We were lucky to catch up with Aimee Escanio recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Aimee thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I have always been a creative person. As a kid I loved arts and crafts, scrapbooking, making bracelets. During the pandemic, I actually made jewelry and opened an Etsy shop. There was alot that went on behind the scenes such as taking photos and creating captivating posts that will get people to buy your product. Social media is a powerful tool for marketing! I learned alot.

Growing up, I also loved reading. Last year was a difficult time for me. My mom was diagnosed with cancer. I clung to books more than ever. It was my outlet, my escape. I felt like reading wasn’t enough. I wanted to share my passion for books and maybe even inspire others to read. Thats when I decided to start a bookstagram! I was a bit intimidated because I don’t have a fancy bookshelf with hundred of books. This made me get creative with my posts by using Canva, or thinking of the perfect setting and backdrop to pair with the book.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hi! My name is Aimee and I am a Bookstagrammer. I create and post content on Instagram featuring books!

You know that feeling when you really love something but have no one to share that excitement with? That’s why I started my account. None of my close friends read regularly like I do, so I didnt have anyone to chat with about books!

I wanted to have a positive space for me to talk about books. On my account you’ll find spoiler free reviews. I like to think I’m a fair reviewer, so even if a book wasn’t five stars for me, I will focus on what I did enjoy.

I don’t have an extensive library and that’s okay! You can read tons of books and not have any physical books to show for it. I love utilizing free/cheaper resources which some may not even be aware of! Books can be expensive and I’ve found ways to read on a budget.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I think the biggest question a non creative would ask me is WHY – Why have a bookstagram if you’re not making money from it?

I’ve had my account for less than a year and I feel like my world has opened up so much. Its because of this book community that I’ve been able to meet new friends, bond with current friends, attend events where I’ve met authors and celebrities, discover new bookstores and local libraries. It’s not just books and not just reading. It’s a whole new interactive experience.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I dont have a huge following yet. It’s not about numbers for me. It makes my day when I get a messge from someone that says “I picked up this book because of your post and loved it!” Just the fact that someone read my opinions of a book and made a decision that they were going to read it, means alot!

There are bookstagrammers out there with a huge following, an aesthetic pleasing reading space and a huge book shelf. I hope I inspire others that you don’t have to have all those things to share your love for books. So thats my biggest advice — to be authentic and to embrace YOU!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Www.instagram.com/bookreccsbyaimz
• Other: Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/149483978-aimee