Subscribe to My Newsletter Email:   For Email Marketing you can trust

Would you love to join a book club, but can't find one? Form your own! Here are some ideas from my experience belonging to a book club for five years and watching a satellite group form.

Who? If you have two friends who love to read, chances are, they also know two others. You'll be surprised how quickly a group can form—in fact, you may have to restrict the size. My group keeps a roster of 10-12 to allow easy discussion.

Where? My group rotates, meeting in a different member's home each month, but my friend's group always meets in the same home. Meeting at a restaurant or coffee place can be a fun alternative.

When? As a group, decide when and how often to meet. Some groups meet in the morning, others in the evening, and my group likes Saturday afternoon when the husbands can watch the kids.

What? Who chooses the book? My friend's group votes on which book to read, but in my group, the hostess picks. I've been introduced to some of my favorite new authors this way.

How? Food is vital. This can be as simple as dessert, or as involved as a full meal with themed decorations. My group favors a potluck, with the hostess providing the main course.

Discussion! Sometimes people can't wait to discuss the book, and other times a little push is needed. Many authors include discussion questions in the back of the book, on the publisher's website, or on the author's website. Also, many authors enjoy speaking with book clubs by phone or internet. I know I do! Check the author's website for willingness and contact information.

Click here for Discussion Questions on A Distant Melody.