Joining a book club

 Miranda tells us about how she joined a book club. 

When did you first join a book club?

I joined the book club in. July 2018

What prompted you to join a book club?

I love books I love talking to people so joining a book club was a perfect way to discuss the latest books I’ve read along with like minded people. 

I read on a local Facebook page that someone was interested in setting up a book club and asked for people to express their interest in joining. Then the book club finally become a reality.  

Tell us more about how the book club works.

Each month there is a genre of book chosen from romance to sci fi controversial to dystopian so a real eclectic mix. 

Then members will give ideas of books which will then be put to a poll so is done fairly and democratically.  We meet once a month so we read one book per month.  

We meet monthly and alongside the physical group at the community centre an online group runs for those who can’t attend in person for whatever reason.  I once had flu but was able to still join in from my bed. 

Since the COVID pandemic, the book club has been a great support for many of the members as they had support of others whereas without the club they may have had no one to interact with. It’s made a big impact on local peoples lives it’s been a lifeline to the outside world for them.  

What's the most enjoyable aspect of the book club?

The most enjoyable aspect is meeting some wonderful people from all backgrounds with one common interest books these people have also now become good friends. 

What books have you most enjoyed reading with the book club?

My favourite read….. now that’s a really difficult one as we have read so many great different genres of books. I will probably say a book I would never had chosen if it had not been for the bookclub How to be Human by Ruby Wax 

This book is a great introduction for anyone interested in mindfulness. Ruby talks throughout the book practically and philosophically but with a wonderful tongue in cheek humour. There are some really great mindfulness exercises at the end of each chapter which are really quite valuable. 

I must note though if you are not open to reading this genre of book then it may not be for you. I have tried several other mindfulness books out there on the market but I personally feel one's mindset must be in the right place before you will get the best out of these type of books. 

What was the least enjoyable book you have read with the book club?

My least favourite book was He Said/She Said By Erin Kelly It’s a thriller and I love a good thriller but this was so slow and tedious to read it was almost like the writer didn’t break out into second gear. I felt thrilled by nothing at all in the book. I have to say I spoke with my fellow “wormers” who were also struggling with this book too. I put it down for a week then revisited it later but still I have to say couldn’t like this book despite actually finishing it. 

What tips would you pass on to someone who is interested in joining a book club?

Look around see what groups are available in your  area, chat on their Facebook pages find out dates and times of meet ups and then bite the bullet and go along. Everyone of the members has been in your position “new” so what are you waiting for? go along join in, and enjoy all those wonderful books your otherwise missing.