Choosing Books
Our very first book pick was Little Women. It took our hearts by storm and has become an old friend that we revisit and refer to often, so we decided early on to incorporate a lot of books that have stood the test of time into our book clubs. We also choose books that aren’t classics and enjoy having a good balance of both for our mom and kid’s book clubs alike.
Our book selections for Kid’s Book Club vary as much as the kid’s ages, which is currently 7-16, and we try to pick stories that will engage the whole group. Sometimes they’re on the younger side and sometimes they’re on the older side, but in the words of C.S. Lewis, “ No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not equally, and if not far more, worth reading at the age of fifty and beyond.”
Book Cycles
For Mom’s Book Club we each pick one fiction, one non fiction, and one classic. we draw at random and then rotate between the three categories each month. (example: fiction, non fiction, classic, repeat)
For Kid’s Book Club we choose one fiction per family and draw at random as well.
It’s so fun listening to each new book get drawn knowing we have loads of new characters to adore, places to visit and stories to love.
Choosing a Time
I will say it can be a challenge to get everyone’s schedule in sync, especially if you are busy moms like us. To make this easier, we ended up choosing one dedicated weeknight to meet, as well as aiming for the third week of every month. It’s worked pretty well, but life does happen. and we’ve had to adjust it here and there as our schedules change. Nothing a little dedication, patience and grace can’t help! Sometimes we don’t meet every month, and that’s ok.
Kid’s Book Club meets on Saturdays every other month. This helps make sure we’re not juggling too many books and events at once. Meeting on the weekend allows us time to give the kids a balance of discussion and play, which helps build up their relationships with each other. When we think of the memories and bonds they’ve created over the last 5 years, knowing there are many more to come, it warms our mom hearts so much.
Choosing a Location
The first meeting spot for us moms was at a restaurant called La Madeline. It was perfect because there was a private room we reserved (for free!), and it gave us an intimate feel in a public setting.
The first meeting spot for the kids was at a nearby park with amphitheater seating and lots of shade. These are great ideas for meeting places, especially if you’re gathering with new friends and are just getting to know each other.
After a while, we started rotating at each other’s houses for both and never looked back! The beauty in this is the freedom to set your own hours and it eventually led us to incorporate potluck style meals.
Wether here or there, the important thing is being together, that’s where the real magic of book club happens!
Happy reading, friends!