Although I do agree that the book industry is suffering, I think that we do still like to read. I also think that, despite recent trends, we do read more than the majority of people throughout history did. At 15, I've read hundreds of books, but when my grandpa was a kid, they had one box of books at their school besides the textbooks, and they only had a Bible and possibly some hymn books at home. I don't think we should lose hope.
I think part of the reason bookstores in the US are closing is because they only sell books (I wouldn't know of course, I've never been to a bookstore in the US). Where I'm from, bookstores sell books, school supplies, and crafts materials. And I think the money they get from the school supplies and crafts materials give them enough of an income to stay afloat and continue selling books. I do think people still read, but maybe it's just that they read used books because new ones are expensive.
up until now i have not really watched any Dr Who. i have long heard praises heaped upon this show, and it sounded kind of dangerous; the kind of show i would quickly get sucked into and have to spend a month or two (i'm not really sure how many seasons it has) binging on, and thereafter become addicted to. so i have mostly steered clear. your comment intrigued me so much, however, that i have looked up this episode on youtube. i am only 5 minutes in and...i love it.
Any time I think about things that I love going away because the world is changing it just makes me scared and want to cry. I love live theatre (not just musicals) and books and newspapers and it makes me so sad that someday my grandkids or greatgrandkids won't know what any of those things are unless they "watch old movies" *sob*
I work in a bookstore and if anything sales are up there!!!!!!!!! I think people are realizing with the advent of "realtiy TV" There are better graphics in their mind and definitely better stories!
I'm the kind of person who takes pride in the size of my bookshelf. Even though, I'll (grudgingly) admit, i do own a kindle (don't kill me!), I love nothing more than owning an actual book. I still beg for my parents to buy me books and they don't let me near the book section in stores when we go shopping. I love reading and always will, and I never will stop buying books.
@4LiveLifeWithLove4 Don't knock the Kindle or other eReaders :) Although my personal reading preference is actual paper books, eBooks are allowing many authors and publishers a chance to get into a new method of selling and reach a wider audience.
I don't really believe in electronic books. I'm one of those book-sniffing Nerdfighters (you know who you are) - there is nothing like the feel and smell of a brand-new book. And I prefer brand new books rather than used ones. Even if I take a book out of the library to read, I usually end up buying it because there aren't many books I've read I haven't liked, and I prefer to expand my library. Used books are great, but I think that nothing beats a brand-new book right off the shelf.
ALL of the Borders and Barns and Nobles closed where I live, WE HAVE NO BIG BOOK STORED HERE ANYMORE!!!!!! WHY!?!?!??!?!?! now i can only get books online and the tiny local bookstore people don't like it when you sit down and read, AND THEY DON'T HAVE TASTY READING SNACKS!!!!!!!! What am I supposed to do now?!?! WHY
1:53 note, After reading for a while you see images, not the text. i love that. I can think back to the Colonel in Looking for Alaska, but I don't remember him as text, I remember him as a guy similar to Anthony Evans (guitarist).
You don't need a DVD or a movie theater to watch a great movie anytime.
I think that there's great hope for the ebook industry. Just as music is moving away from physical record sales, and into the realm of the digital, so will the book industry. At the moment, a lot ebooks are pretty overpriced (they should be cheaper than physical copies), and there's not many available, but as more ebook readers are made, I think that we'll see prices drop, meaning more people buy larger quantities of books, which in the end is good for everyone.
My favorite episode of Doctor Who (and probably all television ever) is Silence in the Library (and its conclusion, Forest of the Dead). I knew withing the first five minutes that it was going to be one of my favorites. How? It showed a future thousands of years from now where books not only survive, but thrive. A whole planet stuffed with books! Physical, paper, books! And I see no reason why that can't be the case :)
This video kinda made me feel bad.. Because though I am buying all of your books, they are used. :( And it kinda made me worry. I want to go to college for writing and if I can't get published, then I'm screwed. :(
People reading Twilight is not a bad thing. I'm not saying Twilight is a premium read, but it intruced a generation that usually interects with words through text messages and English class and made them go out a buy an actual book. This helps the economy, helps the publishing companies, and helps the literary world as a whole. Again- not saying I support Twilgith, which I do to an extent- but so does Secret Sister Maureen Johnson, who is also an author, so I feel slightly better.
@t260y Exactly. I like that it made kids read and buy more books and support the buying of more books. It got people interested in reading and thats a good thing. It's not a good book, but its good as a whole.
Because of this video, I finally know what I'm going to do with my YouTube Channel. I've been debating what I should do since June. And now I know. BOOK REVIEWS! I'll be encouraging people to read good books like The Kite Runner and to stay away from books like Twilight. All videos will be filled with awesome instead of "i hate twilight cuz everyone loves twiligight" suck. I'm excited. gonna go read Life of Pi now. ttyl :D
PS. I got over $70 to spend at book stores for Christmas. I'm so stoked!
Okay, that was ridiculously funny. And sad (though true. I mean about books, the paper ones, going the way of the dinosaur. Or at least, maybe, like, the way of the snowy owl. There's still a few of those left, right?) In short, I laughed, I cried, it became a part of me.
I have no helpful suggestions on how to save the world of publishing. Short of getting people reading again. That, and get those owls breeding and voila! Problem solved. Right then!
I know that John said in some video a long time ago that generally, writers care more about reaching an audience than they do about making money, but this video still made me feel pretty guilty about the borrowed copy of Paper Towns that I'm reading.
I may have only been purchased once, but it has been well loved by all of those who have held it. So...yay for broke college kids reading despite their inability to buy books, I guess?
I'm an aspiring writer and this news, though a couple of years old, I'm sure is still very relevant. It's only my hope that my book will be picked up when it's finished!
Yeah, nothing can replace books. I don't have as much time to read right now because of college, but I always have a book going no matter what, and I still get through them at a fair pace.
I don't want anything to happen to publishing companies and authors. I want authors to be published because they're good, not because they're rich or something...
I'm of the opinion that this is a cycle that will return with a rise of books, but the largest issue presently is that watching tv (and youtube) relies more on, and promote a reactive lifestyle, while books rely on, and promote a comprehensive lifestyle, this will probably lead to people becoming more reactive than thoughtful as a whole, which will end up making the world suck meter increase quite a bit.
I've always believed ebooks are really a big help to keep stories alive.
I don't know the fact, but I would assume it is a lot cheaper to put up e-books on amazon's e-book service and they can't be sold "used" so the author would get a cut for every purchase.
I have the amazon kindle app on my phone and it is really nice to have all of John's books on me pretty much all the time. In fact, the first time I read Will Grayson, Will Grayson was on my phone. Had to get used to it, but it works well.
I still read and buy books. I don't buy as many books as I wish (no money), but I try to buy as much as I can. I just preordered a friend's new book today actually. And I'm hoping for Hanukkah to get about 10 new books. College books take a lot of my money away though. And they aren't that fun to sit down and read by a fire. They hurt your brain after too long alone. I go on reading buying binges every few years (this is one of those years). 21 is different than 17 years old. My style changed.
I think that people will still read, but publishing will be affected. Perhaps publishers put out too many books for it to be possible for people to buy and read them all. I think the publishing industry should look hard at its business model, and reinvent and adapt to the changes in society. But it won't. Hopefully the internet will lead to more reading. A good way to find new books to read would always be appreciated- by me at least.
I think the decline in book sales and publishing numbers are do to a number of things: price, ease of virtual media, and lack of time. We've become a society that values efficiency and speed over quality. However, I believe that there will always be people how get great joy from book stores, a new book, and quiet reading. That being said, I don't think the numbers will ever be shockingly high again, tv is just easier and quicker.
I've always loved reading, when I was about 2 my mom and brother would read books together and I'd listen, and when I was old enough, I wanted to read books on my own. one time I was reading a book during class when I didn't have to, and a girl walked up to me and said "eww you're reading?" this and other examples worry me about the younger generation, but I don't think people will ever lose interest in reading and writing, there's always a book for everybody, even if it's dumb like twilight.
Personally, I believe the love of reading starts at home. All kids love books and parents need to encourage this. BUT- It doesn't help that english teachers have sucked the soul out of the books they are teaching. They have gotten in a bad habit of doing the same thing year after year with no room for creativity or a new interpretation. My solution is for parents and teachers to set a great example for the love of books. Book lovers will sacrifice to own the books they love.
I for one read most of my books via my library, though I did recently purchase "will grayson, will grayson", I do believe that people still like to read, and read books that make them think, that are exciting. Maybe even books that give them different opinions on a subject than before they read a book.
-Greediness to suck more awesome out of the marrow of life
-Envy of Ze Frank's vlogging skills, which did inspire Brotherhood 2.0, after all
-Gluttony for peeps?
And finally: LOVE. Partly because that's what holds the Nerdfighter community together (whether through shared love of nerdly things or love of vlogging or Nerdfighterlike), but mostly because I couldn't think of a single thing that worked with sloth.
It's the price of books thas the main thing. Usually I buy mine online because their cheaper. But recently I bought 'The Thin Executioner' by Darren Shan foor £9.99 which is quite cheap seeing as it was only released not long ago, plus it's a hard back.
New paperback books in the UK cost around £8-9, hardbacks are more like £10-15. Since an average-sized paperback takes me 6-8 hours to read I don't want to be paying that much. Books need to come down to a more reasonable price. I was way happier when they were £6-7. Given the choice between a DVD or a book, a slightly out of date game or a book people are going to choose the familiar media that pumps the experience directly into their eyes and ears and hands.
I hope that maybe publishers can find ways to lower book prices in order to get more people to buy them. One thing that is maybe good is the Kindle. Because on the Kindle there is no such thing as a used book. But you'll still have people like me. I can't afford new books because (ironically) I'm unemployed because I can't find a job as a copyeditor. So I get all my books at charity shops.
I think that books along with other forms of entertainment will continue to be a main part of society. There will always be people like me who call themselves "Story Nerds" who enjoy any form of a narrative entertainment that is both thought provoking and enjoyable like To Kill a Mockingbird in both it's movie and book form. As long as people like me exist books, films, plays, and poems will not die out.
I'm pretty sure this idea is moronic but how about more fan fiction? I found about seven of my ten all time favorite novels because of fan fiction. It's really an amazing way to advertise in my opinion. It's like free samples... for your brain. And really, who better to advertise for a person than someone how genuinely loves the product? Admittedly, to get fan fiction you need fans first, but I said this was a stupid idea at the start. Even so, I think it only takes a few people to make it work
well the situation on books sounds bad for you and everyone but every nerdfighter this has reached and scared the crap out of us because no more harry potter we will obviously but more and more books now that we know the situation we (nerdfighters) will help try to help the situations on books
Now that that's out of the way, I totally understand the bookstore-closing thing. The used bookstore in my town closed in 2008, but luckily we still have (the incredibly overpriced but well-stocked in the magazine department) Barnes & Nobles. I tend to use the library in town and at school more now- and if I DO buy books it's usually off the much-cheaper interwebz.
I think that we should continue to buy new books. (I just happen to be strapped for cash)
I completely agree that books are far better than internet... One problem, I think, is that it often seems easier to take a "quick'"break on the internet than to get interested in a book for the same (planned) amount of time. As for a solution? I'm not sure there... I think a start would be to get a book that combines the huge fanbase of HP/Twilight with true literary quality, and maybe referencing other classics to get people branching out more in what they read. Oh, and get rid of tv dramas...
I completely get the whole bookstore closing thing. In my neighborhood there used to be a second hand book shop, but that closed when the Barns and Noble's came. But now the barns and noble is not getting enough business so that is leaving and now my neighborhood is left without a books store.
What I believed in MiddleSchool,that I stopped expressing my belief in because I didn't want to seem-you know-stupid, was that the future of storytelling lied within videogames. Because movies and tv have certain constraints, you can't just make a 30 hour movie and the way tv series usually work is they try to go as long as possible to make as money as possible. Where as story-driven videogames can impart a fullness of story similar to that of books plus,some of them actually have great stories
I wouldn't say that the only future of story telling is in video games, although it is the medium that still has a lot of room for improvement.
I will always books, film, and even music for storytelling, but video games are the new frontier, and there are some INCREDIBLE games out there, that really blew me away.
if only people would be interested in reading something other than Twilight.... sad times when the best selling books aren't even very well written and don't really make people think (other than "omgosh liek Edward is so hawt!!! *squeee*").
I respectfully disagree on some parts. I believe that reading in itself (especially in America, since, you know, reading is not THAT popular here) is so important, that I dont care which book from whom you read, as long as you read at all. And inspiring young people to read is one of the best things an author can do.
On the other hand, there are some hugely popular books which could burn in hell for all I care. For example there is this german book called 'Feuchtgebiete' (lit. wetlands).
I read all the time, and I will NEVERR stop reading books. Or writing, cuz i love doing that too! :) You're awesome John, and I love black santa. :D xD
Books are awesome in a way movies and TV just can't achieve. I like to think the book industry will still be around for a long time. There are e-book readers, but, at least for me, they just don't work. Reading is a qualitatively different experience than listening to music. Its not just about the text but the weight and feel of the book, turning the pages, etc, and you just don't get that with an e-book reader. Wasn't aware the publishing industry was suffering so much though. :(
Hey good video there John. Nice to know that Hank sock has a John sock brother even if he has one eye... I will read one of your books someday. pinky nerdfighter secret sister swear!
I think if we found a way to go back to the way Dickens was doing it would be a temporary solution if we ever had to resort to any sort of state of emergency with them. Publish a chapter a week/month in magazines. And while this forces people to purchase more magazines...it also encourages them to read something that isn't shallow and worthless like the tabloids.
I live in a relatively small town in Scotland, and we had one decent bookshop. But people bought books less and less and then it started selling less books and more junk and this weekend some fecker burned it down! I was heartbroken. Now I have to sit on a bus for an hour and a half to reach a bookshop.
Ah!!!!!!!!!!! This scares me so much. I decided in 4th grade that I want to be an aquisitions editor. I'm worried that I won't be able to get a job. Wah! Stupid publishing industry.
I do not fear for the future of the written word, it may be dwarfed by the technological revolution that continues to try digital equivalents like the e-book and apps for the iPhone, but in the end there is nothing like a good book. I believe in the futures brought to us by Doctor Who, where a planet becomes a library and Agatha Christie is published through the year 5 billion.
The future of Literature used to scare me. I love reading and writing. It's what I want to do, but with a recession, I got scared. People get rid of things they don't "need" during times like this. I met a guy who said he read nothing outside of school. Then he came and told me of an awesome book called Looking for Alaska, and he said he LOVED it. It's how come I'm here, posting this! I have hope now, and maybe the new writers CAN carry a torche and catch attention again.
Well, as far as Puppetry go- That is better then most.
But onto the important subject- Books and their survival. Hard thing to discuss in so few characters.
E-Book publishing and Kindle-style readers are showing decent potential, but at best they are supplementary to the continuation of paper books.
One thing that might be effective is the revival of collections, short-story and novella-esque. Stephen King handles these well, and they often sell well, especially by length.
I think you're doing a good job publishing your book in your videos, I'm conviced and I'm going to order it in the next few days. Yay! Also I read the first pages on Amazon and that interest me, I think thats a pretty good way to interest the audience too.
OH MY GOD NOOOOOOO!!!! I LOVE books!!! Nothing should happen to them, ever! They are like the most innovative and important thing to ever happen to humans, imagine where we would be with out them! I think that everyone should go out and buy one brand spanking new book from a book store, not online or off of itunes or whatever, just an actual paper and ink book, they are beautiful! I know I am, hell I might even buy Looking For Alaska or Paper Towns! :)
I don't understand it either. There is nothing I like better than a good book - new preferably, but like other commentors, I don't always have the cash for new books. I love getting lost in the story and forgetting about real life for a while. Not that my life is bad, just boring for the most part.
Plus, I love to write and have several writing projects I'm working on. It's scary to think that they might never see the light of day or even have a chance just because the industry is suffering.
This makes me sad. I'm halfway through writing my first book and I was going to try and have it done by the end of this year to send out to publishers. I would much rather have new books, but they are pricey, and with the amount of books I want I can't afford it. So I try to buy used, which I don't like, because I want to support the author.
Btw, I'm working on getting all three of your books from an actual bookstore so that you can get paid for writing =)
I find books to be addictive, and spend every bit of spare cash I have on them. I love the feeling of filling up my shelves at home with whatever new finds I have. I buy books like most girls buy shoes! Oh, and FYI I have all of yours except "Let It Snow". Also, I looked in eight bookstores all across North Carolina until I found a copy of "Looking for Alaska" but..........I FOUND IT AT BORDERS IN CHARLOTTE!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!
John, you'll be happy to know I spend nearly all my disposable income on books and beer. - Nerdfighters, did you know that John Green's "An Abundance of Katherines" is cheaper than a pint at the pub?
Hey. New to the whole nerdfighter community. But, have to tell you ur youtube videos are great! As for the book thing I am old fashioned and think there is nothing better than a real book in my hands. I have a small collection compaired to yours but working on it and fully intend to buy ur books. Heard sooo much about them lately. So I will be there for you soon.
I have absolutely no money and will borrow from the library first and then I will buy the book if I love it.
I have several series of books of which I will buy any new installment immediately. I suppose it's simply a case of 'knowing I'm going to get something good for my money'.
I will still buy books. My parents will still buy books. Ironically, my dad buys books about stocks/finance.
Unfortunately, I haven't bought any of your books, but I did buy [okay, my mom bought it] 'An Abundance of Katherines' for my friend! If I had some sort of disposable income I would buy books. But you need a job for disposable income and there aren't many jobs for teenagers in my town =/
I think that if we ecourage more kids to read in their spare time we will have an increased number of book sellings in the future, the only problem is...
parents would rather encourage kiddies to play outside rather than read. I think there should be a balanace of these types of things
on the other hand, i think we could be in a bit of trouble considering that my generation is too lazy to do things with effort or intellegance and relies on technology, youtube podcasts etc for entertainment. Really, the best thing that can happen to a book right now is to become a movie. At least if they liked the movie, they will seek out the authors in most cases and read their other books. So if paper towns does become a movie, it will be a really really good thing.
I think it will be a very very long time before books go out. The people of this world will never let that happen. It would be better if people did lower the price of books though. People say that everything will be replaced by digital, but really, as the viruses and glitches get worse, and terrorists decide to terrorize computors instead of buildings, people will realize that books are more reliable than e books. Consiquently, books miht come back in, out of characters...to be continued
as many people had said before, podcasting and other media, are more profitable for authors, so that's another tech we should explore. with that said, I think authors should try to go to little editors, people who had literature in their brains, instead of money money money! here in Colombia, there are new publishing houses comming into the market, to balance it, so that we can have more great books instead of books about diets, wich by the way are the ones, publishers promotes the more, awful
I was taking, last term, a class about the "evolution" of comunication called "from Gutenberg to microsoft". It was about the same question you just asked, is there a place for books right now? we have new techs that are developing extrimly quick, like the kindle or Hipertextual novels on the internet ( novels wich anyone can read and coment on internet and also "edit" so that they can be better. But books can't be taken away just now! they are the substrate of our cultural live and experience
(dang it) whole lot to offer the publishing world, if publishers learn it would actually benefit them to loosen the copyright chains a little. Podcasters have found giving away their content actually improves book sales as it garners an audience (JC Hutchins, Mur Lafferty, Scott Sigler). Heck, even I've found success in book sales posting my crappy Twilight parody to the Internet for free. People pick up the Lulu form since they know they like what they're paying for!
(youtube character restrictions) and like it, they are more likely to be willing to spend their money on a print copy. Also, authors who put themselves out there with the audience make themselves more accessible, and it makes readers want to go out and buy their books because they feel a connection with the author and want to support them personally. (At least that's why I bought your books, and tried to pick them up at Barnes & Noble rather than Half Price). New media and the Internet has a
First of all, argyle sock kissing black Santa is FRIGGEN' ADORABLE. Also this book distress in conjunction with the Nerdfighter Like song made me tear up. IS THAT SAD? I don't know.
Anyway, I'm sure it's already been said, but authors are finding success with new media ways of promoting their books, such as podcasting the story for free, or what you're doing - reaching out to the community at large. It may seem counter-intuitive to give away books for free, but if people read/listen to it
The annoying thing about the recession is that people stop buying things, which puts us further into a recession, so people stop buying things even more, and only by the necessities. I think what we need to do is make books more necessary somehow. We need to eat, we need to wear clothes, and we do need books. People just don't realize that when money is tight. How can we make them realize that?
Honestly, I think that the book can never disappear fully. Even if we shift away from paper books, we will still have online versions I'm sure. I spend more on books than anything else and I'm sure there are still millions of people who love a good book. I know that its my favorite thing in the world. Good luck John and I'm right there with you =)
I still love reading, but most kids in my school don't read for fun. I think that's why they're teh suxorz. All my friends read. All two of them. Just kidding...
You know, I actually don't think it's something we necessarily need to come up with a solution for and feel like we need to "save" the book industry. I know this must be hard for authors and publishers, but these types of things tend to work themselves out. Like anything else in this world, buisness grows, evolves, and changes. If a buisness fails, then why try to keep it alive? It's like defying natural selection. Eventually, a system better for these times will be worked out.
As far as recent losses in the well-being of the publishing world, and so the world of writing. The economic mess will surely swing back the opposite direction again. Most things do, in time, it seems. I suspects technology like the Intenet, mobile devices, and NetFlix have more to do with less book buying - at least in the last 10 years - than a lack of interest in reading itself. Maybe I am clueless.
Your video made me feel really bad for only reading books from the library and that I buy at Half Priced Books. ):
I'm a 15 year old making $10 a week babysitting. I really shouldn't feel bad, because I read about a book a day, so spending that much on books would be hard....
I feel like it's my fault the book industry is collapsing now though, and I have no bright ideas so....
I am still in love with reading. When I go to appointments and such, I always have a book with me, and am rarely out without one. I have had doctors comment about how rare it is.
I do think that people will continue to read, but I think that at least part of it is dependent on teachers and even more so on parents to instill an interest in children. I hope that it is something that is done, and I think Youtube videos and other such media that support reading are very important as well.
To be honest, I think we need to stop turning every awesome book into failboat movies. I enjoy the HP movies, but I'm not stupid enough to REPLACE books for a movie. Why read a book when you know in a year or so it could be a potential movie?
I'm excited for the Paper Towns movie, but I'm also sad. People who haven't given local bookstores a glance in years will spend too much money on bad popcorn and a movie that will never live up to the original story, even though John'll write it himself.
I wish more people were into reading. I've been trying to get my sister to read more often. Shes not so much into school and what not and I know that when I was younger I wasnt. And strangely enough, I saw the first Harry Potter movie and after that I wanted to actually read the book, and thus, my reading addiction began. I have so many books its crazy. My dorm is overflowing with them. As far as my sister, shes reading a little, which is definitely better than not at all.
Books shall survive!!! I know that there are plenty of people like me, who, when they get money, rush off to the bookstore, and soon after are completely broke. I spend my money on books. My bookshelves overflow. Same goes for my AP Language teacher. We had this discussion in class. People read. A lot of people are rather addicted to buying books...like...uh....me. So, nerds shall be the fuel that the book publishing industry thrives upon!!!
I'd say we'd have to SOMEHOW convince the people with the most disposable income to start buying books? That'd probably be teenagers and middle age mothers who make up that market. Somehow appeal the idea of reading to at least one of those groups and you'd get a little more money. Teenagers especially, I'd love to see more people my age crack open a book instead of whining when they forced to open a barely 100 page paper back.
Well... it sucks that books are taking a hit, but I don't think anyone can say they are any worse off any someone else. My husband is an engineer and has been out of work for 4 months.... so we are feeling the impact of the sucking economy as well.
Sell books like hard liquor is sold here in massachusetts only available in that specific type store so books in bookstores and hard liquor in liquorstores or combine the two so you have bookliquors but then u have to worry about drunken reading and you know how well that goes over
I know how you feel. My city has no bookstores other than Walmart and Target (which now has PAPER TOWNS!) and my only goal in life has always been to work at a bookstore. The lack of interest in reading will come to pass in time. This is an awful phase for our society to go through, but there is hope. Books like Twilight are bringing people back to reading. Even though I'm just one girl in a small town, I'll keep promoting your books so you can keep supporting yourself, Willy, and the Yeti.
How to save the book: have kids watch movies in school so they can say school ruins tv instead of books... then maybe books will make their comeback and whip the televisions bootang.
Books definitely rule movies, just like HARRY POTTER RULES FREAKING TWILIGHT. [ugh] But anyways, what you sad is exactly true - reading allows the reader to develop their own scenery, and ultimately grow some freaking imagination, which I've found generations are increasingly losing. While I know quite a few people who love books, the population of book nerds is dwindling. But John, I can't even tell you how much you do to fight that. Keep up the great work, man. And DFTBA. 8D
I can't speak for the rest of the population but I still love to read and I can't imagine a world without books. I still by many new books (and based on the amount of money I spend on new books annually that should help the industry somewhat, haha).
And yes, I concur: your puppetering skills are indeed quite superior.
I just finished Paper Towns and I loved it. I only started reading your books this month but I've finished all three now and they are definately up there with my favorites. I think one of the major downfalls of the book industry is lack of advertisement and exposure. I mean I would have probably never ended up reading your books if it wasn't for Youtube and a lot of books don't achieve mainstream success until a movie is released. I think lack of adveryisement is one of the problems.
I love books. REAL book. I'm turning friends into readers as we speak. But I'm a librarian. So I'm supporting the book world by checking out loads of books from the library. It prevents me from going broke and lets me read, but it doesn't help the publishing industry. BTW, libraries are thriving in these tough economic times. People like books, they're just looking for a more economical way of getting them. It doesn't help you guys, but it proves the world loves books!
Thanks for this informative and somewhat entertaining video :) I've just got two words: Harry Potter. As simple-minded as this sounds, I truly believe that the phenomenon that is HP has really proven to the world that people of all ages are enjoying books again. It's world-wide success just shows the influence of the book. Since starting HP, many of my friends have started to venture into other books and genres.
And here we see the last of John Sock. R.I.P.
bayace92 5 days ago in playlist More videos from vlogbrothers
Although I do agree that the book industry is suffering, I think that we do still like to read. I also think that, despite recent trends, we do read more than the majority of people throughout history did. At 15, I've read hundreds of books, but when my grandpa was a kid, they had one box of books at their school besides the textbooks, and they only had a Bible and possibly some hymn books at home. I don't think we should lose hope.
MsSpaceNerd 1 month ago
I think part of the reason bookstores in the US are closing is because they only sell books (I wouldn't know of course, I've never been to a bookstore in the US). Where I'm from, bookstores sell books, school supplies, and crafts materials. And I think the money they get from the school supplies and crafts materials give them enough of an income to stay afloat and continue selling books. I do think people still read, but maybe it's just that they read used books because new ones are expensive.
lillypod21 3 months ago 2
(p.s. of course, an added bonus is that David Tennant is Dr Who for this episode. definitely one of my celebrity crushes.)
;=D
carbonatedcheese 3 months ago in playlist More videos from vlogbrothers
Dear @Exayevie
up until now i have not really watched any Dr Who. i have long heard praises heaped upon this show, and it sounded kind of dangerous; the kind of show i would quickly get sucked into and have to spend a month or two (i'm not really sure how many seasons it has) binging on, and thereafter become addicted to. so i have mostly steered clear. your comment intrigued me so much, however, that i have looked up this episode on youtube. i am only 5 minutes in and...i love it.
thank you
carbonatedcheese 3 months ago in playlist More videos from vlogbrothers
nerdfighterlike is probably my favorite hank/katherine song :)
StarkidSofie 3 months ago
Any time I think about things that I love going away because the world is changing it just makes me scared and want to cry. I love live theatre (not just musicals) and books and newspapers and it makes me so sad that someday my grandkids or greatgrandkids won't know what any of those things are unless they "watch old movies" *sob*
TheSMarie42 4 months ago
Don't worry! I'm from the future and people still read!
browneyednerd112358 4 months ago in playlist More videos from vlogbrothers
I work in a bookstore and if anything sales are up there!!!!!!!!! I think people are realizing with the advent of "realtiy TV" There are better graphics in their mind and definitely better stories!
postdesrapides 5 months ago 2
I work in a bookstore and if anything sales are up there!!!!!!!!!
postdesrapides 5 months ago
I'm the kind of person who takes pride in the size of my bookshelf. Even though, I'll (grudgingly) admit, i do own a kindle (don't kill me!), I love nothing more than owning an actual book. I still beg for my parents to buy me books and they don't let me near the book section in stores when we go shopping. I love reading and always will, and I never will stop buying books.
4LiveLifeWithLove4 5 months ago
@4LiveLifeWithLove4 Don't knock the Kindle or other eReaders :) Although my personal reading preference is actual paper books, eBooks are allowing many authors and publishers a chance to get into a new method of selling and reach a wider audience.
Right there with you on the book section :)
LovelyMissOye 5 months ago in playlist More videos from vlogbrothers 2
RIP Borders. :(
sourcow1 6 months ago 26
Just watched this on my phone and because annotations don't show all I got was the puppet show, extremely entertaining :-)
lilacsatin 6 months ago
I don't really believe in electronic books. I'm one of those book-sniffing Nerdfighters (you know who you are) - there is nothing like the feel and smell of a brand-new book. And I prefer brand new books rather than used ones. Even if I take a book out of the library to read, I usually end up buying it because there aren't many books I've read I haven't liked, and I prefer to expand my library. Used books are great, but I think that nothing beats a brand-new book right off the shelf.
ReKrisB 6 months ago
i refuse to believe that books will ever die...
cutiegirl7o7o 6 months ago 6
To be fair a lot of movie theatres aren't doing too well either. Many have closed and more ore downsizing.
lula839 7 months ago
ALL of the Borders and Barns and Nobles closed where I live, WE HAVE NO BIG BOOK STORED HERE ANYMORE!!!!!! WHY!?!?!??!?!?! now i can only get books online and the tiny local bookstore people don't like it when you sit down and read, AND THEY DON'T HAVE TASTY READING SNACKS!!!!!!!! What am I supposed to do now?!?! WHY
Azami4117 8 months ago
@Azami4117 SAME HERE I FREAKING HATE IT. I can't believe all these bookstores are closing! Screw movies, I want to read x[
singlexfilexisxlove 8 months ago
Um, I loved this video, and the sock puppet/Black Santa dance party was cool and all, but all I can think is that John misspelled "Upheaval" at 2:02
kittykatthetacodemon 8 months ago
I still love to read in fact today I got my brand new library card for my new hometown! I will never studying reading.
crogger321 8 months ago
1:53 note, After reading for a while you see images, not the text. i love that. I can think back to the Colonel in Looking for Alaska, but I don't remember him as text, I remember him as a guy similar to Anthony Evans (guitarist).
You don't need a DVD or a movie theater to watch a great movie anytime.
219kenzie 9 months ago
@219kenzie I totally watch the movie in my head more than seeing the words on the page.
I once closed my eyes at a scary part and it took a few seconds to realize why the movie stopped. ^^;
dolphin64575 8 months ago
I think that there's great hope for the ebook industry. Just as music is moving away from physical record sales, and into the realm of the digital, so will the book industry. At the moment, a lot ebooks are pretty overpriced (they should be cheaper than physical copies), and there's not many available, but as more ebook readers are made, I think that we'll see prices drop, meaning more people buy larger quantities of books, which in the end is good for everyone.
MrJakemckenna 9 months ago
My favorite episode of Doctor Who (and probably all television ever) is Silence in the Library (and its conclusion, Forest of the Dead). I knew withing the first five minutes that it was going to be one of my favorites. How? It showed a future thousands of years from now where books not only survive, but thrive. A whole planet stuffed with books! Physical, paper, books! And I see no reason why that can't be the case :)
Exayevie 11 months ago 46
What did I just watch??? XD
uniqueandepic 11 months ago
O_o wait... what am I watching?
Zebracorna 11 months ago
That is one of my favorite songs ever.
bordercomedens2 11 months ago
thumbs up if you only watched the sock puppet and black santa. how could you not?
lilylpotter3 11 months ago
This video kinda made me feel bad.. Because though I am buying all of your books, they are used. :( And it kinda made me worry. I want to go to college for writing and if I can't get published, then I'm screwed. :(
writergirlchic 1 year ago
isn't john using text to comunicate to hank? as it directly says 'so, hank' :O
AliOchic 1 year ago
@AliOchic the no-text rule was only for 2007
Lexicografia 11 months ago
@Lexicografia i disovered this after watching the rest of the vidoes :L
AliOchic 11 months ago
I just don't know what to do anymore...should I got for selfpublishing electronically?
t260y 1 year ago
Heh, this was uploaded on my birthday... I feel special xD
CordyBear1 1 year ago
I wanted to hear about the hard times in book publishing, but I can't read...
BrittanysMusicVideos 1 year ago
Oops keys stuck introduced**
AdreeAwesome 1 year ago
People reading Twilight is not a bad thing. I'm not saying Twilight is a premium read, but it intruced a generation that usually interects with words through text messages and English class and made them go out a buy an actual book. This helps the economy, helps the publishing companies, and helps the literary world as a whole. Again- not saying I support Twilgith, which I do to an extent- but so does Secret Sister Maureen Johnson, who is also an author, so I feel slightly better.
AdreeAwesome 1 year ago
@AdreeAwesome It's like supporting what it does, but not for what it stands for, right?
t260y 1 year ago
@t260y Exactly. I like that it made kids read and buy more books and support the buying of more books. It got people interested in reading and thats a good thing. It's not a good book, but its good as a whole.
AdreeAwesome 1 year ago
Because of this video, I finally know what I'm going to do with my YouTube Channel. I've been debating what I should do since June. And now I know. BOOK REVIEWS! I'll be encouraging people to read good books like The Kite Runner and to stay away from books like Twilight. All videos will be filled with awesome instead of "i hate twilight cuz everyone loves twiligight" suck. I'm excited. gonna go read Life of Pi now. ttyl :D
PS. I got over $70 to spend at book stores for Christmas. I'm so stoked!
okod146 1 year ago 2
Oh wow. I'm a bit depressed now... :-(
mithwenarataur 1 year ago
i just want to sit and watch santa/ sock dance vids. make more dudes!!
HPwrocks 1 year ago
LAUREN WROTE IT!! OH JEEZ THIS SONG IS SO MUCH MORE AWESOME!!
HPwrocks 1 year ago
Okay, that was ridiculously funny. And sad (though true. I mean about books, the paper ones, going the way of the dinosaur. Or at least, maybe, like, the way of the snowy owl. There's still a few of those left, right?) In short, I laughed, I cried, it became a part of me.
I have no helpful suggestions on how to save the world of publishing. Short of getting people reading again. That, and get those owls breeding and voila! Problem solved. Right then!
cslcojoco 1 year ago
I know that John said in some video a long time ago that generally, writers care more about reaching an audience than they do about making money, but this video still made me feel pretty guilty about the borrowed copy of Paper Towns that I'm reading.
I may have only been purchased once, but it has been well loved by all of those who have held it. So...yay for broke college kids reading despite their inability to buy books, I guess?
iheartap72 1 year ago
Wow, that puppet and Santa were skoodilypooping big times.
TrineG92 1 year ago
I'm an aspiring writer and this news, though a couple of years old, I'm sure is still very relevant. It's only my hope that my book will be picked up when it's finished!
cibomatto47 1 year ago
Yeah, nothing can replace books. I don't have as much time to read right now because of college, but I always have a book going no matter what, and I still get through them at a fair pace.
I don't want anything to happen to publishing companies and authors. I want authors to be published because they're good, not because they're rich or something...
Never get rid of reading!
ferngirltlc 1 year ago
I'm of the opinion that this is a cycle that will return with a rise of books, but the largest issue presently is that watching tv (and youtube) relies more on, and promote a reactive lifestyle, while books rely on, and promote a comprehensive lifestyle, this will probably lead to people becoming more reactive than thoughtful as a whole, which will end up making the world suck meter increase quite a bit.
MiPoppopo 1 year ago
I've always believed ebooks are really a big help to keep stories alive.
I don't know the fact, but I would assume it is a lot cheaper to put up e-books on amazon's e-book service and they can't be sold "used" so the author would get a cut for every purchase.
I have the amazon kindle app on my phone and it is really nice to have all of John's books on me pretty much all the time. In fact, the first time I read Will Grayson, Will Grayson was on my phone. Had to get used to it, but it works well.
foolishfrancis 1 year ago
facts*
foolishfrancis 1 year ago
I still read and buy books. I don't buy as many books as I wish (no money), but I try to buy as much as I can. I just preordered a friend's new book today actually. And I'm hoping for Hanukkah to get about 10 new books. College books take a lot of my money away though. And they aren't that fun to sit down and read by a fire. They hurt your brain after too long alone. I go on reading buying binges every few years (this is one of those years). 21 is different than 17 years old. My style changed.
bandnerd29316 1 year ago
An oddly optimistic song for a depressing topic?
I think that people will still read, but publishing will be affected. Perhaps publishers put out too many books for it to be possible for people to buy and read them all. I think the publishing industry should look hard at its business model, and reinvent and adapt to the changes in society. But it won't. Hopefully the internet will lead to more reading. A good way to find new books to read would always be appreciated- by me at least.
thepurplequeenling 1 year ago
Oh my, I don't think I can condone a sock puppet/ black santa relationship
TheWaffleTree 1 year ago
I think the decline in book sales and publishing numbers are do to a number of things: price, ease of virtual media, and lack of time. We've become a society that values efficiency and speed over quality. However, I believe that there will always be people how get great joy from book stores, a new book, and quiet reading. That being said, I don't think the numbers will ever be shockingly high again, tv is just easier and quicker.
shantrues 1 year ago
I've always loved reading, when I was about 2 my mom and brother would read books together and I'd listen, and when I was old enough, I wanted to read books on my own. one time I was reading a book during class when I didn't have to, and a girl walked up to me and said "eww you're reading?" this and other examples worry me about the younger generation, but I don't think people will ever lose interest in reading and writing, there's always a book for everybody, even if it's dumb like twilight.
windpotato 1 year ago
Personally, I believe the love of reading starts at home. All kids love books and parents need to encourage this. BUT- It doesn't help that english teachers have sucked the soul out of the books they are teaching. They have gotten in a bad habit of doing the same thing year after year with no room for creativity or a new interpretation. My solution is for parents and teachers to set a great example for the love of books. Book lovers will sacrifice to own the books they love.
steinm02 1 year ago
I for one read most of my books via my library, though I did recently purchase "will grayson, will grayson", I do believe that people still like to read, and read books that make them think, that are exciting. Maybe even books that give them different opinions on a subject than before they read a book.
llilcat96 1 year ago
What are the other 6 lively virtues?
slyhippo 1 year ago
@slyhippo
-Wrath toward Decepticons
-Lust for knowledge
-Greediness to suck more awesome out of the marrow of life
-Envy of Ze Frank's vlogging skills, which did inspire Brotherhood 2.0, after all
-Gluttony for peeps?
And finally: LOVE. Partly because that's what holds the Nerdfighter community together (whether through shared love of nerdly things or love of vlogging or Nerdfighterlike), but mostly because I couldn't think of a single thing that worked with sloth.
dragonfly876 1 year ago
Well to start, I had to mute the song to read. Maybe in life, people need to mute electronic/internet media for 3:43 to read something
TashaGreat 1 year ago
It's the price of books thas the main thing. Usually I buy mine online because their cheaper. But recently I bought 'The Thin Executioner' by Darren Shan foor £9.99 which is quite cheap seeing as it was only released not long ago, plus it's a hard back.
DarkRw1995 1 year ago
Books are expensive, but I'll be purchasing many books when I get a job in a few months.
asgm7 1 year ago
New paperback books in the UK cost around £8-9, hardbacks are more like £10-15. Since an average-sized paperback takes me 6-8 hours to read I don't want to be paying that much. Books need to come down to a more reasonable price. I was way happier when they were £6-7. Given the choice between a DVD or a book, a slightly out of date game or a book people are going to choose the familiar media that pumps the experience directly into their eyes and ears and hands.
turnipus 1 year ago
I hope that maybe publishers can find ways to lower book prices in order to get more people to buy them. One thing that is maybe good is the Kindle. Because on the Kindle there is no such thing as a used book. But you'll still have people like me. I can't afford new books because (ironically) I'm unemployed because I can't find a job as a copyeditor. So I get all my books at charity shops.
alanamuir 1 year ago
I think that books along with other forms of entertainment will continue to be a main part of society. There will always be people like me who call themselves "Story Nerds" who enjoy any form of a narrative entertainment that is both thought provoking and enjoyable like To Kill a Mockingbird in both it's movie and book form. As long as people like me exist books, films, plays, and poems will not die out.
chives123456 1 year ago
Although it is a fear of mine that they will just start to suck. Like Michael Bay movies.
chives123456 1 year ago
Books will survive this by the kind of stuff you do, where books and intellectualism can be celebrated.
hotpinkelephant11 1 year ago
I'm pretty sure this idea is moronic but how about more fan fiction? I found about seven of my ten all time favorite novels because of fan fiction. It's really an amazing way to advertise in my opinion. It's like free samples... for your brain. And really, who better to advertise for a person than someone how genuinely loves the product? Admittedly, to get fan fiction you need fans first, but I said this was a stupid idea at the start. Even so, I think it only takes a few people to make it work
ivleaftea 1 year ago
Book situation- bad sounding.
Dance party- AWESOME.
Yes, I still love to read.
John, Paper Towns should be italicized or underlined. Not quotationed. It's a novel, not a short story.
eragonlover1 1 year ago
I don't think you can do that on those youtube tabs...
MADDD0G 1 year ago
well the situation on books sounds bad for you and everyone but every nerdfighter this has reached and scared the crap out of us because no more harry potter we will obviously but more and more books now that we know the situation we (nerdfighters) will help try to help the situations on books
XxkuruxX9 2 years ago
UpheavAL. Not UpheavEL.
Now that that's out of the way, I totally understand the bookstore-closing thing. The used bookstore in my town closed in 2008, but luckily we still have (the incredibly overpriced but well-stocked in the magazine department) Barnes & Nobles. I tend to use the library in town and at school more now- and if I DO buy books it's usually off the much-cheaper interwebz.
I think that we should continue to buy new books. (I just happen to be strapped for cash)
PrincessSpaz12 2 years ago
Quite a disconnect, happy puppet dance to wonderfully romantic song, vs the not so pleasant news about books... *headscratch*
trapjohnson 2 years ago
I completely agree that books are far better than internet... One problem, I think, is that it often seems easier to take a "quick'"break on the internet than to get interested in a book for the same (planned) amount of time. As for a solution? I'm not sure there... I think a start would be to get a book that combines the huge fanbase of HP/Twilight with true literary quality, and maybe referencing other classics to get people branching out more in what they read. Oh, and get rid of tv dramas...
Streamwolf8 2 years ago
I completely get the whole bookstore closing thing. In my neighborhood there used to be a second hand book shop, but that closed when the Barns and Noble's came. But now the barns and noble is not getting enough business so that is leaving and now my neighborhood is left without a books store.
fangirl0488 2 years ago
I just love that song!
nicciweasley 2 years ago
i can has argyle sock puppet?
McManiacGirl 2 years ago
What I believed in MiddleSchool,that I stopped expressing my belief in because I didn't want to seem-you know-stupid, was that the future of storytelling lied within videogames. Because movies and tv have certain constraints, you can't just make a 30 hour movie and the way tv series usually work is they try to go as long as possible to make as money as possible. Where as story-driven videogames can impart a fullness of story similar to that of books plus,some of them actually have great stories
MarlonOwnsYourCake 2 years ago
500 characters are not enough...
MarlonOwnsYourCake 2 years ago
I wouldn't say that the only future of story telling is in video games, although it is the medium that still has a lot of room for improvement.
I will always books, film, and even music for storytelling, but video games are the new frontier, and there are some INCREDIBLE games out there, that really blew me away.
Director705 2 years ago
MarlonOwnsYourCake:
I've thought about that as well, and more than once, I have played a really good video game and thought, "Someone should write this down."
BANGtheDoleDrums 2 years ago
if only people would be interested in reading something other than Twilight.... sad times when the best selling books aren't even very well written and don't really make people think (other than "omgosh liek Edward is so hawt!!! *squeee*").
Phobic42 2 years ago 85
I respectfully disagree on some parts. I believe that reading in itself (especially in America, since, you know, reading is not THAT popular here) is so important, that I dont care which book from whom you read, as long as you read at all. And inspiring young people to read is one of the best things an author can do.
On the other hand, there are some hugely popular books which could burn in hell for all I care. For example there is this german book called 'Feuchtgebiete' (lit. wetlands).
Zirror 2 years ago
MonisticWonder, very well put!
I will always keep reading.
bookwormdaisy 2 years ago
That is an amazing sock puppet.
ChateauOfADoubt 2 years ago
the borders closed in my local mall a few months ago.
it made me sad because that was the closest bookstore to me/one of the few places i liked to go to in the mall.
injoyfruit 2 years ago
it was like an infomertial when the words came up if you did that with all types of facts people would learn alot cuis everyone read then i know it
ljlightfire1 2 years ago
Have faith though, because "hard times" and "this dream!" has something in common, except that hard times has indeed no exclamation mark.
keerak 2 years ago
this video makes me sad too.
lol at the argyle/ black santa dace party.
p.s. black santa pwns.
peoplecallmeagoth 2 years ago
:| this video made me sad
ambysanders 2 years ago
I read all the time, and I will NEVERR stop reading books. Or writing, cuz i love doing that too! :) You're awesome John, and I love black santa. :D xD
flomchick13 2 years ago
Books are awesome in a way movies and TV just can't achieve. I like to think the book industry will still be around for a long time. There are e-book readers, but, at least for me, they just don't work. Reading is a qualitatively different experience than listening to music. Its not just about the text but the weight and feel of the book, turning the pages, etc, and you just don't get that with an e-book reader. Wasn't aware the publishing industry was suffering so much though. :(
MonisticWonder 2 years ago
Yay I'm made of awesome!!
I would convince my friends to read, but most of my friends already do.. Guess I'm not that awesome after all ;)
MissKriekentaart 2 years ago
That's so sad. I'm a bookworm and I always try and encourage people to read.
We need more 'Book' weeks. We need to organise events going to schools to encourage children that reading is fun.
cezzie901 2 years ago
I ship Argyle/Black Santa.
YamiChippy 2 years ago
hehe, i found this in teh related videos from a fan vid for some tv show...nerdfighters ftw, its funny how things work out on youtube, eh?
funkysockunicorns 2 years ago
I've just started to read again... there was a rough time between when I was 11 and when I was 14 when I just didn't read.
Fralmunk 2 years ago
library are free
ncktbs 2 years ago
Hey good video there John. Nice to know that Hank sock has a John sock brother even if he has one eye... I will read one of your books someday. pinky nerdfighter secret sister swear!
kateribethrose 2 years ago
I think if we found a way to go back to the way Dickens was doing it would be a temporary solution if we ever had to resort to any sort of state of emergency with them. Publish a chapter a week/month in magazines. And while this forces people to purchase more magazines...it also encourages them to read something that isn't shallow and worthless like the tabloids.
elmo81409 2 years ago
I live in a relatively small town in Scotland, and we had one decent bookshop. But people bought books less and less and then it started selling less books and more junk and this weekend some fecker burned it down! I was heartbroken. Now I have to sit on a bus for an hour and a half to reach a bookshop.
Thank God for amazon, that's all I can say.
justanotherrandom432 2 years ago
I personally adore reading.
biggestgilmorefreak 2 years ago
Ah!!!!!!!!!!! This scares me so much. I decided in 4th grade that I want to be an aquisitions editor. I'm worried that I won't be able to get a job. Wah! Stupid publishing industry.
oomboo2 2 years ago
I do not fear for the future of the written word, it may be dwarfed by the technological revolution that continues to try digital equivalents like the e-book and apps for the iPhone, but in the end there is nothing like a good book. I believe in the futures brought to us by Doctor Who, where a planet becomes a library and Agatha Christie is published through the year 5 billion.
regularguy5mb 2 years ago
The future of Literature used to scare me. I love reading and writing. It's what I want to do, but with a recession, I got scared. People get rid of things they don't "need" during times like this. I met a guy who said he read nothing outside of school. Then he came and told me of an awesome book called Looking for Alaska, and he said he LOVED it. It's how come I'm here, posting this! I have hope now, and maybe the new writers CAN carry a torche and catch attention again.
tvsuicide4 2 years ago 55
i love books :D
and to read.
and books are better then movies :]
iloveyou9876543210 2 years ago
Well, as far as Puppetry go- That is better then most.
But onto the important subject- Books and their survival. Hard thing to discuss in so few characters.
E-Book publishing and Kindle-style readers are showing decent potential, but at best they are supplementary to the continuation of paper books.
One thing that might be effective is the revival of collections, short-story and novella-esque. Stephen King handles these well, and they often sell well, especially by length.
Further ideas later.
Ariamaki 2 years ago
I think you're doing a good job publishing your book in your videos, I'm conviced and I'm going to order it in the next few days. Yay! Also I read the first pages on Amazon and that interest me, I think thats a pretty good way to interest the audience too.
STYU274 2 years ago
OMG TO MANY WORDS!!
Diaaakhana 2 years ago
OH MY GOD NOOOOOOO!!!! I LOVE books!!! Nothing should happen to them, ever! They are like the most innovative and important thing to ever happen to humans, imagine where we would be with out them! I think that everyone should go out and buy one brand spanking new book from a book store, not online or off of itunes or whatever, just an actual paper and ink book, they are beautiful! I know I am, hell I might even buy Looking For Alaska or Paper Towns! :)
faomosgirl 2 years ago
why is read and read spelt the same?
ztoigo 2 years ago
Because it doesn't matter when you read, as long as you do.
Lol, I don't know, that must be hard for people trying to learn English.
shmaller 2 years ago
I don't understand it either. There is nothing I like better than a good book - new preferably, but like other commentors, I don't always have the cash for new books. I love getting lost in the story and forgetting about real life for a while. Not that my life is bad, just boring for the most part.
Plus, I love to write and have several writing projects I'm working on. It's scary to think that they might never see the light of day or even have a chance just because the industry is suffering.
aphrael27 2 years ago
I buy new books... all the time...
Yes, that's where most of my babysitting money goes. XD I'd rather spend the money for it new rather than wait ages for it to be on sale or whatever.
Marj12592 2 years ago
I love books. It often surprises me that few people (in the non-Nerdfighteria world) seem to share that love. I really just don't get it.
ishallcallyounarfba 2 years ago
If anything, John, our family have bought two copies of Papertowns. Both new...
And our family also only owns a bookstore...
rionhunter 2 years ago
This makes me sad. I'm halfway through writing my first book and I was going to try and have it done by the end of this year to send out to publishers. I would much rather have new books, but they are pricey, and with the amount of books I want I can't afford it. So I try to buy used, which I don't like, because I want to support the author.
Btw, I'm working on getting all three of your books from an actual bookstore so that you can get paid for writing =)
lostinthoughts89 2 years ago
I bought all of three of your books at once, so i was very surprised to see this information!
FullofNVProductions 2 years ago
I find books to be addictive, and spend every bit of spare cash I have on them. I love the feeling of filling up my shelves at home with whatever new finds I have. I buy books like most girls buy shoes! Oh, and FYI I have all of yours except "Let It Snow". Also, I looked in eight bookstores all across North Carolina until I found a copy of "Looking for Alaska" but..........I FOUND IT AT BORDERS IN CHARLOTTE!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!
yatnna31 2 years ago
@_@ WHUT!!!! Books r goooooooooood! B-)
plz with the buying, books are versitile, you can read them... you can... you can... eat them...if your reeeeeeeeealy ungry....
in Ireland this thing does'nt seem to be a problem...
starryeyedocean 2 years ago
John, you'll be happy to know I spend nearly all my disposable income on books and beer. - Nerdfighters, did you know that John Green's "An Abundance of Katherines" is cheaper than a pint at the pub?
fairlyfarley 2 years ago
I love the song and the sock. And FYI i am ordering all your books from amazon. NEW COPIES.
slipperyfloor 2 years ago
Hey. New to the whole nerdfighter community. But, have to tell you ur youtube videos are great! As for the book thing I am old fashioned and think there is nothing better than a real book in my hands. I have a small collection compaired to yours but working on it and fully intend to buy ur books. Heard sooo much about them lately. So I will be there for you soon.
xxsatanslilsisterxx 2 years ago
I have absolutely no money and will borrow from the library first and then I will buy the book if I love it.
I have several series of books of which I will buy any new installment immediately. I suppose it's simply a case of 'knowing I'm going to get something good for my money'.
harrysjulie 2 years ago
I will still buy books. My parents will still buy books. Ironically, my dad buys books about stocks/finance.
Unfortunately, I haven't bought any of your books, but I did buy [okay, my mom bought it] 'An Abundance of Katherines' for my friend! If I had some sort of disposable income I would buy books. But you need a job for disposable income and there aren't many jobs for teenagers in my town =/
HeavyHandedWords 2 years ago
I think that if we ecourage more kids to read in their spare time we will have an increased number of book sellings in the future, the only problem is...
parents would rather encourage kiddies to play outside rather than read. I think there should be a balanace of these types of things
spotlight15 2 years ago
on the other hand, i think we could be in a bit of trouble considering that my generation is too lazy to do things with effort or intellegance and relies on technology, youtube podcasts etc for entertainment. Really, the best thing that can happen to a book right now is to become a movie. At least if they liked the movie, they will seek out the authors in most cases and read their other books. So if paper towns does become a movie, it will be a really really good thing.
ShunnedByZoi 2 years ago
I think it will be a very very long time before books go out. The people of this world will never let that happen. It would be better if people did lower the price of books though. People say that everything will be replaced by digital, but really, as the viruses and glitches get worse, and terrorists decide to terrorize computors instead of buildings, people will realize that books are more reliable than e books. Consiquently, books miht come back in, out of characters...to be continued
ShunnedByZoi 2 years ago
i think that books need a napster-type service.
15thavenueboys 2 years ago
as many people had said before, podcasting and other media, are more profitable for authors, so that's another tech we should explore. with that said, I think authors should try to go to little editors, people who had literature in their brains, instead of money money money! here in Colombia, there are new publishing houses comming into the market, to balance it, so that we can have more great books instead of books about diets, wich by the way are the ones, publishers promotes the more, awful
shinjieras 2 years ago
I was taking, last term, a class about the "evolution" of comunication called "from Gutenberg to microsoft". It was about the same question you just asked, is there a place for books right now? we have new techs that are developing extrimly quick, like the kindle or Hipertextual novels on the internet ( novels wich anyone can read and coment on internet and also "edit" so that they can be better. But books can't be taken away just now! they are the substrate of our cultural live and experience
shinjieras 2 years ago
(dang it) whole lot to offer the publishing world, if publishers learn it would actually benefit them to loosen the copyright chains a little. Podcasters have found giving away their content actually improves book sales as it garners an audience (JC Hutchins, Mur Lafferty, Scott Sigler). Heck, even I've found success in book sales posting my crappy Twilight parody to the Internet for free. People pick up the Lulu form since they know they like what they're paying for!
chewbobington 2 years ago
(youtube character restrictions) and like it, they are more likely to be willing to spend their money on a print copy. Also, authors who put themselves out there with the audience make themselves more accessible, and it makes readers want to go out and buy their books because they feel a connection with the author and want to support them personally. (At least that's why I bought your books, and tried to pick them up at Barnes & Noble rather than Half Price). New media and the Internet has a
chewbobington 2 years ago
First of all, argyle sock kissing black Santa is FRIGGEN' ADORABLE. Also this book distress in conjunction with the Nerdfighter Like song made me tear up. IS THAT SAD? I don't know.
Anyway, I'm sure it's already been said, but authors are finding success with new media ways of promoting their books, such as podcasting the story for free, or what you're doing - reaching out to the community at large. It may seem counter-intuitive to give away books for free, but if people read/listen to it
chewbobington 2 years ago
The annoying thing about the recession is that people stop buying things, which puts us further into a recession, so people stop buying things even more, and only by the necessities. I think what we need to do is make books more necessary somehow. We need to eat, we need to wear clothes, and we do need books. People just don't realize that when money is tight. How can we make them realize that?
sackclothnashes 2 years ago
Honestly, I think that the book can never disappear fully. Even if we shift away from paper books, we will still have online versions I'm sure. I spend more on books than anything else and I'm sure there are still millions of people who love a good book. I know that its my favorite thing in the world. Good luck John and I'm right there with you =)
Pokey313 2 years ago
I still love reading, but most kids in my school don't read for fun. I think that's why they're teh suxorz. All my friends read. All two of them. Just kidding...
And I enjoyed the puppet show... :)
itsMARIKO 2 years ago
one of my classes just finished reading Fahrenheit 451, which was all I could think about while watching this video.
Hopefully nothing even remotely close to the book happens!
I love reading and love owning my own brand-new copy of a book, but it does get expensive...
gymnast95630 2 years ago
I think u should make one of the goo goo adds (that caramillo egg add thing there funny)
caitlinf797 2 years ago
You know, I actually don't think it's something we necessarily need to come up with a solution for and feel like we need to "save" the book industry. I know this must be hard for authors and publishers, but these types of things tend to work themselves out. Like anything else in this world, buisness grows, evolves, and changes. If a buisness fails, then why try to keep it alive? It's like defying natural selection. Eventually, a system better for these times will be worked out.
bbbb666888888845 2 years ago
As far as recent losses in the well-being of the publishing world, and so the world of writing. The economic mess will surely swing back the opposite direction again. Most things do, in time, it seems. I suspects technology like the Intenet, mobile devices, and NetFlix have more to do with less book buying - at least in the last 10 years - than a lack of interest in reading itself. Maybe I am clueless.
phoebexanne 3 years ago
I enjoyed your choreography in this video!! Also I'm starting to understand your inspirations for your books more and more thanks to your videos!
leannaxo 3 years ago
OH GOODNESS
i clicked HD
and the screen got bigger and all scary
and i fell off my bed...
but im okay now :)
whosRppl2 3 years ago 2
the same almost happen to me! frightening. although a little bigger and it would be like actually being in the room with john green.
plainoutofthisworld 2 years ago
John,
Your video made me feel really bad for only reading books from the library and that I buy at Half Priced Books. ):
I'm a 15 year old making $10 a week babysitting. I really shouldn't feel bad, because I read about a book a day, so spending that much on books would be hard....
I feel like it's my fault the book industry is collapsing now though, and I have no bright ideas so....
EPIC FAIL
):
starzygal 3 years ago
I am still in love with reading. When I go to appointments and such, I always have a book with me, and am rarely out without one. I have had doctors comment about how rare it is.
I do think that people will continue to read, but I think that at least part of it is dependent on teachers and even more so on parents to instill an interest in children. I hope that it is something that is done, and I think Youtube videos and other such media that support reading are very important as well.
BadgerX153 3 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
To be honest, I think we need to stop turning every awesome book into failboat movies. I enjoy the HP movies, but I'm not stupid enough to REPLACE books for a movie. Why read a book when you know in a year or so it could be a potential movie?
I'm excited for the Paper Towns movie, but I'm also sad. People who haven't given local bookstores a glance in years will spend too much money on bad popcorn and a movie that will never live up to the original story, even though John'll write it himself.
myoverkills 3 years ago
Comment removed
myoverkills 3 years ago
I don't understand why people don't read much anymore. I love to read! We need to find a new way to get kids and adults intrested in reading.
xoYoursTrulyxo 3 years ago
I wish more people were into reading. I've been trying to get my sister to read more often. Shes not so much into school and what not and I know that when I was younger I wasnt. And strangely enough, I saw the first Harry Potter movie and after that I wanted to actually read the book, and thus, my reading addiction began. I have so many books its crazy. My dorm is overflowing with them. As far as my sister, shes reading a little, which is definitely better than not at all.
pentaclewitch112 3 years ago
Books shall survive!!! I know that there are plenty of people like me, who, when they get money, rush off to the bookstore, and soon after are completely broke. I spend my money on books. My bookshelves overflow. Same goes for my AP Language teacher. We had this discussion in class. People read. A lot of people are rather addicted to buying books...like...uh....me. So, nerds shall be the fuel that the book publishing industry thrives upon!!!
rosevillelovesutica 3 years ago
oh no! Black santa is sad
swordlord285 3 years ago
alright. then have kids watch youtube.
misssnazzyallie 3 years ago
In HD it's like you're sitting in the room with him.... which is kind of creepy in an okay way. lol.
foreverjynxed 3 years ago
grrr stop saying hp rules twilight! well, I am utterly obsessed with BOTH, so why can't we just all get along?! :(
Jaxycat67 3 years ago
I'd say we'd have to SOMEHOW convince the people with the most disposable income to start buying books? That'd probably be teenagers and middle age mothers who make up that market. Somehow appeal the idea of reading to at least one of those groups and you'd get a little more money. Teenagers especially, I'd love to see more people my age crack open a book instead of whining when they forced to open a barely 100 page paper back.
Sonicsora 3 years ago
David Carson wrote a book called "The End Of Print" and it's now in its fifth printing.
raythegardener 3 years ago
hd is much better
ricardoccalmeida 3 years ago
WOW! I thought the sock puppet was a guy! My bad....:D
ChinaIzInLuv15 3 years ago
Well... it sucks that books are taking a hit, but I don't think anyone can say they are any worse off any someone else. My husband is an engineer and has been out of work for 4 months.... so we are feeling the impact of the sucking economy as well.
mkat83 3 years ago
Sell books like hard liquor is sold here in massachusetts only available in that specific type store so books in bookstores and hard liquor in liquorstores or combine the two so you have bookliquors but then u have to worry about drunken reading and you know how well that goes over
unasman 3 years ago
I know how you feel. My city has no bookstores other than Walmart and Target (which now has PAPER TOWNS!) and my only goal in life has always been to work at a bookstore. The lack of interest in reading will come to pass in time. This is an awful phase for our society to go through, but there is hope. Books like Twilight are bringing people back to reading. Even though I'm just one girl in a small town, I'll keep promoting your books so you can keep supporting yourself, Willy, and the Yeti.
PKMNnerdfighter 3 years ago
How to save the book: have kids watch movies in school so they can say school ruins tv instead of books... then maybe books will make their comeback and whip the televisions bootang.
misssnazzyallie 3 years ago
Books definitely rule movies, just like HARRY POTTER RULES FREAKING TWILIGHT. [ugh] But anyways, what you sad is exactly true - reading allows the reader to develop their own scenery, and ultimately grow some freaking imagination, which I've found generations are increasingly losing. While I know quite a few people who love books, the population of book nerds is dwindling. But John, I can't even tell you how much you do to fight that. Keep up the great work, man. And DFTBA. 8D
Kaytaaay 3 years ago
we should make it a mission as nerdfighters, to each fill an empty bookshelf by the end of 2009, with unused brand new, interesting books.
ParadoxAndPlaid 3 years ago
Well the publishing news kind of sucks, but my fingers are crossed for you and other good authors. I couldn't imagine the world without books.
irishpride1107 3 years ago
I can't speak for the rest of the population but I still love to read and I can't imagine a world without books. I still by many new books (and based on the amount of money I spend on new books annually that should help the industry somewhat, haha).
And yes, I concur: your puppetering skills are indeed quite superior.
LizLaneProductions 3 years ago
I just finished Paper Towns and I loved it. I only started reading your books this month but I've finished all three now and they are definately up there with my favorites. I think one of the major downfalls of the book industry is lack of advertisement and exposure. I mean I would have probably never ended up reading your books if it wasn't for Youtube and a lot of books don't achieve mainstream success until a movie is released. I think lack of adveryisement is one of the problems.
Johnintheplace 3 years ago
I love books. REAL book. I'm turning friends into readers as we speak. But I'm a librarian. So I'm supporting the book world by checking out loads of books from the library. It prevents me from going broke and lets me read, but it doesn't help the publishing industry. BTW, libraries are thriving in these tough economic times. People like books, they're just looking for a more economical way of getting them. It doesn't help you guys, but it proves the world loves books!
queenofthebooks 3 years ago
Thanks for this informative and somewhat entertaining video :) I've just got two words: Harry Potter. As simple-minded as this sounds, I truly believe that the phenomenon that is HP has really proven to the world that people of all ages are enjoying books again. It's world-wide success just shows the influence of the book. Since starting HP, many of my friends have started to venture into other books and genres.
giddygirl108 3 years ago
Black santa FTW!
ShizzleMcMuffin 3 years ago