Not long after I built this book blog, I created a Bookstagram account as a way to extend its presence, a kind of “ecosystem” where I could share the love of books in a more visual, social way.

Over time, the account evolved. I changed the username multiple times, experimented with different kinds of content, and explored ways to spread joy, insights, and discoveries from my reading journey. If I could map out how my Bookstagram transformed, here’s what the journey has looked like so far.

My Bookstagram Journey

1. Sharing My Favorite Quotes

When I first started, I simply wanted to share thought-provoking quotes that stood out to me while reading. I used the Canva app to turn these quotes into visuals. It was something that might show up in someone’s search results or scroll. It was really simple.

2. Summarizing Big Ideas

Then I challenged myself by creating visual summaries of book insights, like a mini science communicator. This took significantly more time and energy: picking which insight to highlight, rewriting it into engaging language without losing the depth, designing a visual format, and managing all the details that go into posting on social media. Despite the effort, the audience was small, and I started to wonder if the return was worth the energy.

3. Posting Brief Reviews

Eventually, I shifted my focus back to this blog, which was growing steadily and felt more promising, both in terms of traffic and long-term potential. I decided to treat Bookstagram as a supportive extension of the blog. I began posting shorter versions of my book reviews, just enough to give a taste and lead readers back here.

This type of content lasted the longest on my Bookstagram. However, I barely had time to keep it consistent. Growth felt stagnant, and the lack of progress didn’t exactly motivate me.

4. Sharing Whatever I Want (As Long As It’s Bookish)

A few months ago, I was browsing through the photos in my phone gallery and realized I had so many book-related moments that would look beautiful on Instagram. Bookstore visits, cozy café reading scenes, snaps from libraries… So I asked myself: why wasn’t I sharing those?

I also wanted to improve my video editing skills, so experimenting with reels seemed like a fun start. And more importantly, I began to shift my mindset. Why not use Bookstagram as my visual canvas for all things bookish, without worrying too much about trends, aesthetics, or follower counts?

Now, I post whatever I’m in the mood for:

• a quote in any style I like
• library or bookstore visits
• a simple photo from a coffee shop reading session
• reels that capture a vibe I enjoy

No algorithm, trending audio, or template should limit how I express myself on my account. I want to go back to the early days of social media when people just shared what they loved without obsessing over engagement metrics.

Letting Go of Pressure and Embracing Authenticity

I’ve also accepted that I’m not someone who leaves comments on random posts just to boost visibility. I’m socially awkward by nature, and trying to “network” for the sake of algorithms feels fake to me.

But I do make an effort when a post truly resonates or inspires me to leave a meaningful and supportive comment. Many times, those moments have led me to discover amazing book recommendations or new favorite authors. So, I choose to engage out of gratitude and genuine connection, not strategy.

Finding Freedom in My Own Rhythm

Since I let go of expectations, I’ve felt more free and creative on Bookstagram. If I visit a bookstore or reading a book in cafe or out in nature, I share it however I want, in a format that I am in the mood. Matching a trend or hitting the algorithm just becomes a bonus.

I’ve found a rhythm that works for me and that, more than anything, keeps the joy alive.