Oregon ReadsBook Group Reading Tips
Oregon Reads 2009
It is up to all members of the book group to contribute to the quality of the discussion. Reading a book for discussion should be slightly different than reading for pleasure. Perhaps you will even read the book twice. A careful reading can help. Below, you will find tips for becoming a careful reader and an active member of your group.
- Keep a notepad, book journal, or several sheets of paper with your book, or use paper post-its to mark noted areas.
- Note page numbers of scenes and passages that you will want to discuss.
- Ask questions as you read-what are the themes of the book, what does the title mean, what is the author trying to say, what is the author's vision?
- Get to know the characters in the book. Who are they? What would it be like to meet them?
- What is the structure of the book? Does the author use flashbacks? How many narrators are there? What is the point of view?
- Compare the book to others you have read. Have you read a similar book, or one with complementary themes?
For more details and tips, see these helpful websites: