In this episode, the CPET book club models how to have in-depth conversations on the topic of race. As you'll hear, the group tackles this challenging topic by framing the conversation around quotes from Americanah and personal experience, which allows for broader discussion.
It’s here! The Book Club Guide for Part 7 of Americanah.
As you plan your next book club gathering, consider a meetup at one of the One Book One New York community events. Weave together a community discussion or film with your own conversation! If you haven’t already done it, download the audiobook for free from Scribd. Ways to use the audio: 1) listen to it when you don’t have the opportunity to hold the book in your hands, 2) pick a section to play at your book club opening or closing, 3) if you’ve already read the book in print, layer on a second reading through listening. Shout out to all partners on the project! Our excitement continues to grow as we see incredible ways people around the city are engaging with the book and with one another. One Book One New York NYC Media & Entertainment & Presenting Sponsors:
Book clubs can be fun! Book clubs can be tricky. Book clubs can be stimulating, and sometimes they fall flat. Whatever comes at your next book club, employ one of these closings to articulate each person’s learning and to encourage communication between members. 3 - 2 - 1 Go around the room, starting with the person with the longest sleeves, and each person shares . . . 3 Things I Learned 2 Questions I still have 1 Idea I want to explore -or- 3 of my favorite characters 2 of my favorite settings 1 of my least favorite events -or- 3 Things I appreciate about our club 2 Ways I contribute to the group 1 Book I hope we’ll read in the future Make your own 3-2-1, customized to your club. Hots & kNots Easy peasy: everyone share a hot (positive moment) and kNot (low point or something that isn’t quite settled). Go around the room, starting with the person who has the darkest color shoes. One & One Even easier, even peasier! ONE thing I’m taking with me & ONE thing I’m leaving behind. For example, “I’m taking with me the point Marcelle made about the mother’s hair and religion; I’m leaving behind my misunderstanding about Blaine’s relationship with his sister.” Go around the room, starting with the person whose birthday is nearest to today.
Remember that closing doesn’t need to be only happy or easy sharing, but it should support closure for the meeting which provides an out for those that can’t hang all night or for the host that needs to go pick up their child from their after school program. It also allows members to share their learning and for the members to learn a little more about one another. |