How to Start a Book Club: The Complete Guide

Whether you want to dive deeper into your favorite novels, stay accountable with your reading goals, or simply connect with others who love books as much as you do—starting a book club is a great idea. But where do you begin?

This guide walks you through every step, from choosing your first book to hosting meaningful discussions.

1. Define Your Book Club’s Purpose

Not all book clubs are the same. Before inviting people, decide what kind of experience you want:

• Casual or serious discussion?

• Fiction, nonfiction, or both?

• Focused on specific genres (e.g., mystery, classics, memoirs)?

• In-person, online, or hybrid meetings?

Knowing your club’s focus will help attract like-minded members.

2. Choose Your Members Wisely

You can start with a few friends, coworkers, neighbors, or even put out a call on social media. Try to aim for 6–12 members—small enough for everyone to contribute but large enough to keep things dynamic if someone can’t make it.

Be clear about expectations up front: how often you’ll meet, how books are selected, and what kind of participation is encouraged.

3. Pick a Meeting Format and Schedule

Decide:

• How often to meet (monthly is most common)

• Where (living room, café, library, Zoom, WhatsApp, etc.)

• How long (most clubs meet for 1–2 hours)

• Will there be snacks or a theme night?

The more consistent the schedule, the easier it is for members to plan ahead and stay committed.

4. Choose the First Book (and Make It Count)

Pick something accessible and thought-provoking—but not too long or dense. Great first reads often include books with strong characters, ethical dilemmas, or unusual plot structures. If in doubt, go with a bestseller or something recently adapted into a show or movie.

Let everyone know how to get the book—either by buying, borrowing, or using a free e-book service.

5. Lead Great Discussions

Prepare 5–10 questions to kick things off (you can find guides online for most popular books). Encourage everyone to share their opinions, even if they’re different. It’s okay if the conversation drifts a little—lively discussion is the whole point.

You might designate a rotating “host” for each meeting to lead questions and keep things flowing.

6. Keep It Fun and Fresh

To keep members engaged:

• Let different members suggest the next book

• Choose a theme (e.g., “books set in another country”)

• Add extras like movie nights, author Q&As, or online polls

• Share quotes or notes in a group chat between meetings

7. Handle Conflicts with Grace

Disagreements may arise—on the book or on how meetings should run. That’s normal. Keep the tone respectful and refocus the group on the shared love of reading. If the dynamic isn't working, gently adjust or suggest new approaches.

8. Celebrate Your Progress

Reading and discussing a book every month is no small feat. Celebrate milestones, whether it’s your 6-month anniversary, finishing a particularly long novel, or just surviving a reading slump together.

Final Thoughts

A book club isn’t just about books—it’s about connection, conversation, and curiosity. Whether you’re sipping coffee with friends or chatting in a virtual circle, starting a book club can turn a solitary activity into something joyful and shared.

So gather your fellow readers, pick a book, and start your club today—chapter one is waiting.