Summer feels so far away during these cold months, so let’s bring our own tropical fun by introducing Bookstagrammer of the Week, Leira Joyce! Leira brings a relaxing island escape to her followers and book friends, and we all wish we could be with her in Hawai’i! In less than one year, she has accumulated a beacon of happiness to those who follow her page and plans to continue doing just that! Read on to learn more about Leira Joyce. Don’t forget to follow all her socials!
Leira Joyce of @leirasreads
Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads
Let’s start the interview!
Where are you from?
I was born and raised on the beautiful Hawai’i island.
When and why did you start Bookstagram?
I started my Bookstagram back in June 2023 on a whim. I started because 2023 was the year I restarted my reading journey. Ever since I was little, I was this huge bookworm and always loved to read. After graduating from University in 2022, I figured it was time to restart this hobby again. Bookstagram is a way for me to share my love and passion for books, stories, world-building, and in essence, experiencing a new world/life. I love the saying, “I have lived thousands of different lives,” just because I have this opportunity to read amazing books. Books and reading are a passion of mine, so I love to share this with others as well!
How would you describe your account’s aesthetic/why did you choose it?
I would describe my account’s aesthetic as very real and honest about who I am. I love sharing content that is real. My account is nowhere near perfect, and as someone who struggled with perfectionism, this is great for me. I wanted to showcase the reality of my life, where I am, what I am experiencing, and my reading journey. I want my fellow bookish friends to see who I am, what I love, and what I am passionate about. I love sharing books, hauls, food, and my life!
What are some books on your 2024 TBR list?
I have so many books to choose from, but some books on my 2024 TBR are:
- Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross
- The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center
- Funny Story by Emily Henry
- Betting on You by Lynn Painter
- Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan
- The A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas
- The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
Any fun facts about yourself that your followers may not know?
- I am a full-time corporate girly (a big Career-ial girl).
- I can speak multiple languages, such as Ilocano, Tagalog, some Spanish, and Hawai’i Pidgin.
- I am a big believer in self-care, whether that’s skincare, journaling, shopping, working out, or pampering.
- I love to cook and bake; I find it very therapeutic.
- I lived and went to a university in Seattle
What are some of your favorite books/series?
- After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
- Book Lovers by Emily Henry
- Divine Rivals Duology by Rebecca Ross
- Once Upon a Broken Heart Series by Stephanie Garber
- The Roughest Draft by Emily Wibberley and Austin-Siegemund-Broka
- The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
What are you currently reading? How are you liking it?
I am currently reading All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, and it is so beautifully written.
What author(s) would you love to meet?
I would love to meet so many authors, such as Rebecca Ross, Lynn Painter, Jenny Han, Emily Henry, and Emily Wibberley because I absolutely adore their books/writing!
What does Bookstagram mean to you?
To me, Bookstagram is a place where you can be authentically true to yourself, life, and your book-loving self. I have found this community to be supportive, inspiring, and uplifting. I think it is amazing to meet and learn about one’s passions, likes, dislikes, and things that make one unique. I feel so fortunate to be able to share my life, passions, and reading journey with everyone that follows me!
Who are some of your favorite Bookstagrammers?
- @be.my.bookfriend
- @bookmarkedbyjaycie
- @coleys_library
- @literaryliana
- @readsbykyra
- @readsbylinda
- @veesarahreads
Do you have a favorite bookstore where you’re from?
There are a handful of bookstores on my island — it is one of my goals to open up my very own bookstore in my hometown!
Any advice for aspiring Bookstagrammers?
My advice for aspiring Bookstagrammers is to be authentically true to yourself because it will show in everything you do. I know that it can be daunting to post on social media, but do not be afraid to post or start your Bookstagram journey. If you have a passion for something, why not share this with others who can find inspiration and something enjoyable because of you? If you want to post what you love, do it because, at the end of the day, you are doing it for yourself. I have grown so much throughout my own journey, and I hope you find the courage and inspiration to start as well!
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