How to Start a Book Club in Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, is a vibrant, growing metropolis known for its desert landscapes, cultural diversity, and thriving community life. With over 1.7 million residents and a dynamic mix of professionals, retirees, students, and creatives, the city offers a rich environment for intellectual engagement and social connection. One of the most rewarding ways to tap into this energy is by starting a book club. Whether you’re drawn to literary fiction, speculative thrillers, memoirs, or nonfiction on urban development, a book club provides structure, accountability, and meaningful dialogue among like-minded individuals.

Starting a book club in Phoenix isn’t just about reading books—it’s about building community, deepening critical thinking, and discovering new perspectives through shared storytelling. In a city where outdoor activities often dominate social calendars, a book club offers a quiet yet powerful alternative: a space for reflection, conversation, and emotional connection. This guide will walk you through every step of launching and sustaining a successful book club in Phoenix, from choosing your first title to finding the perfect meeting spot under the Sonoran sun.

Step-by-Step Guide

Define Your Book Club’s Purpose and Niche

Before you send out your first invitation, ask yourself: Why are you starting this book club? The answer will shape everything that follows. Are you looking to explore classic literature? Discover diverse voices from underrepresented communities? Dive into science fiction and fantasy? Or simply meet new people who enjoy quiet evenings with a good book?

Defining a niche helps attract the right members and prevents the group from becoming too diffuse. For example, a “Phoenix Women in Literature” club might focus exclusively on books by female authors from the Southwest. A “Sci-Fi & Philosophy” group could pair dystopian novels with essays on ethics and technology. Even a “Newly Retired Readers” club can thrive by selecting accessible, thought-provoking titles that spark discussion without overwhelming complexity.

Write a short mission statement—just one or two sentences—to guide your decisions. Examples:

• “To foster deep conversations about contemporary fiction by Arizona-based authors.”
• “To read and discuss global nonfiction that expands our understanding of culture and climate.”

This clarity will help you communicate your vision to potential members and stay focused as your group grows.

Choose a Meeting Format

Decide how often and where your club will meet. Most successful book clubs gather monthly, allowing members enough time to finish the book without losing momentum. Weekly meetings can feel rushed; quarterly meetings risk losing engagement.

Consider Phoenix’s climate when selecting a venue. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, making outdoor gatherings uncomfortable from May through September. Indoor spaces are ideal during those months. Popular options include:

• Local libraries: The Phoenix Public Library system has meeting rooms available for free reservation. The Burton Barr Central Library and neighborhood branches like Maryvale or Glendale are excellent choices.
• Coffee shops: Chains like St. Francis Coffee or independent spots like The Grind or Barrio Coffee offer quiet corners and consistent Wi-Fi. Many welcome book clubs with no minimum spend if you’re a regular.
• Community centers: Places like the Encanto or Alhambra Recreation Centers often have rooms available for nonprofit or community groups.
• Private homes: Rotating host homes can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. This works well for smaller groups (5–8 people).

Hybrid options are increasingly popular. Consider using Zoom or Google Meet for members who live farther out (e.g., Cave Creek, Scottsdale, or Mesa) or have mobility constraints. Record sessions for those who miss meetings, and always share notes or discussion prompts afterward.

Recruit Your First Members

Start small. Five to ten members is ideal for meaningful discussion without becoming unwieldy. Begin with people you already know—friends, coworkers, neighbors, or fellow library patrons. Then expand through targeted outreach.

Use these channels to find members:

• Facebook Groups: Search for “Phoenix Book Lovers,” “Arizona Readers,” or “Phoenix Literary Circle.” Post a clear, friendly message: “Looking to start a monthly book club focused on contemporary Southern literature. If you’re in Phoenix and love thoughtful discussion, message me!”
• Meetup.com: Create a free group titled “Phoenix [Genre] Book Club.” Include your mission, meeting frequency, and sample titles. Many locals actively search here for social groups.
• Library Bulletin Boards: Visit your local branch and ask if you can post a flyer. Libraries often have community boards and may even promote your club in their newsletter.
• Word of Mouth: Tell your bookish friends. Someone in their circle may be looking for exactly what you’re offering.

When recruiting, be specific about expectations. Will members be expected to speak each meeting? Is attendance mandatory? Will there be a rotating host? Clarity reduces confusion and sets the tone for respect and commitment.

Select Your First Book

Your first book should be accessible, engaging, and conversation-rich. Avoid overly dense academic texts or extremely long novels unless your group specifically wants that challenge. Instead, choose something with strong characters, clear themes, and room for interpretation.

Consider these Phoenix-friendly selections for your inaugural meeting:

• “The Leavers” by Lisa Ko – A poignant novel about immigration, identity, and family, set partly in Arizona.
• “The Desert Cries” by Kali Fajardo-Anstine – Short stories rooted in the Southwest, blending Indigenous and Chicana experiences.
• “Educated” by Tara Westover – A powerful memoir about self-education and resilience, sparking wide-ranging discussion.
• “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern – A lyrical fantasy perfect for sparking imagination and wonder.

Let your group vote on the first book. This builds ownership and excitement from day one. Use a simple poll via Google Forms or a group chat to gather preferences.

Plan Your First Meeting

Structure matters. A well-planned meeting keeps conversation flowing and prevents awkward silences. Here’s a sample agenda for your first gathering:

1. 15 minutes: Welcome & Introductions – Each member shares their name, why they joined, and one book they loved.
2. 20 minutes: Opening Prompt – Pose a broad question: “What surprised you most about the main character’s choices?”
3. 30 minutes: Guided Discussion – Use 3–5 prepared questions (see Best Practices section for examples).
4. 15 minutes: Next Book Selection – Present 3 options and vote.
5. 10 minutes: Wrap-up & Logistics – Confirm next meeting date, location, and any assignments (e.g., bringing snacks, leading next discussion).

Bring printed discussion prompts and have a notebook ready to capture key insights. Assign someone to take notes—this becomes your club’s archive and helps absent members catch up.

Establish Simple Rules

Even the friendliest groups benefit from gentle boundaries. Create a short set of norms, perhaps posted in your group chat or printed on a card:

• Respect differing opinions—no personal attacks.
• Everyone gets a chance to speak; avoid dominating the conversation.
• Be honest but kind in your critiques.
• If you can’t finish the book, you’re still welcome—just let the group know.
• Meetings start on time. Please be punctual.

These rules aren’t meant to be rigid—they’re meant to create safety. When people feel heard and respected, they return.

Best Practices

Rotate Discussion Leadership

Don’t let one person carry the entire conversation. Rotate who leads each meeting. The leader’s job isn’t to lecture—it’s to prepare 4–5 thoughtful questions, keep time, and gently invite quieter members into the dialogue.

Provide a simple template for leaders:

• One question about plot or character
• One question about theme or symbolism
• One question connecting the book to real life or current events
• One open-ended “what if?” question
• One fun question: “Which character would you invite to dinner?”

This structure keeps discussions balanced and prevents them from becoming informal gossip sessions.

Encourage Diverse Book Selections

Phoenix is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the Southwest. Use your book club as a platform to explore voices beyond the mainstream. Include authors from Indigenous, Latinx, African American, Asian American, and Middle Eastern backgrounds. Consider rotating themes: “Books by Native American Authors,” “Climate Fiction from the Arid West,” or “Memoirs of Immigrant Experiences.”

Don’t shy away from challenging material. Books that make you uncomfortable often lead to the most meaningful conversations. Just be sure to create a space where discomfort can be processed respectfully.

Connect Books to Phoenix’s Culture and Landscape

Phoenix has a unique identity shaped by desert ecology, border politics, urban sprawl, and Indigenous heritage. When discussing a book, ask: How does this story reflect or challenge our local context?

For example:

• After reading “The Book of Unknown Americans” by Cristina Henríquez, discuss the immigrant experience in Arizona’s growing Latino communities.
• After reading “Desert Solitaire” by Edward Abbey, talk about conservation efforts in the Sonoran Desert and the tension between development and preservation.
• After reading “The Land of Little Rain” by Mary Austin, explore how early 20th-century writers portrayed the Southwest—and how those portrayals persist today.

These connections deepen engagement and make your club uniquely Phoenix-centric.

Build a Culture of Inclusivity

Book clubs thrive when everyone feels welcome. Be mindful of accessibility:

• Offer audiobook or large-print versions if someone has visual or learning challenges.
• Provide summaries or discussion guides for members who struggle with reading speed.
• Be sensitive to financial constraints—suggest library copies or used book sales.
• Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions about members’ backgrounds, family structures, or beliefs.

Consider having a “no judgment” policy for books chosen. Someone might pick a romance novel or a young adult title. That’s okay. The goal is conversation, not literary snobbery.

Keep a Club Journal

Start a shared Google Doc or physical notebook titled “Phoenix Book Club: Meeting Notes.” Include:

• Book title and author
• Date and location of meeting
• Attendees
• Key discussion points
• Quotes that stood out
• Next book and vote tally

This becomes a cherished archive of your group’s journey. Future members will appreciate it. And if your club grows or splits into subgroups, this record will be invaluable.

Celebrate Milestones

Anniversaries matter. After 6 months, celebrate with a potluck themed to a book you read. After a year, host a “Book Club Awards Night”—give out playful honors like “Most Surprising Plot Twist,” “Best Character Arc,” or “Most Likely to Be Made Into a Netflix Series.”

Small celebrations reinforce belonging. They turn a routine gathering into a ritual.

Tools and Resources

Free Online Tools

• Goodreads: Create a private group for your club. Members can rate books, write reviews, and see what others are reading. Use the “Book Club” feature to set reading schedules and track progress.
• Google Calendar: Schedule recurring meetings with automatic reminders. Share the calendar link with all members.
• Google Docs: Use for your club journal, discussion prompts, and book lists. Easy to access from any device.
• Zoom or Google Meet: Essential for hybrid or remote members. Record sessions for later viewing.
• Canva: Design simple, beautiful flyers for library boards or social media. Use free templates for “Book Club Meeting” graphics.

Phoenix-Specific Resources

• Phoenix Public Library System: Offers free meeting rooms, book club kits (with 10+ copies of a title), and librarian-led discussion guides. Visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org to request materials.
• Arizona Humanities: Provides grants and resources for community reading programs. They sometimes partner with local clubs for author visits or funding.
• Bookmans Entertainment Exchange: Multiple locations across Phoenix. Great for finding used books at low prices. Many branches host monthly book swap events.
• Phoenix Book Festival: Held annually in October. Attend panels, meet local authors, and network with other readers. Bring your club members!
• Local Independent Bookstores: Books & Books in Scottsdale, Changing Hands Bookstore in Tempe and Phoenix, and The Bookshelf in Glendale often host book club events and offer discounts to groups.

Recommended Book Club Kits

The Phoenix Public Library offers pre-packaged book club kits with 10 copies of a title, discussion questions, and author bios. Popular selections include:

• “Circe” by Madeline Miller – Mythology meets feminism.
• “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett – Race, identity, and family across generations.
• “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles – Elegant storytelling set in post-revolutionary Russia.
• “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer – Indigenous wisdom and ecological insight.

Request these kits at least 4–6 weeks in advance. They’re in high demand.

Podcasts and Blogs for Inspiration

Listen to these for discussion ideas:

• “Book Club Babble” – Lighthearted, insightful conversations about popular reads.
• “The New York Times Book Review Podcast” – Interviews with authors and critics.
• “Reading Women” – Focuses on female authors and feminist literature.
• “The Book Club Girl” Blog – Tips on managing group dynamics and selecting books.

These resources can spark new directions for your club and help you stay connected to the broader reading community.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Sonoran Storytellers

Founded in 2020 by two retired teachers in the Arcadia neighborhood, The Sonoran Storytellers meet monthly at the Arcadia Library. Their focus: books set in the American Southwest, especially those written by Indigenous and Latinx authors.

They began with 6 members. Now they have 18, with a waiting list. Their secret? Consistency and cultural depth. They’ve read “House Made of Dawn” by N. Scott Momaday, “The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina” by Zoraida Córdova, and “The Devil’s Highway” by Luis Alberto Urrea. Each meeting ends with a short “local connection” segment—e.g., a 5-minute video about a nearby Hopi pottery tradition after reading a book about Native life.

They also host an annual “Author Night,” inviting local writers to speak. In 2023, they welcomed Phoenix-based poet and educator Sandra Cisneros for a Q&A.

Example 2: Desert Reads: Sci-Fi & Philosophy

This group formed after a chance encounter at a Barnes & Noble coffee bar. Five members bonded over a discussion of “Dune” and decided to meet monthly to explore sci-fi with philosophical underpinnings.

They’ve read “The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula K. Le Guin, “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel, and “The Three-Body Problem” by Liu Cixin. Each meeting begins with a 10-minute “thought experiment” discussion: “If you could live in any fictional world from this book, which would you choose—and why?”

They meet in a quiet corner of Barrio Coffee in downtown Phoenix. No snacks, no distractions—just deep conversation. They’ve attracted graduate students, engineers, and retired professors. Their group has become a haven for intellectual rigor and imaginative play.

Example 3: The Phoenix Newcomers Book Circle

Created by a woman who moved to Phoenix from Chicago, this club specifically welcomes people new to the area. They meet on the first Saturday of each month at a rotating coffee shop.

Books are chosen for accessibility: short novels, memoirs, and essays. Past selections include “Educated,” “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig, and “When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi.

Members share personal stories alongside literary analysis. One woman, newly divorced, spoke about how “Educated” mirrored her own journey of self-reinvention. The group responded with empathy, not advice. That’s the power of this circle: it’s not just about books—it’s about belonging.

Example 4: The Bookish Bikers

Yes, they ride motorcycles. And yes, they read. This unlikely group formed when a member of the Phoenix Harley Owners Group posted a flyer: “Book club for bikers who want more than just gas station novels.”

They’ve read “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy, and “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed. Meetings are held in the parking lot of a Mesa motorcycle shop during cooler months. They bring snacks, coffee, and sometimes their bikes to lean against while they talk.

They’ve become a symbol of how book clubs can break stereotypes. You don’t have to be a librarian to love literature.

FAQs

Do I need to be an expert on literature to start a book club?

No. Book clubs thrive on curiosity, not credentials. You don’t need to have read every classic or know literary theory. What matters is your willingness to listen, ask questions, and engage with others’ perspectives.

How do I handle members who haven’t read the book?

Be kind but clear. Say something like: “We’re glad you’re here. If you didn’t finish the book, that’s okay—we still want to hear your thoughts. Maybe you can tell us what you liked or didn’t like about the cover, the title, or the summary.” Many people who haven’t finished still have valuable insights. Avoid shaming; focus on inclusion.

What if no one wants to lead the next meeting?

Try a “sign-up sheet” with three options: “I’ll lead,” “I’ll help prep questions,” or “I’ll bring snacks.” Sometimes people just need a nudge. If no one volunteers, take the lead yourself for one more meeting. Rotate again next time.

Can I start a book club with kids or teens?

Absolutely. Many Phoenix libraries host teen and family book clubs. Consider a “Parent & Teen Reads Together” group. Choose books like “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas or “The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo. These spark intergenerational dialogue.

How do I keep the group from becoming too large?

Once you hit 12–15 members, consider splitting into two groups. One can focus on fiction, the other on nonfiction. Or create a “New Members” circle that meets separately for the first 3 months. Large groups can dilute discussion.

Is it okay to read nonfiction or poetry?

Definitely. Many of the most powerful book club discussions come from memoirs, essays, or poetry collections. Poetry, in particular, invites slow, reflective reading. Try “Citizen” by Claudia Rankine or “The Sun and Her Flowers” by Rupi Kaur.

What if someone is too critical or negative?

Address it privately. Say: “I appreciate your passion for this book. To keep our group welcoming, could we try focusing on what resonated for you, even if you didn’t love it?” If behavior continues, gently remind the group of your shared norms. Most people respond well to kindness and clarity.

Can I charge dues or ask for money?

It’s not required, but if you want to cover costs (e.g., buying books, printing materials, hosting a special event), you can ask for voluntary contributions. Be transparent: “We’re collecting $5 per person this quarter to buy a copy of next month’s book for the library.” Never make it mandatory.

How do I find books by local Phoenix authors?

Visit Changing Hands Bookstore or the Arizona Authors Association website. Look for titles like “The Salt Eaters” by Toni Cade Bambara (who lived in Phoenix), “The Book of Phoenix” by Nnedi Okorafor, or “Arizona: A History” by Thomas E. Sheridan. Local libraries also curate “Arizona Authors” displays.

Conclusion

Starting a book club in Phoenix is more than a literary endeavor—it’s an act of community building in a city that’s rapidly expanding and often disconnected. In a landscape defined by highways, desert heat, and sprawling suburbs, a book club becomes a sanctuary: a place where ideas are exchanged, silence is respected, and voices are heard.

Whether you gather in the cool interior of a public library, the aromatic haze of a local café, or the quiet living room of a neighbor’s home, your book club will become a living archive of shared humanity. The books you choose will reflect your values. The conversations you have will shape your understanding of the world—and each other.

Don’t wait for perfection. Start with one friend, one book, one meeting. Let the rhythm of your group emerge naturally. Be consistent. Be kind. Be curious.

Phoenix may be a city of sun and sand, but it is also a city of stories. Your book club is your invitation to read them—and to write your own.