A bell goes off. Chatter dies. The only sound is rustling pages and creaking chairs. The silent book club is in session. Members of one of many new chapters of this growing trend have gathered in an annex of the Board & Bean board game cafe in Chesterfield, in Derbyshire. They begin with a quick chat, largely concerning the popularity and the high number of Greggs shops in the town (apparently, it's six). And then, organiser Emma Bent - e-reader in hand - calls for silence. For the next hour, no-one speaks at all. Barely anyone looks at their phone, or each other. They're simply absorbed in their books. For Ms Bent, 40, that is what makes the event special and why she runs four a month. She says: "To know everyone is going back to their world in the book, whatever that world may be - whether it's Middle Earth, a dystopian future or the here and now with some detective sleuthing through the city - it's comforting to be around. "It's very relaxing and mindful. "And I think the social aspect appeals to people. Even though we're sat in silence for an hour, it is a social club." Unlike traditional book clubs, readers can bring any book they want. The hour of silent reading is followed by a discussion about the books everyone is reading. One woman studies a science fiction publication from her university course, while a man in headphones flicks through The Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan. Victoria Ruck, 22, has never been in a traditional book club before, and feels this is helping her read more again. "It's a bit like parallel play," she says. "It's nice to have other people reading because I feel forced to read. "The start is a bit like when you're at a sleepover and waiting to see who's going to stop talking first. "But the fun of it is being a little bit awkward, but quite sweet as well." Biddy Ronelle, 35, is reading Captain Corelli's Mandolin. "I love books," she says. "But I don't like reading what everyone else reads. "I don't want to be bound to a time limit to how quickly I could read something. "The difference from home is it gets you out the house, you meet people and while you wouldn't normally ask people what they're reading, you do here." The original Silent Book Club was founded by friends Guinevere de la Mare and Laura Gluhanich in San Francisco in 2012. "We were saying how hard it is to stay engaged with a regular book club - maybe you don't want to read the book, or you can't make the dates," Ms Gluhanich told the BBC. "It's also incredibly difficult to unplug and stop scrolling and swiping nowadays. This is such a great opportunity to do that. "People say you can do that at home, but it's hard to not pick up your phone, to run an errand." She added it was different to a library because people were part of a regular, organised group - and most libraries don't serve drinks. By 2023, they had 500 chapters. Now, the group says it has more than 1,600 chapters in 54 countries, including about 100 in the UK. According to Eventbrite, the number of silent book clubs being organised in the UK in the beginning of 2025 increased by 460%, compared to the same period in 2024. "I think it's down to a resurgence in people looking for third spaces," said Ms Gluhanich. "Getting out and socialising in ways that aren't focused on drinking or dating. "This is one of the easiest ways to go out and socialise and talk, you get to do it in a way that's not pressured and there's a baseline topic." Back in Chesterfield, the bell has rung to signal the end of the reading session. A few awkward laughs and shuffling of chairs, and some members make their excuses and leave immediately. Others stay to discuss what they've read, going round the room to share their thoughts. People who had been quiet during the social chat at the beginning of the meeting open up for the literary discussion. It's five-star reviews from the 10 attendees. Just one plot twist at the end, from 61-year-old Jane Gill. "Maybe comfier chairs would be nice," she adds. Follow BBC Derby onFacebook, onX, or onInstagram. Send your story ideas toeastmidsnews@bbc.co.ukor viaWhatsAppon 0808 100 2210.
Shh... the rise of the silent book club
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Silent Book Clubs Gain Popularity as New Social Spaces for Readers"
Bbc News
8.7
TruthLens AI Summary
The silent book club phenomenon is gaining traction across various regions, including Chesterfield, Derbyshire, where members gather to engage in an hour of uninterrupted reading. The gatherings, led by organizer Emma Bent, begin with light conversation before transitioning into a period of silence, marked by the sounds of pages turning and chairs creaking. Unlike traditional book clubs that often require participants to read the same book, these clubs allow members to choose their own reading material. This flexibility is a significant draw for many, as it promotes a relaxed atmosphere where individuals can immerse themselves in their chosen narratives. Bent emphasizes the comfort of knowing others are similarly engrossed in their own literary worlds, enhancing the social aspect despite the silence. Participants express that the experience is not only calming but also promotes a sense of community among readers who might otherwise feel isolated in their reading habits.
Since its inception in San Francisco in 2012, the Silent Book Club concept has expanded dramatically, with over 1,600 chapters now active globally, including approximately 100 in the UK. The growth reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking social engagements that do not revolve around drinking or dating, with silent book clubs providing a unique setting for interaction. Members find joy in the shared experience of reading, often describing it as a form of 'parallel play' that encourages them to read more. Feedback from participants in Chesterfield highlights the appeal of the format, as it allows for both personal reflection and communal discussion after the reading period ends. While some attendees humorously suggest improvements, such as more comfortable seating, the overall reception of the silent book club remains overwhelmingly positive, showcasing its role as a vital third space for socializing and literary enjoyment.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article sheds light on the emerging trend of silent book clubs, where participants gather to read in silence before engaging in discussions about their books. This concept resonates with a desire for mindfulness and community, highlighting a shift in how people engage with literature.
Community Engagement and Mindfulness
Silent book clubs appear to be tapping into the growing interest in mindfulness and social interaction without the pressure of traditional book clubs. By allowing individuals to read any book of their choice in a communal setting, these clubs provide a unique blend of solitude and social connection. The participants express a sense of comfort in sharing a space with others who are also immersed in their own literary worlds.
Alternative to Traditional Book Clubs
The article indicates that silent book clubs offer a refreshing alternative to conventional book clubs, which often come with rigid structures and reading lists. This flexibility is particularly appealing to those who may feel constrained by the expectations of discussing specific books. The informal nature of these gatherings seems to attract a diverse range of readers, from university students to casual readers seeking a low-pressure environment.
Potential Manipulative Aspects
While the article promotes the benefits of silent book clubs, it may also serve to distract from broader societal issues, such as the decline of community engagement in more interactive formats. The focus on individual reading experiences might obscure the potential downsides of social isolation that can arise from such solitary activities. However, the piece does not overtly manipulate the reader but rather paints a positive image of this trend.
Cultural Reflection
This trend could reflect a larger cultural movement towards seeking solace in individual pursuits while still craving community. It speaks to the contemporary struggle between digital distractions and the desire for genuine connections. The mention of local cafes as venues for these clubs indicates a support for local businesses, which could foster community ties.
Economic and Social Implications
In a broader context, silent book clubs could have implications for local economies, particularly for businesses like cafes that serve as meeting spots. As these clubs grow in popularity, they may contribute to increased foot traffic in these establishments. Socially, they could provide a model for new forms of community interaction that prioritize personal space while still fostering social bonds.
Target Audience
This trend seems to resonate particularly with younger audiences, such as students and young professionals who may be looking for ways to balance their busy lives with personal interests like reading. It also appeals to those who may have felt alienated by traditional book club dynamics.
Connection to Wider Trends
The rise of silent book clubs ties into broader discussions about mental health, wellness, and the importance of finding quiet moments in a fast-paced world. This aligns with other cultural movements that emphasize self-care and mindfulness practices, suggesting a collective yearning for more fulfilling ways to engage with literature and each other.
Reliability of the Article
The article appears credible as it reflects a growing trend supported by firsthand accounts from participants. However, it may not fully address the complexities of social engagement in a digital age or the potential downsides of such solitary activities. Overall, the portrayal of silent book clubs is positive and reflects an evolving cultural landscape in reading habits.