Community Corner
Mom's Escape: Escape into the Love of Reading
There's nothing better than relaxing and settling in with a good book. A book club is an excellent way to read great books, converse and socialize with friends. Here are some tips for book clubs (yes, even for the busiest moms).
Escaping into a great book is one of the best feelings.
To be able to leave our busy worlds through a book, even for a few moments, is such a treat. Following a great storyline and plot, getting immersed with a character, learning something new, or pondering an author's thoughts and themes are the gifts books give back to us.
So why not share the fun?
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Book clubs are not a just a great way to add to your reading experience, but also a terrific way to socialize with friends. With a little planning and organization, starting your own book club is easy. Here's how to get started.
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What types of books do you and your friends like to read? Fiction? Nonfiction? Humor? Chick Lit? Historical novels? Science Fiction? Maybe a little of everything? Find a theme. Ask your friends for their suggestions. Work collaboratively to select a title. Tip: Try to choose something that would have library access or could be purchased used (or even borrowed).
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What is a realistic time to meet? You are a busy mom and probably so are others. Does it work to meet once a month? Once a quarter? In the evening? During the day when kids are napping? On a weekend? Narrow down your time as specifically as possible.
Where should you meet? Typically book clubs are hosted in the founder's home or the members take turns hosting. Hosting can be as simple as having a few snacks or a glass of wine or more elaborate like a potluck dinner. Too much work? Choose a venue like a coffee shop, tea room, restaurant to meet. Make sure that if you do choose an outside venue that it is something affordable enough for everyone.
What should you talk about? You can do some casual, free form discussion of the book or some books actually have discussion guides to get you going. You can also look online for information about the book or if there are question outlines there as well.
What if you don't have time to read the book? Open communication with members is key. Life happens. Be gentle with each other. Try to read the next selection.
There are other book club options besides starting your own, too. There are plenty of already established book clubs around town that cover certain book themes and genres. Click here to see if something interests you. There are some book clubs that are hosted by local public libraries. Check with your library for specifics.
Not able to really break away these days, but would love the opportunity to talk about all things books? How about an online club? Facebook would be an excellent tool for that very thing. Create a group page on Facebook, invite friends, and follow Steps 1, 2, 4, and 5 above. Online clubs are a great way to include folks from out of state or even out of the country.
Happy Reading!