BookWyrm
Mouse Reeve and contributors
BookWyrm is a decentralized social network for readers, accessible via web browser on Mac. It allows you to track your reading, write reviews, and discover new books through human recommendations, not algorithms. As part of the Fediverse, BookWyrm promotes a friendly, anti-corporate, and community-oriented environment for book lovers.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Decentralized and anti-corporate philosophy
- Focus on human recommendations and community
- Federation with other Fediverse services like Mastodon
- Data import from Goodreads and other platforms
- Clean and user-friendly web interface
Top Dislikes
- No native Mac application
- Smaller user base compared to mainstream platforms
- Potential for duplicate book entries
- Relies on web browser for Mac access
Popular Comments
Reddit User - frostking104
2023-06-25
It generally has a very clean and easy to use UI, along with far less frustration than GoodReads. In my opinion at least.
Reddit User - S_L_Raymond
2024-07-25
Just joined. Wish it had an app.
YouTube - Booktuber
2025-02-22
Among Goodreads alternatives, BookWyrm is the one I would recommend for its focus on community and human-curated recommendations.
Fedi.Tips
2025
BookWyrm is the Fediverse's alternative to Amazon's Goodreads... BookWyrm servers let users keep track of which titles they've read, discover new books to read based on human recommendations... and publish their own reviews.
JoinBookWyrm.com
2025
BookWyrm is a social network for tracking your reading, talking about books, writing reviews, and discovering what to read next. Federation allows BookWyrm users to join small, trusted communities...
AlternativeTo User
2025
If you're looking for a Goodreads alternative that prioritizes privacy and community, BookWyrm is a great choice. The web interface works well on Mac.
Detailed Review
BookWyrm is a social reading platform designed as a decentralized and privacy-respecting alternative to Goodreads. Accessible on Mac through any web browser, it offers a comprehensive suite of features for book lovers, including tracking reading progress, writing reviews, and engaging with a community of readers. As part of the Fediverse, BookWyrm emphasizes human connections over algorithmic suggestions, fostering a more personal and less corporate environment. While it lacks a dedicated Mac application, the web interface is functional and well-designed, providing a smooth experience for Mac users. BookWyrm stands out for its commitment to decentralization and user privacy, making it a compelling option for those seeking to move away from mainstream, data-centric platforms.
Standout Features
- Decentralized Social Network: Built on the ActivityPub protocol, BookWyrm is part of the Fediverse, allowing interaction with users on various independent servers and even other platforms like Mastodon.
- Human-Curated Recommendations: Discover new books based on recommendations from people you follow, rather than relying on algorithms.
- Reading Tracking: Keep a record of books you've read, are currently reading, and want to read. Set reading goals and update your progress.
- Reviewing and Discussions: Write book reviews, engage in discussions, and share your thoughts on books with the community.
- Data Import: Import your reading data from Goodreads, LibraryThing, StoryGraph, and other services.
- Ad-Free and Anti-Corporate: BookWyrm is committed to being ad-free and community-driven, offering a refreshing alternative to corporate platforms.
Conclusion
BookWyrm is a valuable web-based application for Mac users who are passionate about reading and desire a social platform that prioritizes community and decentralization. While the absence of a native Mac app might be a minor drawback for some, the well-designed web interface provides a robust and enjoyable user experience. It's an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to Goodreads and similar platforms, especially users who value privacy, community interaction, and a less algorithm-driven approach to book discovery and social reading.
