Oprah does it, so it shouldn’t be so hard now!  Book club means something slightly different than it did when you were a kid.  There’s nothing nerdy about rounding up a few friends, sharing wine over literature, and chatting about the latest or greatest reads.

How to Get Started:

First, make a list of anyone you think would be an interesting addition to a literary conversation. You can whittle down the list if need be, but better to start off big and chop down, then search for participants.

Next, ask a friend to help you refine the list.  A second opinion is a great help.  You consult your friends when making a list for a party—there is no reason it shouldn’t be the same for a

Send out an email and field results!  Don’t be offended if people decline.  To have a great book club you need people to be actively engaged.

Once you have your list decided, host the first meeting.  Encourage everyone to bring two titles they would like to read and a blurb about each. The best titles or pitches make the list. A vote is the most democratic.

At the frist meeting you should also decide how often you would like to meet and the amount of time you would like to allot for each book.  A month is fairly sufficient and gives those with busy lives the chance to stay involved.  Or break the book into sections.  Sometimes it is easier to discuss in parts, than wholes.

Now it’s time to pour yourselves a glass of wine and gab… until next time.

And remember—this isn’t high school and Spark Notes are not welcome.  Thoughtful reads and opinions are what make a book club spark and provide a truly insightful experience for all.

-Arianna Schioldager