© 2012 Book Chatter | Book Chatter

I’ve mentioned it a few times here on the blog but I’ve been a member of a book club for 14+ years. Wow. How can that be? Anyway, the club has been around forever and for years and years I’ve enjoyed it but recently, say within the past year it’s been a struggle. I can’t really say it’s due to any one thing but the biggest issue is probably just new people and how some of them just rub me the wrong way. I read the books but I am not attending the meetings. I haven’t really decided what to do long-term.

I considered starting another club but conflicting schedules are always an issue and I know if I do not have a set date and time it will get bumped and I would hate for that to happen. Plus, the new people component. I am a friendly type for the most part but stupid people piss me off. I’ve no patience for stupidity or rudeness and it’s impossible to keep them out when you create a public group.

So then I considered an online club but do they work? Are they fun? I’ve been IN a few and although I loved the hosts and we talked on the side about the book, the conversation piece of the group (between all of the members) was challenging. To really get in on the conversation you have to turn notifications on and when you get dozens of emails dumped into your inbox you suddenly get resentful. The online clubs I am referring to were setup in Goodreads. If you use another venue that works better, let me know.

I think that is why I enjoy blogging so much. I love to talk about books with all of you and although there are many of you that I haven’t met in person, I’ve gotten to know you pretty well. These days, interactions span several days (if not weeks) and flit across social media platforms such at Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. There is not a day that goes by where I am not connecting with readers in some way and I love it! No time constraints either. I can wake at 4am and know that someone is out there talking about books. It’s like a dream to me.

So my question for you is this:

Do you think traditional (face to face) book clubs are as popular as they were three years ago? Why, or why not?

How has your weekend been? It’s been really hot here. Well over 110 degrees which is WAY too hot for this gal. I get crabby. I can’t believe The Boy can run in this weather but the cross country team does not stop for anything. I’d pass out for sure!

Speaking of passing out, wish me luck because I return to my workouts tomorrow. I took a break because of the hand injury and the devil drugs the doc gave me but I stopped taking them and feel more like myself. The hand is still not right but without the drugs, I feel like I’m human again.

My kids start school this Thursday. I am so not ready for the whole homework routine. It’s their homework, but you get looped into it. Helping or nagging them to do it. One way or the other, you end up losing you mind and becoming a crazy person. I am crossing my fingers that The Girl gets the teacher she wants because the drama that will follow if she doesn’t, will not be pretty. The Boy is starting high school and his schedule looks good. Hopefully, his teachers will be good too.

Today I had to run a few errands but I am back at home and about to finish a book for a book tour. I have to tell you, I went into this book hoping for the best and it was pretty darn good. I love it when a book surprises you in a good way. I will take some time later tonight to figure out my next read. I have some books on my Kindle that need some attention.

Later, I am going to whip up a batch of queso dip and munch on tortilla chips while I prepare tacos. I have a fierce taco craving that must be satisfied. Crispy shells, seasoned meat, cheese and fresh vegetables! Oh, and the closing ceremonies are tonight too so we’ll be gathering around the TV for that.

Have a fantastic rest of the day!

Chatting with friends about books and life…