These days, it seems like book clubs are the new sewing circles. There’s something incredibly satisfying about sharing the experience of a wonderful book with others. It’s as though we have all returned from the same trip, eager to share our reactions and to question the things we didn’t quite understand. A reading community doesn’t have to be large or terribly formal to be fun and engaging. You could opt to read the same book as your spouse, your child, sibling or best friend and agree to talk about it over coffee or dinner. It is so wonderful to share the experience of powerful stories with others. Many books have provocative “book club” questions at the end of the book or you can be creative with your own questions. Who would you cast in the movie? Can you envision another ending? Can you recall what other events were happening in parallel with the story’s timing or location?
You can discuss the book in person, over the phone, or even email, its all food for thought and conversation. There’s a wonderful new website called www.Goodreads.com which is like a virtual book-club. You can connect with old friends or find new ones who share your tastes. Readers post their thoughts on books, provide ratings and other recommendations. Good reads offers all sorts of ways to become involved in the discussion of terrific books.
This month, I challenge you not only to read – but to share what you’ve read with another. Use a good book as a way to make a connection with another, have a great conversation, and let me know what you think. I’m always looking for a good read!