book discussion group?

[chuck]

Is there a need to develop a group of "forum members" who would choose a book collectively read and discuss it weekly?....I don't mean to put this on the Moderators....Why?....I need to push my myself and explore other interest in HF....I tried a few of these groups at my local library....but they were too opened ended for me....modern fiction, bios. mysteries, and very little HF.....So we lovers HF....What do you think? I'm not sure if it's even feasible....maybe there is a online model we can look at....I could use some motivation....maybe we could use the popular book of the month winner as a book to read....with a time limit and discussion questions etc.....

[Volgadon]

I thought that was what book of the month was for.

[Misfit]

I've never been one for groups as my book choices change with the wind and my mood. As for a model, take a look at these on goodreads.

[chuck]

[quote=""Volgadon""]I thought that was what book of the month was for.[/quote]

What would compel me to read the book of the month choice?....Other then If your part of a group with a assignment to respond to a weekly discussion question....That's all....It was just a suggestion to generate discussions on people opinions on selected readings.....just an idea....probably to regimented for a HF forum....

[Ash]

In another reading forum I'm in, we'd have monthly discussions like we do here, but sometimes a group wanted to do a discussion on a book right now. So they just set up a thread, and voila. Sometimes it got very interesting (the one for Don Quixote had three members and went on for about a year. I had read the book before but had no idea how much I missed....). I think we do the same here, more or less - we comment on reviews, then discuss them, and anyone can join in at any time. Are you asking for something different that I'm not getting?

[Misfit]

Chuck I don't see anything wrong with starting a thread on a book in the general discussion forum, and anyone can jump in that wishes to. I agree, I don't participate in the BOTM here unless it's one I've read and/or interested in reading.

[chuck]

[quote=""Ash""]In another reading forum I'm in, we'd have monthly discussions like we do here, but sometimes a group wanted to do a discussion on a book right now. So they just set up a thread, and voila. Sometimes it got very interesting (the one for Don Quixote had three members and went on for about a year. I had read the book before but had no idea how much I missed....). I think we do the same here, more or less - we comment on reviews, then discuss them, and anyone can join in at any time. Are you asking for something different that I'm not getting?[/quote]

Ash....I think your right about the spontaneous discussions on HF forum....It's more my problem....I'm looking to get out of a book rut I'm in....I guess I was seeking a more of a disciplined approach to forcing my self to stretch my reading interests.....Thanks

[Ash]

Is it a particular time period or type of book you are trying to get away from? I bet we could come up with some ideas, and then if one appeals, set up a thread for it. I tend to get stuck in a rut as well, and sometimes need a pull (or usually a kick) to get me reading something else.

I do notice that most of the threads here are about European history, esp British. Maybe someone could wake up some of the other threads with a list of HF of other countries, other time periods?

[chuck]

Yes....I think I'll do a 180 degrees and give Elmer Kelton a favorite Western writer a go (comfort reads)....He does not write fast draw; shoot em ups, but regular people who just live in the Old and Modern West and are trying to do their best make a living in really tough times....Real solid characters and intelligent stories.....Margaret has a great website...listing at least 3000 books and concise reviews....I'll give her a go....I'll eventually get through these reading Blahs....Thanks again for your kind words of wisdom....Take Care...

[diamondlil]

I might start a thread about how to get through a reading slump to get you some other ideas!