At first, I thought it was strange that the most common question I got asked at the freshers' fair was “Do I have to read a lot to join Book Club?” Despite the name of the society, I would always confidently answer “No”. That made me think: why do I go to Book Club if I haven't read anything recently? For me, Cardiff University Book Club is about sharing in a cosy vibe. About knowing there’s a place for me every Tuesday evening. Sometimes it’s about the free biscuits. It’s always about the people.
We’ll post a topic on our socials before every meeting. Some weeks, there’ll be a topic that really resonates with you - mine is usually “controversial opinions” (is that a controversial opinion?). Then, if you’re up for sharing, you’ll get a turn as we go round the group—but stick around long enough, and you’ll realise the best part is learning something new about your peers every single meeting.
Books that they love, or hate, or some bizarre mix of the two that made them cry, brings you a little closer to them. There are books that people recall from their childhood, or short, ten-minute reads, but anything is valid—anything goes. It’s a no-commitment, no-pressure, all-fun society. There’s not even an obligation to go every week, but trust me, you’ll want to. Of course, the weekly meetings aren’t all we get up to. Look out on our Instagram @cardiffunibookclub to see upcoming collaborations.
If you’re interested in sharing the reading experience, join one of our reading groups! These are based on genre, and are headed by our committee members. Each reading group meets regularly over the course of a semester to discuss and theorise about their current read. Yes, my theories are nearly always wrong. No, I won’t stop making them.
And hey, if you’ve made it this far, pop along next Tuesday—you can talk about this article as your new favourite read! Welcome to Book Club!