Silent Book Club in Fayetteville Bringing Readers Together

It's a social introvert's dream: Yes, there is a silent book club in Fayetteville.

A Silent Book Club is a global community of readers who gather together to read independently in a shared space, such as bars, cafes, bookstores, or libraries. I had seen some mention of Silent Book Club online and was thrilled to find out we have a local chapter in Fayetteville! Unlike traditional book clubs, Silent Book Club has no assigned reading - members bring their own books of choice to read quietly together.

The concept was born in 2012 when founder Guinevere de la Mare, a new mother at the time, realized she needed to leave the house to find dedicated reading time. She and two friends formed the first Silent Book Club in San Francisco, meeting in bistros and wine bars. As the idea spread, chapters began popping up in other cities, each with its own unique flavor based on the local community and hosts.

Silent Book Club meetings typically follow a simple format:

1. *Socializing*: Members gather and chat about what they're reading and their favorite books.

2. *Silent Reading*: Everyone settles in to read independently for about an hour.

3. *Wrapping Up*: At the end, members may reconvene to socialize more or take a group photo of the books read that night.

This is the perfect level of interaction for many people, and I had to check it out. I reached out the local chapter of the Silent Book Club to ask some questions. If you are near Fayetteville, NC our local chapter (see what I did there?) is headed up by Keegan Weymiller and Chelsea Gray. I met up with these lovely ladies at a local coffee shop, Blanc Coffee Roasters, on the morning on a Silent Book Club event.

Keegan and Chelsea met after Keegan introduced it the area in January 2024 and Chelsea jumped on board to help spread the word and co-chair. "One of my good friends in Seattle is part of the Seattle Chapter and they blew up. I was looking for a way in Fayetteville to build community, meet new people, and make new friends. It's like book club for cat people. We all bring our own books, there's no assigned reading, we just bring a book we want to read, together. There's this feeling of community. The beauty is you can be as social or as non-social you want, whatever you are comfortable with. The thing that was really cool to me too, was that you get to make new friends, be in community with each other, read and bond over that." explained Keegan

I absolutely loved my time at Silent Book Club! After grabbing a matcha and saying "Hi" to a few other readers. I settled down for an undisturbed hour reading, something that I can't really get any other time. At the one-hour mark, Keegan very quietly went around to each of us to let us know that the time was up, and the socializing was to begin. It was easy to see people bonding over their books and the general relaxed vibe of the club. I will certainly be back! In addition to the normal Silent Book Club meets, the group also hosts special event books swaps, where readers can trade books and give recommendations. The Silent Book Club meets at different local businesses, in an effort to also support the local community. More info here.

Ladies and gentlemen, brace yourselves for the wild ride that is the 2024 election season! As the political circus unfolds, it's essential to prioritize your sanity and well-being.

The 2024 presidential race has taken several surprising turns in recent months:

The next four months are sure to bring more unexpected developments in this already wild and unprecedented presidential election. But fear not, for I have compiled the ultimate self-care guide to help you navigate these turbulent times with a smile on your face and a spring in your step, (hopefully).

Designate a room in your home as a political-free sanctuary. This is where you can escape the endless debates, mud-slinging, and poll-obsessed pundits. Fill this space with calming elements like scented candles, soothing music, and a life-size cardboard cutout of your favorite non-political celebrity. Remember, in this room, the only party allowed is the one that involves dancing and laughter.

Master the art of selective hearing when it comes to political discussions. When someone starts ranting about their preferred candidate, simply nod and smile while mentally transporting yourself to a tropical beach. If all else fails, perfect the phrase, "Oh, look at the time! I have to go water my pet rock."

When the stress of the election season becomes too much to bear, indulge in some good old-fashioned retail therapy. Treat yourself to that fancy kitchen gadget you've been eyeing or splurge on a cozy blanket to hide under until the inauguration. Just remember, money can't buy happiness, but it can buy a lifetime supply of ice cream to drown your political sorrows.

Laughter is the best medicine, especially during an election year. Seek out political satire, comedy shows, and memes that poke fun at the absurdity of it all. Host a "political roast" party with friends, where you take turns impersonating candidates and their ridiculous campaign promises. Just be sure to keep it light-hearted and remember that laughter unites us all, regardless of political affiliations.

When the 24/7 news cycle becomes too overwhelming, it's time to unplug and recharge. Take a break from social media, turn off the TV, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Go for a walk in nature, read a book (preferably not a political memoir), or take up a new hobby like underwater basket weaving. Disconnecting from the political noise will help you maintain your sanity and perspective.

Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to manage election-related stress. Take deep breaths and repeat calming mantras like, "This too shall pass," or "I am not defined by my political views." When tensions run high, visualize yourself in a peaceful place, like a serene meadow filled with frolicking puppies and kittens wearing tiny "I Voted" stickers.