National Book Lovers Day is celebrated every year in August! Let’s celebrate by embracing the power of books in our everyday lives and fostering a community of creativity, exploration and inspiration. An excellent way to start is by forming a book club. 

Book clubs have many benefits, such as discovering new genres and introducing you to like-minded neighbors. However, forming a book club can be easier “read” than done. Here are some steps to help you get started: 

Find Your Reason 

You can form a book club for many reasons. Whether you are interested in a specific author or genre or simply want to create a warm community where everyone can share different interests, it’s all about making the gathering fun and engaging for everyone. 

Spread the Word 

A book club is more than just reading books. It can turn neighbors into friends, introduce you to new perspectives and spark engaging conversations. Reach out to your neighbors and fellow residents and share the exciting benefits of joining a book club. Encourage them to turn the page to an enriching journey of reading and discovery with you! 

Set a Schedule 

Establish your book club’s logistics by deciding when, how long and how often you’ll meet. It’s a good idea to check in with your members to learn more about their availability and book preferences and establish how you will pick your books. For a convenient and comfortable setting, consider using Solstice’s community spaces or the outside gardens for the perfect atmosphere. 

Looking for book recommendations? No problem. Here are Barnes and Noble’s favorite book club picks to help you curate your own list of must-reads.  

Establish Ground Rules 

Set a reading schedule to maintain your book club’s momentum and engagement. Discuss the time frame for completing each book and how much should be read before your next meeting. For an organized discussion, consider assigning discussion leaders at regular meetings to foster deeper analysis and thought-provoking conversation. Remember, it’s OK to have opinions that differ from others. What is important is to respect each other’s views and use them to enrich your discussions! 

Host Your First Meeting 

Host your first inaugural meeting, where members can introduce themselves to one another. This is an excellent opportunity to set the tone and create an inclusive community. Addressing the book club’s logistics and ground rules is also a good idea to ensure your members are aligned. 

Bring Books to Life 

Enhance your book club experience by hosting themed meetings, watching film adaptations to start comparison conversations, or organizing outings inspired by the books you read! For instance, does your book take place in Italy? Bring cheese, bread and wine to your meeting to bring the story to life, make meetings more interactive and create memories. 

Now it’s all read and done! You are ready to start your book club. Whether your goal is to dive into literature or build new connections, starting a book club aligns with Solstice’s Vibrant Life^® program, which supports opportunities to stay active in the community and foster meaningful resident interactions.