Book Club Planning for Book Club Fun

Setting a better pace in 2012

2012-01-29T18:11:00.001-05:00

Okay, so I have to admit that I almost fell out of my chair when I realized the last time I posted to my Book Club Planning for Book Club Fun blog since September! That was pretty poor planning on my part.

I'm turning over a new leaf in 2012 and will be posting once a month to include ideas and recipes and fun stuff from y'all that will hopefully help make your book club meetings memorable.

So here we go.
Nancy

Book Club Babes : Suffolk VA

2011-09-02T23:31:00.000-04:00

I've been invited to join the Book Club Babes for their September meeting. I can't wait!
Thanks for choosing Sweet Tea and Secrets for your book this month.
See you soon!
Nancy

Novel Night Book Club

2011-08-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the gals that get together for Novel Night the second Wednesday of every month. Sweet Tea and Secrets was their book of the month for August 2011 and I joined them for some fun via telephone during their meeting.

This creative bunch had a blind sweet tea taste test...
McDonalds -vs- Hardee's -vs- Chick-Fil-A ...
no homemade sweet tea in the bunch with these working girls and that really tickled my funny bone.
They did promise to use Pearl's Perfect Sweet Tea recipe someday.

Thanks again for the invite, Novel Night friends. I sure enjoyed our time together and really appreciate your support of my debut novel. I'll keep you posted on the November release of the second story with ties to Adams Grove...OUT OF FOCUS.

I'll try to figure out how to podcast the call by the next time we get together in December.

Hugs and happy reading~
Nancy

Sweet Tea and Secrets - Summer Jacket

2011-07-12T16:49:00.000-04:00

We just released a 2nd edition of Sweet Tea and Secret to correct a few minor editorial issues and while we were at it.....we refined the cover too.

You'll notice good old Clyde made the back this time :) We love him.

I hope you'll help me continue to spread the word about SWEET TEA AND SECRETS and the other novels that will be coming soon with ties to the small town of Adams Grove.

If you're not sure how YOU can help....check out the SPREAD THE WORD tab on my website at www.NancyNaigle.com You can help all your favorite authors get attention for your favorite books.

Don't forget, too, if you have a book club (formal or just your best girlfriends planning to get together) and would like some treats from me to go with your books....let me know. I'd be happy to send you a package to enhance the Sweet Tea and Secrets fun.

Hugs and happy reading,

Nancy

A summer treat

2011-06-25T16:52:00.002-04:00

June is when we all think about all those years as kids when we had the summer off.
No matter where you are the temperatures are rising and we all want to spend a little less time in the kitchen.

Here's a couple options for a cooler meeting:

Serve southern iced tea for a change. You can get Pearl's Perfect Sweet Tea recipe here
Find some good old fashioned ice trays and pop a piece of fresh fruit in each divet....add water and freeze for a beauiful garnish to your refreshments.
Pinwheels - Easy as can be and yummy, too. Use large flour tortillas and spread a generous serving of your favorite filling (pimento cheese, tuna salad, egg salad) roll and slice into colorful bite size tidbits.
Watergate salad - Whip up a lovely green (hey, it matches my book cover!) treat by mixing a tub of cool whip, pistachio pudding packet dry, can of crushed pineapple drained, marshmallows and chopped nuts if you like. waaalaaaa....pretty and delightfully refreshing.

What are your favorite quick and easy get together dishes??

May all your books be brightly colored and enjoyed!

2011-05-02T12:11:00.000-04:00

Greetings book club friends:
It's official. My debut novel, Sweet Tea and Secrets, is out. The cover is perfect for a May release. Bright, fresh and just a feel-good kind of look.

Did you know that authors have very little say in the matter of titles and covers? It's true. One story sticks with me about an adorable cover with a basset hound on it. I loved it. The book was wonderful, too...BUT the dog in the book was a boxer. Huh? I guess boxers don't sell books quite as well as those adorable droopy ears and eyes. Marketing and sales professionals drive features like title and cover. I have to say Turquoise Morning Press did a wonderful job in both of those areas. The original title of my book was Pearls of Wisdom. When you read the book, you'll probably know why, but I think the new title fits the story even better.

Can't wait to hear what you think.

May all your May reads be brightly colored and filled with smiles, tears, and memories.
Hugs~
Nancy

It's April!

2011-03-27T10:46:00.000-04:00

It's hard for me to believe we're already a quarter of the way through 2011! Time is zipping by and that makes our get together's that much more important.

So, it's April. The Cadbury bunny is bwak-bwok-bwaaaking on the TV between every other commercial and that makes me think about Easter eggs. For April's get together how about a smorgasbord of anything that has eggs in it in hors d'oeuvres size.

Deviled Eggs
Quiche
Cake (hooray!)
Souffle
Meringue
Potato Salad with the pretty hard boiled egg slices in a flower shape on top!

Yeah, not as hard as it first sounds is it? It'll be interesting to see what everyone pulls together.
Eggs-actly ;)

Now....tell me what kind of fun you have planned!

March Book Club

2011-03-01T07:15:00.013-05:00

Start now and you'll be ready for the holidays with a perfect gif for your book club friends.

As books are selected for your get-togethers, print a copy of the front cover from your favorite online site .
In December, gather them and paste in random angles and you'll have an adorable collage that you can turn into a holiday card for the group.

Don't you just love cutting and pasting :) AND with technology these days you can craft one and make color copies on cardstock -- waalaaa! A personalized gift.

Finally, March-ing into Spring....
Want to put a couple books on your list for this summer?? Two friends of mine have books coming out. I was a beta reader on both of them .... trust me, you'll love them.

GIRL THREE by Tracy March coming in June (Big city thriller)
BEACH RENTAL by Grace Greene coming in July (Outer Banks love story)

Kindle Reader Cover Fun

2011-02-28T11:52:00.001-05:00

What a fun idea. Did you see the DIY Kindle cover on the BookTrib site? Check it out and this one too! http://booksprung.com/want-to-make-your-own-ereader-cover-here-are-50-ideas-to-get-you-started

I'll admit I sprung for a leather OBERON DESIGN cover when I first got my Kindle. I went for the one with the tree on it. It's so pretty. BUT, if you aren't up to something quite that snazzy (okay I can be a bit of a spoiled reader, I admit it!) then this DIY is absolutely adorable and fun to do.

What?? Wait! You don't know about BookTrib? Oh honey, you are missing out. It's like a breath of fresh, happy air. Bright, colorful and full of the latest book news. http://www.booktrib.com/ Visit today and join for free.

Hugs~
Oh...and if you take this little DIY project to heart...I'd love for you to send me pics of your design. :)

Everybody's doing it -- or should be ;)

2011-02-09T08:32:00.000-05:00

Had to share this post about book clubs by Kelsey Browning.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/kelsey-browning/book-clubs-books-that-bite/10150091438681500

Get started. Have fun. Make some new memories :)

Be Mine, Book Club Valentine

2011-02-07T16:32:00.000-05:00

Hi book club friends,
My first publication is out! FOREVER IN MY HEART, is one of twelve short stories in the Valentine's Day anthology, BE MINE, VALENTINE. I've got a couple Valentine's Day events planned and this is becoming a favorite holiday all over again. As fun as when I was in the second grade and nervous to give out my very first valentine's day cards, and as sweet as the time I got not only a dozen roses for me--but a dozen rawhides for my dog for Valentine's Day. What are your fondest memories?

Back to business...Book club planning.
Fun for this month's book club gathering doesn't require much planning.
What you'll need:

Conversation Hearts
Box of kids Valentine's Day trading cards

Open the box of Valentine's Day cards and spread them out on the table.
Have each book club member pick out a card that they will address to their favorite character of one of the novels they've read. Then couple that with the appropriate Conversation Heart to match. Be ready to share why!?!?!

You might just be surprised at how many extra details we add to the romantic hunks in the books we read that are never on the written page. Funny how many of the guys in the books I read look like Kevin Costner.

I'd love to hear from you with ideas or comments.
Have fun!

NaNo what?

2010-11-01T12:46:00.000-04:00

November is National Novel Writing Month. NaNoWriMo. I know I'm dating myself with this next comment, but the first thing I thought when I saw NaNo was, "Isn't that what Mork used to say on the Mork and Mindy Show?" :)

Anyway, if you have a book in your heart why not visit www.NaNoWriMo.org and give November the old college try. You might suprise yourself. If you DON'T have a book in your hear, but you have a book club --- make it a fun plotting party.

To prepare:
Write on slips of paper or index cards the following:
Heroine's name
What the heroine looks like
Hero's name
What the hero looks like
The place
The problem
What's in the way?
How do they come together?

Then, start with the first one and go around the room. By the end of the circle you'll have your own fun story. If you're a real mush-ball like me ... you might even record the scenario and then transcribe it into a little booklet as Christmas/Holiday gifts for your book club friends in December :) The cover? What else a picture of the group.

Happy November!
Nancy

SIBA :: A great resource

2010-10-02T10:32:00.001-04:00

Never heard of SIBA? It's the Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance.
Okay -- so if you're not a southerner it may not be as big a golden nugget to you, but for me ... southern to the sassy soul ... it's my kind of reads and they have a sense of humor that I get.

Everyone knows about Oprah's Picks ... but have you checked out the OKRA PICKS?
Yep -- thats what SIBA calls their recommendations and what follows are the 2010 Fall Okra Picks.

On their website - www.sibaweb.com -- they say these are great southern books, fresh off the vine. A baker’s dozen of titles representing a wide range of tastes, all the books selected have the following things in common: 1) They are Southern in nature. 2) They are 2010 Fall releases and 3) There is a SIBA member Bookstore who is really excited about the book. Southern booksellers love their Southern authors—we grow good books!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE ....
The Okra Picks, 2010 Fall Edition: Fiction:

A Perfect Love Song by Patti Callahan Henry
9781593156169 Vanguard Press, October 2010 $15.95

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin
9780060594664 Morrow, October 2010 $24.99

I Still Dream About You by Fannie Flagg
9781400065936 Random House November 2010 $26.00

Love, Charleston by Beth Webb Hart
9781595542014 Thomas Nelson, September 2010 $14.99

My Only Sunshine by Lou Dischler
9781891885723, Hub City, October 2010 $21.95

Virals by Kathy Reichs
9781595143426 Razorbill, November 2010 (Penguin) $17.99

Zora and Me by Victoria Bond and T.R. Simon
9780763643003 Candlewick Press October 2010 $16.99Z

The Typist by Michael Knight
9780802119506 Atlantic Monthly Press August 2010 $20.00

Pick one .. have fun .. and continue keeping me in your wish-upon-a-stars that one of my books will be an OKRA Pick one day.
Hugs and happy reading.
Nancy
www.NancyNaigle.com

October Harvest

2010-10-02T09:50:00.000-04:00

Hay rides, carved pumpkins, trick-or-treat, leaves in red-yellow-and-orange, crisp nights that you can sleep through with the windows open .... and a fun month to entertain your book club.

You know my motto - keep it simple.
The host can buy adorable pre-made trick or treat bags in a packet of 12 or so at the local dollar store, or have her kids decorate them over a weekend. One for each book club member. I don't have kids but I do love a craft project so I chose to decorate paper bags with construction paper cut outs and some bling around the names.

Then, have each book club member bring their favorite trick-or-treat surprise (enough for everyone) and secretly have each member put a treat in each bag. At the end of the night ... each member goes home with a wicked, fun treat bag and some childhood memories. Does it get any better than that?

Hugs and halloween fun.

BANNED BOOK WEEK THIS WEEK

2010-09-27T20:51:00.000-04:00

If you have a book club meeting planned this week ... here's a topic for discussion.
It's Banned Book Week Sept 25 - Oct 2
Check out a great recap from the American Library Association at http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek/index.cfm all about this week meant to celebrate the freedom to read and the importance of the First Amendment.

Happy Reading!

Sensational September

2010-09-18T10:53:00.000-04:00

The air is just beginning to chill in the evenings and I've had the opportunity to sleep with the windows open and even tug up the quilt a night or two. Don't you just love this time of year.

We haven't had much rain so the trees are letting go of their leaves early, but on the bright side -- the best foliage years are those that have dry, sunny day summers. We should have a splendid Fall Foliage frenzy here in Virginia. Hope you enjoy one, too.

Thinking of cool nights, and beautiful nature ... here's a great idea for your next book club meeting.

This week I was treated by a co-worker to JASMINE BLOOM tea. Oh my goodness. This tea smelled so good I almost didn't want to drink it, but when I took a sip, there was no way I was going to stop. It was wonderful. You drop this hand woven pod into your mug and in a few minutes of steeping .. it opens up into a glorious flower right in your cup.

A box of ten blooms (individually wrapped) is just $10 at www.adagio.com
Trust me, this will be an experience your book club friends won't soon forget!

Enjoy your September meetings and don't forget OCTOBER is National Reading Group Month http://bit.ly/aHAoUK

Until then ... wishing you great reads and new memories each day that leave you snuggling that pillow with a smile at the end of each one.
Hugs~
Nancy

A fun twist for Book Club night

2010-08-13T13:14:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you, but I always feel rattled in August. It must be a throwback reaction from school days when summer ended and August carried the burden of new school clothes, books, schedules and saying goodbye to long summer days.

If you're like me then you might not feel like an intellectual evening of banter over the latest book. How about switching things up?

Dollar Tree is your friend --- purchase a little chalkboard or white board for each member .... then in America's Got Talent or Olympics style ... have each member X or * ... or give a rating from 1-10 on the book.

Everyone show your rating at the same time :)

Have fun!

June:: Fresh Garden Delights at your Book Club Gathering

2010-06-28T11:58:00.000-04:00

Hi Friends:
If you're lucky enough to have a garden then you're probably about knee deep in fresh produce right now. I know I am! One morning last week my dear husband brought in 26 cucumbers. Yes - in one day! Eeek. But like good books -- you can't have too many :)

Here's a delightful recipe for a cucumber recipe that you can use on tea sandwiches or as a veggie dip at your next gathering.
Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients:
2 cups Low Fat PLAIN Yogurt
2 cups cucumbers - remove seeds and dice small
Chopped Basil
Chopped Dill
1 TB Minced Garlic
1/2 Lemon
Salt and Pepper

Strain the yogurt through doubled-coffee filters for two hours in the refrigerator. You'll be amazed at how much liquid drains. This will leave you with a thick custardy yogurt.

While the yogurt is draining - Peel the cucumbers and scoop out the seeds. Then dice in small chunks. Place in a colander and sprinkle with salt and peper. Let sit so they dry out just a bit.

Combine the finely chopped dill, basil with the minced garlic and the juice from 1/2 a lemon. Add the yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold in the cucumbers.

Put in a sealed container in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. If water rises to the top -- pour it off, don't mix it back in.

Use on sandwiches, as a veggie dip, or as a spread on burgers. Light, refreshing and so easy.

ENJOY!

OH - AND IF YOU HAVE LOTS OF CUCUMBERS:: Make a little tub of Tzatziki to go (or the kit to make it themselves) for each of your book club members. They'll appreciate it.
Hugs~

National Poetry Month

2010-04-05T12:20:00.000-04:00

April is National Poetry month.
At this months meeting why not share your favorite poem. Not into poetry, then how about doing a round robin with the group to create your own Roses are Red variety poem. You'll get a good laugh and honor National Poetry all at the same time.

For you ...
I'll give it a try.

Roses are red,
and April has arrived.
I hope you think
this poem isn't contrived.
(hahhaah)

Happy April. Have fun with your friends - it's what makes for a perfect day.
Nancy

Keep your book club alive!

2010-03-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

We're all about at the end of our dreary winter weathered ropes. I know this for certain because on the news night before last they were covering the snow ... yes again, and use to NEVER get snow ... and they were interviewing a mother who said, "I wish someone woulda' shot that darn groundhog!" I bet more than a few of us are feeling that way about now.

I had to laugh. Nothing like a live interview in the south the catch you off guard.

So, if your friends are making excuses to not get together for book club, reel them back in. If they didn't read the book, they can still be part of the girls night out and she can catch up on the next read. Sometimes all we need is a little nudge to get us off the couch and out the door on a cold, wet night --- do your friend a favor -- NUDGE!

Have a wonderful book club meeting. I'd love to hear what you're doing at yours.
Next month I'll talk about a new little something I just heard about that some book clubs and authors are doing. Stay tuned!

And a New Year begins . . .

2010-01-05T20:23:00.000-05:00

. . . as we ring in 2010 keep in mind that it's the small things that make the big differences.

Getting together for book club once a month or even every other month if that's all you can work out is a small gift to yourself that will help you maintain balance in your life. Balance is important if you want to be the best you can be.

Since it's the beginning of the year, make a plan to have someone insure you get a picture at each book club meeting so that at the end of the year you can do a collage card or a calendar for the whole group. A fun way to get more joy out of those memories.

Visit often for crafts, recipes and ideas to keep your Book Club gathering fun and easy.

Nancy

Virtual Book Clubbing is A-OKAY

2009-12-13T13:17:00.000-05:00

New in town? Too hard to get the girls or your book club together for a discussion? Too much stress to gather at someones house? The act of sharing with others is an important one. We can usually find a way to do the things we really want to, but then again coordinating several folks for the same date is sometimes just too big of a challenge.

Be innovative.

FACEBOOK OR TWITTER:: Use your facebook account or twitter for a chat. If you use twitter, set up a hashtag like #WedNiteBookClub or something so everyone can find the conversation easily. Facebook is easy because you can post and then everyone can just pile on.

POSTCARDING:: Set up the book club right down to the "date", but rather than get together everyone in the club sends a postcard or card to each of the members with their thoughts. Good OLD FASHIONED mail ... it has a nice appeal.

YAHOO GROUPS:: You can always set up a yahoo group of your special friends. It's free and intuitive to use. You can even open it up to people you don't know.

SKYPE:: If your techno-savvy ... how about a skype meeting?

CONFERENCE CALL:: Did you know there are websites that offer free conference calls? Everyone will have to pay the long distance fee, but depending on your long distance terms ... that could be free, too. Try freeconferencecalls.com.

What's your solution?
I'd love to hear.
Nancy

Fa-la-la-lala Bon-Bons

2009-12-10T10:20:00.000-05:00

For any holiday party, gift, or next book club meeting that you want to have a melt-in-your-mouth to-die-for chocolate treat . . .

This easy Chocolate Truffle will make you the star of the day.

You will need:
One Box Cake Mix (Dark Chocolate/Milk Chocolate - whatever your pleasure!)
oil and eggs as indicated on the box mix

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
1/2 cup apricot preserves (I promise you this is fab -- use it!)
1 tsp vanilla
2 pkg (8oz) semi sweet chocolate chips/squares

Step by Step:
Step One: Bake a chocolate cake following the directions on the box. Set aside and let cool.
Step Two: In a large pot slowly melt the butter.
Step Three: Add cocoa and sugar. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step Four: Crumble the baked/cooled cake into the mixture.
Step Five: Add the apricot preserves, confectioners sugar and vanilla to the pot.
Step Six: Mix well blended and moist.
Step Seven: Roll the mixture into one inch balls or form small cubes. (You could use small ice trays or candy forms if you are feeling adventurous.
Step Eight: Place in refrigerator to chill. This makes dipping the treat into chocolate easier!)

DIPPING and DECORATING:
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate over low heat and stir until smooth.
Dip truffles into melted chocolate and place on wax paper. Let stand for an hour.

*Decorating:
You can drop sprinkles across the top of the truffles, or I like to get white chocolate and drizzle or draw a swirly circle on top. A wreath or holly leaf with berries using different colored decorating gels is a cute holiday theme as well.
If you are feeling especially adventurous, roll the still moist truffle in coconut or chopped nuts. The possibilities are endless!

Place them on a plate and wrap with cellophane and a bow, use a tin, or a little chinese take out box.

Pass along and share the delight!
~Hugs and Happy Holidays
Nancy

Cheeseball Recipe - Easy, Quick and Yummy!

2009-11-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

I made the Adorable Thanksgiving Project that I posted over the weekend. The little Gobbler's turned out so cute! I'm putting one at each placesetting and iced the name on the back of the striped cookie (tail).

Is Book Club right in the middle of a million other things and it's your turn to bring the snack?
-OR-
Are you joining others for dinner? Did they say, "No. Don't bring a thing, just yourself." But the hostess in you is saying . . . bring something!

Here's a quick fail-proof recipe for a cheeseball. You can do it in a quick hurry!

CHEESEBALL RECIPE
INGREDIENTS:
2 8oz Cream Cheese
1/4 cup finely diced peppers (Your choice red, green for Christmas and yellow, red for Thanksgiving makes it festive!)
2 TB finely chopped onion
1 8.5oz crushed pineapple (drained)
1 1/2 tsp season salt
2 C chopped pecans

What to do?
Plop all the ingredients (EXCEPT 1c of the chopped pecans) in a big bowl.
Mix the ingredients well.
Form into a ball (or several small ones or make a shape!)
Roll in the pecans.

All done. Serve with Crackers, Pita Chips or Pretzels.

Presentation Ideas::
Option 1-Wrap in clear plastic wrap and tie off with a ribbon, pipe cleaner or bag twistie
Option 2-Get a cutting board from the Dollar Store and place your cheeseball on that with a hand towel as wrapping. The perfect hostess gift.
Option 3-Place the cheeseball in a pretty bowl that you can leave behind
Have fun with it!
My favorite wrapping tool:: Wide wire ribbon. You can't go wrong. It always looks pretty.

Have a delightful time, and enjoy this scrumptious appetizer.

Adorable Thanksgiving Project

2009-11-21T09:26:00.000-05:00

Whether your hosting a book club meeting in the next week or so -- or just looking for a fun place-setting for your Thanksgiving dining table, this is an easy project that will get lots of smiles.

It was from the grocery store chain FOOD LION. Gobbler Cookies
What you'll need::
Nutter Butter Cookies (this will be the body on your turkey)
Fudge Stripe Cookies (this makes his pretty tail!)
Small Pretzel Knots or Choc Covered Flipz (his feet!)
Candy Corn (for the beak)
Gummy Worms (for the gobbler!)
Almond Slivers (for his spiky hair)
Small Choc Chips (for the eyes)
and white icing to hold it all together

It's pretty self explanatory if you look at the picture

Books as Gifts

2009-11-09T11:46:00.000-05:00

Tis the season we begin holiday shopping. The economy is still trying to recover and unfortunately I read just last week that Walden Books is closing 100s of stores in January -- several in my 100 mile radius.

It's a shame, but don't let those closing stores deviate you from giving books as gifts. A book can be::

a dose of humor when you're sad,

a reminder you're not alone,

a friend when you're lonely,

a teacher of something new,

a treasure when it touches your emotion,

make you slow down and find balance in this hectic world

or a weapon in a pinch if it's a hard cover - I always keep one by my bed! haha.

I was delighted to see that my own step children had books on their wish list this year. I bet the folks on your list would love one too. Young Adult is hot this year - help connect the youth on your list to an author.
Large Print can make the seniors on your list feel a renewed love for the written word.
eBook Readers can satisfy the techno-gadget guy or gal on your list, and then there's always just a good old paperback. Paperbacks fit perfect in most stockings!

Add a pretty wire ribbon (even a regular shoe string bow looks pretty with glittery wire ribbon!) and you're all set.

Happy Gift-Giving.

Book Club Innovation

2009-10-11T09:55:00.001-04:00

You have your book club in place. The group has a steady group of folks that are getting together and sharing. Meetings are getting predictable. What special thing can you offer?

How about inviting an author to speak with you about one of the favorite reads this year?

No budget?

No worries!

With modern technology it's easier than ever to get an author to your book club meeting. If you're technically savvy, invite an author via Skype. You can chat and see each other :) If not, speaker phone is the next best thing.

You'll be surprised that most authors are thrilled to give you the gift of their time for a 30 minute or 60 minute book club visit. Many will even forward some bookmarks or trinkets to share at the meeting.

So go for it. Invite an author to visit with you!

I can promise when my books hit a shelf I'll be happy to provide book club questions, share a call with you and your club, and forward fun giveaways. If you'd like to stay connected on my progress toward publication, just go to www.NancyNaigle.com and click on the Contact tab. You can sign up (or even unsubscribe) right there.
Until that day comes --- I'm thinking of you and wishing you great fun and new memories at your Book Club Meetings.
Nancy

Something a little lighter - for a change of pace

2009-08-17T14:24:00.000-04:00

Hi Folks
It's August and that means the summer is coming to an end, parents are getting their kids ready for school, and the rest of us are praying for a little relief in the weather.

With busy schedules, and balancing everything we wanted to get done over the summer, why not switch things up in your next BOOK CLUB meeting?

Find an eBook that you can download for $5 or less (Amazon has some shorts for just 49cents!!) and bring a little inspiration and motivation to the table.

Here's what I found to share. At just over 100 pages it's a very slim volume to have handy, or you can download it for just $5. It's a collection of short stories, blurbs and poetry inspired by the Bible. The one that caught my attention right out of the gate was the one on WORKING TOO MUCH. Do you resemble that remark, too?

So, share a little wisdom, and inspiration with your friends and make it an affordable meeting that will be lite and no-stress. I recommend having a couple dozen assorted Doughnuts for this meeting. (My favorite are good old Krispy Kreme glaze if you pop 'em in the microwave for just a few seconds. YUM)

Here's the link to Twelve is for more than just Doughnuts
by Phyllis Johnson
http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/twelve-is-for-more-than-doughnuts/7474085

Have fun!

Book Club Summer Swap

2009-07-23T09:02:00.001-04:00

Looking for a little something new to stir things up at your next book club meeting? I've got a fun idea.

Aside from the book of the month that you've all read and loved or hated --- bring a favorite summer read from your dusty bookshelf. Throw them all in a pile and either blindly take turns drawing or do a swap with them. That game where you pick a gift, and someone can steal your book or pick a new one is always a fun way to swap. If they steal yours your stuck with theirs.

Fun-fun-fun and a great way to add a new author to your list. Some of my favorite authors have come out of happy accidents just like this.

Swappin' Summer Fun!
Nancy

July Book Club Planner Fun

2009-07-06T11:30:00.000-04:00

It's July, and I have a fun suggestion for you for your bookclub meeting this month.

For the hostess of this month's bookclub, everyone bring one flower from your garden, and if you don't have one make one out of toilet paper or pick a dandelion ;).

Even, dandelions and wild weeds can look pretty in a cluster. Treat your hostess to this free little smorgasbord of color to set the tone and smiles for the get-together.

How will you top it in August? How about everyone bring one piece of their favorite candy .... and your hostess will have a pretty pile of sweets.

Happy bookclubbing,
Nancy

Beach Reads

2009-06-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

I'm long past the days of baking in the sun on the beach all summer, but I still love a good beach read.

Give me a story full of quirky characters that I feel so close to I think I need to send them a postcard when I go on vacation. And, give me a town that I can picture in my mind. I love those kinds of books.

Mary Kay Andrews, Debbie Macomber, Sherryl Woods are just a few of my favorite "community" reads and I can settle in with those on the beach, on the couch, in the summer, in the fall :) Now that I have a kindle I seem to read even more of them at a faster pace, too.

How about you?
What makes a book one of your favorites?
Nancy

Clever Titles

2009-06-04T11:11:00.000-04:00

So maybe your club is one of those that doesn't like the structure of a discussion about the book that involves questions and answers. That's okay.

It's your club, it can be what YOU want it to be.

Here's a more relaxed alternative. Once everyone is gathered give everyone an index card or sheet of paper and have them rate the book. Use a 1-10 scale like your Dancin' With The Stars judges, or maybe a 1-5 star rating. Whatever works for you.

THEN -- rename the book. Get your wheels turning and come up with a great new title. Authors hardly ever get to keep the title they come up with. Marketing gets that honor. See if you can do better.

Have fun!
Can't wait to hear what you come up with.
Nancy

What will we talk about?

2009-05-26T12:50:00.000-04:00

For some reason folks are always worried about what they will talk about at a book club meeting. Trust me. If you start with "Who liked the book?" things are going to roll right along. Books are like husbands, there's a perfect one for every reader but every reader won't like every one.

If you want some help, however, there is help out there.

Many of the publishers do a really good job of including Readers Guides or BookClub Notes for their books, and some authors take care of it on their own. Check out your author's favorite website. You might be pleasantly surprised that they'd be happy to send you some free bookmarks, have a link to a downloadable Bookclub Guide, or even offer to call in to chat about the book at your next meeting!

Authors work long and hard to bring those characters to life and get them on a shelf for you to enjoy. They'd love to hear from you, and know that they've touched your life, or sparked a memory for you.

In the link section below are a few places to start looking for reader guides.

If all else fails --- here are some basics.

Who liked the book?

What was your favorite character in the book?

Did you connect with any one place or scene in the book?

Is there a character in the book that reminded you of someone you know?

Talk about the cover art.

Did the blurb about the book hold up to the story?

Would you read another title from this author?

Have a great read!
Nancy

Self-Pub vs Big NY Pubs

2009-05-18T21:44:00.000-04:00

You may have already heard about the self-pubbed top selling book, THE SHACK. If not, though, let me recommend it.

It's not a perfect write, but the messages are clear and deep and really leave you thoughtful and it's all done through a story that reaches your heart.

I'm not usually one to read those self-pubbed books, I tend to lean towards those I KNOW I'm going to love like the Mary Alice Monroe, Mary Kay Andrews, Nicholas Sparks, Carl Hiaasen, Barbara Delinsky, well okay so the list goes on ... but I know what I like and usually stick to it.

Anyway -- don't be afraid to wade out into something new. You may just find a wonderful new read.

Wishing you many friends and smiles through books,
Nancy

A Book by its Cover

2009-04-19T12:25:00.000-04:00

A fun thing to discuss is the book compared to the cover art.

Did you know that most author's have very little influence in the cover art of their books? It's true. That's left to the marketing team and most of the time they do a fabulous job.

How do you think they did this time?

Did the cover make you pick this book to begin with?

Did the inside of the book deliver the goods promised?

Did you get what you expected?

After you read the book, did you look back at the cover and connect to the story?

What about the blurbs from other authors or reviewers...did that influence you one way or the other? Did you agree with the blurbs?

Does a certain color catch your eye? or foil letters? or pictures of dogs or landscapes?

Have fun chatting about the cover.
Happy Reading.
Nancy

Fun Snacks

2009-03-08T09:14:00.000-04:00

How about making a Friendship Bread for a Book Club evening or morning treat? You've never heard of Friendship Bread? Oh my. You've been missing out.

It's an Amish recipe for a sweet cinnamon bread that you use a "starter" to make. (That's where the friends come in!) You can even snazzy it up with nuts or fruit for your own unique twist on things.

It's easy and yummy, too. You can get the starter recipe and several variations (chocolate and lemon, too) at the All Recipes website allrecipes.com

A nice pot of coffee or your favorite tea, and you're all set.
Have a great Book Club meeting.
Nancy

February Book Club Fun

2009-02-10T11:38:00.000-05:00

February - the month of love, romance, and to-die-for chocolates!

Of course, this month will be a romance, right? What do you mean you don't read romance. Puh-lease. So don't pick up a historical if it's not your cup o' tea, or an erotic pub if it will make you blush, but there's romance in nearly every story you pick up. Even the occasional thriller. :)

So let's talk about the romance in your book club book this month. If you are determined there wasn't one --- then let's turn the discussion to who we COULD have hooked up! A little matchmaking never hurt anyone.

Have fun!

Happy New Year

2009-01-14T14:08:00.000-05:00

It's 2009 and I can say I'm glad for the invention of the Debit Card ... because right about now I'd be trying to remember to write 09 on all checks and now I have one less worry :)

How about another one less worry --- what to read?

A fun and fair way to keep the list of books appealing to all is to have each member of your book club write a recommendation on an index card (okay, so they can have more than one card if their indecisive) then pull the book of the month from the hat. No bargaining, no discussion!

I'm currently reading THE SHACK. You've probably heard about this wildly successfully self-published book that has sold millions and millions. It's been a really good and thought provoking read. If it's not on your list, maybe you'll want to add this one.

Happy Reading.
Nancy

Traditions?

2008-10-30T10:31:00.000-04:00

The air has turned crisp here in Virginia and although I'm not a huge fan of cooler weather, I do love snuggling up with a good book under my favorite afghan.

Also top of mind is that the string of holidays are upon us. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas (or Kwanzaa, Chanauka, Festival of Lights or others special to you!) and New Years!

It's not so much the holidays themselves as it is the traditions around them that bring friends and families close that excites me.

This year there is the weight of the bleak economy hanging over us, shrouding the brightness a little. So, I'm starting a tradition. You might find it a good one, too, and it certainly fits right in with your book club planning.
I'm selecting one of my favorite authors who writes a yummy holiday story each year, and giving books as gifts to all my friends. As a writer myself, I take pride in knowing I'm helping my fellow writers and the publishing industries through those sales, too.

If you haven't checked them out ... I highly recommend the adorable series of holiday books by Debbie Macomber. The blocky size of the harcover ones feel special in your hands and all the covers are sparkly and festive. Do a quick search on Macomber Christmas and you'll get a long list to choose from. You can give everyone the same book and make it the book club read OR give everyone a different one.

Try it on for size. An affordable and wonderful gift that can become a tradition between you and your friends.

What do you think?

How to plan a Book Club gathering.

2008-10-26T11:58:00.000-04:00

STARTING YOUR OWN BOOK CLUB

Getting together with friends is an important part of keeping life balance. A book club is an inexpensive and fun way to get folks together. How to get started:

Recruit your friends

Pick a place-Will you rotate to friends homes or meet up at the local library or coffee shop? The size of your group might limit some options, but many restaurants are happy to see return visitors meet and some even have special accomodations for you. Just ask!

If you're meeting at a restaurant, keep the budget in mind. If you're meeting at someone's house will everyone bring something? Or will everyone put four bucks in a fund towards the next hostess meeting? Get creative.

Pick a day and time, then stick with the schedule. Be realistic. If everyone has a busy schedule and it's most likely an every other month meeting is going to work best --- then do that. You'll find that most often "the girls" will be able to schedule around your special time if they have it on their calendar. Even if it takes a couple months to get in the groove, sticking with a plan will help you succeed

Consider sending out reminder invitations or postcards. There are some cute book club invitations available at evite.com , or I've attached a postcard template for you. You can print on card stock and cut them into fours, or buy postcard paper - it's up to you. Right click and save as on the invite file.

or use email reminders, provided everyone has e-mail. Be inclusive so everyone feels welcome.

Pick your books two at a time in advance. This will insure readers have the chance to purchase, order or check them out from their local library.

What to discuss? This can be challenging at first, but did you know that several publishers actually have reader group guides available for their books. If not, don't hesitate to check out your author's website, they may have one on their site, and who knows they may be willing to send you some bookmarks or even call into your meeting.

Set expectations upfront. Is this an "adult only" escape from the kids? Then, make it clear or consider having a one-stop babysitter for everyone to use for the night.

Most importantly - Have fun.

There's a Holiday for everything - We're no exception!

2008-10-04T08:49:00.000-04:00

We know that a good read is a great reason to bring us together and share some fun. That's exactly why we're in a Book Club or getting ready to start one of our own.
BUT
Did you know that October is NATIONAL READING GROUP MONTH sponsored by the Women's National Book Association. Visit their site at www.nationalreadinggroupmonth.org to take advantage of all the special things they have planned this month.

Since it’s our month ... I say our Book Club should celebrate!

How about book club Mimosa’s?
Ingredients:

Carton of Orange Juice

Bottle of Champagne

Just a little Orange Juice and a splash of champagne and you’re in business.
Break out the crystal or go for a bag of those flutelike plastic numbers from the Dollar Tree.
Want to really go crazy? Slice a strawberry or kiwi and garnish the rim and raise a pinky.
Cheers!