Everyone is welcome to create classic MG/YA readalongs!
Generally speaking, it's best to get to know the group first before you decide to host, so that you're familiar with how we operate, what we've read before, etc.
It's also important that you:
1. Choose a book that you think other readers might care to read along with you. Use the "Questions and suggestions" thread to gauge interest. While reading obscure books can be fun, don't forget to be mindful of accessibility as well--that is, think about whether it's a book that's easily purchased or available from the library.
2. Be clear about the date of the discussion before posting a readalong. Please follow the format of the subjects for existing readalong threads when you title yours. For example:
Friday, February 26th, 2016: No Flying in the House
That way everyone knows at a glance when the date of the chat will be.
3. In your first comment on the readalong thread, briefly talk about why you chose the book/what it means to you, to help entice people to join!
4. Tweet/post about your discussion to invite other readers outside of the group.
5. Begin the discussion yourself in a timely manner with general thoughts and asking questions. If something comes up, let others know they should start without you, or ask someone else to help out with moderation.
6. Keep the conversation going by chatting with participants!
-- It's fine to have multiple/overlapping readalongs going on at once. Just be aware that participation may be affected.
-- While you need to designate an official date for the chat, be aware that it's likely not everyone will be able to post exactly on that date, so you're encouraged to keep an eye on new comments on your thread so you can continue to moderate/welcome new participants.
-- It's up to you (and probably the book content as well) whether you are okay with participants posting early on the thread, as they read along/before the official discussion date. In most cases, there's probably no harm in it (and encourages the "readalong" aspect) as long as people are mindful of big spoilers in consideration of those who haven't gotten there yet. Just be clear (and nice!) about your expectations if you object to early posts for good reason.
Please moderate your chats to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included. If you have any major issues, feel free to contact Wendy directly.
Generally speaking, it's best to get to know the group first before you decide to host, so that you're familiar with how we operate, what we've read before, etc.
It's also important that you:
1. Choose a book that you think other readers might care to read along with you. Use the "Questions and suggestions" thread to gauge interest. While reading obscure books can be fun, don't forget to be mindful of accessibility as well--that is, think about whether it's a book that's easily purchased or available from the library.
2. Be clear about the date of the discussion before posting a readalong. Please follow the format of the subjects for existing readalong threads when you title yours. For example:
Friday, February 26th, 2016: No Flying in the House
That way everyone knows at a glance when the date of the chat will be.
3. In your first comment on the readalong thread, briefly talk about why you chose the book/what it means to you, to help entice people to join!
4. Tweet/post about your discussion to invite other readers outside of the group.
5. Begin the discussion yourself in a timely manner with general thoughts and asking questions. If something comes up, let others know they should start without you, or ask someone else to help out with moderation.
6. Keep the conversation going by chatting with participants!
-- It's fine to have multiple/overlapping readalongs going on at once. Just be aware that participation may be affected.
-- While you need to designate an official date for the chat, be aware that it's likely not everyone will be able to post exactly on that date, so you're encouraged to keep an eye on new comments on your thread so you can continue to moderate/welcome new participants.
-- It's up to you (and probably the book content as well) whether you are okay with participants posting early on the thread, as they read along/before the official discussion date. In most cases, there's probably no harm in it (and encourages the "readalong" aspect) as long as people are mindful of big spoilers in consideration of those who haven't gotten there yet. Just be clear (and nice!) about your expectations if you object to early posts for good reason.
Please moderate your chats to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included. If you have any major issues, feel free to contact Wendy directly.