A friend from my Latin Cardio dance class invited me to do a reading and discussion of Neighborhood Girl with her book club. The meeting was held at a local library, and the event was open to the public. About twenty-five people attended, and we had a lively discussion about my book as well as neighborhoods in general, family, and community. We talked, laughed, and had a terrific time.
This experience was one I’ve had before with other groups—at universities, bookstores, etc., and it got me thinking about the significance of coming together to talk about books and the value of book clubs in particular.
I’m fortunate to belong to a book club with some of my writer friends. We often joke about how, as writers, we approach books differently. Of course we talk about story, plot, characters, but we focus on craft, often exclaiming, “Did you see that sentence on page 60?” The point is, we find camaraderie in our connection with books.
So, if you belong to a book club, lucky you! If not, consider getting together with a group of friends or neighbors and starting a book club. Not only will it get you reading, but you’ll find friendship and good company. If you don’t know anyone who may want to join you, consider checking out your local library. Most have active book clubs.
Happy reading and discussing!
Linda Schifino 