A combo of two suggestions by: Heidi and by litlove
Have you ever been a member of a book club? How did your group choose (ot, if you haven’t been, what do you think is the best way to choose) the next book and who would lead discussion?
Do you feel more or less likely to appreciate books if you are obliged to read them for book groups rather than choosing them of your own free will? Does knowing they are going to be read as part of a group affect the reading experience?
Sadly, I've never participated in a book club. Not because I didn't want to, but the opportunity has never presented itself. Most of my friends are either non-readers or too busy with their families and/or work. Plus, I live in a small town, that, how can I put this? . . . that is not over-flowing with groups of this sort. ;)
Even though I have no experience in a book club, I believe the best way to choose books would be to have each member submit a couple titles (depending on how many members there are) and decide as a group. That will ensure that no one gets left out. I've heard of some clubs that take turns and have each member pick the book for the following month and host the discussion. However, in doing that one person is dictating what will be read. What if no one else in the group is interested in that book? The discussion may fall a little flat. I believe I would prefer to have each person suggest and the group as a whole decide. If one particular member feels strongly about a book, that person could be the host for that discussion.
I love reading all kinds of books, so I don't think I would appreciate a book less because I didn't choose it myself. I may or may not like it as well, but I'd still read it and get the most out of it. If I were reading a book for a group discussion, I'd probably not read as fast and make sure I absorbed it all. That would ensure better participation with the group. I think it would only affect my reading experience in a positive way.
How about you? Are you in a book club or do you prefer to read on your own? If you have been in more than one club, what is the average length of time spent in each? And why did you leave a club?
I thought this was a great questions; I have participated in book clubs. Here is my response: http://beastmomma.squarespace.com/from-shelf-to-hand/2008/6/12/booking-through-thursday-clubbing.html
ReplyDeleteNone and never!
ReplyDeleteMy Post
I left one group after nearly 10 years, mainly because most of the other original members had moved away and I wasn't enjoying it any more.
ReplyDeleteI joined a new group last year.
I havent participated in a book club myself. Mainly becuase I dont have much time, I do join challenges online however and end up reading many of the same books as other bloggers.
ReplyDeletehttp://thebookworm07.blogspot.com/
I agree I think this was a great question.
ReplyDeleteJohn - I read you post on your blob and I just loved it! I left you a comment.
Naida - I've never participated in a challenge, but it sounds like alot of fun.
Two of my sisters used to be avided reader --- and that was "once Upon A Times...long ago..." but now they only read whenever they have the times to. And that very often, sadly. Or else I would had someone to share my reading with. Thanks goodness to online, where I found lot of readers and friends :)
ReplyDeleteI hope someday you'll find the right Bookclub for you :) Thanks for visiting my blog. Come back again sometime. Have a good weekend!
I tried once to start a book club but it didn't really go anywhere but I have more people interested now and will try again
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