When your passion meets persistence, incredible things can happen. Just ask Katie Fulton.
Our very own Walsworth Sales Representative recently took center stage on “TODAY with Jenna & Friends,” where she was featured for turning her love of reading into a viral phenomenon. Katie, a Bookstagrammer known for building stunning Christmas trees entirely out of books, joined Jenna Bush Hager and Willie Geist to share her story, her reading recommendations and the magic behind her now-famous book tree.
What started as a personal tradition has grown into a nationwide moment. Katie’s latest book tree racked up more than 30 million views on TikTok, catching the attention of readers, educators and producers alike. That momentum led her straight to the TODAY studio, where she built a book tree live on set using Read with Jenna picks and reminded viewers everywhere why stories matter.
A Love of Reading, Built One Book at a Time
Katie’s journey with reading hasn’t always been easy. As a student, she struggled and participated in a Reading Recovery program. But with the encouragement of her family, especially her grandparents, reading became something joyful, empowering and deeply personal. That foundation shaped who she is today: someone who reads nearly 200 books a year and uses her platform to get others excited about reading too.
Her goal is simple but powerful. Spread the magic of reading, especially during the holidays, and make books feel inviting, not intimidating.
Sound familiar?
Why This Matters to Yearbooks
At Walsworth, we believe in the power of stories. Yearbooks are more than pages and photos. They’re collections of moments, voices and memories that deserve to be told thoughtfully and preserved with care.
Katie’s story mirrors what we encourage yearbook staffs to do every day:
- Capture meaningful stories, big and small
- Create something lasting from individual moments
- Use creativity to engage an audience
- Celebrate voices that might otherwise go unheard
Just like a yearbook, Katie’s book tree takes hundreds of individual stories and brings them together into something unforgettable.
A Moment Worth Celebrating
Watching Katie share the TODAY Show stage with Jenna Bush Hager and Willie Geist was a proud moment for all of us. It’s a reminder that creativity, authenticity and passion can open doors you never expect and that storytelling, in any form, still matters.
We couldn’t be prouder of Katie for representing herself, her love of reading and our Walsworth community on a national stage. If you haven’t already, follow Katie on Instagram at @katienedsabiggerbookshelf for book recommendations, reading inspiration and a healthy reminder to put the phone down and pick up a book.
Congrats, Katie! We’re cheering you on and turning the page right alongside you.
