Want to know what's fun about a book club? Ask Catherine Hudson. Ever since she was a fourth grader, Catherine, now age 14, and her mom, Cindy, have talked books with five other mother-daughter pairs in Portland, Oregon. At the group's monthly meetings, Catherine has discussed Newbery-winning novels, dramatic memoirs, epic fantasies, and light comedies. She's dined on dumplings inspired by "Red Scarf Girl" (which is set in China) and nibbled dainty sandwiches in honor of "I Capture the Castle" (a British classic). She's even met a couple of favorite authors and, most exciting of all, made a new best friend.
Connections, of all kinds, are what keep such clubs bubbling along year after year. With snacks and spin-off activities inspired by the reading, today's parent-kid book groups are as much about self-expression and socializing as they are about character and plot. "It's a chance to do something that brings us closer together," says Cindy. "We've also created rich friendships with the girls and their moms."
By interviewing members of successful book groups around the nation, we got the inside story on the titles and tie-in activities that truly entertain. Here, we present five terrific ideas to boost the fun and keep the discussion flowing, plus age-specific book recommendations and practical tips for starting a club of your own. Read on!
