Let's Talk about the Reading Rush | Attempted 24 hr Readathon & DNFing 2 books | JND

TL;DR

The Reading Rush hosts selected a book that tackles serious issues at an inappropriate time, sparking controversy and calls for accountability.

Transcript

hi everybody um this is future jess talking uh i am in a new place i'm with my parents they moved to a new condo so i'm living with them obviously until i get my own place in la um i quickly wanted to jump in and talk about obviously the issues that are happening with the reading rush and if you don't know because you just watch the daily vlogs or ... Read More

Key Insights

• 💖 The Reading Rush book club selection "Such a Fun Age" sparked controversy and criticism for its timing during ongoing protests and systemic racism.
• 🤗 The hosts' apology was seen as half-hearted and lacking in genuine understanding of the issues at hand.
• ❓ Many booktubers have decided to discontinue their participation in The Reading Rush as a result of this incident.
• 📔 The situation highlights the importance of accountability and learning from mistakes in the book community and beyond.
• 📔 The book community values genuine understanding, change, and rectification when mistakes are made.
• 🧑‍🏭 Timing, sensitivity, and ownership of mistakes are critical factors in engaging with serious issues in literature and the world.
• 📔 The controversy surrounding The Reading Rush book club read sheds light on the need for ongoing discussions about inclusion, diversity, and the impact of book selections.

Questions & Answers

Q: What was the issue with The Reading Rush book club read?

The hosts of The Reading Rush selected a book called "Such a Fun Age" that deals with privilege and the Black experience at a time when protests and systemic racism were prominent. Many felt it was inappropriate and performative.

Q: Did the hosts of The Reading Rush apologize for their choice?

Yes, they issued an apology, but it was deemed not heartfelt enough. Many felt they needed to take more ownership of their mistake, especially given the seriousness of the ongoing issues in the world.

Q: Why did this book selection spark controversy?

The timing of choosing a book about privilege and the Black experience during protests and systemic racism incited anger and hurt within the book community. Many felt it was a performative choice and lacked genuine understanding.

Q: Did this situation lead to any consequences for The Reading Rush?

Many booktubers, big and small, have expressed their decision to no longer participate in The Reading Rush. The future of the readathon remains uncertain, with calls for genuine change and accountability.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Reading Rush selected the book "Such a Fun Age" by Keeley Reed for their book club read, which tackles topics of privilege and the Black experience.

• The timing of the chosen book during ongoing protests and systemic racism sparked criticism from the book community.

• Many felt that the hosts' lack of understanding and half-hearted apology demonstrated insensitivity and the need for accountability.