TikTok's effect: Arlington author's book skyrockets to success

Dallas — Here's a noteworthy addition to the chronicles of inspiring human connections. A video currently making rounds on TikTok bears witness to the extraordinary impact of a humble act of kindness.

This digital evidence encapsulates a pivotal moment in the life of Shawn Warner, an up-and-coming author from Arlington.

The story in the viral clip unravels as Warner crosses paths with two strangers while ardently marketing his book in the busy corridors of a Fort Worth Kroger store.

The opening caption reads, "This new author seemed super defeated when I first walked past him. So before I left the store, I decided to go back."

Warner takes this unexpected opportunity to elaborate on the central theme of his novel, titled "Leigh Howard and the Ghosts of Simmons-Pierce Manor," to the intrigued passers-by.

"It's about a teenage girl who teams up with a ghost of multiple personalities to solve the mystery of her parents' murder," Warner said according to WFAA.

The person behind the lens, Jerrad Swearenjin, stated that it was Warner's persistent dedication to his book that sparked a surge of inspiration within him.

"It was just supposed to be, hey, here’s a fellow neighbor who’s just struggling and I wanted to help him out," Swearenjin said.

As a tangible show of support, Swearenjin decided to buy not just one, but two copies of Warner's novel. The impact of this unpretentious video clip was nothing short of astonishing. Within two days of its upload, the video drew in over 15 million views, rocketing Warner's novel to the top of Amazon's bestseller list.

"[The response to the book] hasn't stopped!" Swearenjin told WFAA Wednesday. "I can barely open the app without it freezing and crashing because it’s getting so much love."

Following the widespread reach of the video, Warner extended his profound appreciation to those who watched the clip and purchased his novel. He shared his ongoing plans for a future book signing event at another Kroger location in Dallas.

Inundated by the tidal wave of support, Warner voiced his profound emotions.

"Just to be nice to some guy sitting alone selling books...the generosity that poured out of that was just amazing, I get choked up," Warner said tearfully. "They gave me a chance. And that’s just beautiful."

Lizette, Warner's spouse, conveyed her awe at her husband's unwavering resolve.

"He doesn’t give up, and he’s been like that for years!" she said.

Warner, an esteemed Army veteran, had encountered the unfortunate event of losing his job due to company-wide layoffs several years ago. Nevertheless, despite these obstacles, his self-confidence never wavered.

Content source: Dallas Metro News, WFAA, Dallas Morning News, TikTok