My thoughts on BookTube - politics, losing subscribers, abusive comments (Honest Booktuber tag)

[@BookishTexan]

Those lost subscribers will be replaced by people you would want to have in your audience.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks Brian

[@GentleReader01]

I agree 100%. People who flounce off because of such things have improved your channel by leaving.

[@lindysmagpiereads]

@@BookishTexan Ditto what you said

[@MsPixieD]

Exactly! I'm thinking of phrases like "Rejection is protection," and "Good riddance!"

[@indyatmn420]

Yes, I'm sure JK Rowling and her fans (or Trump and his fans; or anyone and their fans) can say exactly the same thing. Making those who strongly disagree with a highly polarizing assertion you fail to back up with any reasonable evidence is always a great way to insure that you live in a bubble where your ideas are never challenged.

[@andderroo8267]

I just wanted to say that I love your channel. Not going to go into it, but I suffer really bad with my mental health and watching your videos always chills me out. I'm really in a reading slump at the moment due to my health but I keep writing some of your recommendations down for when I'm back on form. Thank you so much and please keep doing what you do 😊

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much, hope you're feeling better soon and back to reading

[@drd8251]

I recently read an article about treatment for depression and anxiety that made a lot of sense to me. It said treatment focusing on finding things that make you happy has been found to be more effective than treatment focusing on suppressing things that trigger depression and anxiety.

[@runaway7380]

Hey! You are stronger than you think! Find your happiness and then spread it. If I could hug you better I would

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Love that!

[@BecomeUseful]

This video is an excellent example of why I like your channel and why I like you. To sum it up in one word: authentic.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

That you, I appreciate that

[@SheilaTheGrate]

I really appreciate that you stand up for what you believe is good and right (human rights).

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you. And yes I agree

[@ellesreptiles]

You definitely deserve your subscriber numbers and so many more! I also generally shy away from political discussions, but I do want to say that your channel (and comment section) always feel like a safe place. I so appreciate your authenticity.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks Elle! I really appreciate that. And so glad the channel feels like a good place to hang out

[@Johanna_reads]

Thanks for sharing your experience on BookTube! I’m sorry to hear that you have encountered negativity. You have every reason to be proud of the positive community you’ve built here. I’m happily still subscribed! 😊

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you Johanna!

[@buyahhhhrooo4418]

I really appreciate your honesty generally, but especially in this video. I like that you'll stand up for what you believe in, but also not feel forced to be political just because other people are doing it. You do things according to your rules, and that's all about integrity. I've been here since near the beginning of your channel and I continue to watch it every week. I used to engage a lot more and was part of the discord for a while. I slowly backed away but it was more because I got busy than anything. I'm still out here appreciating your work from the shadows though. It's really great to see you thrive out here.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much! I think a lot of viewers from the early days have faded a way a bit (or maybe just don’t comment) so great to know you’re still there. Jump back on the discord anytime!

[@buyahhhhrooo4418]

@@CriminOllyBlog Thank you. I've thought about it but I always wonder if it's been too long. I may sneak my way back in here and there.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

It's never too long!

[@avalonmist]

l'm a great fan of yours and have discovered books that l wouldn't normally read even at 75 and reading for 71 years. Being housebound with health issues i really look forward to every video that you post. Keep up the good work.♥♥

[@CriminOllyBlog]

So glad you’ve discovered good books through the channel! Thanks so much for watching 😊

[@runaway7380]

What are you currently reading? I'm interested. And, I'm sorry to hear about your health issues and being housebound.

[@calvinstarr5228]

I’m a new subscriber so I just wanted to leave a comment. I thought this came across very authentic and I love your open mindedness regarding other perspectives. Will definitely be sticking around (also great having more UK based channels). Great video!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Both for subscribing and the comment. Hope you enjoy the channel

[@gamewrit0058]

I'm glad that you're glad that you're you and your channel is your own in your own style. 22:00 Your approach and style of presentation is why I've been watching - and finally subscribed today - even though I rarely read the genres you cover. I'm happy that posting to booktube makes you happy. Cheers!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks so much for subscribing - glad you're enjoying the videos

[@justhannah3960]

You'd think condemning fascist riots would be relatively uncontroversial...

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I'd hope so!

[@gemlouise1260]

@@justhannah3960 It's the amount of people calling them all fascist without taking the time to understand what's happening and what the beliefs of people who attend those types of protests are that people have an issue with, I believe. I absolutely relate to that frustration, people can be very quick to assume, and very slow to listen.

[@HideAndRead]

​@@gemlouise1260 this.

[@redcat9436]

Opposing unchecked immigration when the current immigrants aren't assimilating is not fascism. The left doesn't even know what that word means.

[@GIa_DM]

@@CriminOllyBlog How are they fascist? In which way, exactly? You protest because of grooming gangs, innocent people getting stabbed, little kids getting killed and that makes you a fascist? And then you get thrown in jail for tweets and FB posts in the UK. What do you call that? Democracy? Justice? This is just beyond me.

[@AnAverageReader07]

Hey Olly, I absolutely LOVE this channel. I've been a viewer for over a year, and I even watched when I was in the hospital for bowel surgeries. You actually inspired me to start my own BookTube channel, and I love this tag so much that I think I might give it a go...but I'll be sure to tag you for the inspiration :). When it comes to the controversy question, I was about to start American Gods by Neil Gaiman, but now it's in limbo given the recent surge in stories. Anyways, thanks for all you do! :D

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks so much! Really glad you enjoy the channel and delighted you've started your own! Have subbed

[@TheBookThing]

I’d be enormously surprised if this loses subscribers, but I suspect that if you do, you won’t miss them. Great responses.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

It's lost me 3 in 30 minutes!

[@TheBookThing]

@@CriminOllyBlog oh bloody hell 🫣

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I’ve gained some as well though.

[@TheBookThing]

@@CriminOllyBlog ha ha ha every cloud.

[@M-J]

I’m so proud of you and your stream of consciousness answers with this tag video. Good on ya, Olly. I’m glad we’ve been friends for a few years. NICE SHIRT! - MJ

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you MJ. And same!

[@Michen28]

Thank you for this video! I just recently found your channel and I must say it’s truly like a breath of fresh air in this increasingly aesthetics-driven community. Keep doing what you‘re doing. People recognize authenticity and your channel deserves more subscribers than you think.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much. I suck at that aesthetically pleasing stuff!

[@darrencottrell5541]

I enjoy your honest and transparent approach. I found the channel fairly recently whilst looking at Kindle reviews. I've subsequently watched quite a few from your catalogue. You talk a lot of sense, and I think that you have the format nailed simply by being yourself. Keep up the good work, and remember, there are many of us that appreciate what you do, quality subscriptions over quantity every time.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! I really appreciate that

[@ncrowes]

When I watch Booktube I don't want to hear about politics at all. Politics is everywhere, and I look to Booktube as an escape.

[@jeremys5576]

I only recently discovered your channel and quickly got hooked, watching many of your older videos in short time. Already, this has become one of my very fave literature review spaces on YT. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad you’re enjoying the channel

[@AdamsLeftyBooks]

I have a book twitter account that I use to follow authors and what-not. I visited on JK's twitter the other day and was stunned. It absolutey has become her WHOLE personality. It's every post. So sad that she has taken such a crazy turn.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah she really has gone deep into that rabbit hole

[@margueritelamothe1840]

I love your channel, and this video solidifies that I made a good choice in subscribing here and on patreon. Thanks as always for being fantastic!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! 😊😊

[@clancyconnolly495]

You are a joy to watch- you love books and sharing that love is infectious! You have introduced me to books that I doubt I would have ever learned about otherwise and that is so wonderful. I am a proud CriminOlly subscriber- thank you for doing what you do- Booktube is a better place with you in it! :)

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much! Comments like this really make my day.

[@theamytivillelibrary]

I think you and your channel are fantastic, Olly! I oftentimes binge watch your older videos (via the playlists) when I’m in need of comfort and calm. Thanks for what you do. ♥️

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! It's my pleasure

[@sparrowhawkerdesigns]

What I tend to find is that when people say they don't want to hear about politics, what they're really saying is they don't want to be made uncomfortable. Keep doing what your doing. I'm happy that you enjoy your channel. You will never make everybody happy, so just you have to be authentic, right? Take care!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! I do tend to agree

[@dayphantasm]

I like that this channel isn't so focused on new releases. I like to know the old stuff. Great video. Thx

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Yeah I try to balance between the two

[@Joaquim.Oliveira]

As a black person, I never had any issues with reading HP Lovecraft bc I always shield myself from racist comments or people , I just ignored them. Did my whole life and will always do, I won’t fight or try to understand or change their views, to me , they are like ghosts.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I really do think sometimes that is the best way. Thanks so much for being a constant supporter of the channel Joaquim!

[@EmmyAngua]

As always, you come across as very sensible. I really enjoyed the Strike books but I drew a line in the sand and stopped reading them. With Lovecraft I tend to prefer works by authors who use his world to explore social themes (Lovecraft County, etc) but I read him just to gain an understanding of the works that followed. As for your political views, it sounds like you are better off without that sort of follower. As a fellow Brit who was horrified by the riots (and who supports lgbtq+ rights) I agree with you wholeheartedly.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Sounds like we’re very likeminded!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! There have definitely been some great modern takes on Lovecraft.

[@bbbadkitty9638]

People criticize your appearance? WTF? I find your honesty refreshing. I thought your video about the riots was brave and came from a place of deep caring. THAT video made me a subscriber forever. Cheers from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. P.S. Love Uncle Stevie.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@ingridfitz5677]

You have such a calm and even way of discussing things that I’m amazed people would be seriously offended. I try to know as little as possible about authors. I enjoy certain authors works so much that I actively do not look any interviews with them or discussions about them. I’m the same way about actors. The more I know about actors the less i can enjoy their work.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Your method does seem a good one!

[@nevskislake]

As a Southern white woman, I always hate it when a white stranger starts talking to me, and I guess because I am good listener, they get comfortable, and the racism starts coming out. They think I will agree with them because I am white. No, just because I share the same skin color as members of the Klu Klux Klan does not mean that I share their "white grievances." Racism is and will always be an irrational hatred, and it is not a valid justification for any political movement or piece of legislation. This is a long way of saying that I too cringe when the white, far-right acts like they speak for me. Anyway, thank you for being you, Olly, and, also, I am really enjoying GarbAugust.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

100% agree! And delighted you're enjoying GarbAugust!

[@bluntforcetrauma8192]

@@nevskislake Then you should definitely stop talking to democrats then!

[@nevskislake]

@@bluntforcetrauma8192 - Nope. The racist fascists are on the far right, and they are not just in the USA. Your attempt at misdirection says more about you than it does me, btw.

[@bluntforcetrauma8192]

@@nevskislake Wrong. You are obviously a nut job.

[@nevskislake]

@@bluntforcetrauma8192 - So you have no facts to offer, just insults. When a person has to rely on insults, it is a sure sign that they have lost an argument.

[@gamewrit0058]

"what they really mean is they don't want you to talk about *those* politics." 15:00 Exactly. 👍

[@CliffsDarkGems]

Wonderful, honest video Olly. I am lucky in that I have only ever received two of three unpleasant comments, simply blocked them. You have so many that love and support your channel, keep it up.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah I think just blocking is often the best way I think. Thanks Cliff and sorry you’ve had negative comments.

[@susanjohnson5824]

Love the content of your channel. I believe I may have you to blame for the massive amount of reading I am doing, especially in August. Thank you for all of your hard work on your channel.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I think I few people blame me for things like that, but my shoulders are broad. Thank you, Susan!

[@apoetreadstowrite]

Ah, thanks for this, very enjoyable. I've just had a go at this tag myself, this BookTube is a wonderful lark, a lot of fun. I'm enjoying following your bookish adventures.

[@baxtersmom279]

I agree with you about Rowling. I also agree about reading dead writers who won’t profit off me.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you :)

[@baxtersmom279]

@@CriminOllyBlog I just want to thank you for interacting with your fans on social media. I know this is only a parasocial relationship, but I still appreciate it!

[@gamewrit0058]

Thank you. 💗💙

[@JaroPivarci]

You truly sparked my passion for reading, I enjoy your very informative videos and recommendations. Because of you I have 22 books on my list to read 😂

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Brilliant! Hope you enjoy them all

[@okami7amaterasu]

I really love your channel ollie because you read things I'm interested in and it's nice to see a channel grow and NOT start reading all the books that everyone else is reading from their book crates and subscriptions. I really like interacting with the discord and it's refreshing that you're accepting of different people; it's hard to engage with an audience that's the typical and want to talk about books and get diverse recommendations and just read the same character archetype in a book.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Really glad you're enjoying the channel and the discord!

[@HannahsBooks]

How wonderful, Olly! I very much appreciate your gentle and joyful approach to these questions. I had been hesitant to answer this tag because of one particular question I didn’t know how to answer, but you showed me how. Thanks.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much Hannah, I look forward to seeing your version!

[@Girlytang]

So glad your channel was recommended and for the opportunity to become acquainted with you. With many people emboldened by the anonymity of social media and gratuitous negativity and cruelty running rampant, your open-mindedness, decency, and integrity are thoroughly refreshing. Thank you! ✨ Edited to add - I subscribed.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad you're enjoying the channel and thank you so much for subscribing

[@apoetreadstowrite]

I really enjoy your open, affable & welcoming tone, intelligent & very engaging. And your channel handle is amazing! Brilliant you!!!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@rainroom16]

Olly, I've always had a sneaking suspicion that you were a decent bloke. All the love, from North America.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@thevillagepathfinder]

This was a great video and coincided with a conversation I had with my partner just the other day. I had been watching your videos in the living room on the TV, and my partner Amanda walked in and started watching with me. She's not an avid reader but she catches your content in the peripheral from time to time. We both consider ourselves "progressive" or "liberal," for lack of a better term, and we agreed that you were someone that we could easily sit down and have a cup of coffee and an enjoyable chat with. You have to understand that we live in Kentucky, USA, which is a Southern right-wing area, and running into people we could easily vibe with is quite rare. So, I just wanted to let you know that we love your channel and your approach to how you run it. Have a great day, and thank you for the content. Take care!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much! Glad you're enjoying the channel! I really don't know how this video will land with the wider world.

[@thevillagepathfinder]

@@CriminOllyBlog It's hard to say. The wider world never ceases to surprise me. I can say that I enjoyed it. I hope it does well! :)

[@CriminOllyBlog]

@thevillagepathfinder thanks!

[@taco1010]

Recently a channel called in praise of shadows destroyed his channel because he brought in politics and attacked other youtubers. Dont make the same mistake! Some people enjoy your channel because they want to get back into books or get into them. Not everything has to be political. Yea we all have views on things but unless ur voice is going to stop a war whats the use?

[@CriminOllyBlog]

@taco1010 agreed, which is why I why I’ve only talked about it once which was on a topic where I felt my voice mattered

[@katsnoveladventures1863]

I loved hearing your responses to these interesting questions, Olly! You have a fantastic channel. 😊

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@vens_corner]

Loved listening to this and hearing your thoughts process,especially around avoiding books and hate comments, as expected at this point, a great well thought out tag video

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much!

[@ChattieTheMadChatter]

I am genuinely curious to know what the gain and loss count is with this video in terms of subs. Seperating the wheat from the chaff might be satisfying - i wish you the joy of seeing plenty of chaff disappeared and more wheat come and find you. This was a really fun video Olly. Thanks for your eloquence and honesty 💜📚

[@CriminOllyBlog]

It’s really hard to tell as YT doesn’t break it down, it just gives you a net figure and the graph. I’ve definitely lost some, I’d say about 20, but overall I’m up 100

[@ChattieTheMadChatter]

@@CriminOllyBlog whooo 🎉 1/5 loss to gain - love those stats 👍💜📚

[@HakimALIGHT]

Well done, great video. Kudos for speaking your truth. The lost subscribers are not a big loss.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@fairyfairy6090]

Olly I think you are wonderful. You have been incredibly supportive to me, as I got Fairy Tales off the ground xxxx

[@CriminOllyBlog]

My pleasure! Thank you

[@briarmoth]

As a transgender reader of a variety of genres, I enjoy your perspectives on nearly all subjects that you discuss. Your authenticity & obvious passion for what you talk about, combined with your perspective & demeanor, make it easy to enjoy your work here. I'm not a Booktuber, I'm a musician (my dear friend Alex, The Bookubus uses my music in her videos) but I read constantly (diehard Cormac McCarthy fan) & regularly dig into academic works / scholarship on the books I enjoy when I can, though I don't have a proper literature education (I work at an oil refinery, ha.) All of this to say, your channel & the community that it exists within are beautiful & precious things, that I am grateful to have found. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much for this lovely comment! Really glad you're enjoying the channel. I love the music Alex has in her videos, you're wasted at that oil refinery (although it does seem like an appropriate place for a Cormac McCarthy fan to workl)!

[@jenkooper8647]

Relatively new to your channel and love your vibe. I really enjoy all of your videos. ❤

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@BookishChas]

Excellent video Olly! I appreciate your detailed answers on this one.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@jamiebbooks]

I love seeing videos like this every so often. I am still a small booktuber with few enough subscribers and viewers that very few people will likely know or care if I read a book from a blacklisted author or publisher, but every so often I like to re-evaluate what my answers are to questions like this, before I get so big that not having good answers might land me in difficulties I'm under-prepared for. Hearing how well-established booktubers answer this is helpful.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you, glad it was useful! Subbed!

[@GemofBooks]

Great answers Olly. You are such a genuinely lovely bloke, if people unsubscribe on the back of this they are idiots. 🧡

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you, Gemma. A lot did, but a lot more subbed off the back of this video, which was lovely

[@hollyc4624]

Interesting questions and great answers. It must be difficult in the this time period to not give an opinion of a book that touches on politics. It is everywhere and so divided. I for one appreciate King’s willingness to take a side. He is basically saying “I have nothing to lose”. In reading or rereading his older work, he wasn’t always portraying women and minority groups well. So there has always been something to go after hint for over the years. But the man can write and his books are still fun to read. I like your approach of calling out or blocking someone that attacks a group of people. Great response.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! King is interesting because I genuinely think he has always been sympathetic to minority groups, but yeah boy did he fumble that ball a fair few times.

[@stewartfrances5589]

I love everything you do on here bro. Keep up the good work and good on you for not politicizing someone's personal life.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you

[@tonygriego6382]

I'm usually good at separating the art from the artist... unless it involves children. Most people tend to look for entertainment that they can get lost in, and escape reality for a bit. Unfortunately in these highly polarized times we live in, politics seems to creep up in everything like a weed. Speaking only for myself, I tend to get turned off immediately whenever politics from either side is mentioned in my entertainment.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah I do know what you mean, it can be too intrusive sometimes

[@dyanstoutenburg9974]

Your topic of the day is right in line with a book I just started reading, MONSTERS: A Fan’s Dilemma. The book has to do with artists and our relationship with them but also someone like yourself. It’s about cancel culture.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

That does sound interesting!

[@BigPhilly15]

I miss the good old days when political differences weren’t considered so seriously.

[@mythosinmedia]

I applaud your logic on the Lovecraft vs. Rowling situation. Your logic is exactly the same as mine as to why I do read Lovecraft and why I will never read anything else of Rowling's.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! It feels like a fairly simple way to think about things

[@TheKimSteffey]

Love your channel! Really like this video. Seems like a good community overall. :)

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@MMjones6459]

I appreciate the thoughtfulness of your responses. Thanks

[@TheWordN3rd]

I read a lot of books that mean I talk about sexism and racism on my channel and any time I talk about those subjects, I lose several subscribers. And it's always funny, bc I tend not to get too too radical when explaining the context of things bc i know berating people only drives them away and I'm willing to have the convo and educate most days. My thought is always, "Well, don't let the door hit you on the way out."

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah I think some people just don't like that kind of discussion at all, full stop, not even a hint of it

[@TheWordN3rd]

@CriminOllyBlog yup and in my experience it's bc they feel guilty or ashamed for their own views. Really appreciated this video, btw. You had some really good points.

[@Joeda6]

thank you for reading an “author” despite their race, gender, etc. 🙏 you are an appreciated ally! also enjoyed your deep-dives into each of the questions 🗣️👂👍

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad you like it

[@jessehof1994]

Always love your videos (and recommendations) and it's an added bonus that you seem like a very genuine and nice guy who keeps away from politicizing others!🎉

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@runaway7380]

I'm a new subscriber. Joined a week ago. Found my new love for books again. Will be continuing to follow you!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! And happy reading

[@kariminalminds]

Well I love Stephen King, politics and all. And I enjoy your reviews of his books so keep ‘em coming! ❤

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@gerarddonaghy2720]

I'm sorry to hear about the subscriber situation, I personally think its bizarre that Rowling provokes the outrage that she does, she was a serious proponent of gay rights at time, suggesting that some of her central characters were gay, which was controversial at the time, and some of her trans rights views are articulated out of concern about female erasure and feminism (which are really, really worth considering, even if you disagree with them ultimately). I wouldnt seek to persuade anyone either way on at topic though, I consider that we live in an attention economy and you may simply not want to spend your attention one way or another. I'll confess that I skip the videos on LGBT authors and topics, it does not interest me, I think that's alright and not bigoted as I would not suggest that anyone must mirror my own interests. I DO think a lot of these controversial topics which begin trending are fashions and vogues of opinion. I base that on the long view and an awareness of the wars of religion, sobering history of socialism and that type of thing, I am not convinced its always the progressive thing to embrace novel approaches with regard to marginalized groups. There are many nasty "trojan horses" out there, exploits and agent provoceuters are rife online (if not outright bots). Some topics are talked up or begin trending, not to anyone's benefit but in order to give the complete opposition a platform. Its the old catch "you cant talk about anti-racism without mentioning racism". That said, and maybe I shouldnt have to say so but I do believe in social inclusion, I also disagree with mono-cultures or mono-culturalism, which has its analogy in books too, only they are called "genres" instead. I wonder about the comparison between HP Lovecraft and Rowling though, is it only that one is from long ago and another is contemporaneous? What I find more problematic is the behaviour rather than opinion of authors, I liked the author of Darkness at Noon, then I discovered he was a rapist, a more recent example would be Neil Gaimen, but its perhaps more a question of right and wrong than left or right / politics. I really like Gaimen's books, all of them, graphic novels, books, artistic punditry, I reflect on Orwell's essay about Salvador Dali's autobiography which made the distinction between Dali's art and Dali as a person (that is worth a read too), still it can sit ill with me and the point you make about supporting the artist by buying their stuff is something I might have to think about. Anyway, that's a long, unsolicited comment, I like your content Ollie and hope that the loss of subscribers isnt going to prevent you creating more of it in future.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah authors can do pretty terrible things. Re HPL, if he was alive today and as vocal about his views as JKR is then I wouldn't read him. For me reading books is about fun first and foremost. When an authors behaviour starts intruding into my mind when I'm reading the book that reduces the enjoyment.

[@eriebeverly]

Manga, Murdle, what's the next "M" to discard? Meta-Fiction? Memoirs? Mimes? I'm glad you love your channel. It's a great watch.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you Erie! And thanks for being such a long term supporter 😊

[@SlimeAndSlashers]

I really loved this video and your answers, Olly! 🙌

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks Kelsi!

[@LostLegendTrance]

I've discovered loads of great books I'd have never otherwise have known about on account of your recommendations, but for reasons I can't adequately explain, I've never subscribed. I've rectified that now and hopefully that'll help offset any you may lose for this video 😅 You're a good sort, Olly!

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad you’ve found some good books through the channel and thanks for subbing!

[@headlessspaceman5681]

Had to read The Scarlet Letter in high school. My fundamentalist Christian teacher explained it as a cautionary tale of the natural consequences of committing adultery or having sex outside of marriage. Years later I realized that's not what the book was about... Same teacher told me she liked the happy ending to Cormac McCarthy's The Road.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Sounds like a case of confirmation bias!

[@headlessspaceman5681]

@@CriminOllyBlog I suppose we're all guilty of that sooner or later?

[@TheMike28212]

Great video. Love your channel. Sorry to hear you have lost subscribers due to some content but I appreciate your willingness to take a stand for your beliefs.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you 🙏🏻

[@gamewrit0058]

12:50 Yes, politics are everywhere and infuse everything. I'm glad you mentioned that important aspect of media literacy. 👍

[@Seriousreyn]

I'm a newer follower and just love how you talk about books. Are they books i would enjoy? Most of the time, no. But i learn things about books and genres and that's the value. There might be a book i might pick up and i certainly have read Wiki Pages about some disturbing books you have read to know more about it, but i would never read myself. Thank you for making videos about books.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you. I’m really glad you’re enjoying the channel. I get a surprising (to me anyway) amount of comments from people saying they enjoy the channel even though the would never read the books I walk about. I even get some from people who don’t even enjoy reading 😊

[@rogerstewart4608]

Stephen King is an old-school liberal whose expressed opinions are pretty center left. It’s hard for me to see how anyone could get very exercised about them unless their own views are pretty far to the extreme right.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I think people in particular objected to the discussion of mask wearing during Covid.

[@books_and_bocadillos]

As always, great video. I enjoy your content and perspective. 👏🏽

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you, Mariandrea

[@marciajohansson769]

I second @Bookish Texan. I am a new subscriber. As I have commented before I do not typically read horror, pulp and only some crime but I have come to enjoy your channel, your thoughtful commentary, your calm steady voice... I did get Tell Me I'm Worthless from one of the first video's I watched of yours. Why I would out of the blue select a "most disturbing book" video given my usual book taste! I am more apt to continue watching given your answers to these questions. Thanks for your open and "honest booktuber tag".

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! And really glad you’re enjoying the channel 😊

[@Kerry87author]

I absolutely LOVE your channel. Everyone should have the right to an opinion, and everyone should be free and accepted to be who they want to be. Your lost subscribers will definitely be replaced...very quickly. Keep up the great work Olly 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you Kerry!

[@sandyokey1019]

While I don’t know you personally, you sound like a lovely person and someone who in real life I could consider a friend. If you’ve lost subscribers because of certain videos, they most likely were people you wouldn’t get on with in real life either so no great loss really. I have only unsubscribed from certain channels I think once or twice and it was because the person crossed a line I just couldn’t accept. I took into account their age and how that could be affecting their views, tried to watch a few more videos but when you advocate for a truly horrific occurrence, I just can’t watch anymore. The controversial author is one I haven’t read before, and now do not feel the need to pick up any of her books anyway. Loved your thoughtful answers to some tough questions.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much, that's very kind of you to say!

[@Adeodatus100]

Fantastic video, and in the time I've been subscribed to you, you've become my favourite booktuber by far. Straightforward, unpretentious, focussed on "read what you enjoy", and just generally a good egg. Without your channel I doubt I'd have discovered what are now some of my favourite horror authors - people like Eric Larocca and T. Kingfisher. Thank you.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad I've led you to some new favourite authors!

[@mandysageek5943]

As a geeky KZbinr with a far smaller following who just happens to be trans, its nice to see allyship from a larger/more popular KZbinr. Thankyou

[@CriminOllyBlog]

🙏🏻 always

[@Keeva-]

I watch a few book channels who have said things I don't necessarily agree with, but we don't have to agree on everything. I'm there for books, book reviews, book recommendations, just books! There is only one channel I left because of non-book things, but that was only because his content ceased to be about books and moved into other content that wasn't for me. I very much enjoy your channel and if you have any opinions that differ from my own, that's ok, lol.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Fantastic - thanks so much for watching!

[@BeyondBooks-wt5il]

Good job on this tag, Ollie! I enjoyed your answers.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

thank you!

[@leeannwiley1623]

Everyone has their right to believe what they want. We all have freedom of speech. Even if you don't like it.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Agreed

[@Catweazled]

Just came across your video by chance, what a decent chap, subscribed.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@TimeTravelReads]

I connected with The Scarlet Letter, but I read it at 27 and I came from a religious background that made me relate to it. Speaking of which, I have experience in avoiding books due to content because of that background. In my former religion, there were many types of content that were considered a waste of time or even sinful. It's unfortunate but not surprising that you've been experiencing losses of subs and bad comments.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Maybe I should try it again. Some people do seem uncomfortable with some things being discussed, but that doesn’t mean I won’t talk about it them when I feel it’s right to.

[@TheGrapeJellyLibrary]

This Tag was very well done by you. You have a level head on your shoulders and it shows. Best wishes, always. 😉

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks Flossy 😊

[@cadcar13]

I think your channel is great! You’ve introduced me to so many authors, and I appreciate all that you do! I agree with others here…if you lose a few subscribers, probably people you wouldn’t want around anyways! Keep up the good work, Olly! 😊❤ 🇨🇦

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you so much!

[@happygoathorror]

I haven’t made any videos specifically because I think they’ll be a hit but with my website, my two most frequently looked at posts (by far, like 10K more hits than the next highest ranking thing) are both extreme horror book reviews and for a minute I did consider leaning more that way. But I really just don’t enjoy the genre in general so I changed my mind (also why I rarely check my stats because I’m afraid of being swayed by them 😂 )

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Yeah there is definitely a big market for extreme horror reviews, but I really don't much enjoy it either!

[@binglamb2176]

While I support you and your stance, I love the Cormoran Strike books and will continue to read them.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

They are great

[@heathen6165]

Hi Olly. Great upload. I'm a new subscriber, but I'm devouring your posts on you tube as I myself am a big big reader , as you are and its so refreshing to see a kindred spirit talk so passionately about books. Keep them coming. I've a huge back lot of your uploads to get through. As for people not reading an author because of theirs views, wow. I find this preposterous. I've been reading Shaun Hutson , for example since I was 14 ( I'm 52 now ) and virtually every book has a slur and dig at Manchester United , as he himself is a Liverpool supporter. Me as a United supporter, don't see this as a way to throw my toys out the pram, I find it good fun and look forward to the next insult. Its all good fun. I've bought all his stuff brand new and will do so onwards. Keep up the great channel, I find your reviews fascinating and you've given me a huge list of books to chase down. Finally , will you be reviewing any of the late James Herbert's works ? In particular his lesser known stuff like The Jonah , Others , Portent etc.. Take Care.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thanks! I might reread some Herbert and talk about it at some point. My problem (from a review perspective) with him is that I've read most of what he wrote, but too long ago to accurately review them without rereading

[@heathen6165]

@CriminOllyBlog OK, I understand. I asked as, as soon as people mention Herbert, or review/talk of his books, it's always The Rats and The Fog etc, but his stuff like Moon and Sepulchre are equally as great , if not more so, but always go underlooked. You're the man to bring these to the forefront.

[@ChattieTheMadChatter]

18:05 😂😂😂 oh dear Again your interpretation and respose to that was fantastic 👏 💜📚

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!! 😁

[@frank9032003]

Great video. It was interesting to “see” behind the curtain. Also I feel the same way about JKR. So it was affirming to hear your pov.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@sid1gen]

Ollie, I tend to disagree more than agree with your book recommendations, but I enjoy your channel immensely. Thanks for the hard work and dedication.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@benskelly8892]

Your videos have become an almost daily ritual for me and I have gotten several excellent recommendations from your channel, so thank you very much for all you do. I have, of course, also disagreed on a few books, but that is what makes horse races. You do a fantastic job, sir. Since I might have your eyeballs for a moment: What was that monthly magazine thing that you discussed a couple months ago that was dedicated to old genre and exploitation paperbacks? I have been trying to find the video. I did buy Garbology and am reading and enjoying it on my Kindle.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! Glad you've got some good recommendations from the channel. I think the magazine you're talking about is Paperback Fanatic - it's definitely worth checking out. Thanks for buying Garbology, glad you're enjoying it!

[@benskelly8892]

@@CriminOllyBlog That’s it, thanks!

[@IReallyLikeSnails]

Proud to be one of your subscribers, and deeply grateful for your attitude towards the hatred and bigotry shown towards trans people ❤️❤️

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you!

[@MustReadMore]

Whenever someone I watch on Booktube goes into politics or issues I don't want to hear about (I find politics and that sort of thing stressful whichever side of the spectrum it may be on and avoid it for my own mental wellbeing) I simply click on another video and come back next time. I can understand maybe leaving a comment and having a polite discussion, I've done it before, but I certainly don't understand leaving angry comments and unsubscribing. When did people forget they have the option to simply, so to speak, change the channel? When did people start believing that they have to one hundred percent agree with everything someone says all the time or else they're the "enemy"? Life in the contemporary world can sometimes be so tiresome.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I know what you mean. Things do seem to have gotten very adversarial. I actually quite enjoy political content, even when it’s from someone with different views, but I largely try to keep it out of the channel because I know a lot of people don’t want to think about it when they’re trying to relax.

[@ReginasHauntedLibrary]

Interesting tag and answers. I may do this one.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I’d like to see that!

[@basiliscornelius]

Echoing what some others have said here, anyone who unsubscribes because of THIS wonderful video is no one you'd want around! Your channel is amazing, and thank you so much for it! And while I get why you don't usually comment politically much, I'm so grateful for the tremendous points along those lines you make here. You handle the sensitive matter of when and if to not read a problematic author particularly well. I was also startled, though I shouldn't have been, by that point about anti-woke puritans not reading Stephen King. About that type of person, a lot of what you said reminded me of a former friend who had intellectual pretensions. I was with him in a bookstore and noticed a copy of Toni Morrison's "Sula," which I'd read in college. I handed it to him saying something like "This was really good," but, when he saw either Morrison's first name, or the female figure on the cover, he tossed the book down like it was diseased and snorted "Chick stuff!" These people are beyond pathetic. Anyway, again thank you SO much for your channel! Even though you're wrong about "The Scarlet Letter." 😜❤️

[@CriminOllyBlog]

That does seem a pathetic response to Toni Morrison! Thanks so much for your kind words and glad you're enjoying the channel

[@basiliscornelius]

@@CriminOllyBlog ❤️❤️❤️

[@ObscureBookAdventures]

Interesting I should make a video about my subscribers. I seem to be losing more subscribers this month than usual. I lost two when I posted a pulp story review published back in the 1890s which was about a gay couple and it was a positive story about gay love. I lost 2 subscribers when I did my 18 plus Italian erotica video and I lost 2 more when I posted my review of Fanny Hill memoirs of a woman of pleasure in which nothing saucy was going on. I will probably lose some more subscribers next weekend when I post my 1980s mini series made of a novel review because now of course I have to edit in a lesbian kiss. Yes that’s appropriate for this review. I’m on a roll now. lol. Can’t make everyone happy now can I.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

I would have thought your saucy content this month would gain you subscribers!

[@ObscureBookAdventures]

@@CriminOllyBlog Yes me too. lol.

[@sid1gen]

Oh, well, I subscribed to your channel just now. Your taste in lit appears to be a bit outside my comfort zone, but I'm sure it'll be an interesting ride. And Fanny Hill? Fanny Hill where Cleland finds 14 synonyms for those very private parts, so much so that if it was ever "erotic" it kills it right there? I loved Fanny Hill! And I got in trouble for it because I took the Oxford edition to work with me. To a Courthouse. One of the bailiffs saw it, borrowed it for ten seconds, read the blurb, and was ready to get serious since the story begins when Fanny is 15 and if you add the art chosen for the cover, well, you get the idea? Never again I took any kind of "dangerous" book to work without fitting them with a plain paper book cover. Thing is, a lot of the 1970s pulps, even in sci-fi, had weird and risque covers, too. All right, I'll be visiting your channel soon.

[@ObscureBookAdventures]

@@sid1gen Lol. That's a funny anecdote. Thanks for subscribing.

[@doyle6000]

I like the look of your channel! I will subscribe even though I disagree with you about JK...

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Oh hey, thank you so much!

[@eggbert6900]

I'm not we see eye to eye on a number of things. But I'm glad that we don't - what a boring world if we didn't. And I think anyone genuinely trying to better themselves should consciously be exposed to sensible people who have a different view. And I'd put you firmly in that camp. So keep on doing what you're doing buddy.

[@CriminOllyBlog]

Thank you! And yes I definitely agree