The Best Book Club I Ever Joined Had Three Members

Some of my favorite memories as a parent don't involve vacations, recitals, or special occasions.

They involve books.

When my children were growing up, one of the things I loved most was reading the same books they were reading. Sometimes I read aloud with them. As they got older, I read the book on my own so we could talk about it together.

What surprised me was how quickly those conversations moved beyond the pages.

A discussion about a character's difficult choice became a discussion about real-life decisions. A story set in another country became a conversation about geography, history, or culture. A fictional adventure often led to questions, laughter, and ideas that stayed with us long after the book was finished.

Books gave us something valuable: shared experiences.

As children get older, finding common ground can become more challenging. Schedules fill up. Interests change. Technology competes for attention. Yet a good story creates a world that both parent and child can step into together.

You don't have to analyze every chapter or turn it into homework. Some of the best conversations happen naturally.

"What would you have done?"

"Who was your favorite character?"

"Do you think that really happened in history?"

"What do you think happens next?"

Those simple questions can lead to remarkable discussions.

One of the reasons I love writing middle-grade fiction is because these books are often enjoyed by two audiences at once. Children may come for the adventure, mystery, and excitement. Adults often discover they enjoy the story too—and perhaps more importantly, they enjoy sharing it with the young readers in their lives.

Reading doesn't have to be a solitary activity. It can be a family activity.

Even if your child is old enough to read independently, consider picking up the same book they're reading. Read a chapter or two. Ask a question. Start a conversation.

You may discover that the best book club you'll ever join is the one that meets around your own kitchen table.

And the membership fee is simply turning the page.