There is something so special about reading a book (voluntarily, not for class!) and then getting to talk about it with other people who have read it, too. Yes, it can seem a bit retro, but book clubs are making a comeback! Whether you are looking for connection, intellectual stimulation, or simply a reason to carve out some time to read, starting or joining a book club can be a wonderful experience.
I've been in a book club for the past year or so, and it's one of the things I look forward to most. Making time to read, thinking about what I'm reading, then talking about it with other people who have read the same book and have opinions (sometimes similar, sometimes wildly divergent to mine) is intellectually and emotionally stimulating. We take turns choosing the books we're going to read (and yes, we sometimes choose "duds"), we meet over Zoom, and we almost always share a (virtual) glass of wine. It's the best hour of my month. Here's why you should do it, too.
You don’t need to wait for someone else to invite you. If you want a book club, you can start one yourself. Begin with your own network. Ask friends, co-workers, or neighbors if they are interested. Post in a local community group, or check online platforms like Meetup or Facebook where book clubs often advertise openings. Libraries and bookstores sometimes host their own clubs and are usually happy to point you in the right direction.
If you’re shy about starting from scratch, look for existing groups. Some are open to anyone, others may be focused on specific genres like romance, fantasy, or memoir. There are even clubs built around shared identities or experiences, such as women’s book clubs, LGBTQIA+ book clubs, or clubs for young professionals.
Deciding which books to tackle is part of the fun. Your club might choose a book together each month, rotate who picks, or focus on a theme for a season. To keep things lively, try to vary genres so the group is exposed to different voices and perspectives.
Some places to find inspiration include:
Remember, the “right” book is not always the most prestigious or the longest. A lighthearted romance or page-turning thriller can spark just as much conversation as a weighty literary novel.
Your book club doesn’t need to look like the stereotypical group sitting in someone’s living room, where there are never enough comfortable chairs and someone is always stuck awkwardly on the floor. There are plenty of creative options:
The key is choosing a format that feels sustainable for everyone. Virtual meetings are especially great if members live in different cities or if schedules are unpredictable.
My book club meets over Zoom, as our members are in different countries and time zones. It can be challenging to find a time that works for everyone, but we make it work.
The hardest part of a book club is not starting, but maintaining momentum. A few tips can help: Keep meetings consistent, make sure everyone has a chance to share, and don’t stress if not everyone finishes the book. Some of the best conversations can come from partial reads or strong opinions. And if the conversation wanders away from the book, that's okay, too! Sharing time together that's time-out from real life is incredibly refreshing.
At its heart, a book club is about more than books. It is about connection, laughter, and making time to share ideas. Whether you are on a couch with friends, sitting at a café, or joining a Zoom call in your pajamas, the important thing is creating space for stories and conversation.
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