20 Cool Book Club Trends You Should Try

 Larry Dignan contacted me regarding an article that I'm very much interested in and that is, book clubs. I wondered if you are a part of one in your local community or perhaps have joined online? Here's a few highlights from this great article...

Book clubs always have been and probably always will be a ubiquitous way for literature lovers to band together and bicker over their interpretations of reads stunning, horrible and everything in between. Unlike English 101, they offer up an appealingly casual, low-pressure environment in which to dissect the writerly arts, exchange ideas and hopefully promote literacy along the way. But even the most rigorously satisfying book clubs experience lulls, so the following trends might help leaders punch things up a little bit. Some old, some new, some borrowed and some…well…not blue. More like a cerulean or a deep azure. The one thing they have in common (aside from the obvious) is that they add some variety to established and upcoming groups alike.

 

Online book clubs

Probably one of the most prolific book club trends these days embraces the digital world and brings together bibliophiles from local and distant regions alike. Tech-savvy discussion leaders have a bevy of resources at their disposal, including blogs, social media and mobile devices, among others. A little creativity, a little time, a little advertising and they can reach a far broader audience than hosting meetings at home.

Ebook clubs

Whether run by publishers, book stores or independent bibliophiles, Kindle, Nook and other ebook owners can enjoy talking their chosen reads and their delicious gadgetry at the same time through specialized clubs. Unlike their more traditional paper predecessors, users frequently reap great deals simply for participating. Various literature-related companies offer up different specials, like free downloads for signing up or unlimited books with a subscription fee. Depending on the device, an ebook club could also double as an online one for well-connected leaders and members.

Use recommendation engines

Even more well-established book clubs sometimes experience periods where members struggle with selecting their next reads. Consulting recommendation engines such as the very popular Shelfari, GoodReads, LibraryThing and more will easily jump-start lulls in the decision making process. Depending on preferences, suggestions either come automated or directly from other website participants. Either method, however, opens up book club denizens to literature they might not otherwise know, some of which might prove brand new loves.

Social media book clubs

Facebook, Google+, group blogs, and other social media sites, in the hands of supremely creative, savvy leaders, might prove the best bet for whipping up an online book club. For pretty obvious reasons! Many recommendation engines also serve double duty as social media sites for avowed literature aficionados, making them particularly piquant places to bond with potential members. And, of course, discover some seriously cool reads along the way.

Participate in Twitter chats

Social media and other online book club opportunities may require a little more time investment than some go-go-go readers can muster. The 140-character format Twitter made famous might prove exactly what they want, with a plethora of literary hashtag chats suitable for many different tastes. Some occur monthly, others weekly, so search or ask around when seeking a possibly fulfilling fit.

I've only listed 5 of the main topics here. For more cool book trends you might be interested in, see the entire article at http://www.onlinecollegecourses.com

Happy Reading, 





“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis