Reading is one of the most fulfilling things that you can do as a human being. It is the kind of activity that takes your mind to places that you never thought possible. However, as much as reading is important, understanding what you have read is equally crucial. This is where book clubs come in. Book clubs provide a platform where people can discuss what they have read, their interpretations and also share insights on the book. In this post, we discuss book club questions that work for any book (with free printable sheet).
What was your favorite character in the book?
One of the most important elements of any book is the characters. They are the ones who bring the story to life and also create a connection with the reader. The question of who was your favorite character in the book is one that is likely to evoke a lot of discussion. Some people could relate more to the protagonist while others might have found the antagonist more fascinating.
Did the setting contribute to the story?
The setting of any book is crucial to the story. It helps to create an ambiance that can either enhance or detract from the overall story. When discussing this question, it is important to consider how the setting affected each character and how it could have made the story more or less interesting.
Did any of the characters undergo a significant change?
A good story should have some form of character development. It helps to make the story more relatable and also creates an emotional connection with the reader. When discussing this question, consider how the characters changed throughout the story, what brought about those changes, and if the changes were realistic.
Did the author achieve their goal?
Every author has a goal when they write a book. It could be to entertain or highlight a particular issue. When discussing this question, consider what the author set out to achieve and if they were successful in achieving it. Also, consider the message that the author was trying to pass across and whether or not it resonated with you.
What was the most memorable moment in the book for you?
This question is likely to evoke a lot of emotion from individuals. It could be a happy or sad moment, but one that was poignant and unforgettable. Discussing the most memorable moment in the book helps to highlight what was significant about the book and how it impacted the reader.
What was your favorite quote from the book?
Quotes are an integral part of any book. They help to create a lasting impression in the minds of the reader. Discussing your favorite quote from the book helps to highlight what spoke to you the most about the book and also what you can take away from it.
What would you change about the book?
There are times when a book leaves you with a feeling of dissatisfaction. It could be the ending, the plot or even the characters themselves. Discussing what you would change about the book helps to highlight areas where the author could have improved or where the book could have been more engaging.
Did the book change your perspective on anything?
Good books have a way of changing how we view the world around us. Discussing how the book changed your perspective on something helps to highlight the power of literature to our lives. It could be a social issue or even just a better understanding of a particular culture.
Would you recommend this book and to whom?
The question of whether or not to recommend a book is one of the most critical ones. It helps to highlight the overall impact of the book and whether it was worth reading. Discussion around who you would recommend the book to also provides an opportunity for other readers to discover the book and be impacted by it as well.
The bottom line
In conclusion, book clubs are an excellent way of investing in yourself. It helps to expand your knowledge base and also provides a platform to discuss books that you might otherwise not have read on your own. The questions provided in this post are not exhaustive, but they are a great starting point for any book club discussion. Happy reading!