TIPSLIFEHACKS

Dua Lipa, the global pop sensation, is making waves beyond the music charts. She's launched her own book club, Books Like Me, signalling a serious foray into the literary world. But is this a genuinely exciting development for readers, or another example of celebrities encroaching on traditionally literary spaces? The rise of celebrity-led book clubs—from Emma Watson’s Our Shared Shelf to Jennifer Aniston’s recommendations—has sparked a debate about influence, authenticity, and the future of reading.

For years, literary circles have been nurtured by dedicated booksellers, passionate reviewers, and literary critics. They've built communities around shared love of reading and thoughtful discussion. Now, celebrities with massive social media followings are entering the arena, wielding considerable power over what books become bestsellers and what authors gain recognition. While their intentions might be noble—to promote reading and introduce diverse voices—the potential for commercialisation and a blurring of lines between entertainment and literature is undeniable.

The appeal is obvious. Celebrities bring instant visibility and a pre-built audience. A recommendation from a beloved star can catapult a book to the top of the charts, regardless of its literary merit. This can be a boon for authors struggling to be heard, but it also raises concerns about the dominance of popular appeal over artistic depth. Are we witnessing a shift where book sales are driven more by celebrity endorsement than by critical acclaim or genuine literary value?

Furthermore, the curation of these book clubs can feel somewhat… curated. While many celebrities genuinely enjoy reading, the choices often align with broader cultural trends and marketable narratives. It's rare to see a celebrity book club championing challenging, experimental, or niche literature. The focus tends to be on accessible, feel-good reads that resonate with a wide audience, potentially limiting exposure to more diverse literary landscapes.

Dua Lipa's Books Like Me, with its focus on works that have personally resonated with her, is a good starting point. However, the success of her club—and others like it—will depend on whether it can move beyond simply recommending popular titles and actively champion a broader range of voices and perspectives. It's about more than just reading; it’s about fostering genuine literary conversation and supporting the long-term health of the publishing industry.

The rise of the celebrity book club isn't inherently negative. It can be a powerful tool for promoting reading and introducing new audiences to literature. But we need to remain critical of the motivations behind these clubs and ensure that the focus remains on the books themselves, not just the celebrities who recommend them. The future of reading depends on it.