When I was a kid I absolutely hated reading. It bored me and I would avoid it at all costs. I have never read any of the Harry Potter series and not even one word of Twilight. In fact, the only series I have ever started (and finished) is The Hunger Games series. The first of which was a required reading for my entire highschool. That being said, starting a small book club with my friends has been the best experience with reading I have ever had. Here’s why you should try it for yourself!
1. It gives us a reason to keep in touch! One of my two “Book Buddies” goes to school hours away (which is a lifetime for life-long besties). When days get busy and school work begins to pile up it is a great way to feel close to each other. Whether you have a long distance club or a weekly reading meeting with friends near you, it’s an excuse to catch up and have fun.
2. An activity with friends means a lot of flexibility. I can say honestly, that we are not all on the same page (pun intended) when it comes to where we are in the novel. But it’s ok! Some weeks I read 5+ chapters, and others I read none but there is no one stressing me out over it. I can read on my schedule as can my fellow club members.
3. Reading by choice= relaxation. Low stress and a closeness with friends. What more could I ask for? Maybe a hot chocolate and a soothing bubble bath. Or a nice sunny day and relaxing on the lawn in front of the EUC. No matter how you spin it, sitting down to do something by choice in a low stress environment is exactly what we need as the semester grows ever more stressful. There have been many nights where I need a break from Finance, International Business or Econ where my book has saved me from losing it. While we may not all have the same stressers, taking time to do something for you is essential.
4. A chapter a day keeps the social media rage away. One of the biggest reasons I wanted to start reading books was to avoid social media. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a good puppy video or a quick “how to”, but in the current political environment with “alternative facts” running wild I end up angrier and angrier with each swipe of my thumb. I needed to find a way to get away from it all and calm myself, if not for my own sanity, for that of those who have to hear me complain. Today I can say that reading has helped me calm my social media rage a lot. There is the occational weak moment when Facebook seems to be calling me and I just can’t ignore it, but I always know my book is poised and ready to calm the rage.
5. Reading is a great way to learn new things! My Book Buddies and myself decided to trade back and forth between fiction and nonfiction, but this is completely up to you and your group. Regardless of the mix you choose, you will learn new things. Maybe you’ll discovers some new words to impress your parents with or you might learn about a culture you previously didn’t know much about. Maybe you will find the kinds of writing styles you like (or don’t like) and which authors you want to read more from. The possibilities are endless and you will have as many opportunities to learn as you allow yourself.
Your book club can be whatever you want it to be, but it is nothing if not fun! So gather your buddies and get reading.