If you’re lucky enough to have a tight circle of friends — who also happen to be bookworms — why not launch your very own book club? Book clubs promote bonding, discussion and a love of literature in a relaxed, nurturing environment — they bring people together around a common joy to learn and discuss something that matters to them. Not only does reading books expand your horizons and broaden your mind, it’s an opportunity to get together and sip on your favourite drink, discuss the season’s best reads and enjoy small bites with friends. We’re walking you through our tips on creating a book club — and your first meeting — for the ages, whether yours is a book club of one or a time of bonding for your literary circle.

Pick a theme

Your book club, your rules! Your club doesn’t have to pick just one genre to explore — you can pick a few on a rotating basis and read two books from each, whether you’re jumping from ‘50s horror to summer chicklit. If you want to pick one literary genre for your book club, there are so many books to choose from. Try to pick a schedule for your meetings that fit your friends’ reading pace, like once per month, so every member has the time they need to finish the club’s latest book.

Stock up on refreshments

Are you hosting your book club this month? Make sure to stock up on your favourite snacks and drinks alongside long discussions on your latest book’s protagonist. Opt for warm drinks, like coffees or teas — or, get creative and host your club with delicious refreshments they can sip on, like Bella Amari, Vizzy Hard Seltzer or your favourite beers.

Follow a discussion guide

Every book club meeting needs great conversation. If you want to add structure to your meetings, consider following a discussion guide to drive chatter around the book. Discussion guides allow you to host your book club like a pro, giving you the guidelines to discuss its major themes, questions your club members have about the characters’ motivations, or moments of the book that upset them.

Stay creative

If your book club is beginning to lose its sparkle, spice it up by creating games centred around the books you’re reading, spend your get-together time sharing your favourite quotes, or just have a laugh — keep it light and entertaining if your book club numbers have started to dwindle. You can even try a group outing, like going to a restaurant or bookstore together as a crew. Book clubs should feel cozy and relaxed, so if you find yourself stressing over your next selection, slow down and take a break with your club.

Don’t forget to party

Throw a seasonal book bash to celebrate your year of books with your club! You can opt for a book-themed barbecue, a booksgiving around Thanksgiving, or even a Secret Santa exchange for the holiday season. Don’t forget to surprise your guests with a parting gift, like a notebook, a book tote bag, bookmarks or a new e-book! An end-of-year party is a great way to thank your book club circle for spending time with each other throughout the year and discussing their favourite literature. That’s all you need to get started on a memorable, joyful book club experience you can have with your closest friends or new acquaintances. Book clubs are a great way to bond with others, so if you’re not hosting, consider joining a book club to take advantage of all its perks — and expand your literary mind at the same time.