For many there is nothing more enjoyable than reading a good book. Add to that the delight of discussing it with friends and associates, and it can be an extremely enjoyable and interesting way to spend an evening. Book clubs across the country are providing an informative and social environment to further the appreciation of books, and unite reading enthusiasts.
Book clubs are split between the public and private. A public club is open to anyone who wishes to join, while private is by invitation only. They may be free or require a small fee, and while sometimes the fee paying ones are better quality, this is by no means a hard and fast rule – they are very much what you make of them!
If you want to join a free book club in the UK, keep your eye out for signs and advertisements. Public clubs usually promote themselves on a small scale, and you may well be able to find something in your local area. If you wish to join a private club then you should inquire through friends and the local library. You may also able to find a good one online.
The main cost of a book club is in buying the books themselves, but this doesn't always have to be the case. A library would almost certainly have all the books likely to be discussed, and if they don't you can either borrow from friends or another member of the club.
One of the most rewarding benefits of joining a book club is the chance it offers to expand your enjoyment and knowledge of literature; there may be literary genres and historical periods you haven't yet had the chance to explore, or you may have queries from your own reading. Book clubs offer the chance to appreciate literature and share one's own opinions in a truly inclusive environment. Be sure to check in your area for clubs offering intelligent company, interesting reads and free membership.