Tips for a Great Book Group

1. Invite friends, friends of friends, coworkers, people you meet at the library…. Just about anyone you know who enjoys books is a good choice. People will become friends and diverse groups make for better discussions. Those who don't "fit-in" (every group has its own "ambiance") will drop out.

2. Decide on logistical concerns as a group. The person starting the group is a defacto leader but allowing the others to have some say will make it a more cohesive and responsive group. You should have a wish list of how you want it to be organized, time concerns, type of reading, etc. but you should be open to the group's wishes.

3. At your first meeting, include time to develop policies on how books will be selected, who will lead the group, how meeting places will be determined, who is allowed to participate, etc. These things should be understood by the group at the beginning and explained again to newcomers. They can always change as the group matures and evolves, but they do need to be discussed and decided upon!

4. Don't allow the group to turn into a social outing. While you are there to share, you are there to share a specific topic - the book! Start the meeting about ½ hour early to get out the socializing (and so late comers won't interrupt the flow of the great discussion!).

5. Choose reads which the group members might not attempt on their own. Classics not read (or understood) in high school often make for great discussion. Award winners, such as the Pulitzer, Manbooker, Agatha winners work well. Try reading banned books or those that someone in the community may be against. There are books available and ideas on the internet to help with selection of titles.

6. Everyone should read the book! And be prepared to discuss it. While some of the members will not finish, this should be a strong stated goal!

7. Don't let discussion lag. The leader should be prepared with discussion questions to throw out to the group as conversation slows. The leader needs to prepare! Because of this, consider allowing the group leader to rotate.

8. Be honest and polite in the discussions. Allow all to speak and don't let discussion turn into argument - sometimes you will have to agree to disagree! Be sure to listen to others and don't be too concerned with waiting to get your two-cents in - you may miss some great insights!

9. Do not ask, "So, did you like the book?" Get into specifics… are your responses to the reading emotional or intellectual? How does the narrative style of the author, the character development, and/or the setting affect the overall story? Feel free to read passages out load to illustrate your point.

10. Respect everyone's opinion - there is no wrong and wrong answer to interpretation. This should be a shared exploration of literature and a learning experience!

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