How Does a Book Club Work?

Book Clubs

There are many different types of book clubs, but they all have the same goal: To read, discuss, and learn from a book. Some book clubs have themes: They only read mysteries, or romance novels. Some are grouped by author: A book club devoted to reading only Dean Koontz books, for example. Some books for book clubs are chosen by the leader or creator of the book club. Other book clubs are more eclectic; purposely varying the genre of book, or letting each member choose a book when it's their turn.

Oftentimes, libraries host book clubs. Sometimes, cities get into the act, asking everyone to read the same book during a certain month. Oprah is famous for her book clubs: Each and every book she has recommended in the past has propelled that author to stardom. Book clubs can be a group of readers who meet in person, or they can be an online group with an infinite amount of readers who must log in to forums in order to comment on the book.

Informal

Informal book clubs are probably the most common. These book clubs are made up of readers who choose the books on entertainment value for the most part. They are usually made up of a few close friends, predominantly women, who may or may not spend a lot of time discussing the book itself.

Informal book clubs may not have a set date for finishing the book. They might meet once a week, or only once a month. While these types of book clubs might not have a lot to offer someone who really wants to dig deep into the hidden meanings of the author's prose, they do have a lot to offer those readers who simply enjoy a good read.

Formal

Formal book clubs tend to be more rigid in their structure and meeting style. The book is usually chosen either by the leader or by majority vote of the members of the book club, and it is chosen for its meaning or discussion potential. Oftentimes, this means the book might be controversial for some members. Each chapter is given a due date and subsequently discussed and dissected in great detail.

Sometimes the leader of the club will have prepared written questions for the members, either to discuss upon meeting or to take with them to answer as they read the next chapter. Formal book clubs are good for those readers who appreciate structure, need motivation to finish a book and are looking to learn from their books, not just be entertained by them.

Resources

• Online Book Club