My Bookclub journey

 

 

I watched the movie Bookclub a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The movie follows the lives of four women who have been meeting for forty years as book club members, bonding over the books they read and becoming friends.

When they read Fifty Shades of Grey, they begin to view their lives from different perspectives.

Well, this is not a review of the movie but about my foray into the world of book clubs.

A friend recently started a book club but has slightly tweaked its format. I was quite reluctant to join at first because I don’t consider myself a serious reader, and I'm trying to read more. I declined the invitation but, on second thought decided to dive in, and I wasn’t disappointed.

The tweaked version of the book club saw us not reading and discussing a single chosen book but instead following a topic or theme.

This time, each member told a tale from Aesop’s Fables together with the moral, after which a short discussion on the moral ensued. The group, comprising mainly of the older generation, was happy to welcome two youngsters into the group.

I enjoyed the no-pressure environment where there was no need to impress others or show off our knowledge of literature. It was a relaxing hour or so where you just let your thoughts and words flow.

I’m already looking forward to future meetings where certain themes and topics will be the subject of discussion. Our next topic is Greek mythology.

I list below a few benefits of hosting a book club or being a member of one.

Discover new books

When you join a book club, you discover new books, new genres and new authors. This helps you broaden your horizons and step out of your reading comfort zone.

 

Sharpens Intellect

Reading and then analysing plots, characters, themes, and morals challenges and sharpens your brainpower.

 

Builds Accountability

Finding time to read in the hurly burly of your daily routine may be a difficult proposition. When you join a bookclub, you are accountable.

 

Networking

A book club can help you find new friends, expand your network of connections, hold meaningful conversations and meet like-minded people.

 

Improve communication skills

Attending a bookclub meet hones your communication and listening skills. You’re listening and communicating in a safe, non –judgmental space.

 

Mental well –being

Reading enhances your mental being. It’s a great stress buster, and there’s nothing like curling up with a good book when the chips are down.

 

I’ve come to realise that reading is not only about finishing books, but also about joining a book club and reaping the benefits.

 

Image - AI generated