Our e-reader expert examines a questionable BookTok trend.
By Samantha Mangino on March 28, 2026
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When exploring TikTok communities, BookTok proves to be particularly influential. It’s a gathering space for book aficionados and e-reader enthusiasts alike. The Kindle, Kobo, and Boox are popular among e-readers, so it’s newsworthy when a new device trends. Recently, “Mini Kindles” have made waves, with numerous videos showcasing the pint-sized devices.
Searching “mini Kindle” on TikTok reveals clips of people entering stores like Barnes & Noble or Target, followed by unboxing what they call a “mini Kindle.” This left me perplexed as someone who works with e-readers regularly.
I doubt these devices are purchased at Barnes & Noble or affiliated with Amazon. In fact, these are likely sold by the creators of these videos.
In one now-deleted video, user @aurealeaf promotes NovaLeaf’s “NovaLeaf Mini Kindle.” Another user, @hydro_scope, has a website featuring a NOVA Mini Pink Kindle. Both claim to be pocket-sized under the Kindle name, with no official ties to Amazon.
Attempts to reach out to @aurealeaf and @hydro_scope for comments were made, and updates will follow if responses are received.
Are mini Kindle pods really Kindles?
These mini Kindles appear unrelated to Kindle e-readers or Amazon, and no mini versions are sold by Amazon. Inquiries for comment from Amazon have gone unanswered.
Reverse image searches show these “mini Kindles” resemble Oilsky-made devices—4-inch touchscreen MP3 and video players, not e-readers. They come with Google Play access, allowing Kindle app downloads, but that’s the extent of their Amazon connection.
Oilsky MP3 players and copies are available on Amazon. TikTok sellers list their mini Kindles at $79.99, slightly more than Amazon’s Oilsky price. They’re not sold at Barnes & Noble or Target.
These videos exploit the term “Kindle” for any e-reader-like item and might face potential legal implications from Amazon.
As of now, the @aurealeaf TikTok account is unavailable.