Why so many friends are on the same page as book groups surge in popularity

BOOK groups are seen as the preserve of studious middle-class housewives but that could be about to change after reading clubs were given the Hollywood treatment.

In Book Club, the new film starring Jane Fonda and Diane Keaton, the group’s lives are turned upside down after they read EL James’ erotic romance novel 50 Shades Of Grey.

While not every group will experience such life-changing events, many believe the reading world is set to change, with the likes of men-only book clubs seen as an alternative to meeting up with friends for a pint.

That could be good news for everyone, too, as recent research into longevity has found being in a group can help you live longer.

Marc Lambert, chief executive of Scottish Book Trust, a charity that aims to encourage reading, said: “People often think reading is a solitary pastime but actually a large part of the enjoyment of being a reader is the conversations about the books. Reading has many well documented benefits, from improved feelings of wellbeing and empathy, to lowered stress and better mental health.

“It can also inspire conversations about coping with many of life’s problems, and book groups offer a way to discuss different opinions and give an insight into other lives and other points of view.”

Psychologist, author and broadcaster Linda Blair, who has written self-help books, including Key To Calm, said: “People are reaching out for friendships, as many 30- to 50-somethings are lonely, so it’s no surprise it’s this age group who are joining book groups.

“The longevity studies are finding that it’s good to be part of groups that you are close enough to someone that you can smell them.

“It’s also a wonderful way to make friends. You all have something to focus on and talk about – the book. It’s a safe way to get to know people and then friendships can begin. It’s also about the effort you have to put in. There is reward in finishing a book. Plus, I think books invoke the memories of our childhood, most people were read to as a child and so there’s a feeling of comfort from books.

“While it’s mostly women who form book groups, men are just as sociable but tend to do things like sport or meet for a pint. I’d like to see some men-only book groups.”

Perthshire book club member Helen Goodacre, from Scone couldn’t agree more and has the last word when it comes to the importance of a book group.

Mum of three Helen, 50, said: “Someone said reading a book is like taking a holiday. So for me, it’s like taking a holiday with the people you love.”

It’s about love, friendship and food, not just reading

IT’S always the same when I’m hosting the book group.

The candles are lit, the fragrance burners are wafting geranium over the house and the children are in bed early – while the wine chills in the fridge. It’s cosy, warm and welcoming.

Our nights start at 8pm so we can say goodbye to the mummy part of our day and relax with friends.

Because being in a book club is not about the books. It’s about fun, friendship and laughs all washed down with a couple of glasses of wine – even on a school night. The books are important – but they always take a back seat.

While reading the same novel over a couple of months may be the reason eight women have been meeting every month for almost a decade, it’s not why we want to get together. It’s so much more than that.

It’s about bonding, support and love – a therapy session wrapped up in a blanket of literary comfort. We’ve seen each other through bereavements, divorces, illnesses as well as celebrated new jobs, house extensions, while welcoming babies and championing each other’s achievements.

We’re there for each other through the different chapters of our lives.

We’re a bunch of women from all over – Glasgow, Dublin, Dundee, London, Wales, Denmark and Perth – and we just happen to have found each other in a book group in Scone, Perthshire.

When you’re hosting, you choose half a dozen books that you fancy – and they are passed round the group. Then, after supper, we vote and choose what book to read.

We do all have a healthy interest in books. We have the core of serious readers – the library dwellers who devour a couple of books every week (though I’m not one of them).

Avid reader Caroline Glinka, who is one of our longest-serving members, says the group is all about happiness and laughter. “Our group laugh a lot,” she says. “We enjoy each other’s company. We get together to catch up, support and have a laugh. And then we can talk about the book we’ve all been reading,” she says.

Fellow member Louise Neuwirth revels in the friendship among us all. “We’ve all become really good friends over the years,” she says.

Inge Morrill, one of the original members says that for her it’s about sharing experiences and being there for each other. “We laugh all the time too,” she adds.

It’s no surprise that being part of social groups top the list for aiding longevity … even if we are chatting into the early hours on book group night, I always wake up the next day with a spring in my step.