Boitumelo Malunga, affectionately known as Tumi, has carved a unique niche on TikTok with her captivating book reviews. Each video begins with her signature phrase, “So, imagine this,” instantly drawing viewers into the literary worlds she passionately discusses.
She then narrates each book with so much emotion you can’t help but imagine the exact physical appearance of the characters she’s describing and have a clear picture of each scenario. You can tell by how she then takes a deep sigh after narrating the story that she went in and out of character, and then she proceeds to share her opinions about the book.
Her genuine enthusiasm and insightful commentary have not only garnered a loyal following on TikTok but have also propelled featured books to newfound popularity, often leading to them selling out in stores.
@tumi.malunga Nomaswazi by @Busisekile Khumalo ?. This is Nomaswazi and Hlongwane’s love story♥️. #tiktoksouthafrica?? #trending #viral ♬ original sound – Boitumelo Malunga
I discovered Tumi probably two days ago, and already I have watched all 71 parts of her “books” series on her TikTok account. It’s giving addicted, I know, but that’s how good she is! She made me realise how much I used to love immersing myself in a book for days, forgetting the world around me. She definitely made me want to go back to being a bookworm again.
She is an obvious hopeless romantic as most of the books she enjoys sharing are romance books, filled with drama and sometimes thriller vibes. Tumi mentions in one video that she loves it when authors represent important issues in their books, issues such as black romance, healing, loss, postpartum depression, PTSD and others.
@tumi.malunga Ever by Grey Huffington?. The way Luca shows up for Ever in this book was one of the most beautiful things to read?♥️??#tiktoksouthafrica?? #viral #trending ♬ original sound – Boitumelo Malunga
Besides her outstanding storytelling skills, Tumi has such a beautiful voice that I wish all these books she’s reviewed would have audio formats with her voice reading them.
Beyond her engaging reviews, Tumi actively collaborates with authors, amplifying their voices and works to a broader audience. Her influence has led to invitations to literary events, where she engages with writers, poets, and fellow literature enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community centred around the love of reading.
Balancing her literary endeavours, Tumi showcases her entrepreneurial spirit by offering satin scarves and scrunchies on her TikTok account, blending her passion for beauty and fashion with her love for literature.
Through her multifaceted interests and dynamic presence, Boitumelo continues to inspire and connect with a diverse audience, celebrating the joy of reading and personal expression.
Also see: Meet CJ, TikTok’s ‘internet nephew’
