The family book club: A new tradition for grown-up siblings and their parents

Staying meaningfully connected with family through different life seasons can be challenging. As siblings grow up and start their own families, they have less shared experience to draw on. If you are craving conversation that goes deeper than life updates, consider starting a family book club! Whether you are gathering over the holidays and can schedule a discussion, or you set up a time to meet over video chat, reading the same book and discussing its impact on you can strengthen your relationship with your family of origin. 

Step 1: Send the invite

Invite your participants with clear expectations and a positive, inclusive spirit. Let them know you are looking forward to hearing everyone's thoughts and staying connected in a more meaningful way! Remember, this is an invitation, not a requirement. If someone doesn't have time to read the book ahead of time because of their season in life, consider inviting them to the discussion anyway! Gauge interest on whether your family is interested in an ongoing book club (like monthly or quarterly) or a one-off gathering over the holidays.

Step 2: Choose a book

Find a selection that will get everyone talking. Communicate the title choice with enough time in advance for everyone to find a copy and finish reading it (4-6 weeks is typically good). If you have the ability, mail a copy of the book to all the participants so everyone has the same pagination.

Step 3: Plan a few conversation openers

Book discussions can go many different ways, so you don't need to overprepare! Consider a few major themes and opening questions to get the discussion going. As you read, note any key quotes or passages that you might want to read aloud together during the discussion.

Step 4: Set the ambiance

A book club with a themed snack or drink can really add to the fun! A background playlist that sets the tone can also be fun. A few thoughtful touches that make the ambiance fun and out of the ordinary can really help your discussion take flight. If you are meeting virtually, set a fun background on your video screen and let each attendee say what they are eating/drinking at the start of the meeting.

What to read

Every family and participant will have different preferences for genre, style, and length, but here are a few example book suggestions with questions and themes to get you started.

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi 

This easy-to-read modern bestseller is full of southern charm.

Themes to discuss: generosity, presence, the power of art

Snacks/drinks: a perfect cup of espresso, with a classic Portuguese “Pastal de Nata” tart

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather

Dive into this Southwest missionary tale with rich descriptions and lasting themes.

Themes to discuss: evangelization, friendship, cultural change

Snacks/drinks: Mexican hot chocolate (with cinnamon and cayenne), Biscochitos cookies, chips, and salsa

Perelandra by C.S. Lewis

This classic Christian sci-fi book will make you rethink the story of Genesis.

Themes to discuss: free will and sin, man’s relationship with the created and spiritual world, innocence vs. ignorance

Snacks/drinks: anything that feels abundant and otherworldly, like unusual tropical fruit and brightly colored herbal teas.

Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry

Follow along as a lonesome barber finds his place in small town life.

Themes to discuss: belonging, dignity of work, the meaning of a place

Snacks/drinks: skillet cornbread and a Kentucky bourbon

Lasting memories

With these suggestions, you and your family can bond and connect over some quality literature! Whether you are beginning a new tradition or just adding some meaningful discussion to your next gathering, your family book club is sure to create lasting memories. 

Check out some of Zeale’s other favorite titles, including reads that match your mood, read-aloud options for younger families, and books best enjoyed with a drink in hand.

What will your family be reading and discussing this holiday season?