Why Are YouTubers (and BookTubers!) Quitting? | And How I've Continued On For 5 Years

Mike gives his thoughts on why both new and older KZbinrs seem to be calling it quits at an accelerated rate.
ℙ𝕦𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕤𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜𝕤 𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕧𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕠:
ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕝𝕤 𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕖𝕡𝕚𝕤𝕠𝕕𝕖:
‪@libraryofaviking‬
‪@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy‬
‪@B.LEE.DbrianleedurfeeREVIEWS‬
𝕎𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕄𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘? 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕕𝕠 𝕤𝕠 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕒𝕕𝕕𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤:
Mike K.
15201 Mason Rd
Suite 169
Cypress, TX 77433
Support Mike on Patreon: / mikesbookreviews
Join Mike's server on Discord / discord
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0:00 Introduction & Opening Thoughts
1:51 NewTubers
4:07 1-Year + Tubers
7:49 Long-Time Tubers
14:22 What Helped Me Continue On
17:50 Final Thoughts
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#MikesBookReviews #KZbinr #quittingyoutube

[@B.LEE.DbrianleedurfeeREVIEWS]

Not quitting just in the hospital

[@kapete4447]

Get well soon brother

[@someothercharacter]

Yet you still manage to upload. Amazing!! Get well. We miss you.

[@anormalperson7161]

We're all hoping you're getting better man🙏🙏

[@iury862]

Get better! We'll wait for you.

[@BrianBell7]

I'm ready to don my black cap with Raiders logo taped on again when the people need Walmart Durfee. Get well soon!!

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

Becoming a BookTuber with the idea of making money is about as effective as becoming a writer with the idea of making money . . . Not very effective for most! To keep at this, one of the necessary ingredients, I think, is passion. Do this because you LOVE it -- because you love books and talking about them and discussing them with other people as crazy as you are. Like you, I have found that one thing that keeps me going with my own channel is the community and friends like yourself, Mike. I appreciate you! Great food for thought here -- thank you!

[@Yesica1993]

YES! I'm just a viewer, but that is what I want to see! You can sometimes tell when people are just doing it for the money. That's why I am to the point where I intentionally focus on those people who already have a regular job and are open about saying BT is just a hobby. Then I know they're doing it because they want to, not because they have to.

[@SciFiScavenger]

Totally! I began with the vague notion that i might generate enough $$ to buy a book every now and again, and I'd be very happy if i got to that point.

[@suzieirby2137]

It’s hard to stomach the newTubers who end every sentence with a question. Can’t take them seriously or their recommendations.

[@mikesbookreviews]

My pleasure! Thanks for always being supportive of this community as a whole.

[@djsuth7727]

The "BookTuber" space has become over-saturated since the pandemic. People can only consume so much content - there just isn't enough time to keep track of every channel. Attempting to do so would mean more time spent watching KZbin than actually reading.

[@mikesbookreviews]

This is 100% true. I can't even keep up with every other Tuber's content these days. And that's with many of them quitting.

[@Yungshamgod]

Very well said

[@James_baxte.r]

Honestly man through all these fake dopamine hits video games,social media,movies You really can’t beat the power of a good book I had no interests in books at all but. Then I saw your I am legend recommendation, an instantly bought the book was such a excellent read I hadn’t read for half a decade prior to that book I’ve since gone on to read manga,comics,horror,science fiction,books on nature,books that teach you skills Books that make you think Books about history Your passion reached me so thank you❤️🙏

[@mikesbookreviews]

So glad you liked I Am Legend! Spectacular read.

[@noeditbookreviews]

My first thought: What a great point. My second thought: what a great username!

[@thepapertraveler1122]

I admire you and other Booktubers that not only have a Booktube channel but a full time job,partner,kids and keep consistent with posting,reading and keeping fresh ideas. They need to make a Booktube Appreciation Day!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks so much for saying so!

[@esliet]

I admire book tubers , it’s a lot of work. You guys are crucial to keeping readers engaged, I appreciate you

[@Slanbag]

Mike I'm one of those people you talk about at the end of the video, who now has gotten back into reading as an adult because of stumbling across your (and a few other booktuber's) channel. Pretty much hadn't read a book for pleasure since high school. About a year ago when booktube somehow landed in my recommendations, I'm now caught up on red rising and making my way through mistborn [thanks for the reccs btw :) ]

[@mikesbookreviews]

I never tire of hearing that! Happy as hell to help.

[@SwagDragon1]

The booktube community really is part of the heart and soul of publishing at this point, and channels like yours are so profound for so many authors who may not get the big marketing push. It’s amazing what you guys do just for the love of it. Thank you!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy to do it!

[@ginabeachy4897]

I'm so glad you've hung in there. I found two new favorite authors, Larry McMurtry and Jay Kristoff, due to your recommendations. Hope you hang around for at least another 5 years!

[@mikesbookreviews]

I've found so many great authors I never would have read if not from recs from you guys

[@PaperbackJourneys]

I'm coming up to my second year on booktube and I have to admit, I love the numbers and treat it like a game but I wouldn't tie my living to this. It's too unpredictable. For me it's all about the art form of creating videos and also just getting to chat with fellow nerds about books. I have to admit, I'm a little jealous of your ability to talk continuously. My editing is heavy because 1. I love it and 2. I need it.

[@mikesbookreviews]

It's way too volatile and ever-changing to depend on it financially

[@cloudbloom]

Positivity (as well as being the same age having similar experiences growing up) is what drew me to your channel when it first started and I'm glad you aren't going anywhere soon. Keep at it Mike🙏

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy to have you along!

[@JasonsWeirdReads]

Great video! This is a topic that fascinates me. I’m going 6 years now. No plans on quitting despite my lack of success.

[@mikesbookreviews]

I admire the hustle!

[@BrianBell7]

Excellent video Mike! I ran an experiment today and let KZbin decide on the end card what to show the viewer next with the "Best for Viewer" option. Then I asked during the video for people to comment what video the algo thought they would be best suited for next. Without exception, everyone has been shown my livestream thumbnail from two days ago. The "Best for Viewer" is nonsense.. it just shows most recent upload.

[@mikesbookreviews]

I used to do "best for viewer" before I realized that. Now I always make it a recent video that is struggling to get views a little bit.

[@PageTurnersWithKatja]

I love how you've broken this discussion down into content creators' timeline. Brilliant take.

[@mikesbookreviews]

I try :)

[@MargaretPinard]

First time finding this channel! Maybe Katja had something to do with the algorithm finding it for me? 😆 It still amazes me that after 3.5 years i find channels I've never heard of that are SO. BIG! How?! 🤣

[@PageTurnersWithKatja]

@MargaretPinard I shared this video on my community tab. I wonder if that's where you clicked through from? Either way, I'm glad you found it and the channel! I feel the same about booktube, and I'm clueless on the algorithm 😊

[@MargaretPinard]

@@PageTurnersWithKatja That's probably it! 🤗

[@SciFiScavenger]

What if no-one watches, oh god what if people watch! I remember feeling that a year ago when i started. Also agree on the introverted thing, i felt super uncomfortable for the first 25 videos then gradually settled in, still feel like I'm working on that. It's a special kind of pain when a high-effort video gets crickets, can be hard to dust yourself off and move on, let it go. Consistency is king. I've found myself chasing views at times, that can get soul destroying, really important to enjoy the process. I, er, borrowed your weekly update format and it's become my favourite video to produce. My favourite thing is the (little but growing) community. It's my 1 year anniversary next week, looking forward to sharing a channel update. Well done Mike, good luck with year 6. 👍

[@mikesbookreviews]

Ha ha I had that for sure when the channel first started getting bigger.

[@RachelJ2016]

My experience: I quit booktube & homestead KZbin last year. My homestead channel was much larger & I had it for longer. At the end of the day it came down to the time it took away from my family & things I enjoy in life. I really have cut out a lot of screen time in general and I don’t regret it one bit. I missed my privacy & quiet time 😂 Plus, the negativity was just awful for my mental health. Most times it wasn’t a big deal but sometimes it does weigh on you & it just got depressing. And then if you add in negotiating brand deals & all the things that go into the money side of it…that’s even more difficult. I applaud those people who are successful on here because it isn’t as easy as everyone thinks it is!

[@mikesbookreviews]

It can be a tough balancing act, no doubt. I have to remind myself sometimes to be a dad and husband first. As for the negativity, I 100% get that. It was something I probably couldn't have handled a few years back.

[@RachelJ2016]

@@mikesbookreviews definitely! I will never understand why certain channels receive negativity…yours being one of them! Some truly unhappy people out there to be awful and negative for no reason! Keep on keepin on though, you bring a different & fun vibe to the table that BookTube needs! 🙌🏼

[@thedrownedkingdomsaga7847]

Amazing video and lots to unpack here! As a newbie, learning from the vets such as yourself, Philip, Brian Lee Durfee, and some of the others you mention. Taking it slow, deep breaths. Looking to improve slowly, grow in time, and while trying to be professional, not take things (mostly not taking myself) too seriously. Thanks for being a leader on booktube and setting a great example for us all, including making videos like this!

[@ShelfCentered]

This was so encouraging, definitely needed it in this moment. Really appreciate you and all you do for the community, thanks a ton!

[@LuxVi7]

Your channel is something else Mike! I love the vibe, I love and appreciate your style so for that and ALL your work, I thank you. One can feel when the book talk is genuine. Keep it up!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks so much!

[@mattjones4415]

I look forward to all your videos Mike. I appreciate sll your hard work, and cant wait to see what you keep creating. Forever grateful for introducing me to the Bound and the Broken

[@owenbaier8625]

Mike, thanks for being there. I enjoy your content and watch it a lot. I would be sad if you didn't keep doing this, but I understand that things become a grind. Much respect though always.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks so much! I don't plan to stop anytime soon.

[@toshirojira]

I like your channel cause it's almost like a radio show, you rely on conversation over graphics, fast cuts and what not. Because of you (and a few others) I broke a MAJOR book slump. Now I've got shelves upon shelves and mantles loaded with some of the most badass books on the planet right now. You've made a huge difference for me, thank you.

[@noeditbookreviews]

Well said. I like that he doesn't try to charm us with music and neat editing tactics. I watch gardening videos and those people are the worst when it comes to stuff like that. It sometimes feels more like a pageant than a place to learn and share. I have a lot of respect for youtubers who simply deliver the goods, as you could probably guess by my name.

[@nick_a_93]

Just wanna join the echo chamber here and say how much I appreciate all the work you put in here, i watch your videos all the time and love the content and all of recommendations the last 5 years. Keep up the awesome work man! 🤘

[@michaelkibble740]

I love to see your coffee cups and t-shirts. And please keep the reviews coming your my friend who loves books like I do.

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

I’m 3 years going strong my friend

[@mikesbookreviews]

And I'm glad you've stuck it out, amigo. Always happy to have you in this community.

[@jimave]

I planned on starting a KZbin channel in 2020. I bought a bunch of stuff and recorded a video, watched myself, and I was not good! I sent all of the equipment back. I don’t have the time to invest in making videos. I’m glad that there are people like you who make great content.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Ha ha the hardest thing to do is make that first video and actually upload it

[@jimave]

@@mikesbookreviews I have another KZbin channel where I upload all my college lectures. But these are very boring :-)

[@BioPhoenixReviews]

very well said. i can say i got motivated to read again when i randomly found your stephen king tier list when i was getting a refresh on his work

[@mikesbookreviews]

Us Constant Readers gotta stick together.

[@abnushagnasty805]

Not a content creator but I’ve been following your channel for almost 4 years and it’s been amazing to find out about new and amazing books. I think I only read maybe five authors before I found this channel but now I’m reading 30-50 books a year because of your recommendations Mike. I’ve been having a lot of great reading experiences and have discovered so many talented authors. Keep up the great work Mike and thank you for being you. It’s much appreciated. 👍

[@mikesbookreviews]

Always happy to help expand that shelf.

[@lilyshares4]

6 weeks in and only time can tell. Really enjoying making the videos. Thank you for this!

[@JasonFuhrman]

Been doing my channel for 4 years and just cleared 2k subs. I do it because I enjoy the people I've met and the conversations I've had. I haven't even bothered to monetize yet because why make people suffer through an ad for a few bucks? I think if people looked at it more as a hobby and a way to share mutual interests, then it would be far less draining.

[@mikesbookreviews]

This is how I feel about sponsors. I get dozens of offers per day and just don't want to annoy folks with product slinging for 90 seconds in a book video.

[@mrgauth]

If a tuber ever shills a product, I unsub. Cannot stand it.

[@Kite562reviews]

I have no plans on quitting making booktube content. My channel is just a hobby to document my thoughts while keeping my editing skills sharp. That's it and I'm content with that.

[@marianneguevara8279]

I've been on booktube for 3 years and I joined because I didn't have anyone in my personal circle who I could talk about books with. I'm one of the booktubers who film and edit with my phone. Nothing fancy. I can't really afford the equipment anyways. What matters to me though is the content and whether I can articulate my thoughts properly to anyone whose interested. If my videos can attract fellow readers and engage earnest conversation then all the better. But my channel was started out of my love for reading and the need to share my thoughts. As long as that passion is there it should carry you through.

[@ChaplainMalachai]

I found your channel during my reread of WOT and stayed for everything else. Being near in age and having similar experiences helps a bunch as well. I have found a bunch of authors that I would never have given a chance because of you. I love the positivity and the feel like you and buddy are talking about a good book. Keep it up Mike!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks a ton for saying so. Good vibes only, here.

[@bethbaskett3]

I'm so glad you're here, Mike... You've turned me on to some great books, and you're a fellow Constant Reader!

[@DeannaJosephMusic]

Thanks so much for the insight. I love your channel, and I love seeing what’s next on your reading list. And I just finished The Gunslinger 😊 I wouldn’t have read it if it hadn’t been for your video about that series 😊

[@mikesbookreviews]

Enjoy your journey across the path of the Beam.

[@MatthewLinton87]

Love the channel! We actually have little in terms of overlapping reading interests, but I dig your positive attitude and the way that you champion emerging authors!

[@brianl6151]

As a subscriber since first few months of 2020, your channel, and you specifically is what got me back into reading, and in fact, reading adult fantasy for the first time. I have been averaging 20 ish books a year since (purchased wayyyyy more than that lol) compared to the two every few years. Reading has returned as a real passion for me. I am starting my own channel soon (not just book related) in hopes of sharing my interest and just to have fun.

[@mikesbookreviews]

I'm so happy to hear this!

[@Paromita_M]

Excellent video. Very cogent points and very balanced analysis. Thank you.

[@mcenters]

You brought light to a lot of great books that I got to luckily read. Your services are appreciated.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy to help!

[@jaredschmidt8440]

Just doing my channel about like you did when you began, Mike. I know a few people who read what I do. Not expecting much, but I’ve learned a lot about what I can personally create in the process. It’s fun to surprise yourself. Like finishing a larger than average painting. Good stuff as always. You provide great perspective, Mike.

[@AnnamariaSedai]

Spot-on analysis! So glad you’re here Mike, and that you keep on keeping on. You provide such a positive, healthy, and helpful place on YT & BT. It helps that you have that golden combo of hard work, smarts, & talent for this 😊, but your passion & upbeat attitude are also critical imho. Appreciate you so much!

[@mikesbookreviews]

You're far too kind! Thanks so much.

[@rorykennedy8572]

Honestly this has become my favorite channel this year. So many great reviews and recommendations. I have become a constant reader because of how much this channel motivates me. Thank you so much and keep it up

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks for the kind words! happy to have you here.

[@kflott]

Glad you've stuck it out, I've found so many great reads that i never would have known about.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Always happy to have you along, amigo!

[@rkgrkg]

So interesting! Helps me appreciate Booktubers like you even more. Dealing with the algorithm sounds frustrating as heck.

[@leahandchad9882]

I love your channel. Thank you so much for doing this. I have read so many great books because of you and just finished season 4 of Stranger Things...can’t wait for season 5! C.

[@levilogstrom8534]

Keep sipping that drink Mike! I enjoy the pause 💯

[@nathanacuna6356]

Hey Mike. Thank you for your content. I love the Stephen king reviews. Currently reading hearts in Atlantis. Can’t wait to see what you have to say about it.

[@taylorsmith4654]

I really like your frank down to earth manner. Thank you for the great content!

[@inkiwell]

All good points for sure, Mike! I have streamed Live art shows for 14 years on two platforms (10 on YT) and two things you said really are true..you have to be consistent ( I stream twice a week for 3 hours each) and the other thing..you have to have fun with it. Tfs 📚📚📚

[@safinan8008]

An interesting video…. You’ve got loads fans out there… carry on.. stick to what you like doing…. Happy reading to you!! 😊

[@snowglass3969]

I am not a youtuber, but an avid watcher, so I can only speak from that side, as someone who has to dig even to find the videos of channels I am subscribed to and signed up for notifications (KZbin almost never seems to want to actually notify me of new videos). In regards to the algorithm, I can't help wondering if the point is to bury creators who are doing well. The less views, the less revenue, the less KZbin has to pay out. I mean, growing your channel is great for the content creator, but maybe not so much for KZbin when they have to compensate those creators for their content.

[@c.4275]

I like the sips, waiting to see what mug will be in the latest video. Like a fun litttle side quest. 😂

[@gregmellon185]

Love the channel, Mike. Keep up the great work!

[@dphunk87]

Been watching since 2019 Mike! Keep up the strong work.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks a ton!

[@shaykininmybooks]

I love booktube. I was never doing this for views. I do it because I love the community and reading. I feel like people are more apt to leave if they started the journey looking for fast views and didn’t get them. I have 300 subscribers after 2.5 years. Even though my community is small, I love it!! I’m still here and still making new friends and people I can discuss books with. I have been watching you for a couple of years and you can tell when someone has a passion for something! ❤ your content!

[@MrK.A]

Keep up the good work man. I haven't been able to read much lately because of work but i still watch your videos.

[@mythologypress9470]

You have a very easy going style and great way of speaking in an unscripted, genuine way. Keep it up! I think that 10-year, work hard, do it for fun attitude applies to any creative endeavor including writing and being an indie publisher. Most people in it for the money will be disappointed. But if you do it because you love it, it’s its own reward. -Palmer Pickering.

[@mikesbookreviews]

In the end, not all who work hard will make it big. But you'll never make it big without hard work.

[@peterp9918]

As a life long bookworm I was strangely oblivious to the whole concept of Book Tube until finding your channel a couple of months ago. Absolutely love what you do and am happily working my way through your back catalogue so great to hear that you've no intention of quitting any time soon.

[@RedFuryBooks]

Great topic. There are several channels that I miss watching regularly, but can understand it.

[@mikesbookreviews]

For sure. Real life takes priority.

[@QueenCityHistory]

You’re the reason why I became a constant reader of Stephen King. Anytime I wanna start a new book of his, I check your channel to see if you reviewed it

[@LoganWard-ux9sl]

Mike, you’ve helped rekindle my interest in the fantasy and sci-fi genres which thanks to you, now make up a much higher % of my reading. I hope you keep going for years to come. Keep up the great work!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy I was able to help!

[@byronhunt6124]

Mike, you are awesome! Thanks for introducing me to the first Law series. :)

[@mikesbookreviews]

More than happy to!

[@OnlyTheBestFantasyNovels]

Thanks for the insight of what it's like after all these years! I'm new to Booktube but I blogged for years in the past and the circumstances are very similar, with the key difference that Booktube's shockingly far more positive - none of the toxicity of other communities. I've barely been at this 3 months and I agree, it's abundantly clear unless you're doing this for fun and you remain consistent, you're going to get nowhere. The algorithm makes as much sense as a glass door on a submarine.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Having a startup in something else first really does help.

[@LiminalSpaces03]

Long time watcher and new booktuber and I think keep it fun is the best advice! I came into this with a love of reading and talking about books and no expectations, so every milestone has been a surprise. Great video!

[@mikesbookreviews]

For sure. When I started I thought even a consistent community of 500 people would be amazing. Everything else has been a lovely bonus.

[@kickassv8]

This is such a great video. So honest. Subbing to hear more.

[@lauraflores1482]

Hey Mike the reason I love your channel so much is because it’s about books for adults. For so long booktube was a lot of ya and I stumbled onto your channel and it felt like I was finally getting book discussions with an adult. You convinced me to read Sanderson and I have buddy read that with my nephew and started Way of Kings with my brother. Thanks for being a regular person who talks about books.

[@mikesbookreviews]

There are dozens of us!

[@CNavo.TheNextChapter]

I technically have been on Booktube a year now but have taken two extended breaks (Two months in the summer then again the first quarter of Q1 for 3 months) I just returned now and, agree, I was worried I wasn't going to return at all if I didn't come back soon. I did miss making videos, and certainly dont do this for the chance to make content as career for me, and I'm ok with that. I Do this strictly for the community engagement of a shared hobby and interest. Keep it going Mike, you initiated me starting my channel and glad i did overall. Cheers Mike!

[@MattonBooks]

I can totally relate, Navo. In my second break right now, and approaching the “if I don’t” border right now. 😬

[@CNavo.TheNextChapter]

@@MattonBooks It's easy to fall in a routine that doesn't involve filming because we know how sometimes it can be a lot of work. Hope you return soon, though take what time you need.

[@secretsauceofstorycraft]

We should normalize taking a month off each year-- its refreshing to not constantly be on the grind

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy you're back, my friend!

[@mikesbookreviews]

@@MattonBooks We take breaks/vacations with our real jobs. No reason we should make this a year-round endeavor.

[@clarkkentnaruto4322]

Don't quit Mike. I love what you do. I just hope that you will forgive me for taking so long on trying out your recommendations. I also like your Star Wars shirt. I also wanted to let you know that late last night, I finished listening to Star Wars the Rise of Skywalker: the movie novelisation the expanded edition by Rae Carson. The ending was strange, but overall, I'm glad that I had read the book instead of going to see the movie. Keep up the good work.

[@heidi6281]

One of the key things for me when it comes to a booktuber is consistency. I love when a booktuber has a video every other day or like Brian Lee Durfee, every day at 9:00am even on the weekends!! I once told him his 9:00 am video was so reliable it reminded me of my 6:30pm sports pregame. Also humor, charisma and responding to comments make me a sub too!

[@mikesbookreviews]

I tell everyone when they start to respond to every single comment. It helps a ton that viewers know you're listening.

[@jordanelizabethborchert]

You were the first BookTuber I ever watched and you were a big inspiration to me creating my own channel, my channel is in year 2 and it is tiny but I do it for fun and I enjoy it, as long as it’s fun and enjoyable then I will keep on doing it ❤ thank you for all you do

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks for the kind words! Keep hustling.

[@oldschoolel]

Love your channel, thank you for your contribution to literacy.

[@thefantasythinker]

Words of wisdom, Mike! Thank you for this one

[@fairyfairy6090]

I think you are correct, balance is everything ❤

[@jenniferm.2142]

I don’t like over-edited videos so your style works great for me. 😂❤👍🏻 I also like that you’ve got me to try some stuff I wouldn’t normally like Star Wars books or Lonesome Dove or Robin Hobb.

[@chrismoreton]

A really interesting topic. I have this discussion quite often about why people quit Jiu-Jitsu at different stages, and all the points you make could apply equally to that. Life getting in the way, progress slower than expected, injuries, oh wait, no perhaps not that last one.

[@WaskiSquirrel]

Thank you for sharing this. I mostly do KZbin in the fountain pen world, with occasional book videos. A thick skin is important for survival. And, like you, I have a job. KZbin is just for fun. And, thank you for getting me back into Stephen King's "The Tower" series. I first read it in high school when it came out, and thoroughly enjoyed rereading the first 3.5 books on a 12 hour bus ride. I'll continue the series to its end.

[@TheRojoLobo]

Keep on keeping on man. Love the videos

[@maartencuyt9171]

Just read "Lonesome Dove." What a fantastic book! Thanks Mike. Love your videos. Greetings from Belgium.🤙🤙

[@brianreif7305]

Mike, just wanted to let you know that your channel reignited my love for reading fiction. Also, I had never gotten into Stephen King before stumbling on your channel, and he has quickly become my favorite author. Thank you and I always look forward to your videos!

[@afk2514]

Thank you for your time all these years Mike.

[@johnphantos]

Well said. I appreciate what you do.

[@totallysick88able]

Man Iv seen so many channels fizzle out over the years. Think people underestimate the work that goes into it. They think this is how they will finally quit their job and work for themselves just to find out they are working twice as much and earning less then half their income

[@blacknbluecollarreader]

Excellent video Mike. You definitely made some excellent points. It's different for everyone of course. It was definitely taking up way to much of my time, not only making videos but trying to stay active in the community as well. I've only been an active reader for a few years and my lack of experience definitely limits my content. I found I was trying to push through books in order to make videos and it was definitely taking the joy out of reading. I'm living that "dad life" and my time is limited. Do I want to spend my few hours at night reading a good book or creating a video? The book has been winning that argument lately. lol. Furthermore, as a result of my limited reading experience, I was always trying to be funny in my videos and that alone added it bit more pressure. Also, I read a book and than I watch other booktubers review it. Most times they have the same exact thoughts and feeling I have. I feel like I have nothing to add so I just don't make the video. Sorry for the Novella sized comment. lol. Again, awesome video my man.

[@mikev2821]

Hey Mike I been a sub for a long time and for some reason I really connected with you to this content. I wouldn’t mind more thoughts you have on life subjects :). Ty for the content

[@GholaMuadDib]

I'm glad you stuck around. I have noticed other people drop on and off You Tube these last few years, for the reasons you mentioned. I started watching You Tube during the pandemic. For me it's become a replacement for online message boards. I love interacting in the comments and live streams about books, tv, movies, and video games. I've checked out Twitch and Discord. I think You Tube is easier to interact with people than those two.

[@mikesbookreviews]

It definitely is the bet way of reaching/meeting new people with common interests.

[@brentasmith]

Im glad youre still doin it! I think anyone going into it thinking theyll be famous or make bank have the completely wrong expectations.

[@mikesbookreviews]

And I'm happy you're still around, amigo!

[@terrilabeth]

Appreciate your thoughts and I think they are spot on! Have a great weekend and Happy Reading to all! T ✌🏻

[@flywithty1]

You are definitely one of my favorite book tubers of all time! Top five for sure! You have mentioned how you cannot live off of what you get from KZbin because your channel is not as big as others… very often… I don’t want to claim you are complaining. I would just like to warn you that it is starting to come off that way. As a major fan, I just wouldn’t want others to find it annoying, and inevitably turning them away from a great channel!

[@bingratnapala6350]

Take as many sips as you want Mike. Love your mugs!

[@ChristiansEntertainmentEcke]

Startet my channel in January 2021 because your great content inspired me. Set myself a goal of one video at least each week, sometimes I do two, but not and nearly never less then one video. Now I got 400 subscribers and made over 220 videos. PS: German Booktube is way smaller as a niche. Thanks for your positive vibes, Mike

[@Alaedious]

Interesting video! Thanks for all your hard work and your resistance to nasty, negative people! 😊🎉

[@SFF180]

I’m on Year 10, during which time I’ve grown very slowly, though my modest audience is extremely loyal. And in that time I have seen so many friends quit. Some go on a brief hiatus and come back (and either the spark is still there or it isn’t - and that’s more frequently true). Some just lose that initial passion after a while, some experience major life changes like starting families or new jobs. I think that the easiest way to become burned out and disillusioned is when a creator loses sight of the reason they wanted to start a channel in the first place - the passion for books and sharing that passion with an audience - and becomes obsessed with their analytics and trying to cater to the algorithm. It goes from a beloved hobby to just another grind. You can’t understand why Channel X has grown so much faster, without realizing that Channel Y might be looking at you and wondering the same. In the end, I’d attribute my longevity to just… getting over caring about all the aspects I can’t control. I make my content in a way I can feel proud to put my name to, without falling prey to doing cheap clickbait or imitating the popular content of others. I feel gratitude for the viewers who have decided to come along for the ride. And I stay focused on my love of the books. Always, always the books.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Indeed. I follow all my analytics and try to find ways to improve but I'll never do things JUST for the algorithm. I'll still talk about what I want to talk about and I'll never bullshit and be dishonest about my opinion on a book.

[@jeremy6604]

Thanks for the video, and for the channel!

[@Chris-tt7mt]

#respect to people who are youtubers! trying to come up with original content is tough man! not to mention booktube.. that is even harder i think! so #respect and #thankyoumike!

[@philippburnett6045]

I agree with you. As a person who wants to start his book channel, idk if people will watch it or if I have any number of subscribers. And it’s tough to start in your own without help from experienced book tubers

[@agapologia]

Yeah, man. I've had minimal (but increasing) success with my channel (not a booktuber, more of a spiritual/philosophical just-chatting sort of thing) and I was really into it, but I've had a few very heavy things happen in my life recently that just sucked out any passion (and time) for it. I've been virtually mia for a couple months now.😢

[@Yesica1993]

Life does kick you around sometimes. I hope things get better for you.

[@Aaron_Leighton]

Love you Mike found you during Covid when my son was a few months old. He's now 2 and my small bookshelves got replaced and my wife is like oh we got more books. When I turn KZbin on ai tell my son let's watch Mike.

[@secretsauceofstorycraft]

Hey! Just wanted to support this discussion! As a creator who probably over edits my videos and also has limited time, consistency is often my struggle. So i get why people get burned out. Especially cuz everyone tells you they value quality over quanity but they actually reward quanity… 😂 I appreciate your straightforward edits and easy chill videos. And your community is fantastic! You have so much to be proud of!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks! Just keep hustling at the pace that works for you.

[@angelabassett7984]

I’ve briefly contemplated starting a channel. Not for money. But because I can’t find what I am looking for on booktube. A booktuber who reads science fiction with an eye towards better female representation and less misogyny. I love science fiction, but it has long been a very male dominated genre. I do watch Rachel at TheShadesofOrange, but I don’t think she focuses much on representation. Starting a channel sounds like a lot of work, though.

[@Andrew.Downing]

There are also greats joining like BellTube and Talking Story! Such great new channels.

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

Agreed