What we’re about
This group is for queer and/or feminist folks who like to read and talk about things and want to meet like-minded people in New Orleans! We meet up on the 2nd Wednesday of the month to talk about a designated queer/feminist book and anything else we feel like talking about! This is also meant to be a space for folks new to New Orleans (or not so new) looking to meet people!
Do I have to read the book to come to a meeting?
I ask that you make a good faith effort to read the book if you’re attending a book club meeting. If you give it a try and don’t like it enough to finish the book, please come and discuss what you didn’t like about the book. (We definitely have read some books that were not popular.). If you are reading but don't have time to finish it in time, you are welcome to join us as long as you don’t mind having the ending spoiled.
Generally in the book club meetings we actually discuss the book for at least 90 minutes. I also try to host social activities every month or so and those events don’t come with homework so look for those if you’re not a reader.
What books do we read?
We read books by authors who are not CIS men and that are not about CIS men.
I think about 70% of what the club reads might fall in the queer books category, but we also read books that fall under intersectional feminism. I try to make sure that the books have a good mix of authors of color, and trans, non-binary, and gender queer authors.
I try to alternate fiction and non-fiction. The non-fiction we read is usually a memoir or occasionally an autobiography or biography,
I usually select books under 350 pages. In December and around Mardi Gras (if we hold a meeting around Mardi Gras), I try to select shorter reads like novellas (the Monk & Robot series), a short story ("Recitatif" by Toni Morrison), or graphic novels.
I also check to make sure that a book is available for sale for a reasonable price and hopefully available at the NOPL before selecting it.
How are the books selected?
I pick the books. I look at the Lambda Literary Award winners, and book reviews. I poll the club. I take suggestions from folks. Sometimes I pick something I’ve read, loved and want to discuss. Other times I take a chance and pick something I haven’t read yet but want to.
