How to Make a Book Club Less Intimidating

Book clubs can be a source of fun, intelligent discussion, and a place to make good friends (and maybe more in some cases). But there is also something intimidating about book clubs. No one wants to feel stupid, and most people are quite certain that everyone else knows more than they do. But, if you are hosting a book club, you can make this experience a little less so.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a book club
• cards
• pen
• advanced notice
• flexibility

1. Keep the group small. Between five and fifteen people makes a nice sized group. Not everyone has to know one another before it starts (though that might make it easier), but a smaller number of members makes it easier for everyone to get to know each other.

2. Make sure that you have been clear about what sort of books you will be reading. Comedies, biographies, romances, or historical novels are all options. But people need to know what to prepare for. And most likely, the book will set the tone for your group. Particularly the first time.

3. Write a personal note of welcome to everyone in the group. Make sure that it’s handwritten. Tell them how glad you are that they are coming, remind them of what they will be reading and times, and give them an idea what to expect.

4. Give people enough time to read the book. Consider the schedules of the people who will be coming and then plan for it. Two to three weeks might be enough before the first meeting. What is important is that people have enough time to read and don’t feel stressed.

5. It’s a good idea to have some questions prepared ahead of time. This will help eliminate some of the awkwardness, though there may still be some of that. Send the questions to those in the group so that they can focus their reading.

6. If people don’t know one another, introduce them at the start of the meeting. And leave time for chit chat. While the point of a book club is to discuss books, it is okay to let the conversation rabbit trail. The other purpose of a book club is to get to know other people, and you get to know people by spending time listening to them.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to be flexible. This isn’t a class. It’s fun.
• If a few members decide for whatever reason that they do not or cannot participate in the book club, do not guilt trip them. Although you can let them know that they will be missed, keep it as painless as possible.

[AutumnLeavz]

on 7/16/2008 Excellent information, very well written with many great tips! Thanks for sharing this!