Book clubs have come a long way from the stuffy, rule-following events of your mother’s era. Gone are the forced classics, the rotating hosting, the stuffy, pretentious discussions that make it appear you are “well read”. Still, these types of clubs exist for anyone who likes that format and are easily found. However, for those who want something a little different, here are some other options:
Book Clubs and Drinks
Wineries and breweries are always looking for ways to get people to enjoy their products, so they have started adding book clubs to the mix. That can be in the form of monthly events with author discussions like Beers and Books at Creemore Springs in collaboration with Curiosity House Books. Alternately, you can have the product delivered to your door like Marynissan’s Wines and Spines, where you receive two bottles of wine and the reading pick of the month. Check your local area to see what is offered.
Silent Book Club
So this is a thing. Silent Book Club events can be found all over the world. There is no assigned reading. While you gather at your local event, you can order food, drinks and share what you are reading with others. However after that, it’s your time to read silently for the next hour. Want to socialize? After everyone has had time to read, you can socialize.
Book Club with Strangers
Well, I guess it doesn’t necessarily have to be with strangers, but have you checked out your local library’s events? For instance, if you are someone who has a small literary circle and wants to expand it, why not meet others in your community? And depending on your area, they may be held in cool locations like a park, brewery or beach.
Celebrity Clubs
Similarly, if you want to feel like you are part of something but not in the traditional sense, try one of the many celebrity clubs out there. Oprah’s has been going strong for years, Reese’s picks always seem to be adapted for the screen, and Jenna produces some solid hits. Consequently, you stay culturally cool without much effort.
Your Own Personal Club
Finally, you may actually be the one keen to start your own club, but don’t know where to start. Here are some ideas to make your club just a little different from your mom’s.
- Monthly Theme – Everyone reads their own choice based on the theme
- Currently Reading – people talk about what they are reading at the moment
- Read the Classics – vote on what classics the group should read together
- Read a Series – find a long-standing series and work your way from start to finish, ie. Louise Penney’s Three Pines books
- Books to Read and Watch – find reads that have been made into TV shows or movies, and read and watch both to compare
- Book Swap Book Club – everyone has to recommend or give a book to someone else to read that month
Any of these clubs are a great way to meet others in your community, discover reads you may not have chosen for yourself on your own and stay actively engaged in the bookish community. Therefore, the trick is finding the right one for you.
Want to get started with a fun summer picks to read? Check out our Summer Reading Guide.
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