Day 7 of Advent | Create a Family Book Club |
Creating a Family Book Club: Bridging Families Through Literature
As a new couple embarking on a journey together, establishing a family book club can be a delightful way to bond with both sides of your family. It offers a space for meaningful conversations, fosters connections, and helps everyone get to know each other better. Here’s a guide to help you create a successful family book club that everyone will enjoy!
1. Setting the Stage for Your Book Club
Choose a Neutral Ground: Pick a comfortable location for meetings. It could be at your home, a family member’s house, or even a local coffee shop.
Establish a Regular Schedule: Decide on a monthly or bi-monthly meeting time that works for everyone. Consistency is key!
2. Selecting the Right Books
Diverse Selections: Choose books from various genres and themes that appeal to different age groups and interests. Here are some suggestions:
Fiction: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Non-Fiction: Becoming by Michelle Obama
Classic: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Young Adult: The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Involve Everyone: Create a poll or discussion during your first meeting to gather book suggestions from all family members.
3. Crafting Engaging Discussions
Prepare Discussion Questions: Before each meeting, draft thought-provoking questions to encourage conversation. For example:
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Which character did you relate to the most?
How does this book connect to our family experiences?
Encourage Participation: Invite everyone to share their thoughts while ensuring everyone has a voice.
4. Incorporating Fun Activities
Themed Meetings: Plan themed gatherings based on the book. For instance, if the book is set in Italy, whip up an Italian meal!
Creative Sharing: Encourage members to bring a related item or a treat that represents the book during your meetings.
5. Creating a Family Book Club Journal
Record Insights: Maintain a joint journal where each family member can jot down their thoughts, favorite quotes, and personal reflections on the books. This can become a cherished keepsake over time.
6. Celebrating Milestones
Host a Book Celebration:** After a few books, host a celebration to acknowledge everyone’s contributions. This can be a casual gathering or even a themed party based on the books you've read.
7. Emphasizing Connection Over Competition
Focus on Bonding:The aim of the book club is to strengthen family ties, not to debate or compete over opinions. Encourage a supportive and open atmosphere. For Midnight Library worksheet suggestions to help with a family discussion of book quotes are available on Health-Storey.
Creating a family book club is not just about reading; it's about weaving connections and creating shared experiences. As you dive into new stories together, you'll cultivate a deeper understanding of one another, laying the foundation for a loving family dynamic. Happy reading and sharing!
