Jenna Bush Hager Recommends Books for Alix Earle After the Influencer’s Polarizing Comments on Reading

A recent comment from TikTok influencer Alix Earle has stirred quite a debate about literacy and the influence of social media figures. During a Q&A session with Interview Magazine, Earle, who is 25, revealed that she has never read a book besides perhaps a title from Dr. Seuss. This comment has not only sparked reactions from fans but also prompted notable media figures to weigh in on the importance of reading, particularly for younger audiences who look up to influencers like Earle.

Jenna Bush Hager, a prominent author and host of “Today with Jenna & Sheinelle,” was quick to criticise Earle’s statements. While discussing the issue with co-host Sheinelle Jones, Bush Hager expressed her disappointment, emphasising the responsibility that comes with great social media influence. She stated, “There’s a responsibility with the platform and there are so many young girls—and boys—who look up to her.” Bush Hager, known for founding the Read with Jenna book club, seemed keen on turning the conversation into a positive directive.

In her response, Bush Hager suggested a reading list tailored specifically for Earle, proposing that the first step should be to read “The Baby-Sitters Club.” “Since the last book she read was Dr. Seuss, let’s start with mid-grade,” said Bush Hager while showing one of the popular children’s chapter books. The suggestion aimed not only to encourage Earle to read more but also to connect with themes of female empowerment and collaboration.

Bush Hager then suggested Judy Blume’s classic, “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” with a humorous twist about the book discussing adolescence and sexuality. “If you haven’t learned about sex, this might hit the ticket,” she quipped, highlighting Blume’s knack for addressing those tricky topics that many teens encounter. The former teacher further added her thoughts on what should have been part of Earle’s education, even playfully reproaching her teachers for not introducing her to key literary works, such as John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men.”

The conversation offered a light-hearted yet serious critique of Earle’s comments, with Jones acknowledging that such topics would indeed provoke Bush Hager. Taking the initiative further, Bush Hager furnished Earle with a comprehensive reading list, which included well-regarded titles such as “Bel Canto” by Ann Patchett, “Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee, and “The Hunger Games” series by Suzanne Collins, amongst others. Each title was carefully chosen, aiming to broaden the influencer’s literary horizons.

Earle later appeared to lean into the controversy with a playful social media post. On October 1, she shared a TikTok video featuring her nighttime routine, which included her reading “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss. In her caption, Earle playfully referred to the book as “the best,” perhaps signalling a willingness to engage with the discussion rather than ignoring it.

The contrasting perspectives of Bush Hager and Earle highlight a broader conversation about the role of influencers and their connection to educational themes. As influencers increasingly shape public opinion and behaviours, their relationship with literacy can have significant implications for their young audiences. Bush Hager’s suggestions solidified the notion that engagement with literature can foster developmental skills and critical thinking.

In an age where social media stars command considerable influence, the dialogue surrounding Earle’s comments underscores the power dynamics at play. Influencers are often seen as role models, yet their statements and attitudes can significantly shape the beliefs and behaviours of their followers. Bush Hager’s advocacy for reading not only serves to advise Earle but also acts as a gentle reminder to all influencers about the impact of their words on impressionable audiences.

As this conversation continues to unfold, it serves as an opportunity for influencers to re-evaluate their cultural significance, and perhaps inspire a renewed love for reading among their followers. With the push from respected figures like Bush Hager, it is hoped that literacy will take a more prominent place in influencer culture, benefiting both audiences and the influencers themselves.