Melissa Morales Melissa Morales
Hello Summer: 4 Book Clubs to Join
The summer has arrived! Ever since I was in grade school, I have looked forward to completing my summer reading list. Granted, I now enjoy reading a book while leisurely hanging out by the pool with a nice cold glass of Rosé. Who’s with me? However, the dilemma I face is that I am a goal-setter, I love to check things off my to-do list. As soon as I finish a book, I check it off and I'm on to the next one. I didn't have many friends that enjoyed reading as much as I did or friends that were interested in the same book as I was. I craved the dialogue. I wanted to discuss my interpretation of the book, and I wanted someone to challenge my point of view.
Well hello bookclubs! Online and in-person communities that will help you build and diversify your library while joining a network of individuals that share the same interest as you. The following book clubs are some of my favorites, check them out!
Loveland Hall Book Club: Moderated by Rachel Cargle
Rachel Cargle has moderated a free online bookclub that aims to "usher our minds and hearts into deep thinking and meaningful action." The writer of "Dear White Women" really aims to open your mind with her summer reading discussion series. When you sign up for the book club, you receive an email packet with the summer reading list and prep work that highlights essential vocabulary to know, pre-discussion resources, and optional self-reflection post questions.
Her curated list of books focuses on the conversations about race in America with books such as "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. Sign up for her book club here and make sure to use #LHSummer19 !
Dominican Readers
An in-person bookclub located in Washington Heights that curates a book each month written by a Dominican author. Dominican Writers is brand new to the book club scene, initiated last month with ”Soledad” by Angie Cruz. As a member, you also receive 35% off your book purchase! If you live in the NYC area check them out!
Bad Ass Women
An online and in-person community with over 10k bad ass women coming together to discuss & empower each other. Inspired by a serendipitous Airport bookstore encounter with the book ”You Are a Badass” -one of my favs!- by founder Gina Warner. Gina selects a powerful book each month and also provides a discussion guide to spark the conversation.
Our Shared Self
An old-time favorite, OSS Bookclub was created by Emma Watson in 2015. Emma and her moderators choose a book about feminism every two months. They host an open discussion on Good reads. This is the perfect book club for the busy gals with right schedules!