essays for book clubs

50 Great Book Club Discussion Questions For Any Book

Teresa Preston

Since 2008, Teresa Preston has been blogging about all the books she reads at Shelf Love . She supports her book habit by working as a magazine editor at a professional association in the Washington, DC, area, which is (in)conveniently located just a few steps from a used bookstore. When she’s not reading or editing, she’s likely to be attending theatre, practicing yoga, watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer again, or doting on her toothless orange cat, Anya. Twitter: @teresareads

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I’ve been in a lot of book clubs, and I know it’s not always easy to get a conversation going on a book. I’ve found that the best book club discussion questions are ones that are open-ended and that get people to share their personal opinions. If you’re ready to start a book club , here are 50 of the best book club questions, for fiction and nonfiction alike. Find a printable list to bring to your meeting here !

How did I create this list of book club discussion questions? 

Simply put, I’ve assembled a list of the kinds of questions that are likely to get people talking. Most of these are non-specific and designed to work for any book. Although, of course, some will work better than others for particular books).

I’ve also included a few questions that are meant for specific types of books, like fiction or nonfiction. Just pick and choose the discussion questions that work best for you and your book group, and get the conversation going! Bring the printable questions along for help.

General Book Club Discussion Questions

1. What did you like best about this book?

2. What did you like least about this book?

3. What other books did this remind you of?

4. Which characters in the book did you like best?

5. Which characters did you like least?

6. If you were making a movie of this book, who would you cast?

7. Share a favorite quote from the book. Why did this quote stand out?

8. What other books by this author have you read? How did they compare to this book?

9. Would you read another book by this author? Why or why not?

10. What feelings did this book evoke for you?

11. What did you think of the book’s length? If it’s too long, what would you cut? If too short, what would you add?

12. What songs does this book make you think of? Create a book group playlist together!

13. If you got the chance to ask the author of this book one question, what would it be?

14. Which character in the book would you most like to meet?

15. Which places in the book would you most like to visit?

16. What do you think of the book’s title? How does it relate to the book’s contents? What other title might you choose?

17. What do you think of the book’s cover? How well does it convey what the book is about? If the book has been published with different covers, which one do you like best?

18. What do you think the author’s purpose was in writing this book? What ideas was he or she trying to get across?

19. How original and unique was this book?

20. If you could hear this same story from another person’s point of view, who would you choose?

21. What artist would you choose to illustrate this book? What kinds of illustrations would you include?

22. Had you heard about the book before starting it? Do you think it was overhyped or should be celebrated more?

Book Club Discussion Questions for Fiction

23. Did this book seem realistic?

24. How well do you think the author built the world in the book?

25. Did the characters seem believable to you? Did they remind you of anyone?

26. Did the book’s pace seem too fast/too slow/just right?

27. If you were to write fanfic about this book, what kind of story would you want to tell?

28. Was the pacing— beginning, middle, and end— done well?

29. Which other character would have made an interesting protagonist?

30. Did the characters’ motives seem reasonable or a little far-fetched?

31. Sometimes books start off strong, but have endings that fall a little flat. Then there are books that are a little hard to get into at first, but are enjoyable after a while. How did you find this one?

32. If there were any twists or big reveals, how believable were they?

33. How did the setting progress the story?

34. Was there symbolism present? If so, what did you think of the message the author was trying to convey?

Book Club Questions for Nonfiction

35. What did you already know about this book’s subject before you read this book?

36. What new things did you learn?36. What questions do you still have?

38. What else have you read on this topic, and would you recommend these books to others?

39. What do you think about the author’s research? Was it easy to see where the author got his or her information? Were the sources credible?

40. Conveying research in a way that’s understandable and enjoyable to read for non-experts can be a challenge. How well do you feel the author did this? What do you think of their writing style?

Discussion Questions for Memoir

41. What aspects of the author’s story could you most relate to?

42. How honest do you think the author was being?

43. What gaps do you wish the author had filled in? Were there points where you thought he shared too much?

44. Think about the other people in the book besides the author. How would you feel to have been depicted in this way?

45. Why do you think the author chose to tell this story?

Book Club Discussion Questions for Short Story and Essay Collections

46. Which short story/essay did you like best?

47. Which short story/essay did you like least?

48. What similarities do these stories share? How do they tie together?

49. Do you think any of the stories could be expanded into a full-length book?

50. There have been many popular films that have been adapted from short stories. Which of these do you think would be well adapted into a show or movie?

Printable Book Club Questions

Download all of these in an easy book club printable here .

For more book club help, check out puntastic and fun book club names , some of the best book club books for 2022 , and how to start a book club .

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Why Writers Need a Book Club (and 21 Tips to Make it Great!)

I have a lot of firsthand experience: My book club is called the Bookhouse Boys (yes, we have a name!). We’re five guys who’ve been meeting together once every two months for the last nine years. We used to meet at restaurants all over Southern California, but for the last four years we’ve just met at my house.

So many writers talk about how essential it is to have a critique group, and that’s true, but a book club is just as essential!

Here’s how my book club has helped me as a writer:

• It’s gotten me out of my reading comfort zone . For instance, I never would have read the commercial fiction “Coconut Cowboy” or the sci-fi classic “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep” without someone picking it. The best writers read widely, and knowing why some writers fail is just as important as knowing why other writers succeed.
• It’s helped me to discover the core pleasures of readers . For many years, when I only had my work read by writers, I was trained to seek after certain high literary pleasures, which can be inaccessible to many readers. But with my book club, it’s wonderful to get the insight of regular readers: they love big plots and deep characters and wild humor. I’ve changed my writing because of how they read books.
• It’s provided a community to bounce ideas off . I can pitch them a story and see how they take it. I can see the way they talk about some books and get ideas for future books. They’re a sounding board for my literary ambitions.
• It inspires me . Nothing fires me up to write my book more than talking deeply and thoughtfully about another book for several hours. Every book club is like a pep talk session for writers.

Read on to discover how we use Book Kings, avoid “Bookclub Killers,” and go on flights across the country to create a straight-up-awesome book club.

Okay, if you haven’t yet started your book club yet, here’s some Beginner’s Advice (and if you’re an expert in book clubs, skip to the end to see some Advanced Advice).

11 Tips for Book Club Beginners

How often will you meet? Where? Let people know what they’re getting into. We came up with very strict rules at the beginning: we were only meeting at my house, every other month. Very consistent.

2. Narrow Your Focus

Read only nonfiction or only fiction or only poetry. If you choose fiction, what type of fiction? Older books? Mystery or Literary? We tend to read modern classics and literary fiction written in the last 5 – 30 years.

3. Know How Books are Selected

This is the most important element of each book club. We know one all-guy group that has competitions of brains or brawn every other month (Sprints! Puzzles! Trivia!), and the winner of the competition gets to choose the book.

We know a women’s book club that throws 50 – 70 books into the mix and they decide in a democratic way which 12 books most members want to read for the next year.

For the Bookhouse Boys, every member gets a chance to play Book King and select a title. There is no veto power: whatever the Book King decides, it is decided. Every once in a while a Book King will be waffling between several options and share those options to get the group’s opinion, and that’s fine.

4. Choose the Right People

I would recommend being very picky when you’re putting one together – most people aren’t a great fit for a book club. You don’t want people monopolizing the conversation or who are simply annoying. Pick people who bring some kind of knowledge to the table.

Also, I would recommend you choose non-writers . Writers get a lot of feedback from fellow writers, while a book club should be a place where you can hear what readers are thinking.

5. Consistency is Key

Book clubs don’t work when you have members wandering in and out of the club. We don’t invite strangers in and everyone makes it virtually every meeting. Don’t recruit half-interested members.

6. Pick a Date and Stick to It

We do the first Tuesday of the month, every other month. We stick to this schedule pretty rigorously. People should plan their schedule around our book club; our book club shouldn’t plan around members’ schedules.

If it’s not a regular date, the emails back and forth (or Facebook group messages) get burdensome. Keep it regular.

7. Pick Short Books

You think this doesn’t apply to you, but trust me, it’s essential. Nothing says “Bookclub killer” like a 700 page book. I would suggest keeping books under 300 pages. It’s okay to have a longer book every once in a while, but I strongly encourage shorter books. People can remember them better and they finish them more often.

What’s more, because the reading doesn’t feel burdensome, they tend to like the group more. And if someone doesn’t like a book, they don’t have to keep slogging through the 500-page remainder. Of all the advice I’ve given you, this is probably the most important detail. Ignore it to your peril.

8. Name Yourself

A group without a name is a group that falls apart. Names bind the group together. Make it fun. Make it an inside joke.

For instance, our name – Bookhouse Boys – comes from a Twin Peaks reference. Key idea: use this name every time you send an email/message.

And don’t pick your name at the beginning. You can pick it about a year in, once you’ve figured out the identity of your group.

9. Decide Whether Finishing is Optional

In the Bookhouse Boys, you have to finish the book. We don’t allow any half-assed discussions where only one person in the group finished. That, in my honest literary opinion, is the worst book club I can imagine.

Every once in a great while we’ll have a super-busy member who failed to finish the last few chapters, and they must confess this sin to the group and ask for permission to come. We forgive them, but the important thing is that they had to ask for permission to come. Also, that’s a rare event.

If you have someone who regularly doesn’t finish, they might not belong in the group.  And if multiple people aren’t finishing, you should probably reconsider some element of the group (shorter books? Longer times between meetings?)

10. Keep it on the Book

Something I’ve always prided myself on is how we spend 2 – 3 hours talking exclusively about the book. We don’t get sidetracked. We don’t start talking politics (okay, occasionally on election years, but only before we start book discussion). But overall, we focus on the book alone.

You can do this differently – maybe your group loves rabbit trails and your conversations are mind blowing. Wonderful. Do it. To me, though, that dilutes the power of a book club. You have a book club because you enjoy talking about books, and book clubs are generally greater and more essential if they focus mainly on the book.

11. Have Alcohol and Snacks

I mean, no-brainer, right? We do a blind wine-tasting each book club. Someone brings a bottle with the label obscured, and we guess vintage, grape and region. You’d be surprised at how often we get pretty close. Also, we make sure to have snacky food and some hard liquor.

And have we done themed food? Why yes, yes we have. For Cormac McCarthy’s “ Blood Meridian ,” we served hardscrabble man-food like nuts and salami. For John Steinbeck’s “ Grapes of Wrath ” we drank whiskey and wine, both prominently featured in the book.

But we don’t always do themed snacks. Sometimes food doesn’t really appear in a book, and other times it’s just too persnickety. The point of a great book club is fantastic conversation, not a Pinterest-worthy meeting. Or, sometimes it’s fun to buck the trend and go against the book. Right now we’re reading “ The Vegetarian ” by Han Kang, and I’m definitely going to serve meat.

Okay, enough with the beginner techniques. Now it’s on to the fun advanced techniques.

10 Advanced Book Club Tips

1. Go Beyond the Book

Our best conversations have been focused on the book, but then there’s always that moment at the end where we relate the book to our own life, or talk about a theme brought up and how it affects us. For instance, at the end of Douglas Coupland’s “ Generation X ,” a character asks, “What’s the most valuable thing you own?” And it’s revealed that this person’s most valuable thing, which he keeps in a safe, is a paparazzi photo he took up Marilyn Monroe’s skirt.

So what we did in our book club was to answer the question for ourselves. It’s a difficult question, but everyone’s answers were so revealing and profound (My answer was also a photograph: one I took of the twin towers as they fell – I was in the East Village at the time). If your book club doesn’t currently apply the book to everyone’s lives, I would highly recommend it. In short: get personal.

2. Create a Bookshelf of Book Club Books

Nothing is better than looking at a row of 20, 40, 80 book titles and realize you’re part of a group that has shared in these experiences. My friend Drew does this, and he sent me a photo of his bookshelf.

3. Reference Previous Books

If you have a meeting where you don’t compare the book in question to previous books you’ve read, you’re not doing it right. The main joy of a book club is that you’re creating a web of sharing reading experiences, and so as the book club progresses, you can start to arrange and compare books.

For instance, we really saw a lot of connections between Paul Beatty’s “ The Sellout ” and John Kennedy’s Toole’s “ A Confederacy of Dunces .”

4. Watch Movies Based on the Books You Read

When we read a book where they’ve made a movie, we’ll have an interim event where we’ll get together and watch the movie. For instance, we read Ben Fountain’s, “ Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk ,” and a few months later we watched the Ang Lee movie of the same title.

It’s always a great discussion about differences between the book and the movie (Ang Lee, how could you have left out the central, pivotal scene where the cheerleader humps Billy Lynn??? For shame!). It’s always fun to discuss exactly why or how the movie didn’t live up to the book, or how the experience was different.

In fact, there’s a book club based entirely around this premise called “ Pages, Pictures and Pints .” Every month they read the book, watch the movie based off the book, and meet for pints at a brewhouse. 

5. Make Bets

This might be more of a personal thing, but I think it’s exciting to make a few wagers related to books. For instance, one of our members who had a popular podcast had full confidence that he was going to be able to interview Cormac McCarthy. I knew there was no way in hell the reclusive McCarthy was going to grant him an interview. I mean, Oprah barely got him.

So we bet that if the book club member couldn’t get an interview, he would dance naked on a picnic table while playing a fiddle (this is a reference to The Judge in McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian.”). So far, he has not gotten the interview. Also, so far, he has not danced naked. But we’re still waiting.

6. Figure Out Your Ideal Book

Once you’ve had the book club going for a while, consider this: what has been your best book? The best book is NOT the one that everyone liked. The best book is the one that everyone talked about for the longest. That info is very revealing. It tells you what type of books your group should be focusing on. I would recommend pointing this out to the group and trying to steering future book picks in this direction.

For instance, our best book club book of all time was Claire Messud’s “ The Emperor’s Children .” We talked for 5 hours straight about it – impassioned discussion, tearing apart the characters and reconstructing their lives and values. Debate was heated but cordial. The insights were profound. I walked away feeling like I’d had a spiritual experience. Why was that book so good? I think it’s because every single character felt like a real human being, but also every character was ambiguous – there were multiple ways to read him or her.

It was 5 hours at an Italian restaurant in Pasadena that I’ll never forget. And what’s more, I now think of that book in particular when trying to select a book – I want to recreate that experience, because I know it fires up my group.

7. Keep notes

The notes I take in the back of each book in pencil are essential. Not just notes as I read, but also all my fellow Bookhouse Boys’ observations. By the end of the night, I have a rich tapestry of ideas about the book, and I’ve totally referenced these when writing about the book later.

The haze of alcohol and time will make you forget all these insights if you don’t write them down! Here are my notes on Jonathan Franzen’s “ Purity .”

8. Have an Overnighter

Every once in a while, it’s awesome to have the book club at a house where you can spend the night. That means you may imbibe without restrictions, and everyone can stay a lot later. This really binds the community together. I would recommend breaking out a board game once the book conversation winds down (Settlers of Catan!).

9. Travel Together

We have a once-a-year trip we do together. Last year, all of us (except one member whose wife prevented him) traveled to New Orleans for a long weekend of jazz clubs, food and whiskey, and though we had a minor hiccup of a level one hurricane, we weathered the storm and came out stronger.

We went to New Orleans because we’d read two books located there: “ The Moviegoer ” by Walker Percy and John Kennedy’s Toole’s “ A Confederacy of Dunces .” I can’t emphasize how even a short weekend trip binds a book club together. We’re still referencing jokes that happened that weekend – someone got “handsy” at night, the wonderful British women we met, the crazy street fiddler (New Thousand) with a sexual magnetism rivaled by none. If you want your book club to truly last, you have to create and deepen friendships, and do so deliberately. Travel is one of the best ways to do this.

10. Invite the Author to Speak

Okay, this is not impossible. Sure, Jonathan Franzen won’t visit you, but if you choose a smaller book by a mid-list author, especially if they are local, there is an excellent chance they will drop in on your club. 

If they aren’t in the vicinity, then ask them to Skype in. Just be respectful of their time and make sure to prepare some thoughtful questions.

If you have a book club, I’ve love to hear about it in the comments.

Especially what type of books you read and how long you’ve been meeting.

Additional Reading:

The Best Book Clubs Throughout History (I like the women’s literary club “Friends in Council”). 

Celebrity Book Clubs (aren’t you a little curious about what Reese Witherspoon is reading?)

14 Online Book Clubs You Can Join Right Now

The Millions has an excellent post talking about the social power of book clubs . 

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love the ideas. Thx so much. 🙂

Hi! I loved your article. I was wondering if you had any tips on how to start a meetup book club. Right now it’s just me and I would love to have a small group of people to share and read books with.

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Leading a Professional Book Club: Strengthening Professional Learning

Likely all of us reading this post right now know (quite well) the experience of reading a text alone. If you are like me, you read when you can find the time, typically absorbing the text in multiple sessions. And if you’re like me, you think about the ideas evoked in the text both during and after the minutes you’re able to devote to reading. But as a busy adult and parent, I usually avoid setting deadlines on finishing a book I’ve chosen to read on my own, as life outside of school right now is just too unpredictable to pace out pages in any organized fashion.  As I read, I might jot down some important thinking so that it is “captured” and I can refer back to it later… or not. And I might mention the book, or perhaps memorable parts of it, to friends in conversation across my day; but I never do so in any organized or pre-planned way. Interpretations are my own.

But being part of a book club is different . Someone once said that there is something beautiful about gathering people around a single book. And we now live in an age in which a multitude of beautiful professional books exist. As I write this post, I can easily name at least ten or more books I cannot wait to read. However, picking up a professional text and reading all the way through it, as wonderful and impactful as this endeavor can be, oftentimes presents challenges (a few of which I have named already). This is where the idea of a book club comes in. If the desire to strengthen your professional learning burns strong inside you (and perhaps in some of your colleagues, as well), consider organizing and facilitating a book club. Book clubs hold the potential for helping us accomplish important goals, such as:

• Providing a structure for existence- instead of “someday”, book clubs present us with social accountability, and thus support us when it comes to actually finishing a book in a reasonable amount of time;
• Providing a structure for collaborative interpretation — instead of just one person’s ideas growing individually and privately, ideas can be grown collaboratively with other professionals, increasing the likelihood that people will feel comfortable taking risks in their practice.
• Creating community- – book clubs hold the potential to forge otherwise unlikely professional connections, thereby strengthening not only the levels of literacy and/or teaching among educators, but also improving the climate.

Let’s face it, if we read to be changed in the company of others, this can be a powerful injection of not just fresh teaching energy, but collegiality as well.

So how might one go about launching such an effort? Consider the following steps:

• Forming the club- Forming a book club is not as hard or daunting as it might seem, and can be accomplished in a few different ways. Personally, if I am working to organize a physical book club (versus a virtual club, which I will discuss at the end of this post), I extend an open invitation via email. Sometimes it can help to provide a specific number of “slots” available when sending out the email, as this can add an element of “exclusiveness” to an otherwise completely inclusive invitation. I know, you may be thinking of this as a bit manipulative. And perhaps it is. But in my experience, something in our nature as humans compels many of us to want to belong to something “exclusive.” So by generating a faux air of exclusivity around a book club, we can sometimes attract unlikely members to “the club” which can thereby subsequently serve to facilitate multiple positive outcomes.

Typically I follow up the initiating email with a concerted effort to extend in-person invitations to as many people as possible. Everyone appreciates a personal invite, so I view the effort as worthwhile.

Another possible method for forming a book club is through an already-existing structure, such as a standing department meeting or designated professional development time. For example, last year teachers at my school were interested in effective ways to teach grammar and conventions in the writing workshop. As the literacy leader in my school, I then devoted part of our professional development time to a book study around The Power of Grammar , by Mary Ehrenworth and Vicki Vinton.

While this can feel less like a “club,” dedicating a string of standing meetings to bringing colleagues together as a book club can be a robust way to forward professional learning.

• Selecting the text- As I mentioned, an incredible array of professional texts, many or all of them now printed in color, exist in our world of teaching and learning today. Selection of text then becomes matching a book to a professional goal. Perhaps your goal is to enliven and strengthen workshop teaching? You might select Stacey Shubitz’s and Lynne Dorfman’s new book, Welcome to Writing Workshop . Perhaps your goal is more specific to strengthening conferring? Carl Anderson’s A Teacher’s Guide to Writing Conferences may serve well. While you may wish to offer choices when it comes to the text, I have found it is sometimes best to extend the invitation to colleagues with a text already in mind, or perhaps just a few from which to choose.

In some districts am I aware of, principals and central office administrators are highly supportive of professional book clubs, and will even provide funding for the purchase of the texts.  So when it comes to procuring texts for your club, it would definitely be worth an ask!

• Organizing Structure:  It is important to remember that when leading a professional and/or adult book club, you may find that some of your colleagues have never participated in this type of collaborative structure before. Thus, in the spirit of creating a supportive atmosphere around the book, I find it helpful to provide a simple tool for supporting club members in planning their participation. You may click  here  to access the simple tool I have offered at my pre-meetings. The first step at the pre-meeting is deciding on stopping points and due dates. Depending on the length of the book, your club may wish to meet only a couple of times, or maybe multiple times. Personally, I prefer dividing the book into natural quarters, choosing around four stopping points. Somewhere between three and five stopping points is probably ideal, as that usually serves to accomplish two main goals: deeper understandings of the text, and increased connectedness between colleagues.
• Generating Anticipation and Excitement:  Pre-meetings allow a short, focused burst of time to organize, but they also allow for time to acknowledge everyone who has chosen to participate. Use this time to convey authentic enthusiasm for the upcoming journey through the text, as well as scheduling one of the most important aspects of a book club: food! Divvying up the responsibilities for snacks serve to make the book club feel less like “another meeting,” and more like an outside-the-normal-day experience people will look forward to attending.
• I am thinking more,
• I am thinking differently, 
• I have more words to say about what I was thinking already,

then a talk ought to be deemed worthwhile. Although this definition is rather simple (but one I teach to kids), it still sets a high bar for an adult book club conversation. When working with adults, however, it is important to remember that you’ll likely be interfacing with a host of different learning styles. Therefore, I endeavor to remain low-key and positive during the meetings.

At the end of each meeting, be sure to clarify (a) the time for the next meeting (which was already decided at the pre-meeting, but it helps to restate it), and (b) the chapter or page everyone will agree to stop reading. These two quick clarifications help to create an invisible contract for the club, as well as accountability.

• Big  Takeaways – When studying a professional text as a means to strengthen professional learning, it can really pay off to publicly name out actionable takeaways. You may pose the following questions:
• What will be different now?
• What do people intend to try out in their teaching lives?
• How will we support each other in those endeavors?

Naming out these things publicly creates non-threatening accountability for moving practice forward.

• Virtual Book Clubs. Book clubs need not be in person! My friend and colleague Kathleen Sokolowski recently facilitated a virtual book club in which members communicated and shared ideas in Google Classroom. Also, each summer, teacher and literacy leader Cathy Mere leads a book club at #cyberpd. Check out her post from last summer to see how she organizes a club that meets in cyberspace by clicking here .

For even more inspiration and celebration of reading in book clubs, check out Penny Kittle’s and Clare Landrigan’s Book Love Foundation .  For this summer’s book club line-up, check out Clare’s video here or the BookLove Foundation Website here .

Resources for Possible Professional Book Clubs:

• It’s All About the Books , by Tammy Mulligan and Clare Landrigan
• Enticing Hard-to-Reach Writers , by Ruth Ayres
• The Writing Teacher’s Companion , by Ralph Fletcher
• When Writers Drive the Workshop , by Brian Kissell
• Close Writing , by Paula Bourque
• Feedback That Moves Writers Forward , by Patty McGee

Giveaway Information:

• For a chance to win this copy of Welcome to Writing Workshop, please leave a comment about this or any blog post in this blog series by Sunday, May 5th at 6:00 p.m. EDT. Melanie Meehan will use a random number generator to pick the winner’s commenter number. His/her name will be announced in the ICYMI blog post for this series on Monday, May 6th.
• Please leave a valid e-mail address when you post your comment so Melanie can contact you to obtain your mailing address if you win. From there, our contact at Stenhouse will ship the book to you. (NOTE: Your e-mail address will not be published online if you leave it in the e-mail field only.)
• If you are the winner of the book, Betsy will email you with the subject line of TWO WRITING TEACHERS – WELCOME TO WRITING WORKSHOP within five days of receipt. A new winner will be chosen if a response isn’t received within five days of the giveaway announcement.

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Published by Lanny Ball

For more than 29 years, Lanny has taught, coached, presented, staff developed, and consulted within the exciting and enigmatic world of literacy. With unyielding passion and belief in the possibility of workshop teaching, Lanny has worked to support students, teachers, and school administrators around the country in outgrowing themselves as both writers and readers. Working first as a classroom teacher, then as a coach and TCRWP Staff Developer, Lanny is now a literacy specialist, working and living in the great state of Connecticut. Outside of literacy, he enjoys raising his three ambitious young daughters with his wife, and playing the piano. Find him on this blog, as well as on Twitter @LannyBall. Lanny is also a former co-author of a blog dedicated to supporting writing teachers and coaches that maintain classroom writing workshops, twowritingteachers.org. View all posts by Lanny Ball

13 thoughts on “ Leading a Professional Book Club: Strengthening Professional Learning ”

Thank you for this post! We are currently looking to create a professional book club in the fall, and these tips will come in handy.

Is there any better work to do than instill the love of books and the power of the written word to young developing minds? Teachers have such precious power to engage and inspire. The professional community of teachers that promote this basic love of learning keeps me learning and loving to be a teacher. . even though it’s super hard. Thank you for all you do to inspire We The Teachers, the keepers of democracy.

This is exactly what I need! A great resource to strengthen my teaching! A great blog to follow to support being a teacher leader.

This series has been so refreshing and helpful. We will be doing a book study with our interventionists next year during our collab time and this will be helpful.

Thanks! Utilizing text sets for Teacher Support Groups. Thanks for writing!

Like Liked by 1 person

This structure inspires me to set up a book club for the end of the school year. Selecting a text that will support new initiatives our district has adopted.

Teacher Summer Book Clubs are the best!! Thanks for sharing ideas I’d not thought about!

Good advice as always! Thank you for sharing!

Thanks for sharing these tips for staring a book club! Our school has been looking for ways to create more time and space for teachers to build community and grow professionally this sounds like a perfect way to do that.

This series is very helpful as I think about closing out the school year and planning for the next one.

I love this! I am trying to get up the nerve to suggest a summer book club at my school…

Well, Lanny, I missed some of these elements when planning our current book club. Helpful tips as always. Thanks!

So many tips and connections for professional learning in your post.

Love these . . .”At the end of each meeting, be sure to clarify (a) the time for the next meeting (which was already decided at the pre-meeting, but it helps to restate it), and (b) the chapter or page everyone will agree to stop reading. These two quick clarifications help to create an invisible contract for the club, as well as accountability.”

And if folks don’t agree in advance to “stop” reading, at least no discussion of further points! I find this harder in professional texts as I seldom read them cover to cover (time!), but dig into specific chapters immediately for a first, second or even a third reading.

Kudos to the entire team for a great series for teachers to consider when planning their summer learning!!! ❤ ❤ ❤

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Blog • Perfecting your Craft , Understanding Publishing

Posted on Nov 19, 2018

15 of the Best Online Writing Communities for Aspiring Authors

As enjoyable and fulfilling as writing can be, the truth is that it’s often a solitary endeavor. While we might romanticize the focused artist typing away while imaginary worlds and narratives swirl inside their minds — authors know the truth: writing can get lonely. And moreover, when you’re working on a one-person project, it can be hard to remain motivated and accountable. That’s where writing communities come in.

Writing communities are the perfect place to find answers to your writing questions and to discuss the ins and outs of the writing life with people who actually understand what you’re talking about.

So, if you are tired of listening only to the voices in your head, take a look at our list of top online writing communities. (And if you're hungry for more, check out our more exhaustive list of the very best writing websites !)

Top online writing communities

1. absolute write water cooler.

With over 68,000 members, this is a large and highly active community. Here you can find threads on every genre imaginable, as well as discussions about freelance writing , the publishing industry, pop culture, writing prompts and exercises, and much more.

Perfect for: writers who are looking for a large and active community.

2. AgentQuery Connect

While this forum will come in handy for any writer, it’s especially helpful for authors who have already completed their manuscript and are wondering what to do next. The site boasts a wealth of information on publishing topics such as querying agents, self-publishing tips, and book promotion advice.

Perfect for: writers who are looking to connect with agents and learn more about the publishing industry.

3. Camp NaNoWriMo

If you’ve ever wanted to go to a writer’s retreat but can’t afford it just yet, then this site might help scratch your itch. Holding online “camp sessions” in April and July, Camp NaNoWriMo offers a digital space to encourage and empower writers at any point of their career. Here you can work on drafts, revisions, short stories, or any other writing project that involves word-count goals.

Perfect for: writers who can’t wait until November to crack their writing goals .

4. Critique Circle

Feedback should be a vital part of any writer’s process, and this is exactly what Critique Circle offers. This members-only site allows authors to post stories in exchange for feedback on other people’s writing. You can also find storyboarding tools , writing prompts , workshops, name generators , games like hangman, and much more.

Perfect for: writers who want honest feedback on their writing.

5. Chronicles

As the world’s largest Science Fiction and Fantasy online community, Chronicles offers writers the opportunity to get together and discuss the latest books, news, and pop culture in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy world. This is an active community with thousands of threads that include genre-specific challenges, workshops, critiques, and even publishing and industry information.

Perfect for: writers interested in Science Fiction and Fantasy writing.

6. Facebook Groups

If social media is more your style, don't miss the chance to interact with your fellow writers by joining Facebook groups in your own niche. Look for groups with a strict "no self-promotion" rules so that it remains supportive and useful to your writing goals.

There are a lot of groups out there in a variety of topics that range from genre-specific writing tips to traditional and self-publishing industry news. Here are just a few of them:

The Street Team — Reedsy's own book marketing group for self-publishing authors. 10 Minute Novelists — a group for the time-crunched writer. Calls for Submissions  — for writers looking for publication opportunities. Fiction Writers Global — a great resource for information about traditional and self-publishing. Writers Unite! — an active group with plenty of support and motivation for novice and experienced writers alike.

Perfect for: writers who prefer using social media.

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7. Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Whether you are a debut or seasoned author, there’s no doubt that writing a book can be intimidating and rife with bouts of self-doubt. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group aims to help you overcome those insecurities by hosting a community of like-minded authors.

Perfect for: writers who have doubts about their writing and are in need of encouragement.

8. The Next Big Writer

This is an international forum where writers can receive feedback on their writing and support on every other part of the creative process from drafting to publishing and marketing. The critiques are often thorough and many come from published authors. Keep in mind that there is a monthly cost associated with the membership, but it might be worth it to be able to bend the ear of published authors.

Perfect for: writers seeking in-depth critiques from an international audience.

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More than just a single writing community, Reddit has countless ‘subreddits’ where writers of all genres, interests, and levels of experience flock. While it may not offer workshops or tools, members can find niche threads that relate to their interests, critique other people’s work, and discover helpful sources of information.

There are so many different subreddits that you can get lost browsing them, but here are a few of the most popular ones:

r/writing — for general writing purposes. r/writingprompts — for user-submitted writing prompts. r/destructivereaders — beware, if you don’t like harsh criticism this may not be the best fit. But if you are willing to endure it, you will come out a better writer at the end. r/worldbuilding — user submitted fiction worlds. r/fantasywriters — for anybody interested in the fantasy genre. r/characterforge — the place to be for character building. r/writerchat — for those interested in talking with fellow writers. r/selfpublish — for anybody interested in self-publishing. r/logophilia — “the love of words and word games,” and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. r/freelanceWriters — for anybody interested in a career in freelance writing . r/books — because reading is just as important as writing if you want to be a successful author.

Perfect for: writers who want niche threads based on a particular interest or need.

10. Scribophile

One of the largest communities in the world, Scribophile offers workshops, tutorials, and critiques for authors in just about any genre imaginable. While it is free to join, only users who pay for a membership get access to all their features.

Perfect for: authors whowant to take part in writing workshops alongside writers of all experience levels.

11. She Writes

With over 30,000 members, this is the largest writing community exclusively for women. Here you can find articles on writing, editing, and marketing for every genre. There are forums tailored to specific needs, like travel writers, writing about trauma, NaNoWriMo, and many other topics.

Perfect for: women writers who want a place to connect and learn from fellow writers.

12. Talentville

If your passion lies in screenwriting, then you’ll want to book a one-way ticket to Talentville. Here you can get feedback on your writing and learn the skills necessary to perfect your screencraft. Plus, you can work on and build your network of contacts: the site is also a frequent stop for industry professionals (like agents, managers, and producers) on the lookout for new talent.

Perfect for: writers whoare interested in screenwriting and networking.

13. Underlined

A writing community by Penguin Random House. While any author can find helpful information on this website, it’s geared more towards younger writers. It has a well-designed platform, quizzes, genre-specific information, the latest news on book releases, Q&As with authors, and even some giveaways and excerpts as perks.

Perfect for: younger writers who are looking for genre-specific information and bookish perks.

14. Writers Helping Writers

This is a free-to-register community where you can find resources for writers, teachers, and editors alike. They offer a vast array of tools to perfect your craft, no matter your level. Their extensive creative library includes webinars, free writing and marketing tools, a thesaurus collection, story maps, idea generators, and more.

Perfect for: writers, editors, and teachers who are looking to build up their writing toolbox.

15. #WritingCommunity

Sometimes, all you need is a hashtag. And indeed, Twitter's own #WritingCommunity is one of the most robust writing collectives on the web. Ask a question, and it'll almost certainly get answered (without a lot of Twitter's trademark snark). The key here is to keep your questions concise, reply often to others, and don't go crazy with other hashtags. The community can tell if you're just thirsty for RTs. Perfect for: writers who are finally ready to use Twitter for good — and not just for procrastinating.

Do you belong to a writing community? Which one is your favorite one? Add yours in the comments below!

13 responses

27/11/2018 – 22:42

Very useful post. Thanks for this. I will be linking to it on my blog.

Dr Jack Edward Effron says:

18/02/2019 – 16:40

You left out taylz.com. It’s truly free. They are not going to give you a rubbish service to make you join their pay site because they have no pay site. Your story can be 8,000 words. They are not going to force you into flash fiction of 3,000 words. One critique out, one critique in: no mucking about with “karma” or critiquing 5+ stories to get one critique. The great new idea whose time has come! And it’s British, not American.

marieseltenrych says:

08/05/2019 – 12:28

Reedsy, thank God you are here! I want to ask a question to other authors or self publishers here: I have been approached by OmniScriptum to publish my books (research) with them. I cannot find much about this company online, so wondered if anyone has published with them recently? Thanks Reedsy in anticipation. Marie

↪️ Reedsy replied:

08/05/2019 – 12:29

Hi Marie! Sounds potentially very shady to me. If you haven't already, check out our post on predatory companies in publishing. One of the rules of thumb is that if a publisher contacts you first, be very wary. I just did 20 seconds worth of Googling and found some people who had a bad experience.

Eunice Brownlee says:

I am a member of illuminate, which is a group designed around supporting women who want to share their stories but don't know how. The majority of us write non-fiction essays and memoirs, but we have a few poets and fiction writers in the mix as well. The overall goal is to support each other, especially through those harder moments of not wanting to write, or not knowing where to start. There are monthly themes and prompts, a weekly exercise inside the Facebook group, and cross-sharing of what we're working on. My favorite feature is the expert review, where you can submit any piece you're working on each month and you'll get quality feedback from one of the editors that manage the group. This group is perfect for anyone who is just getting started writing.

↪️ Brittani B replied:

11/02/2020 – 19:27

I tried the link multiple times both from this page and separately searched and was unable to access the site.

Harry says:

05/06/2019 – 07:51

Personally I think you missed out the best writing community: https://community.jerichowriters.com/ Jericho Writers is a free writing community that writers can safely share thought, make friends, swap work and get advice

Christian says:

08/08/2019 – 12:21

I only recommend Scribophile if you enjoy being coerced into groupthink. If you hope to get meaningful critique that will help you, look elsewhere. The critiques here are mostly SPAG, and it's forbidden to discuss your work on the main forums, except in the broadest, vaguest way.

Randy says:

18/08/2019 – 06:11

I have all my dads writing research and copyrights to 18 different books....all this was before the digital world .... many negatives photos ....every major story from all over the world with his .copyright . These are huge stores and his books are really well written ....what should I do with them .....incredible spy work as well

Ratih says:

27/08/2019 – 03:50

As a new writer this article is really useful for me. Thank you reedsy

Jennifer says:

02/09/2019 – 14:15

Hi guys! Great blog! Just wanted to let you know that we linked to you in a blog on the Peaceful Living Wellness Online Magazine :) It will be published on Friday, September 6th, 2019

↪️ Martin Cavannagh replied:

17/09/2019 – 09:04

Thanks! We appreciate that!

Kaylee Downey says:

14/02/2020 – 19:09

Um...what about Wattpad?

Comments are currently closed.

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10 Innovative Book Club Ideas to Inspire Your Reading Group

Book clubs can be a fantastic way to connect with others who share your love for reading. But have you ever found yourself stuck in a reading rut or struggling to keep things fresh and engaging? Fear not, fellow bibliophiles! I’ve compiled a list of 10 innovative book club ideas that will transform your reading group into a dynamic, exciting, and inspiring literary haven.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Explore exciting new titles, challenge reading habits, and foster deeper connections with monthly themes.

Connect to stories through immersive virtual tours, cultural food nights, and combining books with hobbies.

Stimulate vibrant discussions and broaden horizons by exploring authors, adapting movies, and playing genre roulette.

Embrace a Monthly Book Club Theme

A book club theme can add a new dimension to your reading group by guiding you to discover wonderful books and keeping meetings fresh and engaging. Here are some more book club ideas for themes:

Historical fiction month

Celebrity book club theme

Mommy Book Club focused on parenting

Holiday-themed books, such as “A Christmas Carol” during the holiday season or spooky tales for Halloween

The possibilities are endless! With a themed book club , you will never run out of exciting new titles to explore.

Themed book clubs also offer a fun way to challenge your reading habits and expand your literary horizons. For example, you could tackle a different genre each month or focus on local authors to support your community. Adopting a monthly book club theme maintains engaging meetings and cultivates a deeper connection among members while embarking on a mutual reading journey.

Travel the World Through Books

Let your fun book club be your passport to adventure as you traverse the globe through the pages of captivating novels. Choosing books set in assorted locations and probing diverse cultures will transport your reading group to distant places, all from the comfort of your living room. Instead of reading the same book , explore various stories to keep your book club engaging and exciting.

But why stop at just reading about these fascinating locales? Why not take your book club on a virtual journey and explore the world through the eyes of

Virtual Location Tours

To truly immerse your book club members in the story , why not complement your literary travels with virtual location tours? Here are some options to consider:

Walking tours of cities

Live virtual tours with private guides

Online museum tours

Virtual reality experiences

There are countless ways to explore the world from the comfort of your own home, including a free download of various virtual tours and interactive experiences.

Visiting the locations depicted in your book selection not only enriches the reading experience but also provokes vibrant discussions and creates memorable experiences for your group.

Cultural Food Nights

One engaging method to explore your selected book’s universe is through culinary experiences. Host cultural food nights where members prepare dishes related to the book’s setting or theme. Imagine savoring bruschetta while discussing a novel set in Italy or enjoying scones and tea during a Jane Austen book club meeting .

Incorporating food into your gatherings generates a multisensory experience, connecting readers to the story in an entirely new way.

Innovative Book Club Ideas: Combine Books with Hobbies

Who says a book club has to be solely about reading ? Combining your literary discussions with hobbies like crafting, cooking, or music can create a unique and enjoyable experience for members. For example, a cookbook club could explore new recipes and share cooking experiences. In contrast, an audiobook club could focus on listening to stories together during crafting sessions or while out on walks.

The possibilities for combining book clubs with various club ideas and hobbies are endless, resulting in an engaging, interactive experience that caters to various interests. This approach sustains members’ excitement about attending meetings and nurtures a community spirit through shared passions and talents, making them true book club friends .

The Great Literary Scavenger Hunt

Get ready for a thrilling literary adventure with the Great Literary Scavenger Hunt! In this innovative book club idea, members search for books based on specific prompts or challenges, encouraging the exploration of new genres and authors. For example, you could embark on a reading challenge by hunting for a book with a certain color on the cover, a specific number of pages, or a particular type of character.

The Great Literary Scavenger Hunt: A How-To Guide

The Great Literary Scavenger Hunt is a fun and innovative book club activity that encourages exploration of new genres and authors. Here’s how it works:

The game is flexible and can be played with any number of players, making it perfect for book clubs of all sizes . The more, the merrier!

Materials Needed

All you need for this game is a list of prompts or challenges and a willingness to explore your local library, bookstore, or online reading platforms.

Create a List of Prompts : Create a list of prompts or challenges for your book club members. These instructions could range from “Find a book with a green cover” to “Find a book by an author whose last name starts with the letter “C”.” The aim is to encourage members to explore books they might not typically choose.

Set a Time Limit : Depending on your book club schedule, you might want to set a time limit for the hunt. This could be a week, a month, or even a single meeting, depending on how intensive you want the hunt to be.

Hunt for Books : Members will then use the prompts to hunt for books that fit the criteria. This could be done in a physical library, bookstore, or online.

Share and Discuss : Once the hunt ends, everyone shares what books they found and why they chose them. This encourages discussion and allows members to discover new books and authors .

Optional Reading : If time allows, members can choose to read one or more of the books they found and discuss them at the next meeting.

Remember, the goal of The Great Literary Scavenger Hunt is not necessarily to find a book that matches every prompt but to have fun and discover new books and authors. Happy hunting!

The scavenger hunt approach injects an element of excitement into your book club meetings and stimulates vibrant discussions as members compare their discoveries and recount their reading experiences. It’s a fantastic way to broaden your literary horizons and discover hidden gems you might not have found otherwise.

Innovative Book Club Ideas: Interactive Author Events

There’s nothing quite like hearing directly from the person who penned the words you’ve just read. Attending author events in person or virtually can provide invaluable insights into the writing process and enable your book club to engage in meaningful conversations with the authors themselves. From book signings and readings to Q&A sessions, author events offer a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the stories you love and the creative minds behind them.

Incorporating interactive author events into your book club enhances your understanding of the writing process and enriches discussions as members share personal experiences and recently acquired knowledge. Plus, it’s a great way to support the literary community and make lasting memories with your fellow book club members.

Multigenerational Book Clubs

Why not extend the joy of reading to all ages by creating a multigenerational book club? By including parents and children in your reading group, you’ll foster a love for reading and create shared experiences that span generations. Multigenerational book clubs provide an enriching opportunity for families to read and discuss books together, promoting understanding and connection across age groups. Mommy book clubs can also be a great addition to this concept, encouraging mothers to bond over literature with their children.

Multigenerational Book Recommendations

Creating a multigenerational book club can be a wonderful way to bring together readers of all ages. Here are a few book recommendations that are perfect for multigenerational reading:

“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle: This captivating novel takes readers on a fantastical journey through time and space, exploring themes of love, bravery, and the power of individuality.

“The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett: This enchanting children’s novel is a delight for readers of all ages, filled with mystery, magic, and the power of friendship.

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: This beloved romance novel offers plenty of discussion points about societal norms, class, and relationships.

“The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien: This adventurous tale is a fantastic introduction to fantasy literature for younger readers and a nostalgic journey for adults.

“The Diary of Anne Frank”: This poignant memoir offers a firsthand account of life during the Holocaust, making it a powerful read for older children and adults alike.

Shop for Innovative Book Club Books

Are you wondering where to find these books and more? Reading Vintage , a bookstore, and antique shops are great places to start. These stores often carry classic titles and can provide a unique shopping experience. Also, finding a well-loved, pre-owned book copy adds a sense of history and charm that new books can’t replicate.

Online platforms, such as AbeBooks and eBay , are also excellent resources for finding vintage and antique books. Libraries and regular bookstores will likely carry classic titles as well.

Remember, the goal of a multigenerational book club is to foster a love of reading across all ages, so don’t be afraid to mix in some contemporary titles with the classics. The most important thing is that everyone enjoys the reading experience.

A multigenerational approach introduces diverse perspectives to your book club discussions and promotes a lifelong love of reading and learning. It’s a beautiful way to strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories, and breathe new life into your exploration of the world of literature together.

Innovative Book Club Ideas: Adaptation Showdowns

Book-to-movie adaptations can spark lively debates among avid readers, making them a perfect addition to your book club meetings. Members can compare both mediums’ differences, similarities, and overall impressions by reading the book and watching the movie adaptation. Some engaging discussion points that can arise during an adaptation showdown include:

Did the characters look and sound as you imagined?

Were all the crucial scenes included?

How did the movie capture the tone and atmosphere of the book?

Did the movie stay true to the themes and messages of the book?

Book-to-Movie Adaptations

“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: This classic novel has been adapted into several films, the most recent being the 2013 version featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. The opulence and glamour of the Roaring Twenties are vividly brought to life on screen, offering a rich visual experience to complement the novel’s exploration of wealth, love, and the American Dream.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: The 1962 film adaptation of this classic novel is widely praised for its faithful representation of the book’s powerful themes of racial injustice and loss of innocence. The performances, particularly Gregory Peck’s portrayal of Atticus Finch, are highly acclaimed.

“Life of Pi” by Yann Martel: The 2012 film adaptation of this novel is a visual spectacle. The story of a young boy stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger is brought to life with stunning CGI effects, making for an engaging viewing experience that complements the book’s exploration of faith, survival, and the human spirit.

These discussions can deepen members’ understanding and appreciation of the book and the movie adaptation.

Incorporating adaptation showdowns into your book club :

Adds diversity to your meetings

Offers a unique opportunity to experiment with various storytelling formats

It provides a fantastic excuse for a movie night with your fellow bookworms!

Short Story Extravaganza

Short stories can offer a refreshing change of pace for book clubs, allowing for diverse reading experiences and in-depth discussions within a single meeting. Focusing on short stories allows your group to delve into various authors and styles within a specific genre or theme, thus offering a rich and engaging literary experience.

Innovative Book Club Ideas: Themed Anthologies

One way to introduce short stories to your book club is by delving into themed anthologies. These curated collections showcase various authors and styles within a specific genre or theme, offering a wide range of discussion topics and a unique glimpse into the world of short fiction.

From mystery and crime to fantasy and science fiction, themed anthologies can open up a treasure trove of literary gems for your book club to explore and discuss .

Author Spotlights

Another approach to short stories is to spotlight a single author by reading a collection of their work. This allows your book club to delve into the author’s writing style, themes, and character development across multiple stories, providing a deeper understanding of their craft.

Author spotlights can also introduce your group to new writers or allow you to explore the lesser-known works of your favorite authors.

Rotating Book Selection Roles

Consider rotating book selection roles among members to ensure a diverse range of book choices. This allows everyone to share their favorite books or authors. Keeping your reading list fresh and varied fosters a sense of ownership and involvement among your book club members.

Allowing each member to take turns selecting the next book cultivates a more dynamic reading group. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to discover new authors and genres you might not have picked up alone.

Genre Roulette

Ready for a literary adventure that keeps you on your toes? Play genre roulette with your book club by selecting books from different genres each month. This exciting approach broadens your reading horizons and sparks lively discussions as members compare and contrast the various genres.

Exploring new genres, innovative book club ideas , and venturing beyond your literary comfort zone augments your book club’s collective knowledge. So, go ahead and spin the genre wheel—who knows where your next literary adventure will take you?

Wrapping Up

Propel your book club journey with our planner system.

Launching a book club is an exciting venture. My Book Club Printable Planner System is here to ensure it’s a seamless one too. This planner is designed to manage all aspects of your book club. From scheduling meet-ups to discussing the book of choice. It promotes a structured yet engaging discussion environment, ensuring every voice is heard and every idea is shared.

With dedicated sections for agenda setting, book selection, and member roles, it lays a sturdy foundation for your book club’s culture. Embrace this planner as your companion in fostering a vibrant community of readers. Discussions flow smoothly, and every meeting is a step towards new literary discoveries. The key to a thriving book club is just a click away with my Book Club Printable Planner System.

So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore new ways to connect with your fellow readers. After all, the world of literature is vast and full of surprises, just waiting to be discovered.

Innovative Book Club Ideas: FAQ

Q. how can i make my book club more interesting.

a. Mix things up with innovative book club ideas and seasonal book selections. Switch between fiction and non-fiction, appoint a discussion leader, and ask readers if they are glad they read the book to make your book club more interesting!

Q. How do I start a fun book club?

a. Start your book club by deciding what type it is, figuring out who to invite, determining the meeting space, picking books, discussing how to access them, establishing guidelines, and sorting out logistics. Have fun!

Q. What are some examples of monthly book club themes?

a. Monthly book club themes can range from historical fiction to festive holiday reads, with shared interests or genres to explore each month. There’s something for everyone!

Q. How can I incorporate food into my book club meetings?

a. Why not host a cultural food night for your book club? Doing this brings the setting and themes of the story to life. Let members prepare dishes related to the story for an interactive and delicious way to connect with the narrative. This is a great way to bring the book to life and create a memorable experience for your book club. Everyone can get involved in the preparation and enjoy the delicious food while discussing the story. It’s

Q. What are some ways to combine book clubs with hobbies?

a. Combine your book club with hobbies like crafting, cooking, and music for a fun and unique experience for all.

Meet Pam of Reading Vintage, an ardent curator of quality vintage books. Join her journey from hunting hidden gems at estate sales and offering them to you at her online bookstore, Reading Vintage , to offering insightful resources on her blog, Vintage Book Lovers. Explore, learn, and reconnect with timeless literature.

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How Writers Can Benefit From Joining Book Clubs | Writer’s Relief

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A book club is a great way to explore new books and meet other readers. But aside from the camaraderie and common interests, book clubs offer writers unique opportunities and advantages (and we don’t mean by hawking your own book!). The experts at Writer’s Relief have some surprising insights into how writers can benefit from joining book clubs.

6 Ways Writers Benefit From Joining Book Clubs

It’s been said time and time again—one of the best ways to become a better writer is to be a good reader. Reading introduces you to new genres and styles and helps you build your own writing skills.  However, sometimes it can be difficult to find the time or motivation to read.

That’s where belonging to a book club can help! Having a time limit and a monthly scheduled meeting can be the nudge you need to sit down and read a book instead of vacuuming, doing laundry, or mowing the lawn.

Gain Insights Into How Readers Think

While you shouldn’t write by committee, knowing what readers notice in a story is invaluable knowledge! Maybe your book club members find a particular trope tiresome or really enjoyed a plot twist or the personality of a certain character. By listening to the other readers, you’ll know what might resonate with your own audience. You’ll also learn about ideas that you can give a fresh, new approach.

Improve Your Writing

Being in a book club is a great way to improve your own writing! By reading more often and more broadly, you will expand your vocabulary and familiarize yourself with other writing techniques . This can help bring your prose to life and offer you more ways to tell your story. And the book club discussions may inspire new ideas and connections you hadn’t previously considered for your own work.

You’ll also discover what you don’t like about particular writing styles. While another writer might work brilliantly with short, punchy sentences, you may decide this technique isn’t for you and your work. Or, if an author’s long, detailed descriptions leave you yearning for the action to start, you might realize you want to spend less time on imagery in your own writing.

Bust Through Writer’s Block More Quickly

If you’ve been staring at a blank screen or page for hours, it might be time to step away. Nonwriting activities can actually help boost your creativity! A book club is an excellent way to enjoy some stress relief while still participating in the writing world. Discuss books with other readers, and when you’re finished, you may discover you have plenty of new ideas to help overcome your writer’s block .

Broaden Your Horizons

Whether it’s exploring a new genre, discovering fresh perspectives, or “visiting” places you’ve never been, reading with a book club can be a great way to broaden your horizons.

Perhaps you prefer the horror genre, but your book club chooses to read a romance. Delving into the tropes and style of a romance novel might inspire you to use the genre’s techniques for describing heightened emotions in your own story (or you might even try your hand at writing your own romance novel!).

If you’re reading nonfiction or a novel set in a location you’ve never been to, the descriptions can help you add depth to the setting in your novel. While writing what you know is commonly suggested, there are times when you might want to write for a global audience and need to remember that your experiences aren’t universal.

Build A Community

You’ve seen the acknowledgments section of your favorite book: Writers thrive in a community . Building a support system with the members of your book club is one of the best ways to keep moving forward even during the most difficult parts of writing. You may even find other writers among your book club participants!

Now that you know how belonging to a book club can benefit writers, it’s time to join one. Many communities will have ongoing book clubs hosted by libraries or bookstores. If you can’t find one in your community, check for online book clubs . You could even start a book club yourself!

And when you’ve written something wonderful inspired by your book club experience, it’s time for the next chapter: submitting your work for publication! The research experts at Writer’s Relief can help you pinpoint the best markets for your writing and boost your odds of getting published. Learn more and submit your writing sample to our Review Board today!

Question: How might your writing benefit from your participating in a book club?

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Book Club Questions for These Precious Days by Ann Patchett

By: Author Luka

Posted on Last updated: March 31, 2024

Categories Book Club Questions

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here .

Book club questions for These Precious Days by Ann Patchett explore the fleeting nature of life, the importance of human connection, the intersection of personal and universal experiences and the impact of art and creativity.

For anyone who appreciates life and love and friendship, and generosity of spirit. This novel is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. And beautiful. One story at a time.

How did you like this collection of essays by Ann? ✨

These Precious Days by Ann Patchett

In this blog post you will find the discussion questions for These Precious Days by Ann Patchett.

At the bottom of this post I also have some additional suggestions for novels that share similar themes and narratives, as well as PDF with printable discussion question you can use with your book clubs.

Book Club Questions | Additional Reco m mendations | Printable List

About the Novel

These Precious Days is a collection of heartfelt essays written by Ann Patchett, in which she reflects on various aspects of life, including home, family, friendships, and the art of writing.

The central essay explores an unexpected friendship with Tom Hanks’ assistant, Sooki, delving into the profound impact of human connections. Patchett’s writing is eloquent and intimate, inviting readers to explore the depths of her experiences and emotions.

She weaves together personal stories with universal themes, touching on childhood memories, literary influences, and the fleeting nature of life.

Through her words, Patchett reminds readers to cherish the precious moments in life and appreciate the beauty found in everyday experiences.

About the Author

Ann Patchett is a well-known author with nine engaging novels under her belt, including “ Bel Canto ” and “ The Dutch House .”

She’s also edited collections like “ Best American Short Stories ” and written insightful nonfiction books like “ This is the Story of a Happy Marriage .”

Ann’s efforts have won her impressive awards, and she’s a strong supporter of independent bookstores.

She lives in Nashville with her husband and dog, and her work continues to inspire readers around the world.

Book Club Questions for These Precious Days

Disclaimer: the following discussion questions contain spoilers, so proceed with caution if you haven’t finished the book yet.

• The central essay revolves around Ann Patchett’s unexpected friendship with Sooki, Tom Hanks’ assistant. How does this friendship redefine the meaning of connection and being seen by others?
• Discuss the impact of friendships on the author’s life as portrayed in different essays. How do these friendships shape her views on love, companionship, and human connection?
• The essays in the book capture various transformative moments in Patchett’s life. Which essay resonated with you the most, and why?
• How does Patchett navigate through life’s unexpected twists and turns, and what can readers learn from her experiences?
• In the essay “There Are No Children Here,” Patchett discusses her choice not to have children. How does her decision challenge societal expectations, and what insights does she offer about the complexities of this choice?
• Explore the themes of motherhood and womanhood in the context of Patchett’s narrative. How does her perspective on these topics influence her writing and her relationships?
• Patchett talks about her relationships with her three fathers. How does her unique family dynamic influence her perspective on identity and belonging?
• In the essay “The First Thanksgiving,” Patchett spends the holiday alone in her college dorm. How does this experience reflect the theme of family and home in the book?
• Several essays touch on themes of loss and acceptance. How does Patchett cope with loss, and how does she find solace in her writing and relationships?
• Patchett provides glimpses into her writing process and her discipline as a writer. How does her self-awareness and understanding of her own limitations contribute to her creativity and productivity? Discuss her approach to balancing writing with other aspects of her life.
• In the essay “The Nightstand,” Patchett revisits her early writings, exploring the tension between holding onto the past and embracing the present. How does this reflection on her past work inform her present writing journey?
• In what ways do the essays explore the acceptance of mortality and the fleeting nature of life? How does Patchett find beauty in impermanence?
• Patchett discusses the influence of literature and art in her life. How do books and creative expressions impact her worldview and personal growth?
• The collection grapples with the theme of mortality, especially in the face of Sooki’s illness. How does Patchett confront the realities of mortality, and what lessons can readers draw from her perspective on living fully in the present moment?
• Discuss the essay “How to Practice,” where Patchett contemplates the impermanence of life and the importance of appreciating the present. How can readers apply the principles of mindfulness and gratitude in their own lives, especially in challenging times?
• Throughout the book, Patchett emphasizes the significance of literature and art in her life. How do books and artistic expressions serve as lifelines for her and those around her, providing solace, inspiration, and connection?
• Explore the symbolism of Sooki’s painting of Patchett’s dog Sparky, which adorns the book cover. What does this artwork represent in the context of their friendship and the themes explored in the collection?
• Explore the essay “Cover Stories,” where Patchett talks about book covers. How does this essay shed light on the creative process and the significance of visual representation in literature?
• Patchett’s writing is often described as elegant and insightful. How does her writing style contribute to the emotional impact of the essays?
• Discuss specific passages or quotes from the book that left a lasting impression on you and why they resonated.
• In what ways did reading Patchett’s essays inspire personal reflection? Did any of her experiences or insights prompt you to reconsider your own views on life, friendship, or creativity?
• Share your own experiences related to friendship, unexpected connections, or moments of self-discovery that you found parallel to Patchett’s stories.

Additional Recommendations

Hope you enjoyed the book club discussion questions and reading guide for These Precious Days by Ann Patchett!

Here are some more of my book club recommendations related to this book:

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

In this beautiful and moving novel about family, love, and growing up, Ann Patchett once again proves herself one of America’s finest writers.

In the spring of 2020, Lara’s three daughters return to the family’s orchard in Northern Michigan. While picking cherries, they beg their mother to tell them the story of Peter Duke, a famous actor with whom she shared both a stage and a romance years before at a theater company called Tom Lake.

As Lara recalls the past, her daughters examine their own lives and relationship with their mother, and are forced to reconsider the world and everything they thought they knew.

Tom Lake  is a meditation on youthful love, married love, and the lives parents have led before their children were born. Both hopeful and elegiac, it explores what it means to be happy even when the world is falling apart.

As in all of her novels, Ann Patchett combines compelling narrative artistry with piercing insights into family dynamics. The result is a rich and luminous story, told with profound intelligence and emotional subtlety, that demonstrates once again why she is one of the most revered and acclaimed literary talents working today.

To read my review of this book, click here . For my book club questions and printable reading guide for this book, click here .

The Will and the Wilds by Charlie N. Holmberg

A spellbinding story of truce and trickery from the  Wall Street Journal  bestselling author of The Paper Magician series.

Enna knows to fear the mystings that roam the wildwood near her home. When one tries to kill her to obtain an enchanted stone, Enna takes a huge risk: fighting back with a mysting of her own.

Maekallus’s help isn’t free. His price? A kiss. One with the power to steal her soul. But their deal leaves Maekallus bound to the mortal realm, which begins eating him alive. Only Enna’s kiss, given willingly, can save him from immediate destruction. It’s a temporary salvation for Maekallus and a lingering doom for Enna. Part of her soul now burns bright inside Maekallus, making him  feel  for the first time.

Enna shares Maekallus’s suffering, but her small sacrifice won’t last long. If she and Maekallus can’t break the spell binding him to the mortal realm, Maekallus will be consumed completely―and Enna’s soul with him.

Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

A finalist for the Kirkus Prize, Andrew Carnegie Medal, Aspen Words Literary Prize, and a  New York Times  bestseller, this majestic, stirring, and widely praised novel from two-time National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward, the story of a family on a journey through rural Mississippi, is a “tour de force” ( O, The Oprah Magazine ) and a timeless work of fiction that is destined to become a classic.

Jojo is thirteen years old and trying to understand what it means to be a man. He doesn’t lack in fathers to study, chief among them his Black grandfather, Pop. But there are other men who complicate his understanding: his absent White father, Michael, who is being released from prison; his absent White grandfather, Big Joseph, who won’t acknowledge his existence; and the memories of his dead uncle, Given, who died as a teenager.

His mother, Leonie, is an inconsistent presence in his and his toddler sister’s lives. She is an imperfect mother in constant conflict with herself and those around her. She is Black and her children’s father is White. She wants to be a better mother but can’t put her children above her own needs, especially her drug use. Simultaneously tormented and comforted by visions of her dead brother, which only come to her when she’s high, Leonie is embattled in ways that reflect the brutal reality of her circumstances.

When the children’s father is released from prison, Leonie packs her kids and a friend into her car and drives north to the heart of Mississippi and Parchman Farm, the State Penitentiary. At Parchman, there is another thirteen-year-old boy, the ghost of a dead inmate who carries all of the ugly history of the South with him in his wandering. He too has something to teach Jojo about fathers and sons, about legacies, about violence, about love.

Printable Discussion Questions

Feel free to distribute these questions to your book club members before your meeting. Simply click the link below to download and print the PDF file.

Happy reading! ❤️

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Reading Books — Book Clubs In The Digital Era

Book Clubs in The Digital Era

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Published: Feb 8, 2022

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11 Short Story Collections For Your Book Club

The best part about being in a book club is getting to spend an afternoon drinking coffee and talking for hours about your new favorite book. The worst part about a book club (if there is such a thing) is having to pick out and agree on the next book to read. Fantastic books continue to come out, which is a wonderful thing, but it also means your book decision always remains difficult. This is where the short story collection comes in to save the day — with a cape and everything.

The beautiful thing about a short story collection is that it's filled with different characters, story lines, plots, and settings. If you didn't like one short story within it, chances are that you're going find at least one to fall in love with. Specifically within a book club, these collections are easy to discuss as the stories are already separated and small enough to jump in and out of within a group setting.

As much as I adore traditional novels, short story collections can serve as a palate cleanser. It breaks the mould, shakes things up a bit, and gets you to focus in on the bigger details within smaller stories. Amazing short stories are not easy to write, so to write a collection, in my mind, is to create a masterpiece. These 11 collections are sure to become some of your book club's best additions yet:

Get in Trouble by Kelly Link

Click Here To Buy

If you or your book club is new to short story collections, try starting out with one of the most masterful short storytellers : Kelly Link. This highly anticipated collection has lived up to its hype with stories following astronauts, bootleggers, and even Ouija boards. Your book club won't be able to stop talking about the connecting themes of humanity and humor throughout.

What We Talk About When We Talk About Love by Raymond Carver

Going with a classic is also a great way to introduce short story collections to your group. Carver is not known for his grand epiphanies or dramatic plots, but for his simplicity and beautiful prose, capturing humanity at its core. While some of his stories may take a few read-throughs, that makes his collection perfect for a book club. Where one person may have read a different theme or meaning from a certain story, another probably took something else from it, which always makes for interesting discussions.

Runaway by Alice Munro

There are so many wonderful things to say about Alice Munro, a Pulitzer Prize winner, and her beautiful writing. Runaway captures everything she does well in eight short stories, all while covering the themes of womanhood, identity, and the human heart. Even if your book club doesn't read this book together, this is a collection that must be on every woman's book bucket list.

The Temple of Air by Patricia Ann McNair

Taking place in New Hope, a small midwestern town struck with tragedy, these intertwined short stories will take you through a unique journey unlike any other. Spanning over three generations, there's something everyone can take away from these redemption and consequence filled stories. From the very first page, McNair will astound you and your entire book club with her detailed and gorgeous writing style.

Stone Mattress by Margaret Atwood

Stone Mattress is one of my all-time favorite short stories in this collection, and Margaret Atwood will never fail to bring you into a wicked and fascinating world with her words. Three of the first stories are interconnected while the rest stand on their own, mirroring the themes of aging and the horrors that come with it. Vivid and humorous at times, dark at others, you'll spend more time than usual discussing these stories in your book club.

This is How You Lose Her by Junot Díaz

If you and your book club are craving stories on love — and I mean all different perspectives of love: obsessive, fading, cruel, powerful, intoxicating — then this is your book . Junot Díaz writes the stories of the people you see passing by in the busy city streets, and at the heart of it all is Yunior, a reckless young boy in search of love. Along with Díaz's other collection, Drown , you'll be falling in love with his writing and storytelling prose.

On the Way by Cyn Vargas

One of the more recent short story collections to have made a major impact on me, On the Way is Vargas' big debut and I was seriously impressed. Her characters are the stories, and nearly all of the stories follow some version of a loss or gain in life. Touching on those moments in life when you wish to act out but choose to stay in the shadows, this short collection of short stories is a perfect fit for any book club.

Almost Famous Women by Megan Mayhew Bergman

This collection of short stories follows women throughout history born close to the spotlight but not given the recognition they craved. From James Joyce's daughter Lucia to Oscar Wilde's crazy niece Dolly, Bergman reimagines the lives of these daring women and pulls you in by their reckless choices and compelling lives.

Trigger Warning by Neil Gaiman

Maybe you already read American Gods with your book club and are craving another masterpiece by Gaiman. Trigger Warning is the collection of stories that sets out to reveal the masks everyone hides behind through haunting and ingenious tales only Gaiman could create. Including a very special Doctor Who special story written for the 50th anniversary, a tale inspired by Gaiman's active social media presence, and many more creative and spellbinding stories await.

Portraits of the Few People I've Made Cry by Christine Sneed

If the title alone doesn't get you, Sneed's complex and artistic writing definitely will. Her stories embody the complicated and twisted relationships that bloom between men and women of all ages. Each story takes on the point of view of a woman at a different stage in life and hooks you into a compelling journey of morals and complications we all face in life. You'll love discussing it with your book group — and, really, anyone that needs a book recommendation.

Images: infowidget /flickr

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9 Benefits of a Book Club (And Why You Should Join One!)

Wondering what are the benefits of a book club? Trying to decide if you should join one? Here are 9 benefits and reasons you should join a book club in your area or online now!

1. Creates reading accountability

One of the biggest benefits of book clubs, particularly for those trying to get back into reading, is that book clubs help keep you accountable to actually reading!

By joining a book club, you’re committing to read the book of the month (or week, etc.). And if you don’t read the book, you know you’ll be disappointing your fellow book club members. So joining a book club can be a great way to force yourself to read if you need a little external motivation to do so!

2. Helps You Engage Deeper With the Book

Another benefit of joining a book club is that it can help you engage deeper with the book. If you’re the type of person who reads quickly, then you may find that knowing you’ll be discussing the book with others helps you slow down and actually digest what you’re reading. Plus, book club discussion with others may help you see new details you missed in your own reading!

3. Encourages Critical Thinking

Joining a book club can also be a great way to encourage critical thinking in yourself and in your fellow book club members. By working through and discussing the book together, you can help each other to see all aspects of a topic and consider each one carefully.

4. Keeps Your Brain Sharp

Reading in general helps with overall brain function and increasing memory, but add in discussion time with your book club and your brain will be compelled to keep up and keep sharp! If you don’t have many other avenues to fully engage your brain, then book club can be a great way to keep everything working well.

5. Gives You New Perspectives

Another of the top benefits of book club is to help give you new perspectives! The other members in your book club may come from backgrounds that are different from yours, which may mean they bring vastly different perspectives to your discussions. This can help you learn new things and see things from new angles you might never have considered!

Of course, differing perspectives can lead to disagreements and even arguments…which is why it’s important to always be kind and considerate of each other in book club (that’s one of the most important rules for book club !).

6. Helps You Make New Friends

Yet another fantastic benefit of book club is that it can help you make new friends! If you’re looking to meet others in your area (or online) who share similar interests to you, then joining a book club can be a great way to do that. For book lovers, there are few things that forge a bond as instantly as meeting someone else who loves books…so get ready to make some new friends!

7. Can Improve Writing Skills

If you’re interested in both reading and writing, then book club can also benefit you by helping you improve your writing skills. By reading a variety of books, you’ll learn a lot about different styles of writing and what makes writing good. Before you know it, you’ll be incorporating elements of excellent writing into your own writing projects!

8. Fosters a Continuing Love of Literature

While reading is sometimes it’s own reward, joining a community of literature lovers can help foster a continuing love of literature in yourself and in your community. By meeting with others and sharing the love of literature, you’ll help keep your own love of reading strong and encourage each other to continue reading and loving literature!

9. Gives You a Break From Life

Life can be difficult. But book club can be a great escape when you need it! Whether your book club meets weekly, monthly, or any other frequency, knowing you have a book club meeting coming up can be a great way to help you make it through your daily tasks and can be something to look forward to!

When you meet with fellow book lovers, the stress and cares of your day-to-day life will melt away as you fall into the world of the book you’re reading and discussing!

Have you experienced any other benefits from joining a book club? Share about it in the comments!

2 thoughts on “ 9 Benefits of a Book Club (And Why You Should Join One!) ”

I agree. We have a lovely interesting book club at my house. Once in four weeks on Thursday mornings we meet up in order to talk books and make some friends too. We use websites and the bookshops to find a few different cheap new books to read, and often like to visit local community free libraries as well. Try it. I also recommend asking a friendly librarian for advice and recommendations on books of all types. Same applies to bookshop staff. They should definitely be able to help you find something to read. During the first ever national public lockdown I participated in a book swap. Past events and activities included making bookmarks, discussion questions that are based on books, and cool quizzes. It is a lot of good fun. Have fun. Discussion questions vary according to the book we choose. We award a limited set of prizes in addition. Books are our friends in a way. You can also do various other activities like twenty questions and prepare colourful character fact files etc. You can read discussion questions on the internet. Experiment to learn a bit more in addition here. Cast your net fairly wide in other words for optimal results. See what happens as a result of your inquiries.

I love this! So happy to hear you host a book club at your house. Thanks for sharing, Thara!

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10 Top Book Clubs that Meet on Zoom

By A.W. Naves

Are you interested in joining a book club that only meets virtually? We’ve summarized 10 top book clubs that meet on Zoom in this post.

1. Murderino Book Club

If you love a good murder mystery and sharing your thoughts about it with other aficionados, the Murderino Book Club might be just what you’re looking for. Sponsored by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library in Charlotte, North Carolina, the club meets entirely online.

Meetings take place on Zoom each month on the third Tuesday at 7 p.m. You can register for the group by joining them on Meetup and signing up for the meetings on the library’s website to be sent the link to upcoming meetings you’d like to participate in.

Register online.

2. Nonfiction Navigators Book Club

The Nonfiction Navigators Book Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, meets entirely on Zoom. The group selects a topic rather than a book. Members then choose a nonfiction book related to the subject matter and share what they learn at the meeting.

Members meet every two months on the second Wednesday at noon. Books for each topic can be selected from the list provided by the group or selected from the library catalog at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, which sponsors the group.

Register for a meeting.

3. Vegan Book Club

Plant-based people in Hartford, Connecticut, and beyond who are looking for an online book club can join the Vegan Book Club sponsored by the Vegan Health and Wellness group on Meetup. The group aims to promote activism that inspires others to pursue a cruelty-free lifestyle.

Though the group holds a number of in-person events, the book club is held online via Zoom every month. Dates and times are posted on their events page. The books selected are written by vegan authors for a vegan audience and include a variety of fiction and non-fiction topics.

Join the group.

4. The Page Turners Book Club

The Page Turners Book Club in Los Altos, California, is made up of women who appreciate a good fiction or non-fiction read. Their book choices include a wide variety of subjects and authors that are selected by members for discussion.

The group meets monthly on the first Friday at 10:00 p.m. but participants are invited to join the Zoom meeting up to 30 minutes early for a bit of socializing before starting the book discussion. There are no fees to join the group or attend the meetings.

Join the chat.

5. SmutTalk Book Club

Are you a woman who loves erotic romance? SmutTalk Book Club in Phoenix, Arizona, is meant just for you. This 18+-only book club is intended for twenty and thirty-somethings, but all adult women are welcome. The group focuses solely on romantic fiction with a naughty twist.

Meetings are held at 10 a.m. via Zoom on the first Saturday of the month. Members are invited to bring discussion questions about the plot, characters, and writing—as well as their thoughts on the book. The group also holds other events that are in-person from time to time.

Find their next event.

6. Cozy Mystery Book Club

The Cozy Mystery Book Club was created by women for other women who enjoy reading and talking about both classic and contemporary cozy mysteries. Like many groups that have adapted and endured through the pandemic, this Los Angeles, California, group meets entirely online.

You will find the group on Zoom each month on the fourth Sunday at 10 p.m. Members are invited to prepare their favorite tea and snacks and join in the discussion of the book selected for the month and socialize with like-minded women.

Help solve a mystery.

7. The Stephen King Book Club

The Stephen King Book Club is based in Chicago, Illinois, but they hold their meetings exclusively on Zoom. On the second Tuesday of each month, they log in at 8 p.m. to discuss a book written by the master of horror, Stephen King. There is a $3 fee to participate.

This group goes far further than just a light chat about the storyline, instead delving into the finer points like plot devices, characters, structure, and style. The discussion is not only for readers who love King’s novels but for those who don’t present an opposing view on the author.

RSVP for an event.

8. Atheist Society of Calgary Book Club

The Atheist Society of Calgary (ASC) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, started the ASC Book Club for those who would like to read and discuss non-fiction writings exploring atheism and religion in an online setting among similarly minded people.

Meetings are conducted on the Thursday that falls on the second week of each month. Times are posted online. There is no charge to participate. Just read the book selected for the month and sign into the Zoom link to share your thoughts on the reading material with like-minded people.

Get the link.

9. FLE Book Club

If you speak French as a second language and are interested in improving your French reading skills, the French London Experience (FLE) Book Club is a great way to do so. Members select one book per month to read and then meet to read select passages and share their thoughts.

Zoom meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on either a Thursday or Friday at the end of each month. The fee to attend is $15 per meeting or $60 for five meetings. The London-based group skips July and December but meets during the other ten months.

Improve your French.

10. Brilliant Minds Book Club

Brilliant Minds Book Club in Brisbane, Australia, holds a book club meeting every two to three weeks on Zoom. Dates and times are posted on the events page of their Meetup group. The books they choose focus on empowering yourself, leadership skills, and positivity.

In addition to Zoom meetings, the group holds in-person book discussions and other events meant to bring like-minded people together to discuss how to improve their lives on a variety of fronts. You can check them out on Facebook or Meetup to stay up to date on their activities.

Achieve your best life.

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The Ritual Effect Is Our April SELF Well-Read Book Club Pick

By Grace McCarty

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Each month, the   SELF Well-Read Book Club highlights a timely, delightful, and crucial book on a subject that helps readers live better lives.   So far, we’ve covered everything from   the politics of running to the   state of modern motherhood .

When many of us think of rituals, things like significant occasions, milestones, or cultural ties come to mind—like the quirky traditions that make family holidays unique, the ceremonies that often take place at weddings, or even the threadbare lucky socks you wear every time your team plays its biggest rival. But what if rituals could bring that same amount of joy to the more mundane parts of our lives too?

Well, according to psychologist and Harvard Business School professor Michael I. Norton, they can—and that’s exactly what he aims to show in The Ritual Effect: Unlocking the Extraordinary Power of the Ordinary , our April SELF Well-Read Book Club Pick. This isn’t your typical, preachy self-help manual. In fact, Norton has no interest in telling you which rituals are worth adopting—that part is up to you. Instead, the book breaks down the true meaning of rituals and the positive ways they can impact your relationships, personal and professional lives, and sense of self, reframing the concept as something much fresher, more special, and more accessible than you may have once thought.

Chances are, you’re already practicing more everyday rituals than you realize. They can be as simple as the way you prepare your coffee each morning, the order in which you apply your skin care products, or the warm-up stretches you move through before every run. When you don’t do them, things just don’t feel right. “Good habits automate us, helping us to get things done,” Norton writes. On the other hand, he says, “Rituals animate us, enhancing and enchanting our lives with something more.” For example: Shifting from a “habitual” to “ritual” mindset can turn your dreaded Sunday grocery runs into a cherished weekly reset, or your office lunch breaks into an opportunity to meaningfully connect with coworkers.

So—why now? While January is a more typical time to implement new goals and make tweaks to your routine, it’s often filled with outsized pressure to overhaul your entire life—and, let’s be real, the month is cold and bleak. But spring—a season famously full of growth and new energy—is an excellent time to revisit and reinvigorate habits that could be serving you better. As the world comes back to life, think about test-driving some new rituals that might make your ordinary routines feel more special.

We hope that a ritual mindset will spark joy, connection, healing, or simply help you add a little magic to the mundane. Don’t forget to grab your copy of The Ritual Effect below, explore some suggested reading to further inspire your spring ritual refresh, and check out our Q&A with author Michael Norton—all about the benefits and challenges you can expect from your new rituals— here .

‘The Ritual Effect: From Habit to Ritual, Harness the Surprising Power of Everyday Actions’ by Michael I. Norton

Suggested reading:

• How to Feel a Little Better in 2024
• How to Make Your Alone Time Feel Luxurious as Hell
• How to Make Your Showers Feel Extra Relaxing and Luxurious
• Why Having a Little Hobby Is So Good for You, According to Science
• How to Keep Your Creativity Alive When You Have a Chronic Illness
• Here’s How to Meditate If You Haven’t Gotten Into It Yet but Really Want To
• 13 People on the Meaningful Food Traditions Passed Down in Their Families
• 8 Solo Date Ideas That Can Help You Actually Enjoy Doing Things Alone
• I’m a Sleep Specialist. Here’s the Bedtime Habit I Swear By for Better Rest
• 4 Ways to Tell If Your Self-Care Practice Is Actually Making You Feel Better

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

At silent book clubs, socializing is optional

At these gatherings, reading is the point.

It was 6:30 p.m. on a brisk Sunday night and about 15 people had gathered at Inkwood Books in Haddonfield, N.J. Spread across the store in chairs or perched atop pillows on the floor, everyone seemed to be reading a different book. There was no discussion afterward, no prepared questions.

At Silent Book Club, silence is the draw.

“The biggest question we get is, ‘How much social interaction is there?’” said Kate Candelaria, 31, who started a Silent Book Club in Cherry Hill, N.J., about a year ago with her friend Veronica Pinto, 30. “We have a lot of introverts, so we reassure people that you don’t need to come with the same book, you don’t need to come wanting to talk to people — you can just come as yourself.”

These silent but social gatherings are booming. Of more than 950 official chapters of Silent Book Club (SBC) worldwide, almost 400 have registered since January. Recent additions hail from Abu Dhabi and Marietta, Ga., proving that a hatred of small talk is universal.

Franklin Schneier, a special lecturer of psychiatry at Columbia University, said people — particularly young people — are spending less time face to face. For those who are socially anxious, the pandemic had a mixed impact, he said. In some ways it was liberating to have an excuse not to interact with strangers, but in the longer term, social phobias became more intractable.

“The trick is kind of finding social situations that are comfortable enough to engage with, but not so much that the person is scared off,” Schneier said.

A Silent Book Club is attractive as a low-pressure social opportunity, he said, much like bicycle clubs or hiking groups. In those cases, the action is the focus, and being social is optional.

SBC started in San Francisco in 2012, when friends Guinevere de la Mare and Laura Gluhanich found that they both loved reading but felt that traditional book clubs were too much like homework.

“My time is limited, and I just wanted to read what I wanted to read and not have to prepare discussion questions,” said de la Mare, who is a writer for Google, now living in Hawaii.

The two started meeting up at a bar to read for an hour and would post photos of their books and their wine on social media with the hashtag #silentbookclub. Soon, friends wanted to join, and the duo set up a more formal structure — a bit of optional chitchat to start, followed by an hour of silence.

Then one of them moved to Brooklyn and missed her quiet social hour, so she started another iteration; then came the move to Los Angeles, and the gatherings grew. As more chapters formed, the duo — who both have full-time jobs and call SBC “a passion project” — created a website and a way to register new chapters. (There is no charge to register a new SBC or attend meetings, and money for the website and LLC costs come from advertising in the newsletter and merchandise, de la Mare said.)

Not all silent book gatherings are part of an official SBC. Reading Rhythms in New York, for example, is a more social event that costs $10 to attend and, according to its website, is “set to a backdrop of ambient live music in beautifully curated venues.”

Some Silent Book Club groups, like the Cherry Hill chapter, meet once a week. Others meet once a month. They meet in bookstores and coffee shops, cat cafes and libraries, pizza shops and local parks. Chapters get the word out through Instagram and Facebook groups, and some hold fundraisers or special programs to support the places where they meet.

The rules are always the same: 30 minutes before the meeting’s official start time, people can come, share what they are reading and find a place to sit. Then someone rings a bell or makes an announcement, and it’s reading time. For an hour, that’s it, everyone settles into their zone. Afterward, there’s a period of optional socializing.

Candelaria and Pinto, the creators of the Cherry Hill group, are engineers who met at Rowan University. During the pandemic, both women started reading a lot more, and when restrictions lifted, they began reading at different coffee shops. Maybe, they thought, others would want to join. It turns out, they do, which is how more than a dozen people ended up at Inkwood Books.

It was the second SBC visit for Jennifer Reyes, 36, a sales manager from Marlton, N.J., who was reading a book from the series, “The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion,” by Beth Brower. During the previous gathering, at a cat cafe, she had brought her sister as a social buffer, just in case.

She found out about the SBC after making a New Year’s resolution to join a book club, and she loved that there wasn’t a set book to read. Working in retail, she’s comfortable talking to people, but socializing can be difficult, she said.

That Sunday, Reyes walked around for a bit met the chapter leaders and settled into a chair toward the back of the store. Pretty soon, she was not alone.

“A lady came over and started talking, and she was really nice,” said Reyes. “We talked the whole entire time until it was reading time, about our mutual interest in books and trying to make friends as an adult.”

­Although Reyes didn’t stick around after she finished reading, she said she planned to go again. She acknowledged that it may be hard for some to understand the appeal of being with other people in silence. It’s not like being in a library, where everyone is there for a different purpose, she said.

“I think this is a really nice way to still be in your little bubble, but there are people around you,” Reyes said.

More from Book World

Love everything about books? Make sure to subscribe to our Book Club newsletter , where Ron Charles guides you through the literary news of the week.

Best books of 2023: See our picks for the 10 best books of 2023 or dive into the staff picks that Book World writers and editors treasured in 2023. Check out the complete lists of 50 notable works for fiction and the top 50 nonfiction books of last year.

Find your favorite genre: Three new memoirs tell stories of struggle and resilience, while five recent historical novels offer a window into other times. Audiobooks more your thing? We’ve got you covered there, too . If you’re looking for what’s new, we have a list of our most anticipated books of 2024 . And here are 10 noteworthy new titles that you might want to consider picking up this April.

Still need more reading inspiration? Super readers share their tips on how to finish more books . Or let poet and essayist Hanif Abdurraqib explain why he stays in Ohio . You can also check out reviews of the latest in fiction and nonfiction .

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

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Annie Jacobsen: 'What if we had a nuclear war?’

The author and Pulitzer prize finalist, who has written the latest pick for the New Scientist Book Club, Nuclear War: A scenario, on the "shocking truths" about a nuclear attack

By Annie Jacobsen

12 April 2024

The Titan nuclear missile in the silo in Arizona, US

Michael Dunning/Getty Images

Not long after the last world war, the historian William L. Shirer had this to say about the next world war. It “will be launched by suicidal little madmen pressing an electronic button. Such a war will not last long and none will ever follow it. There will be no conquers and no conquests, but only the charred bones of the dead on an uninhabited planet.”

As an investigative journalist, I write about war, weapons, national security and government secrets. I’ve previously written six books about US military and intelligence programmes – at the CIA, The Pentagon, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency– all designed to prevent, or deter, nuclear world war III . In the course of my work, countless people in the upper echelons of US government have told me, proudly, that they’ve dedicated their lives to making sure the US never has a nuclear war. But what if it did?

“Every capability in the [Department of Defense] is underpinned by the fact that strategic deterrence will hold,” US Strategic Command (STRATCOM), which is responsible for nuclear deterrence, insists publicly. Until the autumn of 2022, this promise was pinned on STRATCOM’s public Twitter feed. But to a private audience at Sandia National Laboratories later that same year, STRATCOM’s Thomas Bussiere admitted the existential danger inherent to deterrence. “Everything unravels itself if those things are not true.”

If deterrence fails – what exactly would that unravelling look like? To write Nuclear War: A scenario , I put this question to scores of former nuclear command and control authorities. To the military and civilian experts who’ve built the weapon systems, been privy to the response plans and been responsible for advising the US president on nuclear counterstrike decisions should they have to be made. What I learned terrified me. Here are just a few of the shocking truths about nuclear war.

The US maintains a nuclear launch policy called Launch on Warning. This means that if a military satellite indicates the nation is under nuclear attack and a second early-warning radar confirms that information, the president launches nuclear missiles in response. Former secretary of defense William Perry told me: “Once we are warned of a nuclear attack, we prepare to launch. This is policy. We do not wait.”

The US president has sole authority to launch nuclear weapons. He asks permission of no one. Not the secretary of defense, not the chairman of the joint chief of staff, not the US Congress. “The authority is inherent in his role as commander in chief,” the Congressional Research Service confirms. The president “does not need the concurrence of either his [or her] military advisors or the US Congress to order the launch of nuclear weapons”.

When the president learns he must respond to a nuclear attack, he has just 6 minutes to do so. Six minutes is an irrational amount of time to “decide whether to release Armageddon”, President Ronald Reagan lamented in his memoirs. “Six minutes to decide how to respond to a blip on a radar scope… How could anyone apply reason at a time like that?” And yet, the president must respond. This is because it takes roughly just 30 minutes for an intercontinental ballistic missile to get from a launch pad in Russia, North Korea or China to any city in the US, and vice versa. Nuclear-armed submarines can cut that launch-to-target time to 10 minutes, or less.

Today, there are nine nuclear powers, with a combined total of more than 12,500 nuclear weapons ready to be used. The US and Russia each have some 1700 nuclear weapons deployed – weapons that can be launched in seconds or minutes after their respective president gives the command. This is what Shirer meant when he said: “Such a war will not last long and none will ever follow it.”

Nuclear war is the only scenario other than an asteroid strike that could end civilisation in a matter of hours. The soot from burning cities and forests will blot out the sun and cause nuclear winter. Agriculture will fail. Some 5 billion people will die. In the words of former Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev, “the survivors will envy the dead”.

I wrote Nuclear War: A scenario to demonstrate – in appalling, minute-by-minute detail – just how horrifying a nuclear war would be. “Humanity is one misunderstanding, one miscalculation away from nuclear annihilation,” UN secretary-general António Guterres warned the world in 2022. “This is madness. We must reverse course.”

Nuclear War: A Scenario   by Annie Jacobsen, published by Torva (£20.00), is available now. It is the latest pick for the New Scientist Book Club: sign up  here  to read along with our members

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Jimmy's Fallon Book Club Has Officially Chosen Its Spring 2024 Read: Details

Check out which title won the March Madness-inspired late night literary showdown.

Break out your reading glasses, because the winner of the spring 2024 Fallon Book Club has just been chosen.

How to Watch

Watch The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon  on NBC weeknights at 11:35/10:35c and next day on Peacock . 

Earlier this week, Fallon revealed the top two titles remaining in the heated competition:  Nightwatching  by Tracy Sierra, and  How to Solve Your Own Murder  by Kristen Perrin. And on Wednesday, April 10, he revealed that the voters had spoken.

"Well, everybody, finally we have a winner in the Fallon Book Club Spring Read contest. All of these books, 16 books going to head-to-head, we didn't know which one was going to win," said Fallon. "We got almost a million votes. We got like 800,000 votes. People want to read!"

"It was very close, only by 2,000 votes," he added, before revealing that [drumroll]... Nightwatching  by Tracy Sierra is the winner of Fallon Book Club.

On March 25,  Jimmy Fallon  first announced the  return of his Fallon Book Club , explaining that this time, voters would select it March Madness-style.

"Since March Madness is happening, I thought it would be fun to pick 16 new books. The sweet 16," said  The Tonight Show  Host. "Then we're going to have a bracket face-off. For no reason, they're just going to battle each other out, and see what books are going to win."

RELATED: Jimmy Fallon Just Relaunched His Book Club! See All 16 New Releases on His List

How to read the spring 2024 Fallon Book Club winner along with Jimmy Fallon

Now that everyone knows which book to snag from their local bookstore or library (though, why not both?), Fallon explained how the spring 2024 Fallon Book Club will work. 

"So here's what's going to go down. We're all going to read this book together," he explained, urging readers to use the hashtag #FallonBookClub during the read-along event. "I'll be on social media checking in, letting you know where I am at this book, because I haven't read any of these. We're all going to do it together!"

"Thanks again to everyone who voted and congratulations to Nightwatching by Tracy Sierra. We'll see you on the show very soon," he concluded, teasing that Sierra will be an upcoming Tonight Show guest, like previous Fallon Book Club authors .

RELATED: All 65 Books in Jenna Bush Hager’s Book Club, Read With Jenna

If you need a refresher on Nightwatching , Fallon read a plot description when the book was first announced as a top-two finalist.

"Home alone with her young children during a blizzard, a mother hears a noise. But this sound is disturbingly familiar. It's the sound of footsteps coming up the stairs!" Fallon narrated, as The Roots provided some mood music. "She catches a glimpse of him, and at once knows her situation is even more dire than she feared — because she knows exactly who he is and what he wants."

On the Fallon Book Club Instagram post announcing Nightwatching as the winner, Sierra commented: "Thank you so much to everyone who chose Nightwatching ! I’m beyond grateful the book was part of this amazing group."

Congrats to Sierra, and all of the Fallon Book Club finalists, on this epic late night literary showdown!

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

• Jimmy Fallon

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Bryan Danielson on the BCC Book Club: ‘We Recommend Books To Each Other’

“Moxley is a big reader, too”

• Author: Justin Barrasso

If you are in the Blackpool Combat Club, that also includes induction in the BCC book club.

“Yes, there is a BCC book club,” said Bryan Danielson. “We recommend books to each other. Reading is fantastic. Once you open the door to the world of books, there is so much to learn.”

Courtesy AEW

The BCC has been somewhat separated lately. Jon Moxley focused on New Japan Pro-Wrestling–he defeated Tetsuya Naito to win the IWGP world heavyweight championship this past Friday night. Wheeler Yuta has been on the injured list since January, while Danielson and Claudio Castagnoli have remained a strong presence in AEW–even winning a tag match on Saturday night on  Collision , defeating Powerhouse Hobbs and Kyle Fletcher.

Danielson and Castagnoli both have dates this week with professional wrestling phenom Will Ospreay. Castagnoli wrestles Ospreay on Dynamite this Wednesday, and Danielson shares the ring with him on Sunday at the Dynasty pay-per-view.

Ever since their wrestling sojourn to Mexico two weeks ago for a primetime match at Arena Mexico in Mexico City, a trip only Yuta missed, the group has been apart. But they are never too far apart, thanks to the BCC text chain–and, more importantly, the BCC book club.

“The BCC book club helps us stay connected,” said Danielson. “We share the belief that reading can enhance your life.”

Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, and Bryan Danielson

Though this is not likely to shock anyone, it is worth mentioning that Danielson is a founder of the BCC book club. But learning that his co-founder is Moxley may be a piece of information that surprises people.

“Moxley is a big reader, too,” said Danielson. “He loves to read and think and analyze. And he’s very creative.

“Claudio reads a little less than we do, but he likes to read. Wheeler, I’m not sure of his reading status [laughs]. We are focused on trying to read more.”

Danielson in CMLL

Courtesy CMLL

Danielson defeated Blue Dragon last week by submission, a long-awaited singles bout against his favorite luchador–which also took place in Arena Mexico in Mexico City. When his BCC brethren were no longer with him, he spent the majority of his time reading.

“I typically read three books at a time,” said Danielson. “I’ve been encouraging a lot of Mary Oliver’s Devotions , from a poetry perspective, it’s the best introduction to poetry.

“Anybody who knows me knows I don’t think much of social media. How much time does it take someone to craft a tweet? Five minutes? 10 minutes? 15? People spend years of their life writing a book. Then they have to subject their writing to an editor, who may say, ‘I’m not following your line of thinking here,’ or ‘This needs more clarity.’ For me, the question is, do I want to spend time reading things that someone put very little thought into? Or do I want to read things that people have put a tremendous amount of time and effort into?”

Bryan Danielson

Reading has inspired Danielson to write. The goal is not necessarily to have his work published–he did write Yes: My Improbable Journey to the Main Event of WrestleMania , which was published in 2016–he is finding immense joy in the process.

“The last year-and-a-half, I’ve really been getting better at writing,” said Danielson. “I’m doing it as a way to clarify my own thoughts. In this world, where we’re told what our morality is. Social media tells us if you believe one thing, you’re absolutely wrong–or if you believe the other, you’re absolutely right. But what do I actually believe? What do I want to stand for in my life?

“If I let other people’s ideas of morality be my guiding focus, that’s going to change with the winds. Writing down my thoughts and counterpoints has been incredible for me.”

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