What Makes A Book Great for Book Club?
What makes a great book club book? I’m sure you’ve asked yourself this question many times. After all, there’s a lot of pressure when suggesting a book to all of your book club members.
I want my suggestion to be a good, solid choice for people to enjoy reading. That is to say, the group should be able to discuss it at length and learn something new, whether it be a snippet of history, learning about a culture, or finding a new destination to visit. A good book club experience is essential. The best books expand our views, open up connections with others and spark lively discussions
So, what do you look for in a book that will create a lively discussion? You could suggest one of your favorite books or you can check out some of our suggestions.
How To Pick The Best Book Club Books
- Know your group. Introducing new topics is fantastic, but keep your audience in mind. What type of Book Club is it, and what were some of the books that delivered the most meaningful conversations? You want to focus on choosing the right book for group members.
- Look for books with a bit of controversy. Of course, you don’t want to offend anyone, so be mindful of trigger warnings. Many times, the publisher or author’s website will provide them.
- Books with thought-provoking topics are some of the best selections for discussion. Historical Fiction, family sagas, and Women’s Fiction are excellent choices. Look for books with twists and turns, ethical questions, and unexpected outcomes. In some cases, memoirs provide an in-depth personal discussion.
- Be selective about the length of the book. If it’s a busy Book Club, an 800-page book may not be a good idea, and some may have a hard time finishing.
- Not every book chosen is a winner, but that’s what Book Clubs are supposed to do. They push you out of your comfort zone!
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy yourself. My favorite thing about reading is cultivating a love of books with family and friends is food for your soul! What were some of your best Book Club Selections?
8 Awesome Book Club Recommendations
Absolution by Alice McDermott
Historical Fiction ~ 336 pages ~ Macmillan ~ 10/31/23
What makes it a good book club choice?: This book is thought-provoking and evokes deep feelings about women’s roles in the 1960s, morality, privilege, social issues, and the consequences of war. The characters are complex, well-developed, and flawed. I’m still reflecting on this book.
Recognition & Accolades: New York Times Best Seller List, 2024 Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award winner.
All Fours by Miranda July
Literary Fiction ~ 336 pages ~ Riverhead Books ~ 5/14/2024
What makes it a good book club choice? This book is polarizing, which makes for a great discussion! You will either love it or dislike it. The book explores themes of women’s sexuality, the challenges women face in mid-life, society’s expectations, and marriage. This book has a lot to unpack; it is both deep and entertaining. It’s one of the most thought-provoking books I’ve read in a while.
Recognition & Accolades: New York Times Top 10 Books of the Year, Time Magazine’s Top 10 Fiction Books of 2024.
Open Book by Jessica Simpson
Memoir ~ 416 pages ~ Dey Street Books – 2/4/2020
What makes it a good book club choice? Jessica is back on stage after a 15-year hiatus, and she’s again in the spotlight. It’s the perfect time to discuss her book, which provides an unfiltered account of her life. She shares her experiences with love, addiction, healing, and more. Jessica is also the narrator for the audiobook, adding a personal touch to her story.
Recognition & Accolades: New York Times Best Seller
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Literary Fiction ~ 400 pages ~ Riverhead Books ~ 8/8/2023
What makes it a good book club choice? This is a great choice for historical fiction lovers. The bonus is it’s also a mystery. The book explores racism, social issues, and seeking justice in a small rural community. It’s thought-provoking and moving, and this literary gem has plenty to discuss.
Recognition & Accolades: A New York Times Best Seller, Named Best Book of The Year by NPR/Fresh Air, Washington Post, The New Yorker, and Time Magazine.
The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
Women’s Fiction ~ 336 pages ~ G.P. Putnam’s Sons ~ 5/9/2017
What makes it a good book club choice? This is an emotional read that will certainly spark discussions in the group about relationships. It is thought-provoking and raises questions about soulmates, fate, and loss. Book 2, “The Love We Found,” is now available!
Recognition & Accolades: New York Times Best Seller, Reeses’ Book Club Pick
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Historical Fiction ~ 464 pages ~ Penguin Books ~ 7/14/2022
What makes it a good book club choice? This story is based on a great American racehorse, “Lexington.” It’s a compelling read with dual timelines. One is modern day, and the other takes place in the 19th century. It covers topics such as race, slavery, and art, which will give many talking points for your Book Club and a chance to discuss historical events. It’s an excellent read!
Recognition & Accolades: Winner of the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, and the Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
Women’s Fiction ~ 416 pages ~ Little, Brown and Company~ 7/14/2022
What makes it a good book club choice? This story takes place on the Beautiful island of Nantucket, so there’s a bit of romance to keep you turning the pages. This is a fun and engaging read that will have your Book Club discuss second chances, redemption, and the power of social classes. There is much to discuss, which will create a thought-provoking discussion.
Recognition & Accolades: From a New York Times Best-Selling Author
All The Colors Of The Dark by Christ Whitaker
Mystery/Thriller ~ 608 pages ~ Crown~ 7/25/2024
What makes it a good book club choice? We picked this book as our best book of the year. It’s not like any other book I’ve read. It is a mystery, love story, and thriller written in this beautiful prose. There are complex characters you become emotionally attached to. I couldn’t put it down. This fantastic book has so much to discuss that your meeting may run long! Don’t miss this one, it’s a good book club book!
Recognition & Accolades: New York Times Best-Seller, Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Happy Reading!
Andrea
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Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelide
