how to run a successful book club

Book clubs have been around since at least 1634, but the expanse of what we read is much grander. You don't have to be a literary buff to start a book club, and the books you read do not have to be profound. Thankfully, there is something to talk about with any and every book! So why no start a book club? If you are having trouble getting started, here are a few tips on how to start and run a successful book club:

• choose your people

Whether you plan to meet in person or online, having a group in mind is a good way to start. You want people you can see yourself getting along with and people who may offer different, respectful perspectives. Another thing to consider is how big you want your group. Some people find having a larger group makes for better discussion, but others feel differently. Think of your members and what might be more accommodating. You can always start small and add more people!

• how often can you meet?

Once you have your interested parties, what are your schedules? How often during the year do you want to meet or can you meet? In person has to consider the meeting location and the feasibility of everyone getting there. Virtually could be easier to get everyone on a video call once a month.

• have a calendar

This ties into when you can meet, but keeping a calendar to pick dates and setting an event is important to remind everyone of the next meeting and when to have the book read by. Discord offers an event feature to make events like on Facebook to easily add to your calendar. You can try to pick a consistent day and time, but being flexible is important too. The most important thing is reading the book and having a date picked to discuss!

• what kinds of books do you want to read?

Some people may prefer to stick to a particular genre while others are more open-minded. My group has a wider variety of books we'd like to read. It is also important to have 'the talk' with your members. Just kidding, but it is important to note if anyone has any triggers or their comfort level with particular subjects. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable!

• pick a platform

Now, if you want to have an online platform, there are a few good platforms you can choose from. I use a combination of Discord and Fable. We use Discord to chat and video chat, and we use Fable for notes. Fable is an app like Goodreads where you can keep track of books, movies, TV shows. You can also host a book club. What I like about Fable is you can leave notes chapter by chapter and have discussion if you want right in the app. It's fun to see everyone's theories and reactions chapter-by-chapter!

• have fun!

Make presentations, have fan theories, have fun! I think some people fall into the trying-to-be-studious category with books, which you totally can, but don't be afraid to venture what may happen in book two or why the MMC is the love of your life.

What would you do to keep your book club alive?