What did & didn't work in 2023 (and thoughts for 2024)

Time Stamps:
0:00 Intro
0:35 Reading Accomplishments
5:25 Surprises
6:56 Channel struggles
8:06 Channel achievements
11:24 Channel plans for 2024
Mentioned:
‪@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy‬
‪@thefantasynuttwork‬
‪@TheLibraryofAllenxandria‬
‪@merphynapierreviews‬
‪@ACriticalDragon‬
‪@laurablakeauthor‬
‪@RedFuryBooks‬
‪@jakebishop7822‬
Other places to find me:
FIRESIDE DISCORD:
/ discord
TWITTER
/ johanna_reads
INSTAGRAM
/ whatresonates
GOODREADS
/ johanna

Пікірлер: 131

  • @Johanna_reads
    @Johanna_reads6 ай бұрын

    Thank you all so much for your support! Much love and Happy New Year! ❤🎉

  • @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy
    @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy6 ай бұрын

    What an excellent year you had, Johanna! I'm so grateful and happy to have been part of it, and I'm so excited for our continuing conversations in 2024. As for your thumbnails, you created some of my favorites on BookTube! Why Read is a wonderful highlight of our community (Saturday at the cafe!). All the best, my friend!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Honored you love my thumbnails, Philip! That Ships of Merior cutaway was when you were telling everyone that A.P. would give us a half-time piano recital 🤣. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful reading year! I'm looking forward to all our future book chats!

  • @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

    @PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Johanna_reads I could tell from my face (and A.P.’s) that I might have been causing some mischief in that clip. 😁

  • @davidslone2937
    @davidslone29376 ай бұрын

    You were far more successful than I at completing your planned standalones this year-you should be proud of that! I think “Why Read?” is an original take on my favorite BookTube videos: long-form discussions. Look forward to seeing what you try in 2024, Johanna! Happy reading!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, David! I'm so glad you're enjoying the "Why Read?" series! It's been a huge pleasure for me. Happy 2024 and happy reading to you too!

  • @RedFuryBooks
    @RedFuryBooks6 ай бұрын

    Happy New Year! I've also been thinking about some tweaks my channel which I'll talk about soon. It's always fun to reflect and look forward this time of year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Happy New Year, Josh! I am a reflections type of person 😎. Looking forward to hear yours!

  • @CriminOllyBlog
    @CriminOllyBlog6 ай бұрын

    I think you’ve had a great year and agree that Why Reads is a highlight of your channel, always interesting. You’ve reminded me that I need to read Stoner! I’ve had it for ages

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Olly! I hope you enjoy Stoner when you pick it up. Happy New Year!

  • @CNavo.TheNextChapter
    @CNavo.TheNextChapter6 ай бұрын

    So glad I've started to get to know you more in 2023, Johanna! I always enjoy your content as you are so insightful on your reads/reviews. I'm excited to see what you have planned going into 2024 and hope we get some opportunities to discuss the reads we've shared in the future! All the best! Happy New Year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Same to you, Christopher! I appreciate you so much! Thank you and Happy New Year! 🥳

  • @esmayrosalyne
    @esmayrosalyne6 ай бұрын

    Love this way of reflecting on your year. Sounds like you had a wonderful reading year, and I love that for you! The ASOIAF readalong was definitely an unforgettable experience, thanks so much for hosting that. As for wrap-ups, I think the idea of a 'the last 3/5 books I read' sounds really appealing. But whatever you decide to do, I will be here to support you regardless. Let's make 2024 even more amazing. Wishing you all the best for the new year 🥰🥰🥰

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    You are so lovely, Esmay! Your encouragement means so much to me, and I appreciate your feedback so much. Wishing you an incredible 2024! Much love! 💕

  • @donkevinbrown9906
    @donkevinbrown99066 ай бұрын

    Thank you for everything you have done this year. You have done a wonderful job. You have kept me entertained all year long. Thank you again for putting up with me. 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    You are welcome!! Thank you for all your wonderful comments! Nothing I don't enjoy "putting up with." 😂😊🧡

  • @donkevinbrown9906

    @donkevinbrown9906

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Johanna_reads I loved your discussions with all of your guest. Especially Merphy and Phillip. There is a guy I watch every once in a while which you might enjoy discussing things with. His channel is called "The Book Guy". He has a funny accent though.

  • @secretsauceofstorycraft
    @secretsauceofstorycraft6 ай бұрын

    Ooh!! Loving the edit work in this video 😊 and what a fun video review idea! Congrats 🎉 on such a fun year!!! Yay!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Beyond flattering coming from you! Thank you! 😊

  • @JAKandtheBookStack
    @JAKandtheBookStack6 ай бұрын

    Wow you did great with series this year! I like the idea of a top 10 series, I am doing similar for 2024 and it makes me excited to have the structure. For example, I want to do a top 10 standalone fantasies and so until then I am keeping an eye out for the ones I want to try! I love your live series too, I think you are a great host and lead conversations very well!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I am beyond flattered that you think I'm a great host, Jak! 🥰 I'm looking forward to your 10 videos! I also need to organize one for fantasy standalones. There are so many good ones!

  • @thatsci-firogue
    @thatsci-firogue6 ай бұрын

    I can relate, I'm not a goal orientated person either. In terms of accomplishments, i lost weight (about 2 stone) so I want to keep up with that.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    That's a lot of weight! Wishing you good health and great reading in 2024!

  • @thatsci-firogue

    @thatsci-firogue

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Johanna_reads Thank you! Only immediate reading plans I've got right now is to finish Dandelion Dynasty and Liveship Traders (finished Book 1 earlier and it was incredible)

  • @RodgersReads
    @RodgersReads5 ай бұрын

    Lots of GREAT series on here, many (like Valdemar) that I have been meaning to try for AGES. Love you channel "goals" or intentions for 2024, I have been trying to be more generous with myself too if I don't get a video out sometimes. Just remember it's supposed to be fun and not a second job!! And something I am proud I accomplished in 2023 would have to be graduating with my Ph.D. finally.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    5 ай бұрын

    You should be SO proud of that achievement, Dr. RodgerReads! The Arrows Trilogy is kind of weird by today's standards because it starts off more middle-grade and wholesome. Books 2 and 3 get sexy and violent. Just want to temper expectations about that, but I had such a great escape experience in that world and want to return at some point. Can't wait to hear your thoughts if you pick it up!

  • @laurablakeauthor
    @laurablakeauthor6 ай бұрын

    Loved chatting GGK with you this year, and also just getting to know you this year! Definitely a highlight of my year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Same here! Thank you so much, Laura! ❤

  • @MarionHill-vq2xu
    @MarionHill-vq2xu6 ай бұрын

    Hello Johanna. Congratulations on having a successful year with your channel. I’m new to Booktube as of last year and I have to write that your channel and Josh’s Red Fury Books are my favorites. I appreciate your diverse reading interests and the “Why Read” is one of best online discussions I’ve seen about reading. Well done! Also, you both have inspired me to start my own channel. I have been a book review blogger since 2011 and love writing reviews about books that are a little bit older. And I have seen from your channel there is a place for that kind of content. Keep it up and much success in 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much! Is your channel under a different name? I clicked on your KZread profile and didn't see videos posted there. I'm very flattered you love the "Why Read" series and my channel content. I'm also very excited for you to start your BookTube journey!

  • @MarionHill-vq2xu

    @MarionHill-vq2xu

    6 ай бұрын

    My channel is not up yet. I’m still exploring it. I will keep you posted.

  • @ColinsCornerYT
    @ColinsCornerYT6 ай бұрын

    Love this idea of a reflection video! I think I will do something similar on my 1 year booktube anniversary. Speaking of which, starting my channel is one thing I am very proud of and so happy that I did this year! Loved hearing your reflective thoughts, Johanna. I hope you have a fantastic reading year and just general year in 2024, and can’t wait to see what content you release!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Colin! I'm a reflection kind of gal, so I'm looking forward to hearing yours on your 1-year BookTube anniversary! Glad you started your channel, my friend. Happy New Year and happy reading!

  • @thelibraryladder
    @thelibraryladder6 ай бұрын

    I loved hearing about the highlights of your year (GGK! Long Price Quartet! Valdemar!), and I'm eager to see how your channel evolves in the new year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Bridger! Although I'm late in getting to these great books and authors, I've been enjoying them so much!

  • @liviajelliot
    @liviajelliot6 ай бұрын

    You read a lot this year!! Also, most of your favourite videos I remember them and were great! The time is everything, and the discussions on the types of reading--I did a "yay" when you mentioned that you'd do more of them! The why read discussions are very interesting, especially because everyone always has such different reasons to do so. Don't worry about the wrap ups--do it because you enjoy doing that video, and that's it! Discussions (in my humble opinion) are far more interesting! In any case, I wish you the best for next year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Livia, thank you so much for all your support and kind feedback! Your comments are always a joy for me to read, and I love that you love the book topic videos! Happy New Year and happy reading in 2024!

  • @Bittenbyaradioactivebook
    @Bittenbyaradioactivebook6 ай бұрын

    Thank you for all the amazing, thoughful and inspiring content you bring to the community and to me. :) I really look forward to see you continue your reading journey here. Your videos are always filled with the joy of eading. So, don't try to stress too much, I know it's easier said than done, and focus on the formats and content that bring you joy in creating them. You asked so many pople "Why read?", which is such an amazing and enjoyable idea. If you know ask yourself "Why Booktube" I think you'll find a plethora of reasons and none will be tied to one or two specific type of videos like wrap-ups. It's a joy to get your perspective on books and listen to your insightful observations. Happy new reading year to you!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much! I really appreciate the wonderful feedback and warm advice. Wishing you a happy 2024 and happy reading! 😊

  • @bardsandbooks
    @bardsandbooks6 ай бұрын

    Always good to hear more praise for Abercrombie, I’m stoked for Age of Madness! All the best for 2024, Johanna 🤘🏽

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    It's so good! I hope you love it! Happy 2024! 😊

  • @taylor-kenny
    @taylor-kenny6 ай бұрын

    Hey Johanna, I came across your content as I was making my way through Malazan this past year. Really appreciated your input in many of the videos I watched. Looking forward to watching more content from you in 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Taylor! Nothing quite like the Malazan journey, and if you know, you know! Wishing you a wonderful 2024!

  • @MimiWhimsy
    @MimiWhimsy5 ай бұрын

    This is probably a weird video to first find your channel...but glad I did! I'm so excited to dig into your backlog and what you have coming in 2024! Here's to a great year done, and a great year to come!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    5 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for watching! That would be an interesting first video but also a good summary of 2023. Happy 2024!

  • @BooksWithBenghisKahn
    @BooksWithBenghisKahn6 ай бұрын

    You absolutely crushed it on the channel this year! The Why Reads are awesome and deep discussions, your video essays like about flow were so informative and interesting, your Cersei video was so much fun (and nailed it for that character and book), and I love hearing your wrap ups however frequently they come. I like the idea of a “last 3 books” or “last 5 books” kind of wrap up for you especially since you don’t live behind bound by the 30 calendar days aspect of the monthly wrap ups (I dunno why I’m exactly the opposite…I love discussing everything I could get to within the arbitrary block of time dictated by the calendar). And I am so here for your top-10 series vid whenever it drops!! It’s kinda cool that this was a reread heavy year for you, but I’m also excited for you to branch out into new authors and series. Off the top of my head I think Children of Time could be a big big hit for you as something new and exciting to try. But from your tbr vid I know you already have Sun Eater and Liveship and Dandelion on the docket so you have no dearth of amazing new stuff to dig into soon! I just picked up Dandelion bks 3-4 today from a couple bookshops that happened to have them, and now that my set is complete I’m geared up to try them too 😊

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for your kind words and for being a "Why Read?" guest in 2023, Ben! It was a pleasure chatting with you! I am conflicted that my reading doesn't line up perfectly with a 12-month calendar because I think it's wonderful to anticipate monthly wrap-ups. Thank you for the Children of Time recommendation! Sometimes I go off the rails with my TBR, so you never know if I might pick it up. I'll let you know if I do! 😊

  • @peterbaldwin4994
    @peterbaldwin49946 ай бұрын

    Always a pleasure watching your videos Johanna. You are a very thoughtful and generous person. Looking forward to your reflections in 2024

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Peter! Happy New Year and happy reading!

  • @DylanDoesBooks
    @DylanDoesBooks6 ай бұрын

    I will 100% tune in for a top 10 fantasy video. I enjoyed this self-reflection type video Johanna, hope you have a fab 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Dylan! Happy New Year!

  • @Talking_Story
    @Talking_Story6 ай бұрын

    Sounds like you had a wonderful year! Look forward to watching your journey in '24

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you! I'm excited to watch your journey as well, John! 😊

  • @thefantasythinker
    @thefantasythinker6 ай бұрын

    Great job with the wrap up! It was nice to see a recap of some of the cool videos you put out this year. I still remember the Cersei video as one of my favorites from anyone this past year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you, Jarrod!

  • @TomOrange
    @TomOrange6 ай бұрын

    Enjoyed all of your content in 2023 and looking forward to whatever you decide to put out in 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Tom!

  • @punkrockcerealbowl
    @punkrockcerealbowl6 ай бұрын

    You had a great year! Loved the Why Read discussions even though I’m always working and and have to catch the replay 😂 I think with wrapups, just keep trying stuff until you find something that is fun to make. I went no wrap ups, I did a five book wrapup, but I’ve landed on just weekly updates for now and that is the lowest pressure version for me. But who knows it might change again haha

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Robert! I appreciate that you watch the replays! ♥️ I guess we have to keep experimenting until we figure out what works. 🙃

  • @suvendroseal1724
    @suvendroseal17246 ай бұрын

    Love your channel so much Johanna, you inspire me to read so much, hope to see much more of you here, really feels like you're a online reading buddy.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Honored to hear that! Thank you!

  • @MarionHill-vq2xu
    @MarionHill-vq2xu6 ай бұрын

    Hooray to you reading more standalones. They are a lot of standalone fantasy & sci-fi novels that should be discussed on Booktube. I have nothing against series books but reading a complete story in one book just makes a huge difference. 😂

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I agree! I've been loving so many standalones this past year!

  • @MattonBooks
    @MattonBooks6 ай бұрын

    You’re right, your “Why Read?”s are great. ♥️ I’m also on the 1 per week plan, and I can recommend it. 🙂 And White Sands! I should show you my photos from there. 😉 Glad to have been at least a little part of your 2023, and can’t wait to see what we both get up to in 2024! 😀

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    You went to White Sands?? That's awesome! I want to see your photos! The sunset was stunning! I wish my phone camera could've caught all the colors. 💜💙💕🤍💛 Huge failure on my part not mentioning your comeback in this video. It made a huge, positive impact on me! ❤️

  • @MattonBooks

    @MattonBooks

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Johanna_reads Yeah, camping overnight in the middle of What Sands is one of the absolute highlight experiences of my entire life. It’s like visiting another planet. 😳😍

  • @AnithaGadeReads
    @AnithaGadeReads6 ай бұрын

    Sounds like you had a fantastic year, Johanna! It's amazing that you read 9 out of 10 standalones and you produced some wonderful content. Looking forward to more of that in 2024. Good luck!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Anitha! ❤️

  • @AFictionalEscapist
    @AFictionalEscapist6 ай бұрын

    Sounds like there is a lot to be proud of this year! Wonderful video as always, Happy New Year and all the best for 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Kris! 😊 Happy New Year and happy reading in 2024! 🎉

  • @onfaerystories
    @onfaerystories6 ай бұрын

    I can't wait for your top 10, though I appreciate so much that you shared with us some of your favorites in this video as well! I've discovered John Williams this year (through Augustus) and I'm looking forward to Stoner so I can finally watch that discussion. 👏 For your wrap-up videos, I really liked the way Jessie May decided to do hers, which is, just like you said, her last five reads and what she's planning to read next (whether she's sure of it or rolls a dice in order to get a random pick on her TBR). She said it was much less stressful this way. ☺️ In 2023, I'm glad I read lots of books on or set in Ancient Greece for a writing project I'd like to be set in that time period. Because of that, I've only read one Fantasy series (the Riftwar saga by Raymond E. Feist & Janny Wurts) and still have one book to go. I've enjoyed so much mostly reading classical lit, historical fiction, classics and non-fiction. I need to find a greater balance for Fantasy in 2024, but the heart wants what it wants. 😅 I'd like to read ASOIAF so I can watch your discussion videos when the timw comes. I think that should be my priority series of the new year. You've made me so excited for it. 🔥 Your videos are always a joy to watch, I'm truly glad you're now part of this community, you've put so many authors on my radar! ☺️

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I'm so happy you loved Augustus! I gifted that book to my uncle for Christmas. It's such an excellent book. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on Stoner! Thanks for mentioning Jessie's approach! She's wonderful, and I'd be happy to draw inspiration from her. Best wishes with the Ancient Greece writing project! "The heart wants what it wants" is truly the best approach to reading any genre, in my opinion. Thank you for your kind words and wonderful comments! They always mean a lot to me. Happy New Year and happy reading in 2024! 😊

  • @Avid_Reader
    @Avid_Reader6 ай бұрын

    I appreciate your clear enunciation.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    What a great compliment! Thank you!

  • @ExLibrisbyMikeBooklover
    @ExLibrisbyMikeBooklover6 ай бұрын

    I think your year was great and I wish you an even better one! I love the content you create and I just wish I had more time to watch (and read more ofcourse)!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Mike! Wishing you good quality reading and watching time this year! 😊

  • @TuftyMcTavish
    @TuftyMcTavish6 ай бұрын

    The monthly wrap-ups segment was particularly interesting because I totally get how some of the chonky boi books can take up most of a month - for me it’s Hobb’s “Liveship Traders”, the first book of which dominated one month, and then I deliberately parked the second another month because I needed the capacity it was consuming. I just got back to “The Mad Ship” yesterday in fact (28th Dec). FWIW I do hope you find a wrap-up format that you like doing, such as the “last five” idea, since hearing about what you actually read is, IMHO!, really interesting. I’ve got a huge pile of books that I proposed on the monthly TBRs that I didn’t get anywhere near, to my shame 🫣 Though I think I have said I *really* enjoy the thought process that goes into a book choice for a monthly TBR too! So really it’s all good, whatever format you go with 😃 I also chuckled when you mentioned the thumbnails as your thumbnail game is particularly strong. And did I detect a cut-scene where you posed with two books on either side of your head, which was you making the basis for a thumbnail? But something I’m proud of for myself? 🤔 One that pops to mind is when I have visitors I feed them from stuff that I’ve grown myself in my garden. I really make a point of that, and the feeling of accomplishment that goes with it is something I continue to enjoy. So there you go, the warm glow of food miles measured in metres.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I am so happy you love the thumbnails! That one cutaway was from my video titled "Weighing in on my 2023 Rereads." The funny thing is that I didn't initially use that cutaway for the thumbnail, but then I later changed the thumbnail of that video from a similar cutaway. 😅 Being a great gardener and sharing what you grew is a wonderful gift! I love that accomplishment!

  • @CoverswithCassidy
    @CoverswithCassidy6 ай бұрын

    excited to see what your up to in 2024

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Cassidy! 💜

  • @SuperSuperdude88
    @SuperSuperdude886 ай бұрын

    love your "why read" series. its one of the best out there!!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much! 😊

  • @davidranderson1
    @davidranderson16 ай бұрын

    I really enjoy your channel. Your book discussions are filled with interesting insights and your "Why Read?" series is a really inspired idea. Thank you for giving me a lot to enjoy and think about over the last year! I also appreciate how you broke down your reflections on the last year, especially including what surprised you. It got me reflecting, too. For me, the last year represented a really big shift in my reading. I spent the last 10 years getting a masters, doctorate, and fellowship. I loved what I got to read and much of it truly rewired my brain and how I see the world, but it was reading with a purpose. When I read just for fun, it was things I could consume in short bursts like comics and graphic novels. But, starting the day after Thanksgiving 2022, I made a serious commitment to read purely for enjoyment. Since then, I've revisited a lot of old favorites (Asimov, Le Guin, Tolkien, etc.), and a lot of new ones, including early classics (H.G. Wells, Robert Louis Stevenson, Arthur Conan Doyle, etc.), modern classics (Martha Wells, John Scalzi, Peter Watts, etc.), and, most surprising for me, horror (Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, etc.). I enjoy watching horror, but, in the past, I didn't read it. Can't say that any more!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, David! Congratulations on your master's, doctorate, and fellowship! I loved your statement about reading with a purpose and reading for entertainment. I find it beautiful to explore various genres for different benefits. Happy New Year and happy reading in 2024!

  • @davidranderson1

    @davidranderson1

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Best wishes in 2024 for you, your family, and the channel!

  • @wizzle-
    @wizzle-6 ай бұрын

    This video is really good and reminds me I need to tune in more! very enjoyable recap. Cheers to you and looking forward to more videos from you channel in 2024.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I appreciate that so much! Happy New Year! 😊

  • @BookishDrummer
    @BookishDrummer6 ай бұрын

    ohhhhh, more top 10 videos please! haha I love watching and filming those

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    They're so fun to watch! 😊

  • @carlosbranca8080
    @carlosbranca80806 ай бұрын

    I am planning to reread Shogun in the begining of the year. If you like it i would recommend Clavell's Tai Pan and its sequel 120 years later Noble House (my personal favorite...at leat 25 years ago when i read them!). Love your channel, Have a Happy New Year!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I'm so happy to hear your praise for Tai Pan! Thank you so much for your support! Wishing you a wonderful Shogun reread and 2024!

  • @mattkean1128
    @mattkean11286 ай бұрын

    Your channel is so great and i can't wait to see what you do in 2024! 🎉

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Matt! 🤍

  • @BookishDrummer
    @BookishDrummer6 ай бұрын

    Looks like you had a great year Johanna!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you! Same to you, Jake!

  • @BookishChas
    @BookishChas6 ай бұрын

    Sounds like a great year for you Johanna! I’ll look forward to your top ten if you do one. 😊

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Chas! 😊

  • @curtjarrell9710
    @curtjarrell97106 ай бұрын

    Hi Johanna. You do a good job with your channel. I like the idea of the last five books I read video. You don't want to feel obligated to keep making the same kinds of videos over and over. That's why film and movie producer David Geffen stopped producing movies. He said he got tired of solving the same set of problems over and over again. One change Jimmy Nutts made at his channel that I welcome is featuring more books that aren't sci-fi/fantasy, but a diverse group of books. In most of my adult reading years I've read widely and diversely. My favorite 2023 reads include several non-fiction books on the publishing biz, a bio of Willa Cather, a memoir by Diahnn Carroll, as well as short fiction by James Joyce ("The Dead" from 'Dubliners.') and the only fiction written by the famed German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke (The Notebooks of Malte Laurids Brigge). I'm proud that I've moved away from reading books merely because they are popular with readers (my old bookseller mentality) and pursuing my own interests whenever I pick up a book. 2024 will see me pick up lots of literature and classics as well as more non-fiction. Thanks for all you do, Johanna. Keep reading good stuff and make the changes you want to keep it fresh and fun for you.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Jimmy is an inspiration to us all, and he's also responsible for getting me to read books like Stoner, Disgrace, and books by McCarthy. That's wonderful advice about making changes. Thank you so much, Curt!

  • @bartsbookspace
    @bartsbookspace6 ай бұрын

    Can’t wait for more SF content from You and I’d love to see that top 10 fantasy video next year. Happy New Year Johanna!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much, Bart! Happy New Year!

  • @Bookeyman87
    @Bookeyman876 ай бұрын

    I really enjoy your channel, always improves the day to see a new video from you. "Why read?" has probably been my favorite series on your channel. I love the discussions opened by the topic. Happy holidays and thank you so much for the wonderful content!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    That means a lot to me! Thank you so much and Happy New Year!

  • @iWizard
    @iWizard6 ай бұрын

    Hey Johanna, congrats on another great year. Love the “Why Read?” chats. I’m a big fan of evergreen content rather than updates, which you do a lot of. Keep fostering nuanced discussions and delivering thoughtful content. You’re a one of a kind BookTuber. Can’t wait to see what you have in store for us in 2024. Cheers!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I appreciate you so much, Jordan! Honored that I got to have a "Why Read?" discussion with you this year. Happy New Year and happy reading in 2024! 🎉

  • @safinan8008
    @safinan80086 ай бұрын

    Happy reading to you!! 🎉

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Safina! 🎉

  • @blacknbluecollarreader
    @blacknbluecollarreader6 ай бұрын

    Amazing video for an amazing year Johanna!!! My goal was just to read more books this year. I started a goodreads account this year and picked a goal of 20 books. Needless to say a smashed that goal. My goal this year was also to become a better reader and I have done that......and this community and YOU have helped me complete that goal......so I thank you

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    You've also been reading incredible books! It's been a joy to have any part in your journey. Thank you, Dan! ❤️🥰

  • @jeremyfee
    @jeremyfee6 ай бұрын

    It's always great to hear your reflections. I'm glad you've been enjoying the standalones, sci-fi, and nonfiction. I think your thumbnails are great. Peace. :)

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you, Jeremy! Maybe I'm too hard on myself about the thumbnails. 😅

  • @andrewhanson405
    @andrewhanson4056 ай бұрын

    Nice yearly wrap up! You have been part off some of the best book discussions on fantasy booktube this past year...Hope you have a great New Years!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I'm incredibly honored! Thank you so much, Andrew. Happy New Year! 🥳

  • @series3113
    @series31136 ай бұрын

    Yass! 🥳🥳🥳 Great trend, right!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you! 😊

  • @binglamb2176
    @binglamb21766 ай бұрын

    Thank you and Happy New Year! You consistently produce some of the most excellent content on booktube especially the "Why Read?" series. I conquered 2 of my bookish white whales this year reading Les Miserables and finally, Tolkien, reading The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings Trilogy for the first time. Why I waited until retirement age to read Tolkien I have no idea. It was amazing. All the best to you in 2024!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Wonderful accomplishments! I still need to read Les Miserables, especially since I grew up obsessed with the musical. As for Tolkien, "the road goes ever on." Happy New Year!

  • @aerialruin8568
    @aerialruin85686 ай бұрын

    I continue enjoying your channel and wanna check out more Why Reads, the live w chat format is fun. IMO your lighting is just fine, as are your thumbnails, though you could engage more exaggerated ham-it-up expressions a la Matt's Fantasy Books hahaha (kidding). I own both the Guy Gavriel Kay books you read this year but have yet to get to them, which do you recommend more as a starting point for this author? Cheers.

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for your support and positive feedback! I might recommend Lions of Al-Rassan first since that was the order I read the two. I am more partial to A Song for Arbonne, especially with the use of song, but both are excellent! Enjoy!

  • @BookishDrummer
    @BookishDrummer6 ай бұрын

    I'm proud of myself for asking Stacey to marry me! (and thankful that she said yes!) I'm also proud of getting back into the groove of doing KZread, the second half of the year was tough because I was working a lot more than usual, and I didn't have the energy to film. But now I'm back to regularly uploading 2-3 times a week, which is great!

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    What an amazing year for you! Glad you're making a powerful come-back to BookTube. Wishing you and Stacey all the best!

  • @readingwithrebeccanicole
    @readingwithrebeccanicole6 ай бұрын

    I'm excited for a Johanna top 10 video! Though I'm procrastinating on my end of the year top 10 video because it's hard to rank books that evoke different feelings 😅

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you , Rebecca! I agree with you about different books evoking different feelings. It feels like comparing apples and oranges when my preference for the two alternates. 😅

  • @Cale__1
    @Cale__16 ай бұрын

    Waiting on partying video

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    🥳

  • @austinmoore1113
    @austinmoore11136 ай бұрын

    How did you find the Long Price Quartet? I can only find two of the four on Amazon (new edition).

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    I loved it, and I have a spoiler-free review on my channel titled "THE LONG PRICE QUARTET (No Spoilers)" if you want more detailed thoughts. 😊

  • @zubaerchaudhari8267
    @zubaerchaudhari82676 ай бұрын

    Hello there hey there

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Hello! :)

  • @duffypratt
    @duffypratt6 ай бұрын

    Not even a mention of becoming an honorary Dude Bro?

  • @Johanna_reads

    @Johanna_reads

    6 ай бұрын

    Huge oversight on my part! 😆