Gen Zers are propelling BookTok, a trend that sees TikTokkers share their love of books. Charming millions of viewers, they're effectively conducting grassroots marketing campaigns, helping to build awareness of young adult fiction and connect their audiences through storytelling.

Social media is transforming the way we read and buy books, with trending topics and viral posts guiding discovery and disrupting the traditional sales cycles. So, how can publishers harness these channels in their commissioning strategies? And how exactly are people talking about books online?

Sales of LGBTQ romance novels are booming as they gain traction in mainstream publishing. Diverse audiences, social media like BookTok, and online subcultures are all guiding discovery, disrupting the traditional sales cycles, and breaking new ground in attracting readers.

Viral TikTok videos have caused sales spikes for books and songs from decades past, hinting at how the platform has become a potent source of recommendations. How can brands tap into this promotional power while maintaining the authenticity and creativity that Gen Zers expect?