Videocracy: How YouTube Is Changing the World . . . with Double Rainbows, Singing Foxes, and Other Trends We Can’t Stop Watching

YouTube is a global juggernaut, the number two search engine in the world, and the repository of practically everything these days, from news reports to how-to videos, from TV and film clips to heartfelt vlog posts, from prank videos to rallying cries from marginalized individuals. YouTube is a reflection of us, a societal linchpin, and a political hot button, all at once.

Videocracy is an in-depth look at the birth of YouTube, the initial idea behind it, and how it evolved into the trendmaker it has become. Along the way, Allocca explains how it stores videos, the origins of several famous viral videos, and how it continues to struggle with and change how its platform relates to old media and new alike, including niche audiences revealed by YouTube trends.

Allocca is an effective narrator, giving glimpses into the day-to-day running of YouTube and how even those behind the curtain have been surprised by things like unboxing videos, which trends catch on, and which YouTubers became minor and major stars.

Videocracy is the most complete exploration of YouTube this far and an insightful lens into the ever-expanding world of Internet interaction, advertising, and fame.