Have you ever noticed Instagram is flooded with female bookstagrammers? I wanted to find out who some of the men are who also share and read books on Instagram. This ongoing series will feature some of the most well read men on Instagram who also share a passion for all things BOOKS. Let’s get up close and personal with: James Trevino. You may have seen his mesmerizing and elaborate photos on his mega popular Instagram account that is a visual bookish feast for your eyes. His tagline is “Don’t Be Basic” and you can shop his merchandise here.
What is your name and Instagram handle?
My name is James and my Instagram handle is @james_trevino.
When did you start your Instagram account and what was your motivation for starting it?
I started my account at the beginning of 2016 and back then it was a simple personal account.
Have you always enjoyed reading?
No. I used to hate reading as a kid. Then Harry Potter happened when I was around 13. And boom!
Where do you currently live?
I currently live in Romania.
Name 1-2 recent books you’ve really enjoyed reading this year.
The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry and The Song of Achiles by Madeline Miller.
Are you currently in a relationship? It’s okay to plead the 5th if you prefer not to answer!
I plead the 5th haha.
Do you have children? If so, do they love to read as well?
Oh, God no. I can barely take care of myself. I am not exactly the most responsible person around.
What advice would you give to parents of children, (specifically parents with boys), who may have reluctant readers or kids who don’t enjoy reading?
Bring them to a book store and leave them to wander. That’s how my parents convinced me to read. They let me pick any books I wanted.
What books are on your nightstand right now?
The second book in the MONSTER BLOOD TATTOO series by D.M. Cornish and another book by Steve Berry.
On average, how long does it take you to do a photo shoot for your Instagram posts? How do you come up with the concept for each of your posts?
It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 4-5 hour (not including editing). I get inspiration from my day to day life and especially from books, movies, anime, cartoons.
How do you choose which books to share on your Instagram page?
No particular way really. It’s either what I feel like showing or, in case of a sponsored post, that particular book.
Do you think male bookstagrammers are perceived differently than female bookstagrammers? If so, in what way(s)?
I think we are a bit of a rarity, but otherwise I don’t think there’s any difference. Bookstagram is one of the most open and welcoming communities around. That is why I fell in love with it.
Hard cover, paperback, or e-book when reading a book on your own?
I love hard covers, but lately I’ve been reading more and more e-books. They are way easier to get.
Name 1-2 of your favorite authors.
J.K. Rowling and J.R.R. Tolkien. Cliche as hell, but they are legends for a reason.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love french fries. Does that count?
Connect with James Trevino on Instagram.
