[Sophia M.]

Front Porch Forum: “Book-Bored in Baltimore” (06/28/2025)​

How do you keep things lively (and fair) when your club keeps reading the same kind of story? Image source: Freepik

Pull up a seat, GrayViners! This “Book-Bored in Baltimore” letter needs your take. It got us thinking—how do you keep things lively (and fair) when your club keeps reading the same kind of story? Read on and let us know.

Hello, TGV!

I don't think my letter is as "serious" as some of the others I've read on here, but I'd still like some advice if anyone's up for it.

I’ve been a member of my local book club for nearly four years now, and while I enjoy the social side of it, I’m starting to secretly dread our meetings. The reason? It seems every single book we pick is either a romance novel or what I’d call “fluffy” fiction – nothing with a bit of bite or substance. I much prefer historical, literary, or even non-fiction, but whenever I suggest something outside of the usual genre, it’s brushed aside or ignored.

Honestly, it’s getting to the point where I either force myself through books I dislike, or just don’t read them at all and sit quietly during discussions. I know reading should be enjoyable, not a chore. Part of me feels petty for even being bothered by this, but another part wonders if it’s fair for the same types of books to get picked over and over. I think some people might feel the same, but everyone seems so easy-going about it that I worry I’ll come off as a troublemaker.

Should I speak up and suggest a more structured approach to choosing our books (say, taking turns or having themed months), or should I just leave it be and accept that maybe this club isn’t for me anymore?

Would love to hear everyone's thoughts!

Yours,
Book-Bored in Baltimore

So, GrayViners, have you ever felt stuck in a rut—book club or otherwise? How do you suggest changes without stepping on toes, or have you found a creative way to shake things up? Share your thoughts and clever ideas below! And if you’ve got a group gripe of your own, don’t hesitate, start a conversation right here.