Westside Newcomers Book Club
Sometimes we read just for fun. Period. That's OK. End of discussion!
(Our group also likes to talk about fun books so that we can read them when it's time to escape!)...
Other times, a book will make an impact, and you'll want to discuss it. We are constantly learning from each other how to become more thoughtful, insightful readers.
There is no need to "prepare in advance" to come to a book club meeting. But, if you want to prepare, there are many websites which we've found helpful. Here are just a few:
Some of us take notes; a few of us even write ourselves a "book report / review". If you read a lot, it can help remind you what you've read, what it was about, why you liked it. That, of course, takes discipline. And, sometimes you just want to read and enjoy it. (BTW: even if you didn't read our book selection, it's OK to come and see your friends anyway!)
If you do want to prepare your thoughts, here are a few questions to ask yourself (gleaned and paraphrased from some of the websites above).
How did the book made you feel? Does the book agree or clash with your own views and opinions? Did it change your opinions?
Did you feel the situations were realistic? Did you find the characters convincing? Did you care about the characters (even if you might not have liked them)? Are all of the characters developed or did you feel their treatment was more shallow?
Who tells the story? If multiple characters are used (alternating voices), why do you think the author chose to do that? Is one character's viewpoint more reliable (truthful/unbiased) than another? What does the narrator know?
Was the story told in a chronological order, or does it jump around? Does the author change time frames to give you hints about the plot or pieces of the character's background?
Is the ending a surprise? Did you feel it was satisfying, or did you wish for another ending? Did you think the author wrapped it up too abruptly or were all the loose ends tied up?
Is the author conveying a story; or exploring human characteristics / experiences; or perhaps exploring a theme or larger meaning?
Did you highlight any passages you felt were meaningful to you, or beautifully written?
Are you curious about the author? Go ahead, Google him/her and tell us what you found out!
Who would you recommend this book to and why?
And of course there are always those dreaded "English Lit" questions: (Don't worry. We won't put you on the spot to answer! In fact, I can't think when we've ever asked these in the group.)
What was the "central conflict"? What tensions were affecting the main character? An external force (society, nature) or an internal force (emotional struggle)?
Did the author use any symbolism or irony?
What was he/or she really trying to say?
Remember, it's fine to read "just for fun" and there are no right or wrong answers!