Every day, up and down the country, hundreds of people come together to discuss books, in front rooms, kitchens, libraries and pubs. Over the last three decades, the book group has become a massive cultural phenomenon. In sheer numbers of people taking part, it’s one of the biggest cultural activities taking place in the UK, but because it’s one that takes place in ad hoc groups, in private or among networks of friends, it’s something that goes under the radar.
Some are just groups of friends who want to share their love of reading; others are focused on particular genres like sci-fi, non fiction or Gay and Lesbian literature. And there are those with a sense of purpose, forging new communities from common interests; radical book groups, people that want to read diaspora literature, men’s reading circles.
I suspect that many of them have their own story to tell. So, once a fortnight, I’ve decided to eavesdrop on a different readers’ group. I’m going to hang out and chat, and find out a little about what makes these amazing groups tick – and listen to what they make of their latest read.
Listen
Here’s a rough mix of one episode that’s coming up:
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