Who says book clubs are just about the books? They’re about the laughs, the shared moments, and the little extras that make each gathering special.
Here are 47 creative book club ideas to make your meetings exciting and memorable. Each idea is packed with activities, themes, and more to ensure your book club is the highlight of your month.
1. Literary Luncheon
Host a book-themed potluck lunch where each member brings a dish inspired by the book you’re reading. Discuss the book over a delicious meal.
How-To Tips:
- Assign each member a specific type of dish (appetizer, main course, dessert) based on the book’s setting or themes.
- Use the book’s setting or cuisine as a guide for recipes.
- Decorate the table with items related to the book, such as flowers mentioned in the story or themed napkins.
- Create a menu card that explains how each dish relates to the book.
2. Author Skype Session
Invite the author of the book you’re reading to join your book club meeting via Skype or Zoom. Get insider insights and ask all your burning questions.
How-To Tips:
- Reach out to the author through their website or social media. Many authors are open to virtual book club visits.
- Prepare a list of questions in advance and share them with the author.
- Test your technology beforehand to avoid any glitches during the session.
- Record the session (with the author’s permission) for members who can’t attend.
3. Book-Themed Costume Party
Encourage members to dress up as their favorite characters from the book. Adds a fun visual element and leads to lively discussions.
How-To Tips:
- Set a theme and send out invitations encouraging costumes.
- Provide simple costume ideas for members who might be unsure.
- Offer a small prize for the best costume to encourage participation.
- Use the costumes as a conversation starter about character development and favorite scenes.
4. Murder Mystery Night
Combine your book discussion with a murder mystery game. Perfect for thrillers and whodunits, it’s a great way to get everyone involved.
How-To Tips:
- Choose a murder mystery game that fits the book’s theme.
- Assign characters to members in advance so they can prepare.
- Set the scene with appropriate decorations and background music.
- Integrate the book discussion into the game by discussing clues and plot twists.
5. DIY Book Crafts
Make bookmarks, book sleeves, or other crafts related to your book. It’s a fun activity that also gives you something to take home.
How-To Tips:
- Choose a craft that is simple enough to complete in a short time.
- Provide all necessary materials and tools.
- Offer step-by-step instructions or a demonstration.
- Encourage creativity by allowing members to personalize their crafts.
6. Movie Night
If your book has a film adaptation, watch it together and compare it to the book. It’s a great way to see how different interpretations can be.
How-To Tips:
- Find out if the movie adaptation is available for streaming or rental.
- Prepare popcorn and movie-themed snacks.
- Set up a cozy viewing area with comfortable seating.
- After the movie, have a discussion about differences and similarities between the book and film.
7. Book Swap Party
Have everyone bring a book they love but are willing to part with, and swap books at the end of the meeting. Share favorites and find new reads.
How-To Tips:
- Set guidelines for the book swap, such as genre or condition.
- Display all books on a table for easy browsing.
- Use a random draw or number system to ensure fairness in choosing books.
- Allow time for members to talk about the books they brought and why they love them.
8. Book Trivia
Create a trivia game based on the book. It’s a fun way to test your knowledge and see who was paying the most attention.
How-To Tips:
- Write trivia questions that range from easy to challenging.
- Divide members into teams for a competitive element.
- Use a buzzer or bell for answering questions.
- Offer small prizes for the winning team to encourage participation.
9. Theme Nights
Choose a theme related to the book (e.g., historical, fantasy, sci-fi) and have everyone bring something related to that theme, such as food, decorations, or costumes.
How-To Tips:
- Send out theme ideas and suggestions in advance.
- Decorate the meeting space to match the theme.
- Encourage members to share how their contributions relate to the book.
- Use the theme as a starting point for deeper discussion about the book’s setting and genre.
10. Guest Speakers
Invite a local author, professor, or expert related to the book’s topic to speak at your meeting. Adds depth to your discussion.
How-To Tips:
- Research potential speakers and reach out with a polite request.
- Offer an honorarium or small gift as a token of appreciation.
- Prepare a list of questions or topics to guide the discussion.
- Allow time for a Q&A session with the speaker.
11. Poetry Slam
If your book contains poetry, host a poetry slam where members can read their favorite poems from the book or their own creations.
How-To Tips:
- Set a casual, open atmosphere to encourage participation.
- Provide a microphone or sound system for readers.
- Encourage members to practice their readings in advance.
- Offer constructive feedback and positive reinforcement.
12. Cooking Class
If the book features unique cuisine, hire a chef or take a cooking class together to learn how to make dishes from the book.
How-To Tips:
- Choose recipes that are representative of the book’s setting or culture.
- Find a local chef or cooking school that offers relevant classes.
- Arrange a group discount or private class for your book club.
- Enjoy the meal together after cooking, discussing how it relates to the book.
13. Book Scavenger Hunt
Create a scavenger hunt based on clues from the book. It gets everyone up and active, sparking thoughts about the book’s key moments.
How-To Tips:
- Write clues that relate to specific passages or themes in the book.
- Hide clues around your meeting space or a larger area.
- Divide members into teams to encourage collaboration.
- Offer a prize for the team that completes the hunt first.
14. Outdoor Readings
Take your book club meeting outside to a park or garden. The change of scenery can make the discussion more enjoyable.
How-To Tips:
- Choose a location with comfortable seating and a quiet atmosphere.
- Bring blankets or portable chairs for seating.
- Provide snacks and drinks to enjoy during the discussion.
- Take advantage of natural light and fresh air to create a relaxing environment.
15. Book Club Retreat
Plan a weekend getaway to discuss the book in a relaxing setting. It’s a great way to bond with fellow members and dive deep into the book.
How-To Tips:
- Choose a location that offers a mix of relaxation and activities.
- Plan a loose schedule that includes time for book discussions, meals, and free time.
- Arrange for everyone to bring a dish for communal meals.
- Consider organizing group activities related to the book’s themes.
16. Literary Tea Party
Host a tea party with teas and treats inspired by the book. It’s a charming and elegant way to enjoy your discussion.
How-To Tips:
- Serve a variety of teas that reflect the book’s setting or themes.
- Offer finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries for a traditional tea experience.
- Decorate with teapots, vintage teacups, and lace tablecloths.
- Discuss how the setting and characters of the book would fit into a tea party.
17. DIY Book Covers
Have a contest where members create their own book covers for the book you’re reading. It’s a fun way to see everyone’s artistic interpretation.
How-To Tips:
- Provide plain book covers or large sheets of paper for the activity.
- Offer art supplies like markers, paints, and collage materials.
- Encourage creativity and individual expression.
- Display the completed covers and vote on the favorite one.
18. Dramatic Readings
Take turns reading passages from the book with dramatic flair. It’s a fun way to bring the text to life and add some performance to your meeting.
How-To Tips:
- Choose passages that are particularly dramatic or pivotal to the story.
- Encourage readers to use different voices and expressions for characters.
- Provide simple props or costumes for added effect.
- Discuss how the dramatic reading changes your perception of the text.
19. Book-Themed Games
Play games like “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” with a book twist (e.g., “Pin the Tail on the Dragon” for a fantasy book).
How-To Tips:
- Create game materials that tie into the book’s themes or characters.
- Modify classic games to fit the book’s context.
- Encourage friendly competition and teamwork.
- Use the games as a way to break the ice and get everyone involved.
20. Book-Inspired Music
Create a playlist of songs that remind you of the book or its characters. Share and discuss why you chose each song.
How-To Tips:
- Use music streaming services to create and share your playlist.
- Choose songs that reflect the book’s mood, setting, or themes.
- Discuss how the music enhances your understanding of the book.
- Play the playlist during your meeting to set the tone.
21. Bookish Charades
Play charades using book titles, characters, or scenes. It’s a lively way to get everyone involved and laughing.
How-To Tips:
- Write down book-related prompts on slips of paper.
- Divide members into teams for a competitive element.
- Use a timer to keep the game moving.
- Encourage creativity and exaggerated acting to make it more fun.
22. Book Discussion Jar
Write down questions about the book on slips of paper and put them in a jar. Take turns drawing questions to discuss.
How-To Tips:
- Preparation: Before the meeting, ask each member to submit a few discussion questions based on the book. This ensures a variety of perspectives.
- Diversity of Questions: Encourage questions that range from plot and character analysis to thematic and symbolic interpretations.
- Random Selection: During the meeting, pass the jar around and have each member draw a question. This adds an element of surprise and keeps the discussion dynamic.
- Inclusive Discussion: After a question is drawn, allow every member to share their thoughts. This ensures everyone’s voice is heard.
23. Photo Contest
Take photos inspired by the book and have a contest to see who can capture the essence of the story best.
How-To Tips:
- Theme Selection: Decide on specific themes or scenes from the book that members can interpret through photography.
- Submission Platform: Create a shared online album or social media hashtag where members can submit their photos.
- Voting Mechanism: Allow members to vote for their favorite photos, perhaps using a secret ballot or an online poll.
- Prizes: Offer small prizes or certificates for categories like ‘Most Creative,’ ‘Best Representation,’ or ‘Fan Favorite.’
24. Book Club Bingo
Create bingo cards with themes or events from the book. Mark off each one as you discuss them.
How-To Tips:
- Customized Bingo Cards: Use online tools to design bingo cards featuring characters, plot points, quotes, or themes from the book.
- Interactive Discussion: As topics arise during the discussion, members can mark their bingo cards. This encourages attentive listening.
- Prizes for Bingo: Offer small rewards for members who achieve bingo, adding a fun incentive to participate actively.
- Inclusive Play: Ensure that the bingo game complements the discussion rather than distracting from it.
25. Decorate Like the Book
Transform your meeting space to look like a setting from the book. It’s a great way to immerse everyone in the story.
How-To Tips:
- Planning: Identify key settings or environments from the book that can be recreated within your meeting space.
- DIY Decorations: Use props, lighting, and background music to set the scene. For example, if the book is set in a medieval castle, use candles, banners, and classical music.
- Member Contributions: Assign decoration tasks to different members to distribute the workload and foster collaboration.
- Costumes: Encourage members to dress in attire that matches the decorated setting, enhancing the immersive experience.
26. Literary Riddles
Create riddles based on the book’s plot, characters, or settings. It’s a fun way to engage with the material.
How-To Tips:
- Riddle Creation: Craft riddles that are challenging yet solvable, ensuring they pertain closely to the book’s content.
- Team Play: Divide members into teams to solve the riddles, fostering teamwork and lively discussion.
- Time Limits: Implement time constraints to add excitement and keep the game moving.
- Solution Discussion: After each riddle, discuss the answer in the context of the book, deepening understanding.
27. Quote Exchange
Share your favorite quotes from the book and discuss why they stood out to you.
How-To Tips:
- Preparation: Ask members to come prepared with one or more favorite quotes from the book.
- Sharing Session: During the meeting, take turns reading the selected quotes aloud.
- Discussion Points: Encourage members to explain why they chose each quote, how it resonated with them, and its significance in the book.
- Compilation: Create a collective document or board displaying all the chosen quotes as a keepsake.
28. Interactive Maps
If the book includes a detailed setting, create or print out maps to discuss and mark important locations from the story.
How-To Tips:
- Map Creation: Use online tools or artistic skills to create a map of the book’s setting.
- Marking Key Events: During the discussion, pinpoint where significant events occurred, helping visualize the narrative flow.
- Character Journeys: Trace the paths of main characters, especially in adventure or journey-centric stories.
- Display: Keep the map visible throughout the meeting to refer back to during discussions.
29. DIY Story Cubes
Create cubes with pictures or words from the book. Roll them to create new storylines or discuss elements from the book.
How-To Tips:
- Crafting the Cubes: Use cardboard or wooden blocks to create cubes. On each side, draw or paste images/words related to the book.
- Gameplay: Roll the cubes and challenge members to weave a short story or identify connections between the rolled elements.
- Variations: Use the cubes to predict future plot points if reading a series, or to explore alternative story outcomes.
- Engagement: This activity sparks creativity and can lead to interesting interpretations and discussions.
30. Book-Themed Snacks
Prepare snacks that tie into the book’s theme or setting. It’s a delicious way to enhance your meeting.
How-To Tips:
- Research: Identify foods mentioned in the book or typical of its setting and time period.
- Recipe Sharing: Distribute recipes in advance so members can prepare and bring these themed snacks.
- Presentation: Label each snack with its connection to the book, perhaps including the excerpt where it’s mentioned.
- Taste and Discuss: While enjoying the snacks, discuss their relevance and how they add depth to the story.
31. Author’s Bio Night
Research and present information about the author’s life and other works. It provides context and enriches your understanding of the book.
How-To Tips:
- Dividing Topics: Assign different aspects of the author’s life (early years, career, influences) to various members for research.
- Presentation: Each member can present their findings, perhaps using visual aids like slides or posters.
- Discussion: Explore how the author’s background may have influenced the themes, characters, or settings in the book.
- Further Reading: Suggest other works by the author for future reading, expanding the group’s literary horizons.
32. Time Travel Meetings
Dress and decorate according to the book’s time period. It’s a fun way to step into the story’s world.
How-To Tips:
- Research: Understand the historical period of the book to accurately represent it.
- Costumes: Encourage members to dress in period-appropriate attire. Provide suggestions or DIY ideas for those on a budget.
- Decorations: Transform the meeting space with decor reminiscent of the era, using props, music, and lighting.
- Activities: Incorporate games or customs from the time period to enrich the experience.
33. Book Club Playlist
Create a collaborative playlist on Spotify that reflects the mood and themes of the book. Share and listen together.
How-To Tips:
- Collaborative Effort: Allow all members to add songs they feel resonate with the book’s content.
- Diverse Genres: Encourage a mix of genres to capture different aspects of the story.
- Listening Session: Play the playlist during the meeting, discussing why each song was chosen.
- Sharing: Make the playlist public so members can listen before or after the meeting, deepening their connection to the book.
34. Literary Pictionary
Play Pictionary with book-related words and themes. It’s a creative way to visualize the book’s concepts.
How-To Tips:
- Preparation: Prepare a list of words, phrases, or scenes from the book for drawing.
- Materials: Provide paper, markers, or a whiteboard for drawing.
- Team Play: Divide members into teams, with one member drawing while others guess.
- Time Limits: Set a timer for each round to keep the game energetic.
35. Book-Related Crafts
Make crafts like book-themed candles, bookmarks, or journals. It’s a fun activity that also creates lasting mementos.
How-To Tips:
- Project Selection: Choose a craft that aligns with the book’s themes or settings.
- Materials: Provide all necessary crafting supplies, or assign a materials list for members to bring.
- Instruction: Either follow a tutorial or have a crafty member lead the session.
- Show and Tell: After crafting, allow members to showcase their creations and explain their inspiration.
36. Book Club Journal
Keep a shared journal where each member can write their thoughts, favorite quotes, and discussion points. It’s a great way to track your club’s journey.
How-To Tips:
- Physical or Digital: Decide whether the journal will be a physical notebook passed around or a digital document accessible to all.
- Regular Entries: Encourage members to make entries after each meeting, reflecting on discussions and personal insights.
- Compilation: Over time, the journal becomes a rich archive of your book club’s experiences and growth.
- Sharing: Occasionally read past entries during meetings to reminisce and observe how perspectives have evolved.
37. Themed Drinks
Create or find drink recipes that match the book’s setting or characters. Enjoy these beverages while you discuss.
How-To Tips:
- Research: Identify beverages mentioned in the book or typical of its setting.
- Mocktails and Cocktails: Provide both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to cater to all members.
- Recipe Cards: Share the recipes with members, possibly even compiling them into a club cookbook over time.
- Naming: Get creative with drink names, tying them directly to characters or plot points.
38. Mystery Dinner
Host a dinner party with a mystery theme that ties into the book. Perfect for thrillers and detective stories.
How-To Tips:
- Scripted Games: Purchase or create a murder mystery game tailored to the book’s genre or plot.
- Character Assignments: Assign roles to members in advance, allowing time for costume preparation.
- Setting the Scene: Decorate the dining area to reflect the mystery’s ambiance, using dim lighting and thematic props.
- Integration: Weave in discussions about the book during intermissions or after the game concludes.
39. Author Letters
Write letters to the author sharing your thoughts and questions about the book. It’s a great way to engage deeply with the text.
How-To Tips:
- Collective or Individual: Decide whether to write a collective letter from the group or individual letters.
- Content: Share genuine reflections, favorite moments, and any questions that arose during reading.
- Delivery: Research the best way to send the letters, whether through the author’s publisher, website, or social media.
- Follow-Up: If the author responds, share their reply in a subsequent meeting, fostering a sense of connection.
40. Themed Invitations
Send out themed invitations that match the book’s genre or setting. Adds a special touch to your meetings.
How-To Tips:
- Design: Use design software or online templates to create visually appealing invitations.
- Physical or Digital: Decide whether to send physical cards for a tactile experience or digital invites for convenience.
- Details: Include meeting details, dress codes (if any), and a hint of the theme to build excitement.
- Consistency: Make themed invitations a regular practice to maintain enthusiasm.
41. Digital Book Club
Use technology to include remote members. Utilize video calls, shared documents, and online discussions to stay connected.
How-To Tips:
- Platform Selection: Choose a reliable video conferencing platform that all members are comfortable using.
- Test Runs: Conduct test meetings to troubleshoot any technical issues before the actual discussion.
- Engagement: Use features like breakout rooms, polls, and screen sharing to make virtual meetings interactive.
- Accessibility: Record meetings (with consent) for members who cannot attend live sessions.
42. Virtual Reality Tour
If the book’s setting exists in real life, take a virtual reality tour. It’s an immersive way to experience the story’s world.
How-To Tips:
- Research: Find VR tours or 360-degree videos of locations featured in the book.
- Equipment: Determine if members have access to VR headsets or if a computer or smartphone suffices.
- Group Viewing: Share the virtual tour during the meeting, pausing to discuss notable features.
- Discussion: Reflect on how the real-world setting influences your understanding of the story.
43. Online Polls
Create online polls to vote on discussion questions, future book picks, and more. It’s a great way to engage members between meetings.
How-To Tips:
- Tools: Use platforms like Google Forms, Doodle, or Poll Everywhere for creating polls.
- Transparency: Share poll results with all members to ensure inclusivity.
- Frequency: Regularly use polls to gather feedback, making members feel valued and heard.
- Variety: Poll on diverse topics, from meeting times to thematic preferences, ensuring the club evolves with its members.
44. Book Club App
Use a book club app to keep track of meetings, notes, and discussions. It’s a convenient way to stay organized and connected.
How-To Tips:
- App Selection: Explore apps like Bookclubz, Goodreads, or Slack to determine which best fits your club’s needs.
- Onboarding: Ensure all members are familiar with the app’s functionalities, possibly hosting a tutorial session.
- Features: Utilize features like event scheduling, discussion threads, and reading trackers.
- Engagement: Encourage regular interaction on the app to foster a sense of community outside meetings.
45. Podcast Discussion
Listen to a podcast related to the book and discuss it in your meeting. It offers a fantastic chance to see things from a different angle.
How-To Tips:
- Podcast Selection: Find episodes where the book is discussed or topics related to its themes.
- Pre-Meeting Listening: Share the podcast link in advance, allowing members to listen at their convenience.
- Discussion Points: During the meeting, discuss points raised in the podcast, comparing them with members’ interpretations.
- Diverse Sources: Over time, explore various podcasts to introduce multiple perspectives.
46. E-Book Highlights
Share highlights and notes from your e-books. It’s a great way to see what stood out to different members.
How-To Tips:
- Platform Compatibility: Ensure members are using compatible e-reader platforms that allow sharing of highlights.
- Compilation: Create a shared document where members can paste their highlights and annotations.
- Discussion: Use these shared notes as starting points for in-depth discussions during meetings.
- Privacy: Respect members’ privacy, ensuring only content they’re comfortable sharing is discussed.
47. Book Club Blog
Create a blog to document your book club’s journey. Share reviews, photos, and meeting recaps to engage with a wider community.
How-To Tips:
- Platform Choice: Use user-friendly blogging platforms like WordPress, Blogger, or Tumblr.
- Content Roles: Assign roles such as writer, editor, and photographer among members to distribute responsibilities.
- Regular Updates: Post consistently, perhaps after each meeting, to keep content fresh and engaging.
- Promotion: Share the blog on social media to attract readers and possibly new members.
Here is a video with three more book club ideas from a celebrity event planner:
Final Thoughts: Book Club Ideas
Book clubs don’t have to be all serious discussions—they can be a blast!
With these fun ideas, you’ll turn every meeting into a mini celebration of stories, friendship, and creativity. Try out a few, mix and match, and most importantly, enjoy the journey through each book with your club.
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