What to Consider When Joining an Online Book Club
Book clubs are a great way to connect with others who share similar passions and increase your knowledge. They're also a fantastic vehicle for introducing yourself to new books and genres that you wouldn't normally consider. You aren't limited to your local neighborhood - you can join a global community from your couch.
However, choosing a club that's right for you is key to sticking with it. Here is what you should consider before hitting that join button.
Genre
The most obvious factor is the reading material. Ensure the club reads books you enjoy or are genuinely interested in exploring. While some clubs are general-interest, many focus on specialized niches like hard sci-fi or non-fiction memoirs.
Having a shared interest in the genre is essential because it provides the fuel for deep dives into character development and plot twists. If you find the material tedious, you'll likely view the reading as a chore rather than a hobby. Look for a group whose past reading list aligns with your "to-be-read" pile to ensure you'll stay engaged for the long haul.
Discussion Style
Online book clubs vary widely in how they communicate, so choose one that matches your preferred format. Some groups rely on informal chatting via Discord or Slack, allowing members to drop in comments throughout the month. Others prefer high-energy live video calls on Zoom or FaceTime with discussions that mimic a traditional in-person circle.
Privacy should be a top priority when engaging with others in a digital space. Be careful about revealing sensitive personal information during live calls. Using a VPN for iPhone is a smart security move if you're joining a group with members you don't know personally. It hides your true IP address and location, which adds a layer of protection to your device while you participate in video chats or browse group forums.
Time
Check if the reading schedule and meeting times fit your lifestyle before committing. Online groups can range from slow-burn clubs that tackle one book every two months to high-intensity groups that expect a finished novel every single week.
If you're someone who struggles to finish a book within a short window due to work or family commitments, a fast-paced group likely isn't for you. Falling behind can lead to spoiler anxiety and might discourage you from participating in the discussion. Look for a group that balances its deadlines with a realistic pace for your personal reading speed.
Group Size and Dynamics
The number of members significantly impacts the club's vibe. Smaller groups (typically five to 10 members) tend to be more personal, making it easier to forge genuine friendships and ensure everyone gets their point across. In these settings, your presence is often noticed, which provides a level of social accountability.
Conversely, you may prefer a larger group (sometimes consisting of hundreds of readers) with a wider array of perspectives. Large groups are ideal if you prefer a backseat role, where you can lurk and read the insights of others without the pressure to contribute to every single thread. Consider whether you want to be a lead voice in a small circle or a face in a large, diverse crowd.
