" I’ve heard people on panels say, ‘You must have a Web site. You need to tweet. Repeat the title of your book constantly,’ and I just want to say, ‘Shut up. Everything you’re saying is wrong.’ People will know instantly if your only motivation for tweeting is to sell books. "
- Maureen Johnson

In the given quote, Maureen Johnson expresses her dissatisfaction with common advice given to writers about promoting their work through social media. She criticizes the notion that having a website and constantly tweeting are necessary for success, suggesting that such tactics can be counterproductive if they feel insincere or solely aimed at selling books.

Johnson's statement delves deeper into the essence of authentic communication and genuine engagement with an audience. By emphasizing that people instantly recognize insincerity in promotional efforts, she highlights the importance of building a meaningful connection rather than merely pushing products. This insight reflects broader concerns about authenticity in marketing and creative industries, where maintaining integrity is often more valuable than sheer visibility or frequency of posts. Johnson's quote invites reflection on how creators can balance promotion with genuine interaction to foster lasting relationships with their audience.

Maureen Johnson is an American writer known for her young adult fiction novels. With a career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as a respected voice in the literary community. Her work often explores themes of identity and coming-of-age experiences, resonating strongly with teenage readers. Johnson's critical perspective on social media marketing aligns with her broader commitment to authentic storytelling and meaningful engagement with her audience.