When Whitney Richardson’s local library shut its doors because of the pandemic, she felt a void. She missed access to free reads and the book suggestions she relied on.
“I looked at my husband and asked, ‘What do I read now?’” said Richardson, a speech therapist from Evansville, Ill. “My librarian and I had a great rapport. She typically recommended titles for me.”
She began hunting online for reading suggestions, and that’s when she stumbled upon the bookstagram community.
Bookstagrammers — people who share book photos and reviews on Instagram — say the hobby gives them a creative outlet and helps them connect with fellow readers.
It also leads to complimentary books.
Encouraged, Richardson launched her own Instagram profile (@whitfulreads). Two months later, she had already received upwards of 30 books from publishers.
Megan Putnam has been part of the bookstagram world much longer — nearly a decade. A mother of two and a mental health counselor, she began posting about books as a creative escape. Her account (@_popreads_) now counts more than 5,000 followers.
“I started bookstagram during a season when I really needed a creative outlet,” she said. “I was a stay-at-home mom with two little kids, an avid reader and often at home.”
We asked Richardson and Putnam to share their top tips for anyone wanting to become a bookstagrammer. Here’s what they recommended.
Make Your Reviews Unique
While many bookstagrammers repost the publisher’s or author’s blurb from Amazon, Richardson crafts her own reviews.
“I think that helps set me apart,” she said. It also helped increase her following.
“I posted my thoughts and was very honest and emotionally open about them,” Richardson said. “When I first started I had about 100 followers, and within two months that grew to roughly 1,100 followers.”
Richardson added that she only writes full reviews for books she genuinely enjoys: “If I’m not a big fan, I’ll borrow the description from Amazon or Goodreads.”
Build Relationships with Publishers and Writers
Richardson has been added to mailing lists at publishers like HarperCollins by proactively contacting them and listing her contact details on her Instagram page.
“Several emerging publishers reached out to me through Instagram asking, ‘If we sent you this title, would you be willing to read it and share your thoughts?’” Richardson said. “I always tell them, ‘Absolutely, send it over.’ I’m eager to discover new authors.”
Putnam pointed out bookstagram tours as another route to receive free ARCs while supporting authors and publishers. These tours are organized by publishers and authors who distribute advance copies to bookstagrammers, who then agree to post about the book on specified dates. The aim is to drum up enthusiasm and buzz around the release.
Always remember to tag the author and publisher in your posts.
“I usually tag authors and publishing houses in my posts to forge connections,” she said. “I also get DMs and emails from publishers and writers asking me to review or promote their books.”
Besides tagging the author and publisher, bookstagrammers use hashtags like #booksofinstagram and #bookbloggers to put their reviews in front of other readers, and they’ll pick niche hashtags tailored to the book’s audience.
You can also follow authors on Instagram and message them directly.
Interact With Fellow Bookstagrammers
Many bookstagrammers host giveaways, so interacting with them can be a way to win more free books. Follow other accounts, comment and like their photos — they may reciprocate.
You can discover bookstagrammers by following these hashtags:
#books #book #bookmail #booksharks #bookish #booknerd #bookworm #bookworms #booksofinstagram #Bibliophile #bibliophile #biblio #reading #booknerd #read #readersofinstagram #booklover #bookbloggers #bookblog #bookbloggersofinstagram #bookphotography #bookreviewer #bookcommunity #booklife #furrentlyreading #reading
Photograph Your Books Well
Instagram is a visual medium, so to attract attention, your images should be polished. Try these suggestions:
- Decorate your shots with greenery, a steaming mug, fabric, lace, candles, pinecones, etc.
- Vary your visuals. It’s good to have a signature style, but avoid using the same backdrop or props every time.
- Give your book context. Place the book on wallpaper remnants or scrapbooking paper that mimics wood floors or cloud patterns.
- Ensure strong lighting using natural light or lamps.
- Take your books outdoors for a fresh photo session.
Keep in mind: Your aim is to help followers imagine themselves immersed in that book.
The Most Important Thing: Enjoy It
Putnam reads across multiple genres such as mysteries and science fiction, but she avoids categories she doesn’t enjoy, like romance or horror.
“I wouldn’t force myself to read genres I dislike,” she said. “Bookstagram is a pastime for me, so it has to remain fun and pleasurable.”
No matter what you prefer to read, Putnam suggests other book lovers consider joining bookstagram.
“If you adore reading and want to chat about books with fellow bibliophiles, sign up for Instagram, follow bookish accounts, gather ideas for your photos and start creating,” Putnam said.
“Don’t let it turn into a task. It’s about enjoying the wonderful books we love and sharing them with others.”
Katherine Snow Smith is a contributor to Savinly.
