At the heart of the Bay Harbor Yacht Club community lies a gem that many members hold dear: the BHYC Book Club. This lively and engaging group brings together book lovers to explore captivating stories, share perspectives, and foster connections. We sat down with the current book club leader to learn more about the club’s history, her love for books, and what makes this group such a unique part of the club’s fabric.
A Brief History and a Passion for Continuity
The BHYC Book Club predates the current leader’s involvement at the club. Though the exact founding date remains a mystery (a query for the former leader who has since moved away), the club has thrived through the years.
“When the past leader left Bay Harbor, I stepped up to ensure it continued,” she shared. “I didn’t want to see something so special to our members disappear.”
The Joy of Connecting Through Books
For the leader, the most rewarding aspect of the book club is the variety of perspectives it offers.
“You get different perspectives about the books we read. There could be plot nuances you totally missed or interpreted differently. Everyone brings their own experiences and backgrounds into the books we read,” she explained.
This exchange of ideas enriches every meeting, leaving members with a deeper understanding of the stories and, often, a newfound appreciation for diverse viewpoints.
A Favorite Author and Must-Read Recommendation
When asked about a favorite author or book, one name came to mind immediately: Rosamunde Pilcher.
“We’ve read several of her books, and I personally reread one of her novels each year. Her stories are set in Great Britain, with such fascinating characters. They’re perfect for cozy winter reading by the fire,” she said.
If you haven’t yet delved into Pilcher’s works, the book club leader highly recommends adding her to your reading list.
What Makes the Book Club Special
The BHYC Book Club is more than just a reading group; it’s a community within a community.
“It brings people together over a common love—reading,” she explained. “We read books that we might not choose on our own and end up loving or, occasionally, disliking. But even those books spark interesting discussions. It encourages members to step outside their comfort zones.”
What to Expect at a Meeting
Each book club meeting is thoughtfully structured yet relaxed. Here’s what a typical meeting looks like:
- Discussion of the Monthly Book: A volunteer leads the discussion, researching the author and providing a brief background. They also outline the book’s main points and pose questions to the group.
- Interactive Conversations: Members discuss their enjoyment of the book, favorite characters, and key takeaways. Many books include discussion questions tailored for book clubs, adding depth to the dialogue.
- A Welcoming Atmosphere: Whether you loved or disliked the book, every opinion is valued, making the meetings an open and inclusive space for all.
How the Club Selects Its Books
The book selection process is a collaborative effort that ensures everyone has a say.
“Members submit book suggestions, and I compile a synopsis of each title. We vote for the top 10 books to read from January to October,” the leader explained. “In November, we gather to discuss what we want to read the next year, and by the end of the month, the survey is ready. This year, we had 20 books to choose from!”
When and Where to Join
The BHYC Book Club meets on the second Thursday of every month from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Founders Room or on Zoom for those who prefer to join virtually. Drop-ins are always welcome, so feel free to join the conversation anytime!
Join the BHYC Book Club!
Whether you’re an avid reader or someone looking to explore new genres, the BHYC Book Club welcomes you to join its literary journey. It’s a wonderful way to connect with fellow members, discover great books, and immerse yourself in meaningful conversations.
Keep an eye out for next year’s book list—there’s bound to be something you’ll love!
