Have you considered a family book club this summer? Even if it’s hard to get your crew motivated, don’t give up. No matter how much they balk, you’ll have a good time discussing the book (and anything else that comes up!)
It’s a great way to spend device-free time together. You don’t have to choose a serious or literary book. (It can even be one of their required reading selections.) Family book clubs have no rules, except read something and have fun.
Here are a few tips:
- Any family member can nominate a book.
- The whole family votes on which books to read.
- Be realistic regarding the number of books you’ll get through and the length of each.
- Make discussions special. Combine it with something else your family enjoys. Go to a restaurant. Have a picnic. Dress in character.
- Mixing reading levels is fine as long as the youngest can listen to audio versions of advanced level books, or an older person reads to a younger. Young readers love when older family members read their picks. Older siblings get a kick out of feeling nostalgic rereading kiddie books.
- Naughty words and/or scenes are hits.
- Take turns leading the discussions. Be flexible, but prepare questions in case there’s a conversation lull. Many books come with discussion guides.
- Be open to unconventional genres and reading tools (like audiobooks or e-books).
- Don’t cancel, even if everyone hasn’t finished the book.
- KEEP IT FUN!
Award-winning author Renee Garrison has written two books on her life with midshipmen at the Sanford Naval Academy, The Anchor Clankers and Anchored Together.
Renee Writes Now! 