Welcome to A Movie Lover’s Book Club, where we discuss all things novels, movies, and more. It’s January, and I’m feeling refreshed and excited for 2024! After reviewing my stats from 2023 it appears the book club posts are of interest to readers. It’s definitely something I’m interested in creating and admittedly gave up on too soon last year.
Hosting (or, in your case, participating in) a book club will keep me accountable for my reading goal this year. I love reading. The very concept of storytelling is wondrous to me. From creating to reading, it’s all magic. As Neil Gaiman says…
“I can write down a few words and make people thousands of miles away, whom I have never met and will never meet, laugh tears of joy and cry tears of true sorrow for people who do not exist and have never existed and never will exist. If that isn’t actual literal magic I don’t know what is.”
Neil Gaiman
I’ve been in a reading funk for the past few months and don’t want to be. The truth is, I am a lazy person. I love hiking and running, being outside, reading and writing, and all the things that take work. But I am also lazy and enjoy being lazy very much – I love to watch trash television and turn my mind off at the end of the day. For some, it takes discipline to do the things you love. That sounds counterintuitive, but I’ve learned from experience it’s not.
I know I’ll pull myself out of this slump, and the perfect place to start is with a lighthearted, fun read for January.
All that leads me to is my typical spiel – If you’ve found this post, you’re interested in our January book pick. If it’s your first time here or you need a refresher, let’s dive into logistics; if you already have the basics covered, feel free to jump ahead.
A Movie Lover’s Book Club: How It Works
If the book club discussion posts and you still need to finish reading, that’s okay. Join in and share your thoughts when you can.
I will provide questions as a starting point for discussion, including my thoughts/answers. If you feel passionate about a passage you’ve read or a scene you watched, jump in the comments and discuss.
I want books to be inclusive and engaging, so don’t hesitate. Your comments and ideas are valuable.
- On the 3rd of the month, a book is announced with a film or series counterpart.
- Next month (February), look for my “NOVEL TITLE Discussion” post, which will include content (discussion) for January’s pick.
- In addition to making a stand alone “book pick” announcement on the 3rd, I will also include the book of the month in our “discussion” posts.
- Expect novel discussion posts to occur on the first Saturday of each month.
- Each book is an opportunity for us to review the month’s novel, analyze themes of both the novel and the media counterpart, and get nerdy with it.
I recently partnered with Bookshop. A website alternative to Amazon, connecting readers with independent booksellers. When you make a purchase through my affiliation link I may earn a portion of the sales at no additional cost to you. Shop my full bookshop – here.
My goals for the discussion posts
- Include a book review
- Questions to ask yourself and each other
- Personal responses to questions
- Memorable moments and quotes
- Snack/meal ideas to pair with the book and watch-along counterpart
- A film/show review (compare and contrast the adaptation)
Other things….
- In working to fulfill my hopes of creating a true community on my website, I will be actively checking and participating in thoughts and discussion on the book each month.
- Of course, you don’t have to watch the movie or show to participate; this is just about having fun.
- Please share book interests for future months in the comment section below.
January Book Pick
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
About the Novel
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume is a classic coming-of-age story. The book revolves around Margaret Simon, a pre-teen girl navigating the challenges of adolescence, self-discovery, and the quest for identity. Struggling with questions about religion, puberty, and fitting in, Margaret seeks guidance from a higher power – God – in candid and humorous conversations. Described as relatable and timeless, you’re never too old to read this one, addressing the universal quest for self-understanding and acceptance. I really can’t wait to dive in.
What We’re Watching
Before/As You Read Consider This
- Did you read Judy Blume as a child? If so, how do you think the work will compare when reading as an adult?
- What ways does Judy Blume use dialogue to tell a story?
- What characters do you relate to most?
Discussion for Are You There God? It’s me, Margaret. will post February 3rd.
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