Book clubs: Theyre as much a suburban cliche as carpools and Target runs.
Theyre also a really effective way to meet new people or find out whoarentyour people.
Take it from me.
The first meeting was on the rooftop of a cool local bar.
I dont know why its such a big deal, she said.
Our country lived through the Great Depression, and we dont talk about that all the time.
I was horrified and found myself getting red-faced, schooling her on how problematic her statement was.
The point: When you move, join things.
you’re able to always quit.)
Yup, Theres Usually A Lot Of Booze
That joke that book club really means wine club?
But sometimes, the boozy bonding can go too far.
I once went to a friend of a friends book club.
One woman got really drunk and emotional.
It wasnt about the book she had gone through a bad breakup.
But it felt really uncomfortable.
Try, have another go
OK, so your first group meeting was awkward.
Go again, say people whove been there, done that.
I hadnt read the book and I felt like I was in college.
Everyone was trying to talk to make themselves sound smart, not to connect.
But Laurie went again and, little by little, the walls broke down.
I think what saved us was having anonymous polls for which book to read next, says Laurie.
Your goals will determine your group MO and may also determine how much you share with the group.
The rest of us drank wine, and I explained the books.
When the pandemic hit, everyone went dark.
No idea what happened to book club!
We all conveniently ghosted each other.
We take turns picking books but do a mix of modern and classic.
Our most lively discussion of all time was over Donna TarttsThe Secret History.
Robin, 38, who lives in the Atlanta suburbs, joined a book club through her church.
After George Floyds murder in May 2020, the group began focusing on racial justice books.
The members then decided to shift their focus toward social justice initiatives, including campaigning for local politicians.
And if all else fails?
Actually read the book.Or at least listen to the audiobook.
The more knowledgeable you are, the more talking points youll have.
They were my moms age, but I didnt have many friends in town, and they were great.
I loved talking with them!
Make it work for your schedule.Consistency is key for book clubs.
Some people love a Friday night hangout, but get creative.
