried so much in season 1. lol January/February I usually dedicate to romantasy books and media for the Valentine season, which is really the only way I celebrate it. It's an excuse to have a fun theme I guess. I don't have a dedicated theme for every month, but I do find this gives me something to really look forward to and I just find it fun. I'm autistic and have ADHD, which I found out during the pandemic, so over the years I've slowing been figuring out who I am and how to take better care of myself. It's crazy it has taken me into my 30's to realize all of these things about myself, but better late than never. You realizing this about yourself will bring you so much more joy in life. And just for the record, I subbed for you and I don't care what your reading (although our tastes usually align). Your videos are always thoughtful and engaging no matter what. You're a kind, insightful, beautiful soul and as long as you're here, I will be as well. 💜

[@Annaoreally]

Thank you for sharing. I really relate to struggles with anxiety and burnout and self-destructive coping strategies. I’ll watch anything you do! 😊

[@katesherrod3498]

As someone who is focusing on vintage science fiction this year, I'm super excited for this new adventure with you! And hey, there's lots of great science fiction in translation. I feel like you'd enjoy Sigizmund Krzhizhanovsky for instance.

[@mikegseclecticreads]

I got into your channel via an Agatha Christie video. It was your depth and the passion you had in talking about what you'd read that got me hooked. So do whatever you feel you can bring that energy to right now. And best of luck to you in your mental health journey, I appreciate your continued openness. ❤

[@emroyka]

I subscribed for books, and I'll definitely stay that way, but I must say I'm secretly cheering because you've fallen (back) into my absolute favorite genre. So excited for all your future Fantasy content!

[@deliagonzalezochoa1847]

what i want as your audience is for you to be happy doing what you love, no matter which way that may be. thank you so much for your honesty. abrazos desde méxico 💕

[@lukefshepherd]

I drop in from time to time for your vibes tbh Willow, rarely am i watching for any specific book. I resonate with a lot of what you've said re: anxiety and doing what serves you. And, as always, your willingness to be open and introspective continues to be inspiring. I hope you find the joy you're looking for in SFF (and they're the genres i read the most too, so from a selfish point of view i'm excited for more content like that!)

[@amandanunez2437]

Willow, watching this video was such a breath of fresh air as I could feel the relief coming from you. You do what you need to do for you; this is for your overall health, therefore it's a priority to pursue what makes you happy and less stressed. I'll still be here watching your videos and looking forward to your growth and happiness.

[@RDebroux]

Do and read what makes YOU happy! It’s ok to go thru phases and have your own plot twist. You look great and I’m happy you realized what is not good for you and to move on. What ever book genre you discuss I’m here ❤

[@hiccupingBuddha]

Girl, i love this direction ur taking! ❤️

[@wonderwoman5528]

You touch many people around the world through your videos. Thank you for opening up about anxiety.

[@lalaorozco9885]

You are so sincere and such a great person. I love your recommendations. Greetings from México ❤

[@PunmasterSTP]

I'm sorry to hear of your struggles with anxiety, and I hope that with the support of the community and family and friends 2025 can be a good year! Also, if reading and engaging with horror makes you feel that way, I wouldn't blame you one bit for taking a break, even permanently, from it.

[@alicepotaufeu8779]

It's so odd how life unfolds. I've been feeling in the same dark mood as you describe. I cannot pretend to say that I live the same emotions as you do but I've been struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorder for many years now, as if they all became part of my DNA. I've always been reading extremely sad books, depicting horrible realities, about real life people dealing with outrageous challenges, and I've always hated light hearted novels, romance, and happy-ending type of stories. I hate those genres because I've always felt envious of those happy characters, because I couldn't feel that their realities could happen to me, as if I didn't deserve it. Your video gave me hope and made me want to try again other genres, so it could help me feeling better about my own reality. Because, just like you, I do believe literature can change lives, can help us getting and being better. I'm glad you want to change, you want to take action for mental health because it also gives me hope, and whatever you want to present on this channel, I'll be happy to listen and watch what you want to present because it is your life, your channel and your voice matters so much to me and to your community. Thank you for everything you do, thank you for your content, and thank you for being the amazing person that you are. Please take care of yourself.

[@stargazerbird]

One book I recommend to anyone with anxiety, especially health anxiety is a really old one. It’s still in print because it has helped so many. It cured my mother of agoraphobia and got me through a rough patch with panic attacks. Self Help For Your Nerves by Claire Weekes. She wrote other books but that is the motherload. There are PDFs online.

[@charles_van_doren]

Thank you for dropping that in the comments - looking it up myself.

[@MarilynMayaMendoza]

Hello Willow. I feel so lucky that I clicked on your video. I suffer from health anxiety since I was a child and I’m 74. In fact, my last video was about how I almost quit booktube because of panic attacks. I am not monetized, but keeping busy with my channel and starting another channel around aging and anxiety really helps so I feel you. Sending you healing vibes from Hawaii Aloha.

[@SharkieTheDork]

I hope this is a great change for you 💜 I'm not usually a horror reader but since I've found your channel I've checked out some of the tamer offerings you've talked about and loved them a lot. I feel I'm in a place where I can dip my toe into the genre every once in a while, so I really appreciate how you've helped expand my horizons. However, fantasy and sci fi have always been way more in my personal wheelhouse, so I'm happy to say I'll still be a frequent viewer, *especially* if focusing on those is going to put you in a better place. To be completley honest, even when you were focusing on horror books I would never read I still liked tuning in because I just really love the way you talk about books, the energy you bring to these vidoes is just something I really vibe with, and your voice is also just so wonderful to listen to, so whatever you want to do I think I'll be here for it! On another note, I struggle with my weight as well, and it's a goal of mine this year to build healthy habits. For what it's worth I truly did not notice that you had gained any weight, but I really do understand how it feels coming from within. I hope we both can nourish ourselves in healthy ways this year and after 💜

[@blackmagerage]

I appreciate and applaud your honesty with how you have been feeling and your decision to move down another road with your reading and this channel. Horror has its place and I got into some good horror books thanks to your previous recommendation. However, like you, I love fantasy and science fiction stories for what they can offer when real life is hard. I look forward to hearing about your future reads and finding new authors. 💜📚

[@eveballard3154]

Choosing to do what makes you happy is a scary thing! You should be so proud of yourself for putting you and your mental health first. I've had to do a lot of self reflection and change with my own reading habits, trying to keep up with the newest releases and read faster and more. Reading is supposed to be fun and something for yourself. The world is already so hard and cruel, we need to stop making it harder for ourselves. I'm still learning how to do that. Anyway, I can't wait to see what you do next! 😊❤

[@Albinojackrussel]

To reiterate what others have said, I'm mostly hear because I like listening to you talk and hearing what you have to say.

[@scal2025]

Looking forward to this next era of your channel. Do what you need to do to take care of yourself 🫂

[@melissalincourt7261]

Im sticking arround! I honestly don’t care what you read lol I enjoy watching you, listening to you! Your videos make me happy and I am always excited when a new one pops up. Thank you for sharing, for your vulnerability and talking about your mental health stuggles. It makes me think that Im not alone in my anxiété, ADHD and my depessive episodes. ❤

[@salomekjones]

i'm so sorry. I have struggled with anxiety and depression for most of my life. It's especially hard with how dark the wrold is right now. People love you. I hope that knowledge helps a bit.

[@ralei26]

Hi Willow. I’ve been following your channel since books and bao and found it so refreshing because you were one of the few booktubers who talked about translated fiction. And then you shifted to horror a bit more which was amazing because I love reading horror. Now, I can’t wait to discover new books/new genre because of you. Thank you for being honest and for speaking your truth. Life is tough and we need to prioritize things that bring us joy.

[@mariannepatterson2684]

Oh I'm so happy to hear that you're getting away from horror...it's not my genre at all but I always watched you because of you! I'm super happy about this change and I won't be going anywhere. You do what makes you thrive and I'll continue to be here. Here's to reading some happier and sweeter books.

[@sirathena]

Read what makes you alive!!!! Fun is important! I love your channel. I am in a really similar place with horror---I'm a spongelike person and I'm tired of soaking up darkness. I'm excited for your fantasy and sci-fi sharings!

[@RomanCastevet666]

You are always so authentic and candid in your videos and I’m happy to follow along in your journey, whichever direction it takes. I’m a horror junkie myself but have made a New Year’s resolution to branch out and read different genres this year. So I’m doubly excited to see what books you dive into next. Best wishes for 2025! 💕

[@Newsbro89]

Thank you for your courage to discuss mental health. I understand your view on horror fiction; I, however, still love it and gravitate towards it. Love this channel.

[@Belladonna_Q]

I couldn’t be happier. I absolutely love fantasy! I spent so many years feeling like I didn’t read enough of that genre because it was seen as childish in my surroundings... Just a little over a week ago I finally got my autism diagnosis, and for the past few months, I’ve been having this internal struggle. Now I know that fantasy is my special interest, something I denied myself for years to appear more mature and well-read, to meet those strict social expectations. And now, at 36, I feel free-more free than ever before in my life. Read and be happy, girl! I wish you good health and the same feeling of freedom that I’m experiencing.

[@crimsonwhispersva2498]

Willow, I watch your channel because I love the passion you have for books and how you express yourself so openly in so many ways, your spirit shines through in all you do and it's a pleasure to see... I am here to support you in anything you do no matter what route you choose because your happiness and doing what's best for u in the most important issues, I understand your worry about what ur audience thinks but the ones who are truly here for u to support u will back u no matter what😊... to me u show remarkable strength and courage in being so open about ur life, mental health and so much more, that you have even inspired me to be more open talking about my mental health and also about being brave for myself this year when it comes to what I want to write etc... You are a shining light in the book tube community by living by your truth and chasing it with all you have. I send big hugs and love to you and I hope that your happiness grows in all you do. 😊❤

[@pabloarellano7359]

Im happy for you that you saw what was going wrong and moved into a path that is healthy for you... remember what Friedrich said about fighting monsters and gazing the abyss... wish you the best!!! (I love to heard you talking about whatever but mostly about sci-fi)

[@koruscott6514]

I think the greatest creators are the ones that are doing whatever is truly exciting to them in that moment. As a viewer, you can feel when a creator is following their heart and their passions, even if it leads to detours or curveballs - we are all always changing, after all. Always ALWAYS choose whatever sparks your creativity and your joy and the right community will build up around you! That said, I read all genres of books so I never follow someone based on which type of books they read, I follow based on how they talk about the books. You think about, analyze, and dissect books in a way similar to myself. From how you talk about a book, I feel I can determine more easily whether or not it will jive with me and that's all I really want out of a Booktuber. Whether it's horror, translated fic, fantasy, sci-fi, or comics, my brain likes your brain so I'll be here!! I'm gald you are making sure to take care of yourself in these stressful times!

[@gladouhills9039]

I feel you and I hope that you'll find what apeases your soul through Fantasy and SF books. I also chose to read more uplifting, fun, light hearted books this year in order to stay positive

[@amzye2]

I’m pretty sure that this is a step for the better, your mental health should always be the priority. Very happy that you’ve made this decision to shift towards what you need instead of what’s expected. Exciting times ahead! Keep going!

[@stephaniea7383]

I love this channel and your work so much and I think I've told all my friends about it. Most of all, I love the honesty. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to see someone say "I need to do this thing to take care of myself." That's not easy to do, but is wonderful that you've made this decision. Thank you for sharing!!! On another note, my friends are not quite as interested in horror books as I am, so I've loved getting to share some of the latest videos that fit their interests more.

[@stephaniea7383]

Oh! Oh!!! And I love comic books so much and I get sooooo excited whenever you share them!

[@rebecca.reader]

Hi Willow. Fantasy and Sci fi are my favourite things to read, so I'm all in!! I just love the enthusiasm you have for stories. Sending love and best wishes ❤

[@lucymaybe]

Hey Willow! Honestly, I’ve been watching all your vids regardless of your book picks’ genre, but as a fantasy and sci-fi fan AND advocate for mental health and the power of expressing one’s feelings… well, this is the best news!

[@LadyMarianArt]

I'm all for it with searching for happiness in books, and deep dive in fantasy, comic books and specially scifi. I'm eager to know all your thoughts on that. I'm also proud of you for making this decision. I'm sure you're going to come back to horror in the future with another mindset and enjoy it again. Now it's time for brighter things. ❤

[@Meli4Live]

I've never watched your videos for the kind of books you talk about but because of how you talk about them! You seem so passionate and honest and I love that! Your channel is a space for conversation and exchange and I´ll always enjoy coming back.

[@botanicalcreativity]

It is so important to be kind to yourself. You are amazing and very talented. You will succeed at whatever you put your mind to and we will be cheering you on. 🫶👏👏👍

[@sarahstephens2002]

I love this for you! I was drawn to your channel for the books, but I will definitely stay because I just love hearing you talk so passionately about them. I definitely won't be leaving because you've decided to prioritize your mental health and enjoyment. I'm looking forward to what you read next!

[@NNumber9]

Good luck on your physical, mental and spiritual journey toward wellness. Thanks for sharing so candidly. We all should read what works for us! I read for entertainment, education, emotion, elevation, euphoria, escape. And to grasp a taste of joy- fleeting joy. I hope you get all you are seeking from books and life!! -Nicole, 36, NJ