[Publib] Book Discussion Kits

[Kathleen Horan]

Jennifer,
 
I've been leading book discussions for many years.  My "kits" are nothing more than the book with a page of discussion-boosting questions inserted at pickup and a read-alike handout.  My former Long island library system had a multiple copies collection.  Here, in McAllen, TX, I'll be leading the very first book discussion for the library system, as part of our 75th Anniversary commemoration.  I've ordered Of Mice And Men in both English and Spanish to give away, and asked Penguin for posters of that edition's front cover -- the English version.  I am writing up a list of questions to include with each book.  
 
I have found most prefab discussion questions to be uneven, pedestrian, and/or clunky.  I think you have to be comfortable with whatever you're handing out or asking so you don't appear (or feel) fake.  Likewise, your questions must be tailored to the community you serve.  
 
Personally, I like the background research about the author and the author's work.  It enriches my own understanding, and I don't get locked into a strictly Harold Bloomsian interpretation.  I read the standard Gale stuff, as well as reviews and lit crit from different sources.  I've seen the Box idea at conference and think it's a good idea, just a bit too prepackaged -- and expensive -- for me, and it deprives me of the thrill of the hunt.
 
  -- Kate
 
Currently reading:  
Away by Amy Bloom
Open Heart, Clear Mind by Thubten Chodron
 
Currently listening to:
When We Were Orphans by Kazuo Ishiguro
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
 
Kathleen P. Horan, M.L.S.
Branch Manager
Palm View Branch Library
McAllen, TX
956-688-3322

________________________________

From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org on behalf of Ralston, Jennifer
Sent: Tue 9/11/2007 8:16 AM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] Book Discussion Kits



Hello, everyone! 

I would like to ask a question regarding circulating book discussion kits (books, discussion questions, etc.). Have any of you had experience with a company called "Book Club in a Box"? Can you recommend other sources? Do you create your own book discussion kits in-house?

We are considering beginning a collection to support our growing book discussion community,  and would like to hear about the experiences of other libraries.

Thanks in advance! 


Jennifer Ralston 
Materials Management Administrator 
Harford County Public Library 
1221-A Brass Mill Road 
Belcamp, Maryland 21017 
ralston at hcplonline.info 
410-273-5600 x2273 
fax: 410-273-5606 

"It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live, remember that". 
-Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, J.K. Rowling, 1997 

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