It’s great fun to be back on the BRRC Pages of My Life blog today.

I thought I’d share about how blessed I’ve been by organizing a book club. Often times people think it’s very time consuming, but its really not. For me, I wanted to share the wonderful Christian fiction and authors I loved with others. And it’s been totally rewarding to find a group of friends who love fictional characters as much as I do.

There’s something special about talking about a great book with people who I see in town, at church, or who live just around the corner. A neighborhood book club is more than a chance to read—it’s an opportunity to build friendships, discover new perspectives, and read books or authors you may have never chosen on your own. And starting a book club is easier than you might think.

The first step is finding a small group of interested readers. You don’t need dozens of members; even five or six people can create engaging discussions. Invite neighbors through community social media groups, neighborhood newsletters, or a simple flyer at a local coffee shop or community center. Because the book club I wanted to start was only going to read Christian or clean fiction, I spoke to the Small Group Coordinator at my Church about getting the group listed on the church website.

Next, decide on a meeting schedule that works for most people. We meet monthly in my home which gives members plenty of time to read without feeling rushed.. However, rotating meeting locations between members’ homes, parks, or local cafés can keep things fresh and make hosting responsibilities more manageable, especially if your home doesn’t have enough space.

Choosing books is one of the most enjoyable parts of the experience. Instead of having one person make all the decisions, let members suggest titles and vote on the next selection. Mixing genres—such as mystery, historical fiction, memoirs, and contemporary novels—helps keep discussions interesting and introduces readers to books they might not have picked on their own.

You could also consider inviting the authors to join you via Zoom. Most authors have contact pages on their websites where you could send the invitation. Be sure to see if they have book club discussion questions listed as well. Some of the authors we’ve spoken to have sent us bookmarks, stickers, and/or recipe cards. My book club friends have really enjoyed chatting with the authors.

Join Kelly J. Goshorn on Page of My Life today and chat about book clubs! #Reading #Readingcomunity #BRRC Share on X

A relaxed atmosphere is just as important as the books themselves. Encourage open conversation where everyone has a chance to share their thoughts but remember that it’s perfectly fine to disagree. Respectful discussions often lead to the most memorable conversations. Light refreshments can also make meetings feel more welcoming without adding much effort.

Finally, remember that flexibility is key. Make it clear that everyone is welcome, regardless of how much they read or whether they finish every book. Also, keep in mind that attendance may vary, schedules may change, and not every book will be a favorite. The goal isn’t to create the perfect literary discussion every month—it’s to create a space where friends and neighbors enjoy spending time together. As friendships grow, you may find your book club expanding into other activities like author events, library visits, or community service projects. For example, my book club provided dinner last week to our VBS Staffers.

Starting a book club takes only a little planning, but the rewards can last for years. One good book has the power to spark meaningful conversations, and one welcoming gathering can turn members into lifelong friends. Why not choose a first title, send a few invitations, and see what happens?

Conversation starter: Have you ever been part of a book club?

 

 

Kelly J. Goshorn weaves her affinity for history and her passion for God into inspiring stories of love, faith, and family set in America’s vibrant past. Her debut novel, A Love Restored, won the Director’s Choice Award for Adult/YA fiction at the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference in 2019 and earned recognition as both a Selah Award finalist in the Historical Romance category and as a Maggie Award Finalist for Inspirational Fiction.

She earned her B.A. in Social Studies Education from Messiah College and her M.Ed. in History from The Pennsylvania State University. Kelly is an active member of ACFW Virginia where she currently serves as the Conference Coordinator for the chapter’s popular virtual Royal Writers Conference.

Kelly has been enjoying her own happily-ever-after with her husband and best friend, Mike, for 33 years. When she is not writing, Kelly enjoys binge-watching BBC period dramas, board-gaming with family and friends, exploring historical sights, and spoiling her Welsh corgi, Levi.