The hottest new social scene might be a book club
Gen Zers and millennials are putting creative twists on book clubs, driven by a renewed love of reading and a growing desire for off-screen connection.
They pick a title, read it and then gather to discuss it in detail.
But unlike more traditional book clubs, many of these groups add on another activity — or multiple — to turn their gatherings into social events rather than introverted hangs.
Some of the groups like to run after reading. Others enjoy making charm bracelets. One group hosts an annual “Booksgiving,” where members bring their own titles to wrap for a blind book exchange.
Across the U.S., book clubs have transformed into social scenes, with many readers saying these groups have been a lifeline to building friendships and seeking community in a post-pandemic world.
“It’s definitely evolved from the traditional, ‘Oh, let’s meet at a coffee shop, talk about the book, go over these discussion questions,’” said Ijanae Dawkins, 26, founder of Philly’s chapter of a club called Book and Sip. “I have people every month come up to me at the book parties, and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I was so shy coming into it. This is my first book party. I made three new friends and we’re going out next weekend.’”
Rating: 5