What is better than finishing a book that you absolutely fell in love with you ask? Sharing that same book with a group of people who couldn't agree more. Here are the top five reasons you should join a book club because if I didn't narrow it down this post would never end.
1. Community
Being in a book club gives us a sense of community. Feeling like we belong is essential to maintain our sense of self. When we are a part of a community we feel like we are working towards something bigger than we are. It is an inspiring way to create and reach goals.
2. Because it's FUN
Joining a book club is not merely just an excuse to read the work of our favorite authors and spend time with other book lovers. It is valuable time we get to talk about our perspectives and opinions. Discussing the way a book made us feel makes it feel that much closer to our hearts. It also makes us feel important to have our feelings heard and understood. Lastly, but CERTAINLY not least, it is a great excuse to drink wine.
3. You Gain Perspective
I know it can be hard to believe but our interpretation of a story is not the only one that exists. Books are subjective- we read them in the lens that we are most comfortable using. When we have a space to talk about a book, we can understand the way it was perceived by others. This can open our eyes to various themes and revelations in the book that we might have missed.
4. Meet New Friends
Being a college student who is enrolled in virtual classes, I am desperate to find friends. But, let me tell you, it is HARD to scout them out. People my age rarely speak in public unless they are placing an order (myself included). A book club is a gold mine for friends. Half of the hard work is already done anyway because you know they love books too! I am in a book club where I only know two people and there are about fifteen people in it and it really forces me to make friends.
5. It Forces You Out of Your Comfort Zone
This is probably one of the most important parts of joining a book club. It will truly force us out of the places we are most comfortable in. It encourages us to read books that we wouldn't pick up on our own. This is so important in today's climate because a book can help us recognize social injustices in a way that's understandable to us.
So, get out there and join a book club. And if you can't find one, MAKE ONE. I dare you.
