General Guidelines

Are you a book lover looking for a community to share your thoughts and ideas? If so, the ANUF Book Club is the perfect place for you. Here, we gather to discuss various topics, explore genres, and connect with fellow readers. Whether you are a seasoned reader or just starting your literary journey, our club welcomes everyone.

In this post, you will know more about the ANUF Book Club and its guidelines. But, first of all...

Why Join a Book Club?

Joining a book club offers numerous benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider becoming a part of the ANUF Book Club:

• Community: Being part of a book club connects you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for reading. You can make new friends and engage in meaningful conversations. It enriches your life journey.

  
  

• Diverse Perspectives: Discussing books with others allows you to see different viewpoints. You may discover insights you hadn’t considered before. Come with listening ears and a light heart!

  
  

• Motivation to Read: A book club encourages you to read regularly. With a set schedule, you will find yourself picking up books you might not have chosen on your own.

  
  

• Exploration of Genres: Our club explores a variety of genres. This is a great opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. It is for your holistic personal growth.

  
  

• Improved Discussion Skills: Engaging in discussions helps you articulate your thoughts better. You will learn to express your opinions and listen to others more effectively.

  
  

Joining the ANUF Book Club is not just about reading; it’s about building connections and expanding your horizons.

Who Can Join the Book Club?

The ANUF Book Club welcomes everyone—people of all backgrounds, ages, genders, nationalities, and languages—who are willing to embark on a journey of growth together as a community.

What to Expect at ANUF Book Club Meetings

When you attend an ANUF Book Club meeting, you can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Here’s what typically happens during our gatherings:

1. Icebreaker: Our facilitator will help participants introduce themselves and give some sort of opening remarks.

   
   

2. Discussion Time: Feel free to share your ideas and thoughts: (1) a synopsis or key concepts of the book; (2) personal insights or significance; and (3) how you would apply them in your own life circumstances. This is where the magic happens.

   
   

3. Fee: Pay for your own coffee or tea at a coffee shop where our gathering takes place. Normally, our meeting will be held at a coffee shop function room.

   
   

4. Does Everyone Have to Share or Speak? If you are new to our book club, haven't read the book yet, or feel uncomfortable speaking in a group, no worries! Just sit back and relax, listening to others. It's fun and meaningful, too.

   
   

5. Speaking English Only? For everyone’s convenience, we prefer to use English. If someone needs to speak in Korean, the facilitators will interpret for the group. For other languages, we can have some fun using Google Translate! Just a reminder—ANUF stands for “All Nations United Fellowship.”

   
   

6. Socializing: After the discussion time, we have time to socialize. This is a great opportunity to get to know fellow members better.

   
   

Our meetings are designed to be engaging and enjoyable. You will leave feeling inspired and eager for the next gathering.

How to Get the Books

The books of the month are posted on our website. Plan your reading schedule in advance and try to finish reading before our monthly gathering.

• Purchase the Book: They are available at bookstores, Amazon, or other online sellers. Borrowing from a library is also a great option.

  
  

• What If I Can't? Kindly send me a KakaoTalk message (ID: Ajina1970).

  
  

• Can I Read the Book in a Different Language? If you can find a different version, feel free to use it. For example, you can read Han Byung-Chul's The Burnout Society using the original German version.

Tips for Engaging in Discussions

To make the most of your experience in the ANUF Book Club, here are some tips for engaging in discussions:

• Read the Book: This may seem obvious, but reading the book is essential. It allows you to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

  
  

• Take Notes: Jot down your thoughts and favorite quotes as you read. This will help you remember key points for discussion.

  
  

• Be Open-Minded: Everyone has different perspectives. Be open to hearing others’ opinions, even if they differ from yours. Embrace this opportunity to explore and broaden your perspective. It's a journey together!

  
  

• Ask Questions: If you are unsure about something, ask questions. This can lead to deeper discussions and insights.

  
  

• Share Personal Connections: Relate the book to your own experiences. This adds a personal touch to the conversation.

By following these tips, you will enhance your experience and contribute to a richer discussion.

How to Read Effectively and Meaningfully

Reading requires skills in this busy world. I suggest some tips for effective and productive reading.

• Prepare for the Book: Read some book reviews or summaries on the Internet before you dive into the book of the month in order to first understand the gist of the book, its background, and contributions. Instead of getting overwhelmed in the details, you'll be better equipped to read the book with a better understanding and speed.

  
  

  Some authors talk about their books at TED Talks or YouTubes. Check them out! It's a great help.

  
  

• Read the Book Reflectively: While reading the book, feel free to pause to reflect or jot down your thoughts and favorite quotes as you read. This will help you remember key points for discussion.

  
  

• Keep a Journal/Report: It will be way more meaningful for you to keep a journal after reading. This will greatly improve your reading and writing skills. Its format is as follows:

  
  

  1. Synopsis or key concepts (100-200 word count)

  2. Three most meaningful ideas you've encountered or concepts that have shaped your thinking

  3. Three personal applications: how you would put them into practice

• Share with Others/Listen: Sharing is an act of nourishment—not just for others, but also for your own growth and connection as well.

  
  

• Apply/Shape Who You Are: Walk the talk! Let the reading make a difference in you. Our community will be there to support you and cheer you on!

  
  

• "Why so serious!" - Joker. Don’t get bogged down by the details, jargon, or English (for non-native speakers) in the book—focus on finishing the book and grasp the key concepts and personal impacts! You might need to skim through or even skip a few chapters of the book.

Listening to Books Instead of Reading?

Listening to audiobooks is another legit, albeit not ideal, form of "reading" today and can be an alternative for some reasons.

Convenience: It allows for listening on the go, during commutes, chores, or workouts, making them a convenient option for busy individuals.

Listening Skills: It can enhance a critical English skill—listening.

Join Us Today!

If you are ready to embark on an intellectual adventure, we invite you to join the ANUF Book Club. Whether you are looking to make new friends, explore different ideas, strive to grow personally, or simply enjoy great discussions, our club has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community of readers.

As we wrap up this post, remember "No pain, no gain!" We look forward to welcoming you to the ANUF Book Club, where every page turned is a new adventure waiting to be shared. Happy reading!