Start early and try to read a little each day, so if you find the book difficult, you’ll be able to take your time and really absorb it.
Starting early will also help you finish even if your schedule gets unexpectedly busy.
If, for some reason, you’re not able to finish the book, be honest with your club. Don’t try to pretend you’ve done the reading if you haven’t.
Practice Talking Points
If you’re nervous about your first book club meeting, or just nervous about talking in front of people generally, you’re not alone. It’s perfectly normal to be nervous, but planning ahead can help.
Try writing down things that catch your attention while you’re reading the book, to help you remember them later during the meeting.
Many books also have a list of questions in the back of the book just to help with book clubs. Sometimes, the publisher’s website will also have discussion suggestions.
And remember, you’re not the only one worried about what they’re going to say. Most likely, there will be other people who are in the same boat.
Be Respectful of Books and People
One of the most important things to remember in book club meetings is to be respectful of both the people in the group and the book that was chosen.
People join book clubs for a chance to have pleasant conversations with people, not to argue or complain.
Of course, it’s fine to have opinions, but before sharing them, make sure they’re both respectful and useful for the group conversation.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
Be sure to schedule yourself enough time to get to the book club meeting on time, or a little early if possible. This way you won’t interrupt the discussion by arriving late or arrive feeling rushed and flustered.
If you don’t drive or want to save on gas, see about carpooling with other club members. This can be a great way to build friendships, too.
Alternate Types of Book Clubs
If you like the idea of a book club, but it just doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, think about one of these alternatives instead.
Short Story Clubs
If reading long novels doesn’t appeal to you, you might consider joining a short story club instead. The idea of short story clubs is the same as regular book clubs, but the focus is on shorter works.
Some short story clubs meet once a week or every other week, but others only meet once a month. These are perfect for those who can’t make it to more frequent meetings.
Short stories are often found online, making them less expensive than novels, too.
Virtual Book Clubs
We mentioned virtual, or online, book clubs earlier, but they’re worth talking about in a little more detail.
Online book clubs can be a great alternative to traditional book clubs for a number of reasons:
- Since they’re not location dependent, you can connect with people from all over the country, and even the world
- Not having to worry about getting to physical meetings can be less stressful for those who are less mobile or having trouble with transportation
- No commute time also means more free time in your schedule for other activities, making book club less of a time commitment
- Virtual book clubs can provide a wider variety of options than relying on physical meetings close to you. That means that you can find a time and theme that works for you, no matter where you are
- Seniors who struggle with dressing and grooming can relax a little in virtual meetings since no one will know if you brushed your teeth today, or if you’re still in your pajama bottoms!
Start Your Own Book Club
If you’re not happy with the book club options available to you, why not start your own?
It might be easier than you think to start your own club. Just ask yourself the following questions.
Do You Want an Open or Closed Club?
The first thing to decide is who you want in your book club. Do you want to invite people you know, or open the club to the community?
If you want to create an open club, is membership open to anyone, or do you prefer that the members be seniors?
Deciding on the club membership will give you an idea of how to invite or advertise to members.
This can involve calling or emailing friends to invite them or posting notices in community and senior centers or libraries.
When, Where, and How Often, Do You Want to Meet?
Another important thing to decide is when and where the meeting will take place.
Some people might want to decide this before inviting members, and others will prefer to poll the members to decide as a group what will work best for everyone.
Many community centers and libraries have free rooms available by reservation, and many independent bookstores and coffee shops are happy to host book clubs. Sometimes there is an expectation that members will buy something from the business, though.
Hosting book club meetings in your home can be a convenient free option, but only do this if you already know the members well. It’s never a great idea to invite strangers into your home.
What Do You Want to Read?
Lastly, you’ll want to decide on a theme for your book club. Do you want to focus on a certain author or genre?
