Book clubs and reading groups all share a common passion: reading, and sharing the books they read with friends. Some book clubs meet over breakfast; some meet over ors d'oeuvres; some share a gourmet meal and a bottle of wine (or two). The common thread is the books, although clubs handle their reading material in different ways as well.
Traditional book clubs choose books well before the meeting, sometimes scheduling several months in advance so the members know which books to read. Some clubs do additional research on the author in an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of the story, maybe taking turns so each club member gets the chance to lead a discussion. Some delve into symbolism.
Bookworms Anonymous takes a different tack altogether: we read for pure enjoyment, for the pleasure of losing ourselves in a fictional universe with a cast of quirky characters, for the escape from reality. There are no restrictions or requirements, save those of attending and hosting meetings. We read whatever we like and bring stacks of books to each meeting. Our group, rather than reviewing any book in detail (this happens occasionally, but it's not part of our protocol), meets to share a gourmet vegetarian meal and dessert, and trade books. Our reviews are essentially brief sales pitches designed to entice other BA members to read the books we've read and enjoyed. Sometimes, our reviews are leaning toward caveat emptor statements, warning others not to waste their time.
Bookworms Anonymous is the perfect style of book club for those who love to read many different types of books without worrying about in-depth discussions or obligating ourselves to read a specific tome at a given time. There are no minutes at these meetings; no files. Just seven friends gathering together once a month and sharing books, a gourmet meal and a bottle of wine (or two).
Traditional book clubs choose books well before the meeting, sometimes scheduling several months in advance so the members know which books to read. Some clubs do additional research on the author in an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of the story, maybe taking turns so each club member gets the chance to lead a discussion. Some delve into symbolism.
Bookworms Anonymous takes a different tack altogether: we read for pure enjoyment, for the pleasure of losing ourselves in a fictional universe with a cast of quirky characters, for the escape from reality. There are no restrictions or requirements, save those of attending and hosting meetings. We read whatever we like and bring stacks of books to each meeting. Our group, rather than reviewing any book in detail (this happens occasionally, but it's not part of our protocol), meets to share a gourmet vegetarian meal and dessert, and trade books. Our reviews are essentially brief sales pitches designed to entice other BA members to read the books we've read and enjoyed. Sometimes, our reviews are leaning toward caveat emptor statements, warning others not to waste their time.
Bookworms Anonymous is the perfect style of book club for those who love to read many different types of books without worrying about in-depth discussions or obligating ourselves to read a specific tome at a given time. There are no minutes at these meetings; no files. Just seven friends gathering together once a month and sharing books, a gourmet meal and a bottle of wine (or two).
No comments:
Post a Comment