To be a Bookeater

Abstract

Today, adolescent fi ction readers are increasingly engaged in diff erent forms of 'social reading' in online communities. Th rough an analysis of Bookeater.dk, a Danish site for adolescent readers, we show how a communal reader identity is constructed via predominant conceptions of reading among the site's users and how this infl uences literary value assessment. Overall, the article argues that the young readers' adherence to this communal identity creates a culture of consensus rather than opening up space for critical discussion about literary value. Nevertheless, they show critical awareness of the diff erent interests surrounding the publication and promotion of literature.