Your Favorite Author is Not a God.

[@jlodomauthor]

I have two specific experiences which always come to mind regarding this topic: 1. I once recommended my favorite book (Till We Have Faces) to one of the Marines I was deployed with. He vented at me for AN HOUR (which I was happy to let him do!) because he was so upset with the book. We had WILDLY different experiences with it. 2. One of my closest friends (smart, awesome, well-read) recommended the BOOK OF HER HEART AND SOUL to me. I hated it with every fiber of my being. HATED. I still feel angry when I think about that book. But I still respect my friend's opinions and tastes! I love passionate discussion; it shouldn't be shut down. Excellent video!!!

[@Johanna_reads]

Great video, Tori! It makes me think of the "Opposites Attract" Bookclub between Merphy and Amber Alise, which shows how friends can widely disagree about the same books, and it doesn't have to be toxic. In fact, it can be respectful and fun! Much respect and support for all your book thoughts and experiences, my friend!

[@ToriTalks2]

I love their discussions! It's very book-focused and lighthearted rather than being pointed and personal. I love it. Thank you so much for watching! I absolutely love our discussions on books, whether we agree or not!

[@AndrewDMth]

Fantastic breakdown Tori! If I get offended at someone critiquing something I love, the mature thing to do is to analyze WHY they made me mad. If I feel the need to go on the offensive, I’m part of the problem.

[@ToriTalks2]

I agree! I actually have learned to enjoy breaking down the "why" books make me feel the way they do. And I enjoy hearing other people's perspectives on them.

[@zkinak2107]

2:51-3:07 This doesn’t one for one relate to the topic of your video but what you said here made me think of my reading experience of Sarah Chorn’s novella “A Sorrow Named Joy.” The protagonist was written in such a way that they reminded me of myself and how I see the world. Their way of perceiving the world made me think “oh this character has this X diagnosis that I do, I’m so invested in this character because I see so much of myself in them.” When it was revealed what their true identity was, I almost put the book down because it felt to me as though the author was saying something that was wrong about me. I had to take a step back then and realize just how much I had put of myself into this protagonist had blinded me to what the author’s intentions were with what Chorn wanted the reader to get from the story.

[@KFoxtheGreat]

This is such an important video. I'm glad you're bringing light to it and it's such a shame you have to. I don't remember specifically which video it was, but on a tier ranking one recently I commented that I didn't realize how much our tastes varied until then and I think it is because you are always so nuanced and respecful when discussing books you dislike. In a world of exaggerated rants, it's very refreshing. I'll admit, there are times when I do feel hurt by people disliking things that I emotionally connect with, but it is *so easy* to just click away in those instances. If I'm not in the brainspace for a discussion or debate, I get out of there! I think that's another issue with online communities, that not responding is seen as "losing an argument." Stepping away to take a breath and explore the issue before coming back with a clear head is sometimes necessary to have a productive discussion and that's okay

[@KristyBryson]

This is an excellent video! I hope more readers can also accept that favorite authors are free to write their own stories that may not fit with reader expectations and that those writers don’t deserve “hate” or personal attacks in return either. I’ve been seeing that online lately, too. I think part of that issue is a similar problem with some readers taking their personal experiences of a book to a slightly different extreme. Authors really don’t owe us anything. They’re just people. I love a good negative review that explains personal experiences-that’s how I find new perspectives on books, or discover that I’m not alone. But save the “hate”. Life’s rough enough without sending that energy to fellow readers and storytellers. 😊

[@thefairylibrarian3282]

They're not? 🥺🥺**Throws away prayer book and cult robes**

[@kelleyeasterling]

Dude! Donate to your local thrift store! 😂

[@ToriTalks2]

@thefairylibrarian3282 Kaat, you’re amazing 😂😂😂

[@majcikic87]

I often say to my husband that I am not big enough fan of anything, because I don't mind when somebody doesn't like my favourite books. 😂 I like finding reviews of my favourites, both positive and negative, because it is fun to know what other people think. On the other side, I do look for positive reviews of the books I did not like, because I always try to understand why others like it, and then I may end up at least appreciating those books for all the good others see in them. Sometimes even I don't like the things that I like, so there's nothing wrong with that. 😅

[@ToriTalks2]

I'm the same way! I enjoy hearing a variety of opinions on my favorite or least favorite books. I'm fascinated by the way everyone's reading experience can be so different, and how a book lands based on someone's preferences or perspective.

[@majcikic87]

​@@ToriTalks2 Yes, we are different people and we like different things. Nobody is mad that not everyone is in love with the same person they are. Or that they don't drink the same drinks, or eat the same food. Why, then, they need for everyone to love the same books? I admire how calm you and everyone I watch are regarding those comments. It can't be easy. ❤

[@ToriTalks2]

@@majcikic87 it’s a learned art 😂 I have a natural fight reflex so I’ve spent many years tempering that. I’m glad it’s working!

[@lieslherman]

Absolutely agree, and very well articulated!! Sadly, I think it's going to get much worse before it gets any better, despite how much I wish cooler heads would prevail. All we can do is try, and be the kind of people we want to see more of in the world, and it will help teach some how to have more grace about their opinions. People repeat the cycle when they think it's the only option to be heard. That is one nice thing about being in smaller communities online... I recently posted a fairly critical review of ACOTAR (read for a friend, similar to your experience with Bride), and I was so uplifted by how the people who felt very different amidst my community were still so accepting and understanding of my viewpoint, simply because I also tried to see theirs. We owe that to each other! And that shows me what I think IS the problem with these vitriolic people who leave comments like that: they have nothing to lose if they do. At least IRL there are some repercussions, usually, for being very toxic, and in smaller online communities where you could be ejected, and you value people's relationships... But these folks only relate to one community, and that's the "people who think like me". And with the size of the internet, it's easy to go a long time before ever encountering someone who doesn't, if your algorithm is trained well enough. What a pickle we've created! I hope that this doesn't happen to you too frequently, and Im glad it's a minority of folks. But oof. I really wish we all could be as lovely as Derri :)

[@readerinthedesert_SaraBeth]

Well said Tori. Although I believe the disagreement and disrespect issue is a lesson, the whole country, and not just those on the Internet, needs to learn.

[@karolovesbooks2233]

Great video! So sorry that was your experience, Tori! It hurts a little if someone doesn't love the book you love, at least in my case, but if they don't like it, I'm just sad they didn't have my enjoyment. The trashtalk I can do without, when they say 'He's famous, he can take it' when NOT having read the book, that does get seriously on my nerves. Someone wants to say their say, that's fine! But a lot of people are going after authors they have not/barely read just saying things because it's popular to say them. Just wish more people would sometimes say: It wasn't for because ... instead of tearing things down for the sake of it and for clicks

[@llauram3650]

so agree. it's super toxic for the author too. especially when some readers are slightly disappointed in a book like W&T (which i loved but many didn't). they react as if the author personally spited them 🤣

[@ToriTalks2]

Exactly! Authors get attacked a lot as well.

[@Eluarelon]

I think that's another part of the problem. Because if authors get put on such high pedestals, they basically can only fail expectations. And love can turn into hate pretty fast.

[@abecordell]

Agree. After seeing comments in some of the negative booktube reviews for W&T, I have to wonder why Rothfuss and Martin would ever finish their series? How could they do anything but pull down the wrath of their fandoms for not living up to expectations. That’s a lot of pressure. I would think the scorn they receive for not finishing a series is better than from what “fans” can do if they are let down. With fans like that, who needs enemies?

[@jakebishop7822]

I have not had that many people be upset and rude because I disliked a book they liked which I appreciate. I have actually had the opposite happen more, which to me is even weirder. Which is people lashing out, and being rude and dismissive when I like a book, or series they dislike.

[@ericF-17]

Same, thank you for saying this. Although Tori's experiences are of course valid and many of her points are still important, I feel this is much more accurate to what I see actually consistently happening in this community.

[@AuthorJohnADouglas]

The best way to see someone meet your expectations is to be the example you wish to see

[@PonderingsOfPete]

we always need to be reminded of this. thanks for making this

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you for watching, Pete!

[@someokiedude9549]

Very good video Tori, though I am saddened to hear that you now regret reading Lonesome Dove. Don't get down because some people can't bear someone else disagreeing with their takes. This speaks to an issue I've noticed on BookTube, where there seems to be this level of group think where you have to like these certain popular books and any dissent is either ignored at best or ridiculed at worst. We can't really seem to have any sort of nuanced opinions on anything, because I was on that Lonesome Dove chat, you had some really great insights about the story and characters even though you had your issues with it. I'm considering making a video on this subject soon. I'll admit, I sometimes struggle as well when people don't like the books I like, not because I can't bear someone disagreeing with me, but sometimes I get frustrated when people don't see the beauty that I see when I read a certain book that I enjoy (or any kind of media, I should note). I wish I could be like Jimmy who can be as chill as he is when someone dislikes a book he cherishes, but I'm not quite there yet. Maybe some day I will.

[@ZOMGfantasy]

Excellent video, Tori! I wholeheartedly agree about the problems that come with celebrity culture, as well as the necessity of open, respectful dialogue - even (maybe especially) about the things we love

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you so much, Zammar.

[@Eluarelon]

I think part of the issue is that those things you mentioned also apply to a lot of the critics. Because what I very often see is that those "critics" aren't arguing about "I didn't like that book because of a), b) and c)" but are claiming "This book is a whole loads of [insert expletive]" and anyone who says otherwise is also [insert expletive]." So again they confuse their own experience (assuming they aren't just trolls) with what might be a completely different objective truth (or at least an approximation of that). And in my opinion, this behavior came first and consequently led the other side to radicalise as well (kinda like what we see in the political sphere). Which is a shame because it really inhibits our ability to have meaningful discussion where we at least try to be analytical and come to some kind of approximation of truth regarding a book or an author. Though I also think that most people aren't even interested in that, they just enjoy celebrating something they like with like-minded people, and someone interfering in that celebration with whatever kind of criticism ruins that enjoyment at least a bit. All the while social networks, being what they are, try their best to instigate those conflicts.

[@safinan8008]

Happy reading to you!! 😊

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you!

[@DoubleDietz]

Excellent video. I think one of the best things about people is that we are all different and like different things. It’s great to learn about one another from these differences.

[@NevsBookChannel]

I think two of the problems are, not being able to hear the tone of voice a comment is written in, and also a commenter may agree with a bunch of things and not mention them and only hone in on the differences. But yeah, text has so little nuance and it’s easy to read things as aggressive.

[@geauxreadbooks]

This is really good Tori. I’ll admit that I’m guilty of this to a certain extent. Though it’s not in my nature to attack anyone for their differing opinions, I do find it hard to listen to criticisms of Tolkien’s writing, specifically The Lord of The Rings. I find myself not having confrontations with others about this but passively not listening to them anymore. Thank you for articulately and graciously bringing this to light. I believe that iron sharpens iron and you have helped me with this!

[@readbykyle3082]

Great video. I have mostly come scross this with Malazan fans and it makes me not want to discuss Malazan anymore 😂 your SoM review was so balanced and respectful, people can get so carried away.

[@ToriTalks2]

Thanks Kyle! I've run into it with several fandoms at this point. I've run into a couple less savory sections of the Malazan fandom as well, but thankfully my circle is pretty great that way.

[@annmoore321]

Another problem I have seen is when BookTubers participate in a lot of what you just described. Mudslinging, name calling, etc. can happen on camera as well as the comment section. There are people I no longer follow on social media because of the way they talk to or about people they don’t agree with. So. Finding channels like yours who advocate for kindness, understanding, and empathy are VERY much appreciated.

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you've enjoyed the content. I have very strong opinions about some books, and I even cross the line sometimes, but I try to be honest without tearing people down. I have no problem saying I think a book is awful, but I don't want to start throwing mud at people who enjoy it.

[@annmoore321]

⁠@@ToriTalks2 eh. We’re all human. And honesty is not a bad thing. Neither is emotion. It’s what we do with it that matters, and, from what I have seen, you do a great job .

[@ToriTalks2]

@@annmoore321 thank you 😊

[@Chance.Dillon]

Totally agree-everyone’s opinions have some sort of value, especially when referring to perspective. And deifying celebrities at all is definitely dangerous

[@TuftyMcTavish]

It’s really interesting how you and Derri’s Read It Before had that “Ship of Magic” discussion from differing PoVs. I’m sat here wondering if having a pre-existing familiarity, or trust even, with folks eases us past a lot of barriers. I know I’m quicker to dismiss or move on from folks that I don’t ‘know’ but when I have some appreciation for another’s thoughts - having heard or read them discuss things both positively and negatively - I can better fit myself into their perspectives. PS - unrelated, but you are very expressive with your hands. You’d be fun to watch signing your discussions 😁

[@vidarfe]

Went in to the video, thinking it was going to be about Neil Gaiman, and I was preparing a comment along the lines of "yes, nobody's perfect, but there's a hugh difference between having a few bad character traits and being a rapist". Turns out I was wrong.

[@ToriTalks2]

Lol nope, there are plenty of people speaking on Neil Gaiman at the moment. I'm not interested in giving him space on my channel. Thank you so much for watching!

[@Thomas.R.Howell]

For me, I just don’t dive into an author’s personal life. I like to keep their art and the artist separate. It allows me to enjoy the books I read in a more genuine way. Without any preconceived thought about their personal life. I don’t want their personality and beliefs influencing my reading experience. For example Name of the Wind is my favorite book of all time. (As of right now of course). But I don’t care to delve into Rothfuss and his life. Then on the other side of the coin I didn’t like Mistborn by Sanderson… I’ve expressed my opinion on my channel and well I was genuinely scared to get backlash. Thankfully I have had wonderful conversations even to people with differing opinions. Great video!

[@Christopher_Navo]

Absolutely 💯. Fantastic breakdown, Tori!

[@marianneguevara8279]

Great video Tori! I've been pretty lucky with not receiving these type of comments. I have a smaller channel so I suppose I don't draw the eyes of those who'd feel mad enough to do so. I actually find discussing books I didn't like or found to be just meh a bit more fun. My thoughts seem to flow out more concisely compared to books I love. We can be passionate while also being calm and civil.

[@N.A.Summur]

Too many people want their opinion to be right and tell others that theirs are wrong. But if we all shared the same opinions and liked the same things life would be very boring. What would there be to talk about then?

[@ToriTalks2]

You're absolutely right. I'm not here for an echo chamber. :)

[@roanokebrooks]

I like your stuffed Nintendo Yoshi.

[@mattkean1128]

That's definitely true for authors I don't like. 😅 I actually love when I find a dissenting book opinion. Especially in a critical area like booktube. Groupthink is such a strong influence, especially when you form these communities. Some people get their identity wrapped up in either things they love or being seen as someone with great taste, and if that's countered, it really does feel like a personal attack for them. We're desperate for validation. Then you quit engaging in good faith and it's just a battle of wills and exhausting. We've all seen this with fandoms.

[@dougsundseth6904]

I absolutely agree with your thesis and I think you presented it well. "De gustibus non est disputandum" is a principle that everyone should understand, but the fact that there's a phrase in Latin to address the issue would tend to indicate that it's not a new problem. More's the pity.

[@bookishlybookish]

I had a commenter tell me I had no sense of humor because I didn't have the desire to read Pratchett... umm no... just different 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@ToriTalks2]

How dare you. XD

[@Eluarelon]

Yeah well, I am German, so I get to hear that all the time, and I absolutely adore Pratchett.

[@bookishlybookish]

@@Eluarelon well I think your sense of humor is just fine, Pratchett lover or not 😁

[@grahamguy4656]

This was a great vid i really understand what you are saying, i would never try new and different books if not listening to booktuber experiences on there like and dislike but it not nice to upset or trash other views or opinions but we live it a harsh world we all rant but to there faces no if you can't say something nice then say nothing at all, all the best Tori i want to read your book always like to give other a chance

[@kurticusmaximus]

Celebrity: you shall have no other god besides me. Me: wait, who else said that?

[@Atrulion]

I always try to be open minded, but there are times when my mind just shuts down. and that's when other people are extremely narrow minded. I just can't stand it 😭 Like guys, we all have our own opinions, and if you think the problem is that they didn't *understand* the story, then that's not entirely their fault. That fault may lay on the author, or it might just not be a story that interested them, and that's not their fault. Open mind = yes yes, narrow mind = no no. Great video!

[@maryreid1066]

Great video, Tori!

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you so much!

[@bobkeane7966]

Your attitude leads me to subscribe very level headed.

[@ToriTalks2]

Thanks for the sub! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@loralubimaia2783]

I remember being in 4th grade and being upset that my friend didn't agree that Kevin from backstreet boys was the hottest

[@ToriTalks2]

Oh man, that’s a throwback! 😂

[@mastersal4644]

I am still bitter that you don’t recognize the brilliance that is Bride. I mean how could you have a reasonable differing opinion? What ?!! Joking aside, a very articulate video as always. ❤

[@katijat6686]

I tend to be very interested in criticism of books I love, because sometimes people who didn't like a book have more to say about it than people who did. If it takes you a while to figure out why a book bothered you, you might think about it a lot more than people who liked it and moved on. Shutting criticism down automatically makes people miss out on a lot of interesting conversations.

[@MetalGildarts]

Based takes as always Tori. Also love your Yor figure!

[@ToriTalks2]

Thank you! I love Yor 😍

[@krzysamm7095]

As a whole we have lost the ability to debate a book, idea, thoughts etc and just stick to the topic verses attacking the person who holds different views. It’s your wrong, I’m right and that is it. Let’s get back to talking/debating without attacking someone

[@johnglue1744]

I have never gotten angry when someone doesn’t like the books I recommend or like. I am more confused and disappointed in them 😜

[@ToriTalks2]

Haha the full range of emotions is there. XD

[@BrianBell7]

love this message!

[@ToriTalks2]

Thanks Brian!!!

[@sebastianvicewriter]

Great video. If peeps get all riled up over not liking a book, they need to go outside and touch grass. I love Malazan, no secret, but around half the peeps I recommend it to bounce off it. And that’s fine. I get it. Steve isn’t for everyone, and no book or series is for everyone (except Winnie the Poo…that might be for everyone)

[@ToriTalks2]

I think Winnie the Pooh is about the safest option 😂

[@sebastianvicewriter]

@ I’d hope so lol

[@paperpagespossibilities]

I love this video! I 100% agree with you and I think it's not only social media but the world at large. As a whole it feels like there's more talking and not enough listening and not enough attempt to find common ground with which to discuss any topic, controversial or not. I am glad to hear you encourage open, honest dialogue that honors each person involved and their thoughts/opinions. Well said. 🫶

[@ButOneThingIsNeedful]

Yeah, I agree. Personally I often keep certain views to myself when I suspect they won't be appreciated. You don't really have that option as a booktuber. The followers worth having agree with you on this, though.

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

ENOUGH OS ENOUGH!!!! Get it Tori!!!!

[@ToriTalks2]

Haha thanks Wiz!

[@mea9565]

celebrities are human just like we are. period.

[@ToriTalks2]

Totally agree!

[@bobkeane7966]

I think people build a special bond with authors that isn't formed with other celebrities. We come to know authors through their words and thoughts and almost feel like they are our friends which can lead to people wanting to defend those we care about. Weather books or music or politics we need to respect people opinions, sadly a dying art.

[@ToriTalks2]

This is very true! Books have a unique and powerful way of connecting with us.

[@shemiahwalker]

No one is going to like everyone's favorite book or novels. 🎉 no one is perfect, Just read a book and have fun.🎉

[@ToriTalks2]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@shemiahwalker]

@ToriTalks2 no worries.

[@thomasray]

Where can I find your discussion on Lonesome Dove?

[@ToriTalks2]

Thanks for asking, I forgot to add the Cards on the video. Here's a link to the discussion we had: kzbin.infokY51rZPX8gg?si=WO7oOIXlhJK9-jqb It was a great discussion, I enjoyed it a lot. The buddy read was a positive experience. :)

[@thomasray]

@@ToriTalks2 Thanks! I love how well thought out your more essay-style videos are. They always linger in my mind and even when my opinion is the complete opposite, I'm glad I listened.

[@ToriTalks2]

@ thank you so much! I’m getting more comfortable with them, and I want to do more this year 🥰 It means a lot that you guys enjoy them!

[@robertunijat8299]

How dare you suggest that my opinion is not THE ONLY correct one?! I'm right and you're wrong! /sarcasm Great video BTW. This has always been a problem because some people just can't stand that others might see the world differently from them. This has been growing worse in the last two decades because now anyone can find the online group that agrees with their views and gives the boost to their convictions. This is not just a booktube problem. This is fast becoming the world problem. Just look at the man who is the focus of all the world news today. My life moto: LIVE AND LET LIVE!

[@angelaholmes8888]

I'm sorry you gotten negative comments some people need to understand that not everyone is going to love or like the same books

[@ToriTalks2]

It's true! And we can respect the differences and just keep reading great books!

[@AnithaGadeReads]

❤

[@jennywarren]

The timing on this one is off

[@PreacherReads]

Sheeeeeeeeesh 😂

[@thatsci-firogue]

This ❤

[@jakenoises]

But are they sandwiches?

[@ToriTalks2]

You never know.

[@jakenoises]

​@@ToriTalks2respect. But yeah people tend to uplift people beyond the standards of normative humanity. And. That Isnt fair. We all have faults, failures and sins. So we gotta chill with using deity lenses upon peeps. Both as people and as artists

[@idastokbaek]

I agree with everything you said. But the title is a lie most blasphemous!

[@myself2noone]

Jokes on you, my favorite fantasy book is The Bible! I know I'm going to be called an edgy atheist for that joke, but I don't care.

[@-johnny-deep-]

Good authors are indeed gods, in that they can build worlds. Case in point: J. R. R. Tolkien! But I still don't worship him.

[@arymuhammad7549]

coming form other communities (anime & manga primarily) and now seeing booktube for the last 2 years, in my opinion there isn't enough book & author slander for my taste 😂

[@evetheseventh]

SJM’s extremist fans need to watch this !! ☺️ I know I’m not the only who got de@th-threat dm because I didn’t like their beloved series.

[@ToriTalks2]

I'm sorry to hear that. The fandoms can get pretty wild.

[@AndrewFrancisIlyrian]

What if God is my favourite author?

[@ToriTalks2]

The one exception 😂