5 women-owned online book clubs you NEED to know about in 2021
Disclaimer: This article especially applies to you if you’re a regular commuter on the Hot Mess Express. You’ve probably sat next to me if you are.
Have you wanted to join a book club but don’t have any time between your busy schedule to commit to real-life meetings? Or perhaps if you’re like me, you fear commitment and just prefer staying in the comfort of your own home.
Picture this: sweatpants on with a big glass of wine in your right hand. Book in your left. Fuzzy socks. Greasy hair. Popcorn lodged into your cleavage that you’ll save for later.
Well, the good news is discussing books with a community of people who share your interests is possible from anywhere. Whether you’re in slacks or sweats, heels or slippers, drinking water or booze, here are 5 entirely virtual book clubs that allow you the freedom to participate on your own time, when and where it works for you.
Aaaaaall aboard! Choo-choo!
1. Belletrist
Current pick: “The Shimmering State” by Meredith Westgate
Best friends Karah Preiss and actress Emma Roberts have been sharing their love of reading for over ten years, sending each other books back and forth from opposite coasts. Exchanging recommendations and discussing books became the center of their friendship — and thus, Belletrist was born. Harnessing the unifying power of social media, Karah and Emma started an online book club of like-minded subscribers in 2017.
Now in its fifth year, they have partnered with BookClub to bring each monthly pick to life in a whole new way. Through exclusive video content and behind-the-scenes access, you can join Emma and Karah as they dive deep with the author of the monthly book pick to learn more about how each story came to life.
At only $12 a month, it’s affordable and you have my word — so worth it. I’ve been an avid follower since they first popped up on Instagram. You can start your 7-day free trial today.
2. Poppy Loves Book Club
Current pick: “Greenwood” by Michael Christie
If you’re looking for the benefits of a popular online book club but crave the intimacy of a tight-knit community, this should be a great fit for you. Run by Eva of U.K. blog Poppy Loves London, the women-only club brings together thousands of women across the globe. Some members have noted it feels like each meeting is a discussion with close friends that they have known forever, even though they’ve never met. Women empowerment and connection is heavily emphasized in Poppy Loves Book Club.
“Although I’ve always loved reading, my main drive to create an online book club was rooted firmly in my love of community, connections and a desire to provide a space for all thoughts, all opinions and all sides of the story,” founder Eva said.
It is free to join and discussions for members take place via a private Facebook group each month.
3. Reese’s Book Club
Current pick: “L.A. Weather” by Maria Escandon
Reese Witherspoon has her name in the credits of some of the most dazzling book-to-screen adaptations to date including my personal favorite, “Wild,” but it’s safe to say her love for a great story extends far beyond turning it into a hit series or film.
She founded her own book club in 2017 and since has made it the club’s agenda to choose two books with a woman at the center of the story each month: one for adults and one for young adult readers.
It is free to become a member though you must have access to an Apple smart device to download the Reese’s Book Club app through the app store. However, there is a way around this! Yes, I know, I’m a problem solver …
If you don’t have an iPhone or maybe just don’t have storage space available for another app addition on your cluttered phone, you can follow the Instagram page and communicate with some 2.2 million others about the book in the comments.
4. Between Two Books
Current pick: “If I Had Your Face” by Frances Cha (August 2021)
Between Two Books started in 2012 when a fan tweeted Florence Welch (of Florence and the Machine) with the idea that she should have her own book club. She fell in love with the idea and BTB was born.
The discussions among members take place on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook throughout the month with each platform being free to access. BTB’s Instagram account includes current reads, discussion prompts, video readings and guest recommendations from brilliant artists such as Greta Gerwig and Sally Rooney.
The club is taking a brief hiatus this month but will be back October 1st with a new pick. Stay tuned. Florence never disappoints.
5. Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club
Current pick: “If We Were Villains” by M.L. Rio
Modern Mrs Darcy, which derives its name from a Jane Austen book, is a blog created by Kentucky author Anne Bogel.
After frequently blogging about books over the years and beginning a podcast in which she discusses current reads and classic literature, she decided to add a book club to her mix in 2016, offering exclusive interviews with writers, group forums and even classes that cover a wide range of topics including how to write better book reviews and journaling techniques.
It is $15 a month to be a member or you can opt out of monthly payments to instead pay $150 annually to have access to the club.
You’ve arrived at your destination!
Each of these book clubs fearlessly celebrate the messiness and beauty that is womanhood in their own unique ways. They cater to the hot-mess-book-nerds like me and like you (I can assume you’re on board if you’re still reading this) who need to be challenged. Stimulated.
Each club thoughtfully picks a book each month that hurls you out of your comfort zone and opens your mind to fascinating new stories, characters and worlds beyond your wildest dreams. The communities they form provide a safe space for you to be yourself and the books they choose force us to look for ways to not only deepen our connection to the pages, but to deepen our connection with ourselves.
