On book clubs (and conversations you can’t have elsewhere)
The Quiet Readers Book Club's "Choose Your Book Club" event popped up on our socials recently and I thought, what a brilliant idea!
You basically show up, chat with the people running each book club, see what they've discussed before and what kinds of books they read — and then decide if it's for you. It's a reminder that reading communities don't all have to look the same.
I hope to see more book clubs appear. The more there are, the more likely we are to find one we're comfortable in.
I'm not naturally a book club person. I've joined one or two before, but usually for very specific reasons. Sometimes the book club pick touched on a theme I wanted to discuss, and I was curious about how others saw it. Other times, I just wanted to know what everyone else was reading and recommending.
There are certain conversations you can't always have with school friends, work friends, or even family and your partner. Books open doors to questions about ambition, faith, love, identity, politics — and sometimes it feels easier to explore those with people who are, essentially, strangers who've read the same story.
Most book clubs these days are far less intimidating than people imagine. You don't always need to finish the book. You don't need to be the most well-read person in the room. You could even show up and say, "The last time I read a book was ten years ago." That kind of honesty is usually welcomed.
We need more readers. And more spaces to talk about stories.
Anyway, here's a small list of book clubs that've been on my radar:
📚 If You're Looking for a Book Club
- @a.good.rest
- @athingofimpulse
- @bookloversclubsg
- Bookworm Banter (held by @bookbarsg)
- @clubmomok.sg
- @noreadgretsbookclub
- @quietreadersclub
- @tableminis
- @thesaturdaybookclub
- The Modern Man's Book Club by @neo.chapters
- @theotherbookclubsg
- @wormholesg's Bookworm Club
If you run a book club, or know of one we should include, reply and let me know. I would love to share more reading communities.
The same goes for how we introduce stories to children. Not every child connects to books the same way, and sometimes the right book at the right moment makes all the difference.
With Chinese New Year coming up, I thought this would be a good time to highlight a few picture books that help little readers understand the traditions, symbols and stories behind the season — in ways that feel warm, accessible and fun.
 |
The ABCs of Chinese New Year From angbaos to zodiac signs, explore Chinese New Year, one letter at a time. Celebrate Chinese New Year from A to Z in this playful picture book. With lively rhymes and vibrant scenes, each page captures the joy of reunion, tradition and treats. A festive read for children and families everywhere. Explore CNY from A to Z |
 |
Dragons in Chinatown (Chinese New Year in Singapore) Follow one little girl as she and her family enjoy all the festivities around Chinese New Year in Singapore. From decorating the home and making pineapple tarts to receiving angbao and watching a dragon catch a pearl — there is so much fun to be had. A charming story with warm and vibrant illustrations that reminds us of the importance of family and family traditions. Join the dragon dance |
 |
Understanding Singaporeans: Why Do the Chinese Shout Yam Seng? Why do the Chinese eat noodles at wedding dinners? Why are blankets hung around HDB void decks after a funeral? Why is Chinatown called "cow car water"? This illustrated handbook answers 20 of the most-asked questions young Singaporeans have about Chinese customs — clearly, simply, and with useful tips along the way. It's informative without being heavy, and perfect for curious readers who like asking questions adults don't always know how to answer. Discover the meaning of "yam seng" |
As always, thanks for reading — and for indulging my bookish ramblings.
Here's your GIF for the week:
Warmly,
Chloe
Leave a comment