Reading between the lines – Why starting a book club is a great idea
A book club might just be the perfect addition to our retirement village’s social calendar!
Reading and discussing books together offers a wonderful way to stay mentally active, build new friendships, and explore new ideas—all while enjoying a good story.
Living on the Central Coast has it perks. It allows me to visit the many retirement villages in the area and spend time with the Village Managers, and on this occasion, attend some of the activities that are on with the residents.
Recently, I was able to attend the Writers of the Wave Festival book signing at Brentwood Village.
Brentwood Village is quite a large community, with 500+ villas set on almost 60 acres of coastal hinterland. A Keyton village, I found it to be a peaceful sanctuary not to far from the picturesque beachside with Terrigal and Avoca on your doorstep.
The Words on the Waves Writers Festival
Words on the Waves Writers Festival is a celebration of words and ideas set on the scenic Central Coast, NSW, Australia. It has been running for the past two years.
The full 2024 Words on the Waves Writers Festival explores the theme past is present is future is always, with nearly 100 speakers featured in approximately 70 free and ticketed sessions, and a whole new venue and program stream, this year has been the festival’s biggest yet. Generally, held between May and June, it still have events running until the end of November.
I was fortunate enough to attend one of these events held at Brentwood Village on Friday 4 October.
The venue was perfect for a book signing with author Tea Cooper.
Téa is an Australian author of several bestselling, internationally acclaimed, twisty historical mysteries. In a past life she was a teacher, a journalist and a farmer. These days she haunts museums and indulges her passion for storytelling.
Her latest book, The Golden Thread, was the topic of conversation at this event held at Brentwood Village – with advanced copies made available to residents and their guests.
I was thrilled to be able to purchase this edition as it hasn’t even hit the book stores yet.
Keeping our minds sharp and active
A book club encourages us to explore new genres, learn about different cultures, and reflect on thought-provoking topics. Discussing the books together can help improve memory, expand vocabulary, and keep critical thinking skills strong.
One of the best parts of a book club is the sense of connection it brings. By gathering to chat about a shared read, we create a space for meaningful conversation and social interaction. It’s a chance to bond over our favourite stories, share laughter, and even exchange life experiences.
In a retirement village, where community is so important, a book club can strengthen relationships and create new friendships.
A book club adds structure to the month with a regular meeting to look forward to. It provides a sense of routine and purpose, especially for those who enjoy reading or socializing. Plus, having a set date to discuss the next book keeps us motivated to finish it—whether it’s reading a few pages each day or diving into a gripping novel over the weekend.
A book club can truly enrich our retirement village community, offering a way to keep our minds engaged and our hearts connected.
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