5 Surprising Benefits of Joining a Book Club

Holiday senior living communities host book clubs, walking groups and other activities that build social connections with others who share your interests.

September 29, 2025

3 min read

Two older women smiling and reading books at a wooden table with colorful mugs, surrounded by plants and a bookshelf in the background.

Sometimes, it’s not the book you read that changes your perspective, but the people you share it with. That’s the magic of a book club, especially one that meets regularly at an independent senior living community like Holiday, where neighbors quickly become friends.


If you’re looking for ways to socially connect, laugh and keep your mind sharp, a book club might be just what you need!


Consider these five benefits.

  1. You’ll discover books you wouldn’t choose yourself.
  2. You’ll experience stories coming to life by talking with others.
  3. Your world expands with each discussion.
  4. You’ll stumble upon hidden gems.
  5. You’ll make more time to engage with others.


1. You’ll discover books you wouldn’t choose yourself.

Book clubs select new titles in a number of ways. Some rotate with each member taking a turn choosing a book. Others present a few options then vote. Still others pick a title at random from a long list of suggestions.


Regardless of the method, book clubs expose everyone to stories and topics they may never explore on their own. While not everyone will love every book, a few are sure to delight! After all, learning new things is like exercise for your brain.



2. You’ll experience stories coming to life by talking with others.

Reading is one thing, but group conversations elevate stories and topics to new levels. The other Holiday residents in your book club are sure to notice details you didn’t or interpret a character differently than you might – and vice-versa.


Sharing perspectives is not only a social activity. It also enriches the story and gives you plenty to think (and talk) about long after the last page.



3. Your world expands with each discussion.

Every book club member contributes more than book titles. Each offers a lifetime of experiences. Listening to different insights is like tapping into a unique library of knowledge. By keeping an open mind, you can walk away from each gathering with more than just thoughts about a novel. You might gain fresh ideas, brand new perspectives and deeper connections with the people around you.



4. You’ll stumble upon hidden gems.

Book clubs are smart not to rely solely on bestsellers. Bringing lesser-known titles into the mix creates possibilities for wonder. Maybe you’ll discover a classic you missed reading in school, or a novel by an author who writes in various genres.


While novels are always popular, many book clubs mix things up by occasionally reading non-fiction. For examples, see our list of suggested titles.



5. You’ll create more time to engage with others.

Regular book club meetings not only promote social connection; they also encourage more reading and less mindless scrolling or TV watching. Having a set time to share your thoughts creates a bit of structure that makes reading a bigger (and more enjoyable) part of your day. Plus, it gives you something to look forward to with friends.


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A book club is about more than books. It’s about the people you share them with. At Holiday Senior Living, book clubs mean more laughter, more learning and more meaningful engagement at every meeting.


Ready to experience the real thing?



Find a Holiday community near you and schedule a visit. Ask when the book club meets and learn about other activities included in their Engage Life® calendar of events. There’s sure to be an upcoming endeavor or two that piques your interest!



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