Jane in June

Today I completed The Jane Austen Book Club. I thought it to be an “okay read,” meaning it was appropriate for summer but would not make my list to recommend to a friend. It did however inspire me with a few book club comments:

• Limiting the book club to one author - DON’T: It is too restrictive for discussion and sets a finite date for ending the meetings. We don’t want that at all!
• Front porch reading - DO: We have already mentioned this as a Germantown favorite.
• Inviting only one man - DON’T: Our conversation is much livelier with several men and I think the book selections are better for their contributions. (Having men who cook is a BIG plus!)
• Cold Beverages - DO: We have our reading water. Whatever you choice of beverage, people feel more confident if they are holding a glass.
• Science Fiction - DO: Do I need to say anything more on this one?
• Attending non-book club events to support your friends - DO: If not already, these will become some of your dearest friends.
• Interjecting French expressions - DON’T: We saw that it was annoying in the book and besides, we’re more likely to speak Spanish.
• Rotating houses to host - DO: This is also our Germantown tradition. (How else would you get to see your neighbors’ new stuff?)
• Have a club that you can walk to - DO: See point about cold beverages above. It's so nice to walk home.
• Personalized Club Wine Glasses - DO: It's great fun! (Thanks Bill!)

If you're not a member of a local book club, join or consider starting your own. You'll be surprised at how much you will gain from the experience.