Grasping for the Wind

Book Clubs

Elaine Cunningham has some insights into why book clubs don't work or fall apart.

* no discussion leader
* no clear sense of what kind of books the members want to read
* book selections that really don't lend themselves to much discussion
* members who don't read the book, but attempt to talk about it anyway
* dismissing a book with a simple, "I didn't like it," or "I couldn't get into it."
* chattering incessantly, either during discussion or going off on tangents
* frequently interrupting and talking over other members
* people who don't listen to others; they only wait for another chance to talk
* people who read the book but miss most of what's on the page
* meeting at 7:00 but not starting the book discussion until 9:00

They are very insightful reasons. All the discussions I have been in have run into these problems, most often the lack of leader or selections that don't lend themselves to discussion.

I would also add that some book clubs get together without anyone having any experience or expertise in assessing literature, or they are quiet and shy and won't speak up if they do. This leads to an inability to actually discuss the book as writing, literature, or assess its factuality if it is history.

I have yet to find a good explanation of how to run a book club that wasn't simply advertising for a bookseller or library. I can't find any nearby that interest me, so there is no way to learn by experience. Any suggestions on whre to find good material (free, if possible)?

Posted by John on September 19, 2007 02:15 PM | Posted to Literature and Language
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