SciFi and Fantasy Book Club discussion
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Having no experience myself, I think you have done a fine job. There seemed to be quite a bit of excitement at first, but it died down. I'd just like more participation, a few more members. Though I love the book, maybe SH-5 wasn't the best book to start with, as most seem to have not particularly enjoyed it.
Well ... I am a fair bit older, and this is my first experience with a book discussion group as well :) As far as I can see, you are doing a fine job. You shouldn't be trying to do everything or you will burn up. Plus ... membership is still growing, so participation should pick up.SH5 may have been a tough book to enjoy for some, but it did have a lot of things we could have talked about; for some reason none of the topics really took off. That seems to be par for the course though. I have another group where participation is even more limited.
Don't give up yet Nick! I think you're doing a great job! I really like how you've set things up so far - very organized and easy to navigate. I joined the party late and it's been awhile since I last read SH5 (which I really loved incidentally), but I do plan to participate more with the next book.
Only suggestion I can think of is maybe looking up book discussion questions online to get the ball rolling more. Though often as not, I've seen that kill a thread as much as spur it. Still, might be worth a try anyway.
good idea with the mass group email reminder about next month's book btw.
I did an online book group of sorts for awhile as part of a more general book and movie forum. And people would read, but it was like pulling teeth to get them to discuss. Felt like an idiot cheerleader half the time. Sometimes it paid off, other times not so much. You can really only do so much I guess is what I'm saying.
It may also help at some point to hire a partner in crime (second moderator) to take some of the weight off.
I think you've done a fine job (no, never been in a book club either). Been busy, in the middle of long reading projects, never got to the bookstore... :PBut, while I haven't had anything to say, I've been following the discussions. Kristjan's been offering up some great essays. I think with time, and more essays like that, the long-term prospects of the club are good.
Heck, the fact that you gathered so many people who've never done this before is interesting.
Wizard of Earthsea has me in a quandary. I have a copy, but it's a few hundred miles away....
No complaints, Nick, I think you're doing fine. Lots of things can affect an online discussion, so I would see how the next couple of months go before I'd start looking for something to fix.
i know where to find a digital version of earthsea if anyone needs it.
Mod
Ben - Yeah, SH-5 was pretty ambitious but I went by popular vote. Maybe I need to rethink that process a bit...
Kristjan - Seems like a lot of people are new to this. Should make things interesting though. I have a habit of doing too much and burning out. I'll simmer down some.
Arctic - Not giving up, just seeking insight. I have looked up some interesting reads on running and asking questions for discussion. We shall see how it goes! The mass email took awhile because GR has no option to allow group mods to do such. Hope they add it! I might very well look to add another moderator soon just to help out if anyone is interested. I am also surprised at the number of members. I hope it pays off.
John - Good point on the effects of the net! I'll keep it in mind.
NickJust another comment of the work you'r edoing. Running a book discussion can be hard on line - hard enough in person - and not everyone can be on the same page at the same time.
Like in the real world, those who wish to contribute do, those who like to listen and contrinute once in a while should be provided that opportunity as well.
After all, it's for fun!
Tim
Arctic said: i know where to find a digital version of earthsea if anyone needs it.I would be interested, my copy is still buried somewhere in my basement.
I would also be interested in the digital version...
done.sorry if I've hijacked your thread Nick.
Anyone else who would like a copy just message me.
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As you can see I am not the best at running a book club. I have been trying to gain insight in how to spur discussion and interest and I've decided to beg ignorance and seek insight. I'm sure many out there are more experienced than myself in running and participating in book clubs. I am young (28) and this is my first experience in book clubs period. So, those wiser in book clubs: what suggestions would you send my way? Where have I made mistakes and where can we improve? I want this to be a great experience for all involved and I need your help in doing such!