How I Decide What Authors I Will Read

[@danichiong6727]

Everyone has different criteria for what the 'final straw' is when it comes to choosing not to read a particular author, which is what makes discourse about this topic tough because there can be a lot of resentment that builds up when people don't see eye-to-eye about what's "enough" to stop reading an author.

[@Lunabear459]

I never research authors prior to picking up books. While I may love an author’s work I don’t care about authors outside of their work. However once I find out something about an author whose books I enjoy and love, I do some research and decide for myself if I will read from that author again or even read the book on my shelf.

[@PlantBasedBride]

Loved this discussion! I agree there’s definitely a different level of responsibility for those of us with a public platform and an audience. It can be hard to keep up with every author’s beliefs and behaviour, but I always endeavour to make a decision based on my own code of ethics when I learn new information that puts an author in a questionable light. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this!

[@loodcatnoods]

Dang Mara, I like how self aware you are. This is why I like your reading recommendations.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Thank you! 💚

[@IsabelCarlota]

Oof, toxic fandoms have pushed me away from lots of movies, shows, books and whatnot. I rarely interact with any kind of fandom these days because it's simply not worth it.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

No its not worth it at all, I don't let people get to me like that, I'm all for the I will judge for myself category.

[@garfreeek]

It's usually a vocal minority ruining an otherwise great fanbase. Examples I'm in are Rupauls drag race and the Undertale game. I just shut off the fanbases and enjoyed them on my own (really worth it btw! :D)

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yeah, sadly, it's often a small but vocal contingent that sours it for everyone else :/

[@michellerever3564]

Sometimes fandoms turn on their own, too. I've been a Buffy fan for a million years, and certainly don't begrudge others their love, but many of them don't take kindly to even oblique reference to recent revelations.

[@BreakingStubad]

Totally! this is why I'm reluctant to categorise myself *in* fandoms, even when I really like something... I kinda prefer to enjoy things on my own or with a small group of people because I find the masses often end up having these "small but vocal" elements that bleed into actually violent and destructive attitudes

[@themusicsnob]

I love this and think it is so important! I feel like this is even true if you are the person who reads the most in your family/friend group/at work. We all have social “platforms” to a degree, and if you’re considered someone who has expertise in a certain area, there is a power dynamic that goes along with that. Super important to be considering!

[@cappuccinocrafts2412]

This is one of the reasons I really enjoy your content. The main reason I like engaging in comments or live chats with you and the community around the channel. You are very thoughtful about curating your content and express your beliefs and process clearly. You are considerate of other people and differing points of view (until those beliefs or opinions cross the line into basic human rights for other people).

[@bookslikewhoa]

Thank you! 💚

[@beckylovesbooks]

Very thoughtful discussion! I like how you balance not supporting super-problematic authors with not cancelling books over minor mis-steps by an author who is, ultimately, human.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

It seems people forget that and that fame can be hard, especially when dealing with toxic people.

[@JessOwens]

The power dynamic conversation, especially around indie authors was really thoughtful. I never thought of it in that way. Can’t wait for the Jane Eyre essay ... I need to read it 😆😆. And now that I’m a public “reviewer” (I put that in quotes bc that’s not my main goal and I’m not good at it LOL) but I’ve definitely taken into consideration authors actions and the groups they’re hurting & that affects if I will continue to support them/ platform them on my channel

[@bookslikewhoa]

I'm betting it's even harder for you to sort through these things since you are not only hyper aware of all the bad behavior going on, but you have to publicly talk about a lot of it!

[@JessOwens]

@@bookslikewhoa yes 😭. Like I feel like I need to be extra careful bc what if I display, or read one of the “fallen” !? 😫😫

[@ChloeChloeify]

This is excellent! So articulate and I appreciate the thought you put into book choices for your channel.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KristinKravesBooks]

I so appreciated this discussion and related to a lot of it. I have had a book blog since 2017, so I have thought about this a lot. So well said!

[@bookslikewhoa]

Thank you!

[@danielleoliver1734]

I think it’s hardest when it’s an author you’ve already read and liked, if I haven’t read any of their books it’s much easier to just nope away from them than if you know you like their books

[@bookslikewhoa]

Very true!

[@michellerever3564]

Yeah, nothing like finding out 2 books into a 3 book series that an author and a bunch of her friends doxxed a Goodreads reviewer.

[@cwel1978]

I just read. I usually dont pay attention to the fan base of a particular book or the authours behavior. If the book sounds interesting I will try it. But that is just me. If a person decides to the opposite thats perfectly fine. Its not my right to judge another reader. Whatever makes other people happy Im happy with.

[@jennykimball4457]

Bravo, Mara! What a wonderfully thought-out and articulated viewpoint on a very important issue. I'm always impressed by the level of deep thinking you bring to everything you post.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ttowntrekker5174]

I'm so glad I found channel. You are absolutely on target re not letting your hard earned dollar support aholes. I support local small business etc but never thought about it with books! Thanks for the insight!

[@NovelteaCorner]

This was a very thoughtful discussion and I related to a lot of it. There have been plenty of times (especially in the last few years) when some of my favourite authors have done or said some things that have made me question my support of them - and a few that I've just backed off completely because their words/actions have caused significant harm. I think it can be a really hard balancing act, especially with an online platform when I'm publicly talking about books, especially when for so many people there's an attachment, not necessarily to the author, but to the work itself. What I do is try to stay informed, and to listen if/when I get feedback and assess from there.

[@bookwhimsy]

You’ve articulated these issues so well. We all make these choices all the time. I have a small audience but still try to me as mindful as possible knowing that I’ll make mistakes but will listen when people bring up issues.

[@lupaecainis]

Very well articulated points. I really appreciate how aware you are of the effects of your platform and how you want to make ethical decisions in this area too. You're really walking the walk.

[@debbihendricks9920]

Hi Mara, just wanted to let you know that you are my favorite reviewer. I don't always agreed or like the exact same books but really enjoy the discussion and have found many new favorite through your reviews and have given them a try. When I listen to you, I realize that you are very analytical in your approach as well as fairly giving your opinions. I also feel that you approach reviews utilizing your academic approaches to review, which is a breath of fresh air to the approach. I just wondered if you ever considered taking your fun hobby as you call it and looking at what is out there to formally approach an academic career and degree to your process since you clearly do informal research to your presentations as well. I know you have a lot going on in your life but looking into the possibility of gaining a degree or developing a degree path for your future seems like it could be very rewarding for you. Plus the ability to add your skills to the development in education of our future readers as they grow up would be incredible and rewarding. You have probably already looked into this but listening to you made me think maybe I would comment, just in case. The best to you!

[@bookslikewhoa]

You are very kind! I got pretty far into the PHD application process, but concluded it would require me to focus in too much for me to feel good about picking a single topic for my thesis, so I didn't go through with it. I get my itch scratched by talking about books here :)

[@cinephial]

I have been wildly busy with school this semester, but loved listening to this while I was working on an assignment. Keep up the great work, Mara!

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad to keep you company!

[@BooksToAshes]

Sadly I'm in a few toxic fandoms before they became toxic. I just don't talk about it online and read books with those types of fandoms without letting people know, that way I can just enjoy it on my own without them effecting my experience or gatekeeping it.

[@bookslikewhoa]

It feels like the bigger fandoms get, the more their fandoms are prone to becoming unpleasant

[@tinahuestis6931]

I think this was so extremely interesting to me. I am not on social platforms and never even thought of many of these things. What a great example you are. Thank you so much for your careful consideration of book reviews and for sharing this!

[@WildeBookGarden]

Such a thoughtful video, Mara! Yes, the reviewing platform definitely makes it a different issue for a reviewer than for an average consumer of media. I hadn’t used that phrase but I also picture it as kind of a decision tree, and we have a lot of the same considerations. And yep, financial support is a big factor for me as well. I also take into account the author’s actions going forward - like, if they have been called out for certain actions or ideas, do they apologize, work to do better, and actually follow through on that? Or do they make one wishy-washy statement and then move on? I’ve thought about these author support decisions a lot but until these more recent discussions I hadn’t specifically figured out my thoughts on how power imbalances affect those decisions, so thank you for your thoughtful take on that issue as well!

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yes, I agree- I always want to be open to give people an opportunity to demonstrate change and growth!

[@IngridInspired]

Hi Mara! Awesome discussion video! I want to be more mindful of authors I do support (totally agree with you, that when I pay for a book I am “supporting” the author). It’s something I never used to do, look into the authors I’m reading from, but am striving to do more of when picking up books. With so many good books out there, no sense in supporting bad behavior. As always love your videos ❤️

[@bookslikewhoa]

Thank you! 💚

[@katieg2449]

Great video! Apparently I read classics in a very similar way to you, my threshold is much higher for the book's content/author behavior than it otherwise would be because I think that reading from those historical perspectives is often the most valuable part of the reading experience. For living authors I don't necessairily make a concious decision not to read something based off their behavior because I'm not on twitter and hear about most things from a third party, but it will stick with me and usually skews tbr anyway. Then again, very rarely do I hear negative things about authors whose books I'm actually interested in lol. Looking forward to the Jane Eyre video!

[@bonniestevens4329]

I am currently prison librarian and before that I was just a reader. I have never paid much attention to the authors of my chosen books, I just want great books. I have tried recently to pay more attention to diverse authors (weather or not I am personally interested in their particular book) so I can make recommendations when inmates ask for more diverse books or authors, but that doesn't affect what I choose to read for myself.

[@lisafrankenstein3657]

I'm curious, what general tastes do inmates have?

[@bonniestevens4329]

@@lisafrankenstein3657 it is pretty varied. The most popular in fiction are thriller, suspense, fantasy, horror, and streetlit. In non-fiction true crime is really popular, but also business books, language books, and general education. It is a men's prison and their tastes are pretty standard for men.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Oh, that's a great point -- librarians are in an even more tricky position, because I guess if you are the actual source of the books, it gets closer to censorship if they aren't included in the selection? But then there's also the curation aspect? I'm glad I don't have to make those calls, but I'm thankful that you are providing that service to that population of readers!

[@bonniestevens4329]

@@bookslikewhoa I mostly focus on books they ask for and books I see that I think will be enjoyed. As it is a prison there is some censorship that I cannot get around, so only I censor what I am forced to by security.

[@billyjustus8639]

I have to admit that I have never thought too much about who I was reading. This video has given me a lot to think about in regards to approaching books moving forward. Lately, I've been largely shielded because BookTube has been so thorough in keeping me up-to-date on things. (Thanks Jess!) This is a good chance to go back and see if I need to retool my thinking or be more aware in my process.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chrisbronico3667]

I appreciate your recognition of the different values and cultural mores of past time periods. I don’t typically like when people superimpose today’s standards and moral judgments on a book or piece of media that was created prior to these modern ethical sensibilities. Viewpoints, world views, words and phrases that were common in decades and centuries past should not be villainized according to our standards. There is a need for contextualization in regards to time periods, whether the author is dead or has had a very long career and society has changed greatly throughout that career. Thank you for recognizing this.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

I agree with this 100%

[@handlewithcare.T]

I really appreciate this video and your honesty. Its given me a lot to think about and things to consider when talking about books.

[@tammylt5004]

I'm sick and binging some booktube in Nov 2022. This is an ongoing challenge for consuming all media for me. Loved Buffy. Read Harry Potter to my kids. Dig a lot of Lovecraftian movies. Loved Jeepers Creepers. These are highly complex issues and where I stand on each is the result of a compilation of factors. I'm a cis-het white women with a disability and am fat. As I hope people will listen to my lived experiences on my intersections, I try to follow creators and listen to their lived experience - particularly in areas where I have none. I don't think there is one set of rules to apply across the board. But there is some content I can't consume because I simply refuse to bankroll hate. Fantastic video. Super thrilled I found you recently and am adding your back content to my binging.

[@ttowntrekker5174]

Outstanding discussion!

[@CarolMarieReads]

Really great discussion. And I do have to say I enjoyed not hearing specific author names because it did make me focus more on your arguments/statements. And then it also kept any bias from me when thinking. I just wish all authors were wonderful people lol. I feel like I always end up finding something I love and then the author sucks lol

[@bookslikewhoa]

I'm glad it was a helpful approach!

[@mariana.c89]

great video as always! Unfortunately not everyone with a platform has the care you have in curating their content. As a viewer is always good to know I can feel safe in space , specially when we know the internet can be a very unsafe and triggering place.

[@bookslikewhoa]

I appreciate that!

[@LyyraBat]

I love this video! Your process and criteria are really similar to my own. I know some friends on bookish internet who don't really do that, and that's their call to make, but I feel most comfortable when I'm evaluating authors in this manner. I don't quite research every book, but I will remove authors from my TBR once they've crossed one of my personal lines.

[@SR-nx4er]

Thank you for your honest take on this topic I do feel that as a public person one does have a responsibility to be true to themselves as well as be open and honest with how they approach a topic and why. While I don't agree with censureship (I do feel that everyone is entitles to read whatever floats their boat barring illegal topics) I also believe people need to understand that what they read does make an impact on them and thus those around them. I hope this makes sense

[@shulyrose8588]

I really appreciate this perspective and the way you center structural power in your decision making process. I do, more or less, the same thing. I basically never review indie books (or even most first published authors) if I don’t like them because I never want to punch downward with a review!

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yes, punching down is a good way to sum it up!

[@ruthg7524]

You are so thoughtful and self-aware. I have learned so much from watching your videos.

[@bookslikewhoa]

🙏

[@LiteratureScienceAlliance]

I love this tree and its comforting that it lines up with what I tend to do. I think its right that giving authors a chance to be humans that make mistakes but if the mistakes become patterns reassessing. Thanks for keeping my comfortable on my walk this morning ☺️

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yes, patterns are my biggest red flag

[@elfflame]

Having had to deal with this in two different instances in the last ten or so years, this definitely helped me clarify my thoughts, so I really appreciated seeing this. I won't name names, except to say one is dead and one is still around, and so I've had to wrangle with these ideas a lot. It's hard to decide about how to deal with the books you have for authors that are problematic when you realize how toxic that person is or was, and when to dump something that meant so much. In the case of one, I have kept one book, and got rid of the rest. With the other, I'm not going to give them my money any more, but that sense of what I loved is still there, and was always despite the author, so I think I'm happy enough keeping what I have and just not giving them anything further. And I do think this is something every reader should think about, regardless of what their choice in the end is. It's important to be aware of these choices when we make them, and think about the impact on others based on those decisions.

[@larzinthelibrary2530]

Great video and really good points. With classic/long dead authors it's generally a non-issue for me (unless it's so blatant in the text that it hampers my enjoyment). Since I don't really have a platform anymore other than a blog that I remember to post to a couple times a year, I don't think I'm as aware as someone in your position would be of these things. But there are still certain instances where the author crosses the line for me. I know that the line is different for everyone, though, and I try never to shame anyone, especially since most of my friends also don't have a platform and just read privately.

[@MargaretPinard]

So thoughtful on the indie author power analysis--I was wondering how some reviewers had thought through this 🤩

[@ReadBecca]

I definitely have a similar "monetary policy" about this. There are works like that I may have reason to read, particularly ones that are foundational or referentially relevant in some way, but whether alive or dead I want to assure that no money from me ever goes to support them or their estate. So, I have a solid policy of picking those authors/works up exclusively if I see them at charity sales (I do not use the library for these since it would also impact their stats on reader interest and potentially budget allocation), where I know not only are they not getting any financial support, but the money is going to a good cause instead. I may never see the books in question, that's okay and I'll just never read them, but I do pick up some here and there, then feel like I can speak on them from a more informed place hopefully when I do.

[@carlapsalms2334]

I do enjoy classic books, I don't enjoy the derogatory terms for people groups but I try to remember that I am going on a journey in the context of that time and glean the wisdom that I can and enjoy the good elements and friendships in books like Huck Finn for example.

[@cammie3578]

I won't look up an author normally but if I find something out about an author I can't forget it. Especially if it something with an "ism" at the end. There are some authors who work I just can't enjoy anymore because I try to look for their problematic beliefs in the book and it ruins it. Classics are probably the only group of books that I can still read the book and enjoy it but I will still recognize the issues through out it.

[@TigerTT]

Overall all I really care about is if I'm enjoying their work or not,I mean at the end of the day,that's the whole purpose of buying or renting a book.

[@mastersal4644]

Great video - as always I appreciate your care and how articulate you are

[@bookslikewhoa]

I appreciate that!

[@MsAwesomeSaucey]

Great discussion Mara! As always.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@debralavoie9095]

Thank you for this insightful conversation.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sandrapandalesque8903]

I liked this video because of the look into your boundaries and general discussion about them. As you said I think everyone with a (bigger) platform should think about it and in my opinion some of them e.g. Universities, Schools, Publishers,... should make them transparent. The only thing I don't quite understand or disagree with is the independent rule of yours, just because probably the majority of marginalized groups are in this category who could really use a boost. I am not well versed in the bookish/publishing business/world so I'm aware, it's not for me to say or rather I misunderstood and the marginalized groups aren't found there. Maybe it would be helpful if we also list boundaries and goals as a "consumer of platforms" in general. Like what is a deal breaker when following a content creator (on booktube...) while still being aware of them being human and faulty but with a certain responsibility. And goals in the sense of I want to hear from different perspectives and I may have to actively look/ask for them.... Really like your awareness of your responsibility/power and your own biases. As you may see, this video made me think a lot :)

[@kimt3864]

Very interesting and well thought out.

[@4erepawko]

Great video, and you make very good points. Just wanted to point out that using the word 'dumb' as a derogatory term is ableist language and I think the sentiment you expressed can be phrased in a different way to avoid the use of ableist terms.

[@heyyouyou1000]

This is a good topic, i dont really deep dive on authors plataforms, but i do like watching videos where they are discused. For the most part i wasnt even interested in them even before i saw the problematic things. Sometimes if im iffy on reading a book seeing that they are problematic makes me not want to read it. But if i want to read it and they are problematic, i acknowlege they are not a good person but they wrote a good book i liked - and mostly i read back list books so they are most likely death.

[@JessBookgirlTV]

Hello! I found your channel on Luminous Libro channel through a shout out she did. I like your content.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Welcome!

[@Gillian.Ashcroft.66]

Freedom of speech does have its problems, but we do need differing opinions about everything otherwise- well how boring. It is very important for participants to be respectful & definitely not offensive if they wish progress to be made. Agreeing to differ is perfectly acceptable. We are after all supposedly intelligent human beings. We are all symbiotic in creating this world. Love you Mara.🕊🦥🦦

[@dannigreen7126]

I'm not sure if I have such criteria, to be honest. I've somehow been lucky enough to not have heard anything bad about authors I've read or want to read. To be fair, a good bit of what I read are from dead authors, non-American and non-English writing authors (so if there's controversy, I don't know because I'm not familiar with the media of the writer's country/cannot read the language), or are very small indie authors who don't have massive presences. The only criteria I have is that I cannot read from someone who trashes NYC. I love my home and cannot hear any slander. Additionally, I almost never read a book set in NYC that is not written by someone who was raised and or born in NYC.

[@PokhrajRoy.]

This video was enlightening!

[@asdfghjklasdfghjkl321]

I'm not gonna name names, but when you said some of the problematic things, some public figures in the news recently 100% came to mind 🥴😅 Also, I both personally agree and disagree with the self-published author stuff. 🤔 Because I feel like they should be given an opportunity even if the result is a negative review, I think that is okay. However, I also admit that I am a hypocrite because I don't read self-published authors 😂😭 In any case awesome video! I really enjoyed watching this a lot! 🤗

[@carriebateman4465]

I have been following you for a long time now and thought you were more open minded than this. Wow. 🥺

[@bookslikewhoa]

I don't equate having boundaries with close mindedness but to each their own 🤷‍♀️

[@RoseRamblesYT]

Up to this point, most of the time I have not looked into authors before reading their work. Of course if I do know ahead of time of bad behavior, so to speak, from an author then I do not read their work. Or if I read an authors work, but later on learn about that author not being great for whatever reason, then I make a point of not even talking about them anymore or promoting their work in any way in my videos. Of course there can be teaching moments of "this authors work is harmful for these reasons" or "this author is just fundamentally not great, so we shouldn't support them." Those discussions and critiques are good to have when necessary.

[@spokeforhours]

I really appreciate your perspective and I look forward to the essay you mentioned, as I absolutely love the one on historical accuracy. That said, something that I’m wondering now is whether there is any large fandom that isn’t toxic? I’m genuinely wondering, I can’t think of an example. I have the impression that any fandom that becomes large enough will logically have more (in absolute numbers) of the “bad apples”, which are usually the loudest and give the whole group a bad name. Also, more occasion for toxicity to breed from herd mentality. Am I wrong?

[@bookslikewhoa]

It's very fair -- most large fandoms have at least a small contingent of bad apples. I guess I'm thinking of the fandoms where that contingent is very active in seeking out any detractors and harass them. There's not as many of those in book fandoms, so that's the group I'm trying to avoid 😅

[@kimwilliams3088]

Well done!

[@MaggieReads2023]

To be honest, there is a lot of things about authors I don't know because I'm not on book twitter. However I do come across topics being brought up here on booktube. For me, it really just depends on the issues being address. I ask myself, does their work spread hate propaganda in the actual work? Do I have a feeling this propaganda is what the author actually feels; and it is not just used for plot device ect. If I have read a book from that author before I heard about the issue, I can usually still separate the work from the author, as long as the work doesn't set off any red flags. Although, if I hear something about the author, and there is proof, or at least valid evidence, that their work or social pov can hurt someone through their work, I stay clear from either futures works or never picking up a book by them in the first place. On a different note, I've been watching your channel for a while; but I don't think I've ever said or really written a "hello." So I just wanted to that now.

[@rosierumsey]

This has been tough for me lately. I have some books I want to read. Even just to see if I find it problematic. Or I havent fully understood why something was a problem. And I still want to read the book. But I dont want to post about reading the book or anything then get people angry at me for showing that book in a public setting. I also don't want anyone to think im okay with harmful behavior. Another unfortunate situation is when I have purchased a book full price. I find out an author might be shady shortly after. And then I'm caught between wanting to read a book. But nervous I'll accidentally promote something very problematic because I didnt fully understand the situation. (On insta) In some cases I think ill read the books, and decide what I will do, once I can see for myself how harmful the content really is and if I want to have that content on my page.

[@bookslikewhoa]

I hear you-- it's the worse when you've already bought something and then have second thoughts :/

[@iseethestrals]

I take the approach that my TBR will always be larger than my time allows. So I won't spend my time & money & support on anyone who, in my own biased parameters, is hinkey. And the "anyone" who is making things a nope could be the author/artist, or it could be the fanbase. And UGH the fans who try and tell you that you didn't like something because you're just not smart enough to see all the brilliant things the author did.

[@pigdog8228]

Have u read iron widow id like to see what you think of that one

[@angelawesneski5029]

I have a tough time with any media that has been created by harmful people. Even if I may have enjoyed a given book otherwise, I can't isolate my opinions like that. It just makes for a terrible experience, so if an author inspires icky feelings from what they have done in person or online, the way their fan base reacts, or whatever else I steer clear. I don't need and extra icky feelings in my life!

[@jwi1085]

I couldn't agree with you more

[@heabooktubes]

Loved this. ♥️🪴

[@discoveringknitting8372]

I agree I saw a video of a girl who went back to Jesus with problematic authors. I had to click off because it was apparently no thought went into except Googling a top 40 list. Great video!

[@bookslikewhoa]

Oh my lord, that is actually hilarious 😹

[@GothicBookLover]

I look forward to your thoughts on Jane Eyre...because I wasn't happy with the ending of it.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Haha well, the video is arguing that the ending is amazing, so maybe I can at least provide a compelling counterpoint! :)

[@crazybookcanary8941]

Just some food for thought....When it comes to books I often hear the quote do not judge a book by its cover, its a classic quote and true. It applies to the authors as well, don't judge an author by what you see on the outside, we don't always get the true story and all of the story. rather judge from the authors works, that is where an author pours their heart and soul out, the truth as people say. Though we often find ourselves judging books and authors none the less. If one loves a book, read the book, love the book, don't let anyone or anything taint that story for you. No one has to know you still read it or have it if their going to be judgmental AH's about anything the book is about or if an author has lost his mind , or has a platform we disagree with. We often forget that authors are human too, with problems like every one of us, and how many of us have done stupid stuff and made so many mistakes. We don't know what their lives entail or if their having an honest to god mental breakdown due to the stress fame can bring and most assuredly getting harassed by toxic fandoms and stalkers. As for the authors out there that spout racism, their is no excuse for their behavior but that doesn't mean a great book and fantastic story has to be victim of it's authors ignorance and stupidity.

[@july3817]

rewatching this video for an essay I have to write regarding the question of whether or not The Taming of the Shrew is a crime against women and how this should be handled. Funny enough, the author of the article I need to mention, said some very privileged things just a few years ago, but sure let's cut Shakespeare because of something from 400 years ago.

[@jolynnwhite7946]

Dry fair on your consideration of indie authors 📘📒📕📗💕🌷

[@TheGoofy1932]

I'm not on Twitter, Instagram,Facebook or TikTok so I really don't have many personal experiences with "toxic fandom". In large part because I stay away from those platforms, which I think at best tend to be "high school mean girl" and at worst can become "dumpster 🔥 wrapped in a 🚄 wreck ". So even though I love Disney, DC and Marvel comics and Star Trek I don't engage in a lot of the "problematic areas" so my experience has not been toxic. Ditto for books that I love. I also tend to not read from "toxic fandoms". Not a Sanderson Stan(he's OK, but can take or leave him), ditto for Harry Potter, I don't generally read YA at all so the Maas, Armentrount, etc are not author's or fandoms I follow. It's just a personal taste and preference thing. If you love YA good for you, but it's just not my jam. I read primarily in the mystery/urban fantasy/paranormal genres. With some historical romance and contemporary romance mixed in. But because I'm not on any of the "platforms" I don't hear about the mess nor do I care as I tend to separate art from "real life " any way. The exceptions being things like they were convincted of murder or sexual assault, etc. Then yeah, of course, I'm not going to give them any of my money. So, in other words, something that's made the actual news not like a Twitter stream because I just don't care about what I consider "very high school garbage" and childish behavior. As far as I'm aware though my favorite authors are writing and living their best lives, and I've not heard of any craziness with them or they're dead(again other than if they killed someone or something like that I give them a pass). Ex: Edgar Allan Poe(aware he had issues, but as he's been dead for well over 100 years I don't care-favorite author still going to read his stuff and I don't care what anyone thinks about my choice as it is MY CHOICE). But you do you. Read him or not or Maas or Harry Potter or whatever. I just like to hear that people are reading more honestly. I'm not the book police so make your own best judgement.

[@derekdavis5310]

I appreciated seeing how your mind works concerning how you choose what authors to read. Since I don't really have a platform, I feel like I can be indiscriminate with what I choose to read. I know I have a few problematic authors on my shelves, but honestly that shouldn't affect another person who does not live with me, or even know me personally. I also hold firm to the opinion that we don't need to publicly post everything we do and everything we read. But that's more of a me thing. I don't want my life as a remake of The Truman Show lol And as I like to say, if you have an asshole, you have the capability to be an asshole.

[@sidi7002]

Will you compare the work of Emily and Charlotte Bronte since you will be doing Jane Eyre?

[@bookslikewhoa]

The focus of the video will be on why I think the ending of Jane Eyre is great, so probably won't be focusing on Emily so much

[@lakeshagadson357]

beautifly bookish is someone i dont see on your channel whats up do yall stay on touch

[@eleanor7]

When it comes to not reading certain authors (the ones that have money, fame, and power) to use their platform to go after people (and encourage others to do the same) who do not have the strengths and protection that said author does. I don't have time for bullies who use their strength to target people that are smaller, weaker, and more vulnerable than them. Other authors that bother me, are the ones that are full on narcists, who aren't willing to listen to any kind of criticism and only want to listen to good press. Which itself is annoying, but then when they keep repeating the same writing mistakes over and over because they refuse to hear the criticism and learned from that. That frustrates me to no end and it's usually simple things like repetitive story arcs or overuse of clichés.

[@karakask5488]

Some of this is why I don't think that I would ever want to be a "public" reader. I generally don't really research authors too much before reading a book. I will choose not to read books because of an author, but it's on an individual basis and I don't have codified rules. The thing that seems to be the most important to me is whether or not the person is alive; I have a much higher tolerance for bad behavior if the person is dead. Some of my tolerance for behavior might also come from being an art historian; so many artists were terrible people or did terrible things, but their work is genius. And then should a genius piece of art be ignored because the person who created it was awful? In my mind, no. But I know that many people would not agree. That's why I think we all need to judge these things for ourselves, and not be burdened by other people's judgment. Finally I would say that an artist/writer/creator should not (in general) be evaluated by who their fans are. Unless the artist is stoking toxic behavior, an artist shouldn't be evaluated on the behavior of people that they don't know personally and have no control over.

[@CatApocalypse]

Hateful views and bad behavior are big turnoffs for me with authors. Not only do I want to avoid supporting them, but some of that is bound to trickle into their writing, anyways, which I won't enjoy. Fandoms that become toxic on their own don't necessarily turn me off to something, since I'm still willing to give the work itself a chance if it sounds interesting. But I'm not really Public, so I can easily avoid the fans 😹

[@sacheanarudy8833]

I watch you for fun, to get reader reviews on genres. But you shouldn't have to explain why you don't review books by people. That's a personal choice and everyone should be able to make them without others demanding them to explain them.

[@michellerever3564]

I don't demand those explanations, but I appreciate them being offered. You could tell even before this that she's very conscientious.

[@booksvsmovies]

It may be harsh but I just can't read books by authors who've publically and viciously denounced fanfiction. I adore fanfiction and so many authors have gone out of their way to say the most vicious things about people who love their work enough to engage with it on a transformative level. It always breaks my heart to read the ramblings of authors who hate fanfic especially because people who write fanfiction adore their stories. So there are a handful of authors who despite widespread praise I just can't read because of the way they look down on a section of their fanbase. Any author who has ever litigated against a fanfiction writer sits close to the top of my shit list.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

I guess my question would be is why do these authors hate it so much? I mean I would love Fanfiction, unless it was done nastily and viciously against myself or others.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Oh man, yes! It's such a weird place to put your energy as an author. I get it if people are profiting from your creative work on a large scale, but if it's just an expression of love for the work? Why not just take it as the compliment it is? Very odd

[@july3817]

Death of the author definitely applies to me and my choice of books. I do have to say, that I enjoy classics more than newer books, which means I don't often have to think about authors who are still alive. Especially because the other books I read are mostly non-fiction and often concern topics like feminism, issues of racism and so on. Therefore, I agree with them on certain aspects. There are some exceptions where I will read modern fiction and that's also where I would make exceptions for problematic authors if I like their books. However, if someone asks me about these books I will make clear that I don't support the authors opinion on certain aspects. I recently have noticed that it's not even the problematic thing itself that wouldn't make me want to read the book, but the time it was written in. If a book is 200 years old and has homophobic parts, It doesn't affect how much I like it even though I'm bisexual. However, if a book just came out and it has homophobic elements, then I do care. Of course everyone has the right to say that they always care if homophobia is part of a book, regardless of when it was written. It also depends on how easily these things trigger you of course. Also, I love how much attention you pay to the books you recommend or show. I definitely get most of my TBR from recommendation and your Chanel has a big part in it. Especially my penguin clothbound classics😅. I've also read Jane Eyre and my first Agatha Christie book last month.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yay, I hope you enjoyed them!!

[@michellerever3564]

I agree with your guidelines. I used to have a high Amazon reviewer ranking, now I don't, so I don't have all the considerations you do, but just as a reader and casual reviewer, my considerations are similar. Many books over a handful of years old have some issues for progressive readers, and so that's a challenge for me. I'm not throwing most of these books out, or their authors, but I want to communicate those issues. I know you're a huge Agatha Christie fan, and I've read a hand full of her books, and buddy read two, and the "joke" I have is to mentally do a shot every time she writes something really casually racist, and makes me cringe. But I appreciate her writing, as do you, so I think she still has a place. And she's dead. Allegedly. ;) But I would never want anyone to think I'm excusing the issues. I would LOVE to see a video where you focus on this -- AG and navigating the issues as a conscientious fan. Fandoms. I take seriously the things that authors do, and say, and how they treat readers and reviewers, but fandoms can decide whether I give an author a chance or not. I recently heard about an author interacting with reviewers in a way I don't love, but it wasn't so egregious or hostile where I wrote off -- heh -- this author. In truth, if this has been it I wouldn't have been able to tell you this author's name a couple days later, and if I heard it again weeks later, I would have had to really think why the name seemed familiar. There would have had to be bigger or continual allegations for me to recall this, and really make a decision not to read. Then their fandom got into the mix, and were mean as cat pee (to slightly censor an expression) and now I have the author's name firmly planted in my brain, and I know I want nothing to do with them or their base. And I bet you know exactly who I mean. Good job, guys? I also agree on indies. I used to work for a website that reviewed them but they had to work hard to get reviewed in terms of submitting a copy, there was no guarantee they'd be read, and we had a reputation for tough reviews. Our money was made through ad revenue. One of the writers I read was Grady Hendrix who I now fangirl and have to buy my own darn copy, another was a YA author named Amanda Hocking (although that might not have been through the site) who went on to success. I mean, clearly there were and are talented authors writing indies. But now, I just don't have the heart for it. I accidentally won an indie from Goodreads, and it was just not good, and I felt like a monster DNFing it, and tried to say that diplomatically -- has potential, needs more editing. What breaks my heart is that most indie books have an editing service listed, and in more cases than not the book needed more editing. I prefer traditionally published not only for a higher chance of enjoyment, but so I can feel comfortable that this author was afforded some resources, not someone who paid a substandard editor, and bought the best cover they could manage, and might really have a chance if they could catch a break. I try to review to communicate with other readers, but with indie authors my loyalties feel too divided.

[@michellerever3564]

Also, I think you were the one who mentioned The Obsession by Nora Roberts, which was my latest 5 star read, so thanks. :)

[@messy678]

Really well thought out and well presented video. I appreciate that you take an honest look at how your platform can both negatively and positively affect your viewers, and yourself. I find that for me, I am also able to accept some flaws and some mess ups; we’re all human and sometimes say dumb stuff. When it goes into things like sexual harassment or assault, racist beliefs, harm to others... yeah that’s gonna be a no for me. For example, one of my favorite books of all time USED to be Mists if Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. When the news broke of how much of an awful human being she was, I was horrified and literally threw my multiple copes away. Well, recycled but you know what I mean!

[@crazybookcanary8941]

I looked up Marion Zimmer Bradley, she was a horrible person.

[@bookslikewhoa]

I had no idea about her until she came up in my livestream this week and I was horrified

[@crazybookcanary8941]

@@bookslikewhoa I know it is horrible but sometimes it’s like theirs just so much information and things going on by the time we realize anything it’s like wow it hits us in the face. So much is going on these days it’s hard to keep up too. Don’t beat yourself up. It was a great livestream.

[@Lorie336]

Before Booktube I would basically do what I normally do; pick up book that's cover has caught my eye and read synopsis to see if I would be interested. With Booktube I have learned a lot. There are some authors that I have their books and loved, however no matter if the next book they write or swag that comes with it appears I refuse to support the author. This depends of course on my opinion of their behavior. I will not name the author, but there is one that I had never read any of their books and had one on my wishlist. When I heard how this author behaved I immediately deleted that book from my wishlist. This author appears again with another author who's words are terrible, making me dislike this author even more. I looked up the bio of this author and to me it explains their behavior, they feel entitled, I don't like that. I agree with how everyone views how they read, and how some can get past certain problematic authors to be able to separate the book from its author. I just wish people would understand that everyone has the right to their opinion. If we all liked the same things life would be boring and pointless. Also, if it's a one off or if it's something bad for the first instance, I too wait and see what goes on before any decision is made. 😊❤️❤️❤️

[@LienesLibrary]

Accountability culture 👏👏👏

[@bookslikewhoa]

👏

[@AbbySalter]

I completely agree on the power dynamic decision between author and reviewer. I recently DNF'd a self-published book which I found highly problematic. And I explained why in my review but I also felt bad because I'd hate to harm an authors career.

[@bookslikewhoa]

It's a hard balancing act -- I've taken somewhat the cowards way out by avoiding it completely 🙈

[@gregorylaperche5574]

*takes multiple deep breaths then presses play*

[@ThirtyBooks]

Nice work. I really liked this. The human rights issue is a no brainer for me, there's writers/artists they I JUST CANNOT go there.

[@LiaCooper]

the fact that we have to be like "i dont want to read books from people who are known predators" because so many ppl just do not care that their favs are like assaulting people at conferences flames from the side of my face .gif

[@lisafrankenstein3657]

Read G.C. McKay's book Heather

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yes, it's... disheartening that some see that boundary as being "close minded" 🙃

[@LiaCooper]

of they see the authors on the other side of that boundary as someone they should be defending. like no it's ok you dont need to defend the serial abuser...really...

[@priscilla.t.a]

When people have a problem with authors being "cancelled," I'm never sure what exactly it is that they have a problem with. In general, find the term "cancelling" to be conveniently vague, shifting in meaning from speaker to speaker. I do much prefer accountability, because its's clear reminder that how you engage with society has consequences, and that's something we have all had to learn, one way or another. There are a LOT of books and authors out there. There are many things that may turn me off an author, and yes, that can include views on ethics or morality that I cannot agree with, it can also be stupid, irrational reasons. Whatever the reason, choosing not to read or promote an author with your own time and energy is a reader's prerogative. It's unreasonable when people behave as if not wanting to read or platform an author is somehow censoring that author, because it's really not. In fact, I would argue that a reviewer honestly voicing their opinions and reasons for being turned off an author is actually promoting a critical, thoughtful discussion of the contents of the book or the author's behavior, and that is a far cry from censorship.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Yes, much like "freedom of speech," people are often foggy on what actual censorship means and conflate it with cancelling. The reality is that just because I may choose not to read something doesn't keep anyone else from going ahead and reading it

[@JCloyd-ys1fm]

Bastards write good books. Getting offended too easily will make you miss out on some interesting stuff.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

👏👏👏👏

[@kara4640]

Love the vids. I just disagree as I think there can be disconnect on a writers writing ability and whether they are actually a decent human being . In lay man's terms 'you can love the work and not the man.' Case in point I think is Houllebecq a misogynist and islamophobe yet he has the uncanny ability to put intelligent novels together. Would I have dinner with him? No. Would I read his book yes. Same as Zizek I don't like him as a person but I read his books.This is just a really long conversation. On a personal level I can think of authors I can count on one hand I wouldn't read. Speaking of conventions.. really good point..I was shocked and actually met a renowned dutch author at a book festival a few years ago (I won't say his name) I bought his book, enjoyed the excerpt but he was blunt and rude. Some might call him a complete dick. My point is objectively his writing is good but having met him I would not go out of my way to pay for another of his work so while I like to think of myself as pragmatic I have conflicting feelings.

[@Agentmg17]

Can we go back in time and make Mara the professor for all my classes?

[@bookslikewhoa]

LOL I don't know, I have pretty strict rules around assignment submission, so you may not have liked that... my students when I was student teaching certainly didn't 👻

[@Agentmg17]

@@bookslikewhoa as long as the rules made sense and weren't some power trip, we would be cool.

[@iansmith4023]

I agree with absolutely everything you have said. A few years ago,I became aware of a published (but,fortunately,little read) author with profoundly homophobic views. A friend of mine (who happens to also be a friend of this author) recommended his latest novel as something she thought I would enjoy reading. I am usually very relaxed about separating the art/artist from the individual,but in this case my response was automatic: under no circumstance was this loathsome person going to be getting a PENNY of my money! On a related note,I've just (this morning) read my first Georges Simenon novel (a Maigret). After reading it I did a quick wiki,and immediately discovered a startling and uncomfortable fact about him. However,this 1) did not lessen my enjoyment of the novel;and 2) has not deterred me from reading more - as the man has been dead for over 30 years;and most of his work was in the 1930s and 40s anyway.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

if you don't want to give that author the money try looking for it at a garage sale where your helping someone else with money or at the library so you could still read the works but not give said author a dime. That way you can enjoy a book without disrespecting your own morals about his homophobic views.

[@bookslikewhoa]

As usual, you and I are very simpatico in our approach -- necessary probably, given our love of Christie :)

[@DtotheLA]

❤️📖❤️📖❤️📖❤️

[@monaedoyle3631]

Hello. Jenn @TheBookRefuge recommends books by certain authors that I like. I also like finding new authors on Instagram or on Facebook. Jenn is a booktubber who I found a lot of authors because of her recommendations that I have come to be fans of. I have also found a ton of authors I like while looking on Instagram.

[@Nastya-uj9bg]

have you ever changed your opinion when you cancelled the author and then found out more info and that you believed someone who was untruthful? curious about that

[@crazybookcanary8941]

This happens all the time and its like the plague. If an author has like a video of his or her actions or have been convicted per say of whatever their accused of, that's different, but mere accusations I would go do your own research even if it was your best friend who told you this supposed truth. As for canceling the author based upon their own personal views is wrong, we would want others to respect our personal beliefs so we should try and respect others. Also one has to take into account the way authors say things, between malice and explaining/being honest. People are so triggered today that its best to just decide for oneself and to never judge or shun a book for the authors ignorance and stupidity, we're all human, we all make mistakes and many times we say things we regret and often time without thinking it through. I have once believed people like that Nastya, changed my opinion, acted on that peice of information, and felt like a fool. And with how cancel culture is going haywire right now it's happening more and more to innocent people and innocent authors. Its a problem, a big once.

[@bookslikewhoa]

Certainly - I try to make the best judgment calls I can with the info that I have at the time, but as things develop, I may become more or less comfortable with talking about them publicly.

[@crazybookcanary8941]

@@bookslikewhoa agreed, one can still love and read the authors books in private, but might not want to do a video about the author or the books due to controversy. I understand completely and don’t let people harp you for that. You have a channel to protect.