During these uncertain times, marked by social isolation and a disruption of our routines, with people working (and doing most things) from home, it is especially important to know what gives us comfort and a sense of belonging. For many people, one such grounding “place” is the Book Club.
Recently, when so many activities are suspended or hard to make happen, I have been struck by the number of times I’ve heard people talk about their book clubs. Whether virtual or live, it seems, the Book Club carries on. Noticing that made me wonder, what is so compelling about a book club?
In talking with various people, I came to see how these small gatherings offer an essential sense of community in an otherwise busy, sometimes impersonal, world. At first blush, we may think that reading powerful books together is what makes the groups special; but, it turns out reading is just a small part of what book clubs do. I’ve heard people of all ages talk about their clubs. Some talk about how good it feels to laugh with others during stressful times, or how nice it is to sit down with neighbors and deepen connections. One group I know of goes out for cocktails and dinner, or on weekend getaways, having become a small, close-knit group of best friends who also happen to read books together. Another was formed when a handful of strangers of various ages and backgrounds answered a post to form a book club. Somehow, this group came together and developed a special bond, a place to share and support one another through illness and change. Several groups have come to treasure their bond so much that they have closed their group to new members and settled into regular meetings for books, meals, and conversation.
Personally, I resisted a few invitations to join book clubs over the years, thinking I didn’t really have enough time, or the inclination to read a book that I may not necessarily like. My eyes were opened recently when my own local group of friends encouraged me to come to their group, even though I wasn’t likely to read the book. When I did, I was touched by the special time they were setting aside, to share a meal and thoughtful conversation, informed by the book, though it didn’t matter how much time people had found in their busy lives to read (I hadn’t read a page!). So today, I offer praise and gratitude for this humble kind of gathering that takes place all over the world, to give comfort and knowledge, and a sense of home, when we need it most.
