Starting your own book club is a great way to kick off the spring season. Here is a guide to help you get started.
Type: Decide what kind of book club you want to create (in person vs. online). Will you organize face to face discussions or will all discussions be held strictly online? What type of books will you read in your book club (fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, best sellers etc.)? If you are unsure of what type of books you would like to read, most local libraries can provide you with a list of books or suggestions to help get your book club started.
Membership: Book clubs often work best when they include members with similar tastes and interests. The recommended size of a book club is five to twelve members.
Meetings: Determine the location, time and frequency of your book club meetings. If you are creating an in person book club, take turns hosting meetings at each members home. You can also hold meetings at a restaurant or café. If you are organizing an online book club, meetings can be held on social media platforms such as Facebook or Skype. Book club meetings are generally held during the afternoon or evening, depending on each member’s schedule. The frequency of each book club meeting typically ranges from every four to six weeks.
Details: Whether by telephone, or social media platform, designate a member to provide the meeting details, prior to each book club meeting. Meeting details should include the location, meeting time and discussion questions related to the book.
Books: Having trouble deciding on your first book? Here are suggestions from the New York Times best seller list:
- The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
- All the Light we Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
- A House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout
- Room by Emma Donoghue
