The Penguin Readers' Group Directory is a platform for you to introduce your group to a nation-wide community of readers. If you would like to feature your reading group as part of our directory please send your copy to readers@penguin.co.uk headed Readers' Group Directory and remember to state which region you want the information to appear in.

London

Looking for Reading Group in the Russell Square area. My reading is wide, though I veer towards the unusual, literary or foreign. I like some American contemporary fiction and short stories. Happy to read classics too, or women writers...Please contact Cath cathcinnamon@blueyonder.co.uk if your Reading Group would like a new member. (Posted July 08)


The Coffee, Cake and Book Group.

Who is your favourite author and why? What genre of writing do you most enjoy? What is your favourite book and why? What is your least favourite book and why? You are warmly invited to join our friendly reading group which launched during March 2008. Meetings currently take place at Hackney Central library every 6 weeks during term-time only on a Wednesday morning 10.30-11.30.

Meetings in 2008: 19th March, 30th April, 11th June, 16th July, 10th September, 22nd October, 3rd December.  Come and join us for an informal get together. Coffee, tea and home-made cake provided at each meeting. For further details contact Adrian or Lydia on 020 8356 2542/2547 or email: Coffee_Cake_&_Book_Group@Hackney.gov.uk

I'd like to set up an informal reading group in the Tooting area, meeting once a month to discuss a range of fiction. If you're interested, get in touch at clairejdunn@gmail.com (posted March 2008)

READING GROUP IN WOODFORD - LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS.
We're a small, very informal group of about 6 regular members;  we've been meeting for a couple of years and would like a few more people to join us.  We meet every month at members' homes, usually on a Wesnesday evening at 8.00pm, to discuss our chosen book over a glass of wine.  We read a variety of books, usually someones comes with a suggestion or recommendation for a book they think would be interesting.  Our next meeting will be on:  Wednesay 12 March at 8.00pm and the book under discussion will be:  The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.  Further titles:  Earthly Joys by Philippa Gregory, and Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi.  Please ring if you'd like details of the venue or any further information about the group. Email   theclaxtons@btopenworld.com (Posted February 2008)

SW London book group we are a group which averages 5 to 10 members who meet on the first Monday of the month. We have read a variety of books from the fun to the fairly serious, which I suppose reflects the fact we are all very different. We take it in turns to pick the books in order of surname and the person who picks the book also picks the venue. We have met in Wandsworth, Clapham Common, Clapham Junction and Balham but anywhere in SW London fine. We have been going for about 7 or 8 months and meet on the first Monday of each month. The meetings are pretty relaxed; we have a few drinks and catch up while everyone arrives. We then talk about the book for a bit before chatting about a whole host of topics before heading home. I hope that gives you an idea how we work, if you have any further questions get in touch amsterdamjason@gmail.com we also have a Facebook group with more information http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2499556825 (Posted February 2008)

Hi, I would like to start a new book club in the Islington area. The idea is to meet on a monthly basis at various locations – bars, pubs – in the Islington area and to agree on a book to read – any genre, any era.  There are some excellent locations to choose from in Islington and coupled with a good book should make it a great social gathering for members.   So if you are interested please email me. If we can start with 5-10 members we can then decide if we want to "expand" but the more the merrier. Totally open to when in month to meet so feel free to make suggestions.  Please email me at ad0801@aol.com  thanks Atzar (posted February 2008)

CALLING ALL MEN! We have got some men already in our reading group of around 10-15, but it would be nice to re-adress the balance - though all are welcome of any age, gender and sensibility! We meet monthly on a Wednesday in a Central London pub (usually around Oxford Circus). We're an informal, friendly, silly group with a penchant for bad puns and karaoke. But don't let that put you off. We're also passionate about reading and enjoy getting stuck into a diverse range of books. Recent ones chosen include Yates's Revolutionary Road, Cormac McCarthy's The Road, Baldwin's Another Country and Houellebecq's Platform. If you are interested in coming along, please email sophie_marbles@hotmail.com (Posted January 2008)

New-ish Book Club in Bromley, Greater London
Our little book club is eager to attract new members.  We normally meet on the first Wednesday of every month at The Bricklayer's Arms on Mason's Hill (near Bromley South Station) for an 8 pm start.  http://www.beerintheevening.com/pubs/s/24/2473/Bricklayers_Arms/Bromley. At the moment we are between 4-6 people but ideally would like 8-10.  We range in age & backgrounds & luckily have 1 male in our group (though would encourage any other men who would like to join!)  We are all novices & still figuring out the whole book club thing.   It's good in the sense that we are making this club to suit our members.  We take turns in choosing the books we will be reading & spice it up a bit by adding Classic books into the mix so that we read about 3 books every two months.  I encourage you to join us at our next meeting even if you haven't read the books - we always discuss the next month's book at the end.  I look forward to meeting you & hope that you will enjoy it too.  Please contact Christine on: cgbd33@hotmail.com or Keith on: ke.gray@hotmail.co.uk. (Posted January 2008)

We are three twenty-something women, starting an informal women's reading group in the Kingston/Richmond area. We are planning to cover a range of fiction, selecting the book by turn. We plan to meet once a month in a pub/bar for a glass of wine and a friendly discussion. If you're interested in joining us, please contact Lisa at lisa.karter@stewartparvin.com.

Beer & Books are looking for new members so that the burden of walking to the bar is lightened (we’re all in our early thirties so it is bone-idleness rather than arthritis).  For an idea of the range of books that we’ve chosen in the past take a peak at www.beerandbooks.blogspot.com.  We meet on the 2nd Monday of each month, though we’re taking a holiday in August due to half our members vacationing along the Danube.  If you want to come along to September’s meeting we’re reading The Busconductor Hines by James Kelman.  This was my choice; we used to choose books on a fairly democratic basis but felt that we often didn’t end up reading challenging enough books and so we now have a monthly rotating coup d’etat instead.  The venue is unsurprisingly a central London pub.  Please email beerandbooks@ntlworld.com if you are interested in some lively debate and rapier wit (hic).  Posted by Paul Shevlane (July 2007)
 

Central London Book Group. Meets each month on the 2nd Monday in a pub just north of Oxford Street, covering a wide range of authors and genres. We also like having a go at huge books every few months. Some of our reads: Tolstoy - War and Peace (no, really); Du Maurier – Rebecca; Nabokov -  Pnin; Amis – Money; De Lillo – Underworld; Balzac – Black Sheep; Updike – Rabbit, Run; Winterson – Oranges…; Eliot – Middlemarch; Chandler – The Big Sleep. Next three  meetings as at 10th May: Grossmith - Diary of a Nobody (14th May); Calvino – The Baron in the Trees (11th June); Zola – Germinal (9th July). The group was originally formed to actually discuss the books as well as being a social gathering, so we spend some time giving our opinions before a more general discussion of the book, and carry on afterwards talking rubbish over surprisingly reasonably–priced booze. If you are interested, contact lazyjoy@gmail.com (Posted May 2007)

Hi, I am starting a new book club in central London (well, zone 1 and 2, the venue is going to change every month). The purpose is to discover literature from all over the world and, at the same time, new pubs all around London.  The first book is going to be a classic novel of German literature: The Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse (available in Penguin edition). I am not sure about the venue yet, but I was thinking about the Quinns in Camden which has an amazing selection of German beers or Hugo's bar at the Goethe Institute in Kensington. The meeting should be the last Thursday of the month, any time after 7pm. If you think you might be interested in foreign fiction, food and drinks from different countries and you want to join the book club, send me an email at:lesangdespoetes@hotmail.co.uk  (Posted May 2007)

I am looking for a relaxed book club in the Highbury/Islington area. Do you know of one? If so please contact me at fran_higgins@hotmail.com Thanks in advance, Fran (posted April 2007)

Anyone know of any Book Clubs in the Beckenham/Penge/Anerley area? Or indeed anywhere in the surrounding area? Everywhere I have looked says that they are groups for 30-40 somethings. I'm only 22, but I do love to read and would love to share that passion with someone! Any takers? Please contact allyhodgson@yahoo.co.uk (Posted April 2007)

Looking for an relaxed, informal Book Group? We meet on the second Tuesday of every month between 8 and 10 pm in different venues around London. We read a wide range of fiction and discuss them over drinks and snacks. Recent choices have been Kazuo Ishiguro, Justin Cartwright and Jose Saramago. Interested? Email sandfordhannah@hotmail.com for details of our next meeting. (Posted April 2007)

CALLING OVER 50'S BOOK MANIACS ! I'm interested in joining or starting a reading group/book club for OVER 50'S book maniacs like myself, in the Woodford/Buckhurst Hill Area. I'm thinking of a mixed, friendly, relaxed interchange of ideas, as well as passionate, heated debate!I know that there must be people out there who would like to meet, read and discuss books with others of a similar age, and I look forward to hearing from you.  Please contact Emma on emma.williams_@tiscali.co.uk  or phone  077 9098 1531 (March 07)

We are all girls book group in our 30's and 40's and have been running now for just over 3 years. We meet once a month on a Thursday evening in a bar in Richmond to chat about the month's book over a glass of wine or two.  We take it in turns to choose the book and have read a wide range of types of fiction. We are a friendly and lively group, and are almost full but due to a long-standing member leaving due to moving away, we are looking to recruit a friendly new member who loves to read. If you think we might be the bookgroup for you, would love to hear from you.  Please contact Claire on dennishorner@yahoo.com

Does anyone know if there is a reading group in the Walthamstow area of London. If there is one, or you are interested in starting one please let me know helenlbennett@hotmail.com Helen (Feb 2007)

Hello, I'm looking to start up a reading group in the Watford area, meeting perhaps once a month in a local pub. Interests include: classics and contemporary fiction. Please email me at angela.bailey727@ntlworld.com if interested.

We (around 10 of us) meet monthly on a Wednesday in a Central London pub (usually around Oxford Circus), which we've been doing for nearly three years now. We're an informal, friendly, silly group with a penchant for bad puns and karaoke! But don't let that put you off. We're also passionate about reading and enjoy getting stuck into a diverse range of books. Recent ones chosen include Suskind's Perfume, Wilder's Bridge of San Luis Rey, Vonnegut's Cat's Cradle and Doctorow's Book of Daniel. If you are interested in coming along, please email sophie_marbles@hotmail.com

A few friends are starting a book group in the Forty Hill area of Enfield.  Our next meeting is at 8pm on Saturday 3rd March.  We will be talking about We need to talk about Kevin by Lionel Shriver.  We intend to keep it as informal as possible with chat, wine and nibbles.  If you want more information please contact us at bookgroupenfield@yahoo.co.uk

Our Women's Reading Group meets at 6.30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the basement cafe in Waterstones on Piccadilly, central London. We read fiction and non-fiction by women writers from around the world. Recently we have read Suite Francaise, Beyond Black, Purple Hibiscus, Village of Stone and Czech short stories. In the next few months we plan to read The Night Watch and The Secret River. New members are very welcome. Please contact Liz for further details: lizm@gn.apc (updated September 2007)

I am looking for a book club in West London (Shepherds Bush, Hammersmith, Notting Hill or round about).  If anyone knows of one or would like to start one please let me know miranda.watson1000@yahoo.co.uk. Miranda

The Waterloo Library in Lower Marsh SE1 (behind Waterloo Station) has a reading group who meet every 6 weeks (or so) on a Thurs night at 6.30pm. Current members number 5 so some extra faces would be most welcome. Donation of £1 is encouraged to cover costs of nibbles & wine. For further info please contact Melanie at Melanie.tighe@wcdg.org.uk for further info. (Jan 2007)

The Daniel Defoe Book Group meets on a Tuesday evening, every four weeks at the Daniel Defoe pub in Stoke Newington (N16). We are aged between 25-40 and mostly female. The group is very informal, books are chosen by group consensus. We read a variety of fiction and the occasional piece of non-fiction, concentrating on foreign authors in translation or books which are set in other cultures, plus the odd classic. Our 2006 reads include: Independent People by Halldor Laxness, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, The Piano Teacher by Elfriede Jelinek and  Stuart: A Life Backwards by Alexander Masters. For further info, please contact defoebookgroup@yahoo.co.uk

We have a book club running at the Flask in Hampstead every first Tuesday of the month.  We have discussed books such as On Beauty as well as Four Letters of Love. We pick the next book at the end of the meeting through a vote on various suggestions. Any ideas welcome! We would like to cover modern fiction, classics, as well as non fiction or historical books and other genres over the coming meetings. If you would like more information,  email me at anyabella77@yahoo.co.uk   Thank you for your time and I look forward to seeing you soon, Anna 

Hi, anyone interested in starting a fun, informal reading group to meet once a month or so after work in the Central London area?
If so, contact Amy@rabbitsneedwolves@hotmail.com

Broadwaymarket Bookgroup We are a mixed reading group of around 8 people with ages ranging from 22-60. We meet in different pubs in E2 every first Wednesday of the month at 7pm to discuss the latest book in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Our aim is to read a wide selection of fiction and successful reads so far have been: Austerlitz by W.G. Sebald, Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee, We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver and Snow by Orhan Pamuk. We are looking for 2 new people to join our group. If you are interested, please email Nicole at broadwaymarketbookgroup@yahoo.co.uk

SOUTH BANK BOOK CLUB is looking for new members.  We meet once a month and so far have read The Outsider (Camus), Carter Beats the Devil (Glen David Gold), Norwegian Wood (Haruki Murakami), On Beauty (Zadie Smith), The Kite Runner (Khaled Hosseini), Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close (Jonathan Safran Foer), A Spot of Bother (Mark Haddon) and The Sea (John Banville). For more information or to register your interest contact the group at southbankbookclub@yahoo.co.uk

The Gay & Bi Men's Book Group meets monthly at a central London pub on a weekday evening.  We began in November 2005 and our meetings are relaxed and friendly, a good place to chill out after work to chat about a novel we have all read.  Books so far have included The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Bell,  Rough Music, Pride and Prejudice, The Line of Beauty, The Night Listener and Brokeback Mountain.  Email robbiewatford@yahoo.co.uk

Following the success of The Big Gay Read, Bromley Library Service have set up an LGBT Reading Group. If you would be interested in coming along to discuss and recommend the books you’ve enjoyed, or just to share your passion for reading, you’ll find a warm welcome at our friendly, lively group. We meet at 6:30 PM on the 4th Thursday of every month, 5th Floor, Bromley Central Library, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1EX.  For further information or to get involved, please contact Alex Marin (020) 8461 7191 alex.marin@bromley.gov.uk or Gill Nutkins (020) 8461 7185

Hi, I am looking for a reading group in the Richmond/Brentford/Chiswick area but have had no luck so far... if anyone knows of a group in or around these areas could you please let me know the details... thanks! emma_parker2000@yahoo.com .

Hi we're the Kilburn Book Group a friendly new mixed group looking for members, interested in reading. We meet in the Tricycle Theatre Bar on a Friday evening, roughly once a month at 8pm. Contact me franosborne@mac.com for more information. Many thanks, Fran Osborne


We think it is really difficult to set up book groups, and to find people to come along to a book group. We were looking for book groups earlier this year, and they are like secret organisations! So we decided to set up a website where people to find a book group, advertise a book group, and generally just feel like one big book group family! We organise socials, events, book launches, and you can find out about the best book group pubs on our site. We want book groups to be inclusive, fun and a cool way to met new people!  You can search for your perfect book group in London by using our London tube map, or you can advertise a book group if you have a good idea. Check out our site www.notjustanotherbookgroup.co.uk where you can find out more.  We are a not for profit but we do charge a very small membership just to cover the costs of our website, so we can keep on sharing the book group love!  Hope you will join in the book group community!
 
Cheers
Michelle and Emma

Hayley (citygal by day and Whitechapel resident) and Michael (education consultant and Greenwich resident) who 'met' via this site but have only corresponded by email so far are looking to form a book group, looking at a tube map probably somewhere between Canary Wharf and Whitechapel. Hayley fancies a 'friendly, relaxed and occasionally drunken group', Michael would probably buy into this but has literary pretensions as well! The perfect combination? If this sounds worth giving a whirl then email us at michael.lynes@mac.com or 
hayley@hillreiner.co.uk (September 05)

Our book Club is relatively new and we meet once a month, on the last Thursday of the month in the Harvester (The Castle) in Woodford Green in the bar area. Always on the lookout for new members there are currently about 8-12 of us, at present there is only one man! We are very relaxed, we do talk about the book and get some interesting perspectives but we drift in and out of various subjects. It's in a pub so we tend to leave a bit tipsy, it's very social and a great way to meet new people.If you're interested, please contact me at stovinclark@ntlworld.com for any further information and our current book.(August 2005)

We are a very friendly, small group in need of greater numbers!  We meet the 2nd Monday of the month in a central London pub.  All welcome!  Email Emma for more details: beerandbooks@ntlworld.com (August 2005)

I'd love to join a reading group in the Spitalfields/E1 area. Please email me with any information to fionajsmyth@yahoo.co.uk (June 2005)

We are NotJustAnotherBookGroup; a London based book group setting up groups all over London. We are all about the social thing, as well as great books. Its good fun, a laugh, and sometimes a bit boozey. There is lots of heated debate, interesting chat and a chance to make some new friends whilst discovering some cool new pubs in London. So if you like the idea of all that, as well as the opportunity to actually talk to someone about what you're reading then check out our website www.notjustanotherbookgroup.co.uk for more info! Go to the Book Groups section to find the book group that suits you and register with us, or email us at info@notjustanotherbookgroup.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you! (June 2005)

London Gay Reading Group
Founded in 2001, the London Gay Reading Group is composed of over 60 gay men of all ages. Each month about 10 of us meet in a cafe in Soho to discuss a work of fiction (mostly). For more details on how to join and on the books we have read so far, please visit our website http://www.lgrg.cjb.net/ (March 2005)

History Reading Group
This history reading group meets at Waterloo library, The Lower Marsh, London
SE1 on the third Monday of the month at lunchtime from 1.05pm -2.00pm.
Contact details Anna Robinson 020 7926 6076 or akrobinson@lambeth.gov.uk (March 2005)

I live in South East London in the surronding areas of Elephant and Castle, Kennington and Walworth if there are any book clubs in these areas I would be very interested in joining one. My email address is chanelle_thomas@hotmail.com or arieslady83@yahoo.co.uk. (March 2005)
 
Hi,  I would like to join a reader's group in North London area, ideally in Enfield or Woodgreen. If you belong to such a group and are open to new members, then please get in touch with me (Koray) at: k_tolstoy@hotmail.com (February 2005)

Hi there. I would like to join a reader?s group in West London, Berkshire or Buckinghamshire. If you belong to such a group and are open to new members, then please get in touch ranisanghera@hotmail.com (10 February 2005)

f anyone is interested in being part of a book club in Balham the inaugural meeting of a new club will be taking place on Tuesday 15th February in the Balham Arms. The date is provisional so even if you can't make it then please let us know as depending on interest and numbers this can be moved. The first meeting will just be an opportunity to meet as a group and discuss what we all like to read and to see where we go from there! If anyone is interested or would like further information please email Charlieinoz@aol.com (January 2005)

The Elsenham Book Group (near Stansted Airport) meets monthly, in the evening,  and would welcome new members. Contact Sarah on sarah_alder@hotmail.com for more info (January 2007)

Our group meets on the first Thursday of the month at -
Ridge Avenue Library
Ridge Avenue
Enfield
London
N21 2RH
Telephone - 020 8379 1714 & ask for Peter di Biasio.
The group normally discusses a range of titles, usually on a theme. We cover all genres, contemporary & classic novels,
fiction and some non-fiction. Membership is free, with an optional #1 for wine & nibbles.
Please ring in advance as space is limited (January 2005)

I am looking for a Readers Group based in the Surbiton / Richmond area. Please respond with details to jlpirwin@hotmail.com. Thanks, James

I'm interested in joining or starting a reading group in the New Cross/Deptford/Greenwich area.  If anyone is interested or knows of a local group I can join, please email amanda@ahopkins88.fsnet.co.uk

Is there a club in the Croydon area I could join?  Anne  anne.brookes1@btopenworld.com

The Highgate Book Group is looking for new members.  If you enjoy a good read and chat (over a drink or two) please drop us a line.  highgatebookgroup@hotmail.com

With no reading groups in my area, I wonder if anyone would be interested in starting one in Central London, maybe early evening, after work and possibly taking over a quiet corner of a pub or a bar.  Primarily into fiction but open to suggestions.  If you are interested please drop me a line.Karen Karenanncox@hotmail.com

I would like to join a book group in Wandsworth / south London. You can contact me, Jonathan Masters, at   jdh_masters@hotmail.com
 
I should like to start a Freud reading group we will use the new translations, edited by Adam Phillips the group will meet Saturday mornings at the Albany Trust in Balham, South London. If you are interested please contact Jeremy Clarkejeremyclarketherapy@practice.demon.co.uk

Do you want to discuss books? I'm looking to start a readers' group. Books to be discussed will be confirmed as reading material by all the group. Meetings will take place in London. If you're interested, please email me at georginaengland@hotmail.com


Looking for a readers group in London. I live in London E4 (Chingford) but could also consider Enfield as a possible location if there is nothing in Chingford.  Joan j.morrice@rmjm.com

I am interested in setting up a Readers Group in Blackheath London. Anyone interested, please contact me at davbak546@aol.com
David

I am very interested in finding a readers group in or near the Richmond or Surrey area, but would also be willing to travel to London. Contact Claire Horner at dennishorner@yahoo.com

I am trying to start a new reading group in the Bishops Stortford/Herts area after trying to numerous groups but always being told they are too full! I enjoy reading most types of literature except science fiction. Would welcome anyone to join in 20-40s age range who simply enjoys a good book and would like to chat to like-minded people.  If you are interested, please contact louise.pye@gmail.com

South East


Portchester Book Club - I would like to start a book club in Portchester, meeting monthly, probably in a local pub - please drop me a line at kj159greg@aol.com if you are interested in exploring this (Posted August 08)

New Reading Group in Winchester starting September 2008. Like books and reading? So do we. Friendly and informal group, meets monthly on a Wednesday evening at the Winchester Discovery Centre. Men and women over the age of 18 welcome. You decide what we get to read. Find out more from our website - http://www.speakingvolumes.hampshire.org.uk/ - or contact speakingvols@googlemail.com (Posted August 08)

Hampshire Book and Film Club. Started in September 2007. Range of fiction with some non-fiction. Incorporate movies into sessions with trips to the cinema or DVD nights to review films (especially if read the book previously). Meetings are monthly in the Southampton area (sometimes in Winchester and Romsey). Open to new members aged between 25-45 male or female. Contact lisa@prestona.plus.com

I am looking for a readers' group in the Colchester/Sudbury area. Any information please email Anna at anna@obwperera.co.uk (posted March 2008)

We are looking to set up an evening Reading Group in the Kimbles area of Buckinghamshire, possibly then taking in Wendover, Princes Risborough and Stoke Mandeville as well as the local villages. The aim is for 10 - 12 members meeting monthly on an informal basis, covering all tastes in fiction. Age and gender immaterial, but a sense of humour and a love of books essential.  If interested, please contact Mary at jinx.moonshadow@btinternet.com (Posted February 2008)

Calling all readers in the Aylesbury area who are interested in forming a book group. I am a 30 something girl who has recently moved to the area and would love to start a group for people of all ages who want to get together in a local pub once a month and have a good old natter about novels. At the moment the group consists of just me (!) - so get in touch and let's see how many people we can get on board. Contact Carol by email at caroljenkinsnews@aol.com  (Posted February 2008).


St Albans Book Group

New members welcome at a friendly and informal book group, meeting monthly at the Goat. Please feel free to get in contact to find out what we’re reading right now! Contact Rachael at r.williams@medsch.ucl.ac.uk (Posted April 2008)

I have recently moved to the area and would like to set up a relaxed informal book club in Farnham, Surrey for women aged 25 - 40, to meet once a month in a local pub in Farnham. If anyone is interested please email me at farnhambookclub@hotmail.co.uk  (Posted January 2008)

BASINGSTOKE
We are a small reading group who meet one Sunday a month in a cafe in Basingstoke town centre.  We like to read a variety of books (Don Quixote,Dracula,The Great Gatsby etc.)  If you are interested, please contact us at Kimonslow@hotmail.co.uk (posted January 2008).

Tonbridge Library Reading Group
 
Meetings are on Saturdays at 3.30pm every four weeks.  Books for January, February, March, April and May are below
 
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy on 12 January 2008
 
The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton on 9th February 2008
 
What Was Lost by Catherine O'Flynn on 8th March 2008
 
The Rotters Club by Jonathan Coe on 5th April 2008
 
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco on 3rd May
 
Please come and join us, we are at Avebury Avenue Tonbridge near the Railway Station.  If you are interested in joining, please call 01732 352754 (Posted January 2008)


We're looking for new people to come along to our Brighton-based book group, which takes place near Seven Dials (in a quiet pub), about once a fortnight or once a month (varies). We've got a really nice mix of interesting people, and we make a point of choosing a good variety of authors and genres. It's an excellent way to find new stuff and maybe read something you might not otherwise, and our discussions are always friendly and very thought-provoking.  Contact Roger at rogerchidlow"at"yahoo.co.uk (I've substituted the @ sign for "at" in case of pesky spammers!).

We are a small village reading group in North Cerney, Gloucs with 8 members and we meet every six weeks  taking turns to be the hostess who then choses the book for the  next  discussion. We cater for a wide choice of tastes. The group formed about two years ago and we always welcome new members.

We are a 20 - 30 something group of readers who are working our way through the BBC's 'big read' book list. We get together for an informal and relaxed meeting every six weeks in Guildford on Sunday afternoons. If you're interested in joining us please email k_a_alcock@yahoo.com and we'll let you know the details of our next meeting


I would really like to find or maybe start, friendly socially orientated reading group in the Brentwood area for people who enjoy reading fictional books. Nothing too heavy once every three weeks or four. Ideally meeting either in homes or over a meal out, no libraries!  one up with others if enough interest? Let me know on mayhewclaire@hotmail.com

Herts Book Group is looking for new members. We meet the first Thursday of the month at 8pm in a Hertford pub and meetings are friendly and informal.  We currently have about 8 members who are mostly in their 20s and 30s and everyone is welcome.  We mainly read and discuss fiction but are always open to new suggestions and all take turns in choosing books.
Please email hertsbookgroup@gmail.com for more details. (Posted July 2007)

I have just moved to Eastbourne and would like to start a reading group (alternatively, join a local one). I still belong to the one I formed over 3 years ago when I lived in Brighton but it would be good not to have to travel so far for meetings. Interested in reading contemporary books and modern classics (or whatever is chosen). The groups  I've belonged to previously have been all women,  but a mixed group would make a nice change; mixed ages too would be good. Please email me if interested -pab10@bton.ac.uk (posted June 2007)

Any readers groups in the Reading area?  Would anyone like to join one in the University Area? I am happy to have meetings in my house or to move from house to house if preferred.  Variety is the spice of life and also with reading so I am open on what we read and hope the group would be sociable too.  I am used to belonging to all female reading groups but I would welcome all comers and all ages. Possibly a Monday as that is so often clear for people - but any night is possible.  Do please get in touch.  Terry@dgl.co.uk (posted June 2007)

We are a small group of 20 something women from Chesham and Aylesbury who have recently started our own reading group. We're really enjoying it so far and would like to welcome some new members. It's a light hearted group reading mainly fiction (nothing too heavy!). If you're interested please contact me on zoe_grace@hotmail.com (posted June 2007)

New informal group in Buckinghamshire needs new members. We are a friendly bunch in our late 20's/early 30's and meet on the first Wednesday of each month in a pub in Wendover, Bucks to chat about our latest book over a glass or two of wine. Recently we have read Lovely Bones and On Beauty, our tastes are varied but nothing too heavy! If you would like more information please contact LAH2007@hotmail.co.uk (posted May 2007).

Does anyone know of an existing book group in or near Woodbridge, Suffolk that is looking for a new member?  If so please contact hollyfaithfull@hotmail.com. (posted April 2007)

I am looking to form a readers' group in the Englefield Green/Virginia Water/Windsor area. If you are interested, or if you are looking for members to join your existing group, please contact me. Jane at janesnell@onetel.com

Hi! I am trying to start a Reading Group in West Malling in Kent. I have arranged for the venue (which is a nice cosy wine bar), and now I am just waiting for some members! So if you live in West Malling, or the surrounding area (Maidstone, Rochester, Tonbridge etc), please get in touch! Even if you just want to know a bit more about it - please contact Jenny at jennygriffiths593@hotmail.com

Medway Readers

We are a new readers' group based in the Medway area. We meet on the 2nd Tues/Weds of the month in each others homes. Contact hbedmunds@hotmail.com if you are interested in joining.

I would be interested in being part of a reading group in the Tonbridge area. If you are too, let’s try and start one! Alternatively, if you know of a group in existence I would love to know about it. E-mail Felicity at: sachikobon@yahoo.co.uk

Looking for a book group in Guildford? We meet up once a month, usually on a Tuesday, at a chosen pub in central Guildford. Over the past year we have read: Strange Saint, The Secret Life of Bees, Sky Burial, In Cold Blood, The Constant Gardener, We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Alchemist, Reading Lolita in Tehran, The Turn of the Screw and The Hours. New books are chosen on a nominate-then-vote basis. We can also change the day on which we meet - the majority rules. New members are always welcome, we are a fairly young bunch and it's a very relaxed affair! If you are interested please email me and I will add you to the email circulation list, where you will receive an email with details of the next meeting and book. emilyannyates@hotmail.com and I will add you to the email circulation list, where you will receive an email with details of the next meeting and book. guildfordbookgroup@googlemail.com

Guildford Book Group

Hello, I'm looking to start up a reading group in the Chichester/Southbourne area, meeting perhaps once a month in a local pub. Interests include: science fiction, horror and contemporary fiction. Please email me at reddinna@hotmail.com if interested.

Herts Young Profs (20s-40s) Book Group This new book group will be meeting in the St Albans area on the 3rd Weds of each month. Fun, informal group, reading a wide range of contemporary fiction and occasional classics. New members welcome. Please contact Lee for further details.bookgroup.herts@googlemail.com

Hogsbackreaders Book Club New informal reading group meeting monthly in Farnham / Guildford area for ages 20-40.
New members and reading suggestions welcome.Contact narge59@narge59.plus.com

Hi, we're looking to start a group in Watford. We'll be meeting monthly on a Monday in a nice pub. If you're interested, please email Dave at bookclub@sanctified.co.uk.

Reading Gay Men's Book Club. Going now for 12 months this friendly group of eight meets on the 3rd Wed of each month in a private house to discuss a book with a gay (sometimes tenous) theme.  For more details on how to join and on the books we have read so far, please visit our website
http://www.matb.com/rgmbc/ or contact Greg gaw51uk@yahoo.co.uk

We are a reading group of approximately 16 ladies who have been meeting as a Reading Group for about 27years.  Our Chairman for as long as many of us case to remember , Jackie, keeps us well informed on all matters pertaining to reading groups.  Our group members all belong to Bookham Evening Townswomen's Guild in Great Bookham, Surrey.  We come from all walks of life and enjoy the social side of getting together once a month to enjoy discussing the book of the month, anything relevant to books read in recent past months plus their authors, rounding off the evening with coffee and biscuits.  We try to adopt a theme for the year and select books from a wide range of authors and subjects. Purely by chance one year we selected books with a distinct winter theme, ''Icefields' by Thomas Wharton: 'Miss Smilla's Feeling for Snow' by Peter Hoeg: 'Shipping News' by E. Annie Proulx and 'Snow Falling on Cedars' by David Guterson.  You get the picture!

We would be interested to hear from any other Reading Groups who would like to make contact, exchange ideas etc. Email mo.kirby@btopenworld.com

New book group in Dorking area planning first meeting for 11th November. If you're interested in joining us, please email me for more details:rebecca@b2bcommunications.co.uk. (October 2005)

A couple of us are starting a friendly/informal book group in the Hertford/Broxbourne area. We are hoping to meet once a month in a local pub. Please get in touch if you are interested. (October 2005)  Emma emma.tanner@gmail.com

Hi, we're a book group based in Reading for 20s/30s and are looking for new members.  We meet every 4 weeks on a weekend for a few hours at one of our members house, at the moment we are 6 girls but anyone is welcome.   We don't take ourselves too seriously it's as much about the wine and chat as the books.   If you're up for making some new friends or would just like some more information about us, drop Gill an email on ReadingBookGroup@hotmail.co.uk


Waltham Abbey Essex - A friendly group for people who love to read and give their opinion, we meet on the 4th thursday of the month 7-7:30pm-ish in my home. Democratic system for choosing next months book - we pull one of our suggestions out of a hat :-)  freetobeme@hotmail.co.uk (August 2005)

I'd like to join a reading group in the Hitchin area.  If you know of a group please could you email me at a.simmons1000@ntlworld.com  Many thanks. Andrea Simmons

A lively reading group in Brighton has space for a few more members. All ages and sexes are represented and all are welcome.  We've just read John Fowles' The Magus, and next up are Angela Carter's Nights at the Circus and Ford Madox Ford's The Good Soldier. We meet  in a pub once a month on a weekday night. Come and join us! Nic brightonreading@yahoo.co.uk (June 2005)

Hello, I'm looking to join / start a readers groups in Hitchin, Hertfordshire. Does anyone know of one nearby or is interested in helping me set one up? If so, please get in touch with me at charlieawilson@hotmail.com. Cheers, Charlotte.

Looking to join a reading group in the Windsor / Maidenhead area. Anyone able to point me in the direction of any groups who are looking for new members? 
If so please contact me peterworr@hotmail.com

Hi, I would be interested in finding out if there's a reading group in the Dorking area or, if there isn't already one, if anyone would be interested in starting one? Please email rebecca@b2bcommunications.co.uk.

I have set up a reading group in Brighton. We meet once a month on a weekday  evening, taking it in turns to choose a book and a venue. New members are most welcome. Please contact Nicola at: nicolandr@hotmail.com

We are a small friendly club meeting monthly in Portsmouth (Eastney) - please contact kj159greg@aol.com for more details (January 2005)

Calling all book worms in the Guildford area in Surrey. New book group just started, meetings to be held in central Guildford once a month. So far there are five of us, and we'd welcome anyone wanting to join us for lighthearted yet interesting and worthwhile discussions, over a few drinks. Our first meeting will be on 17th September. Interested? E-mail me, Clare,
on brownc22@breathe.com

I am interested in joining or starting a readers group for the Luton / St Albans / Harpenden / Hitchin area.  Is anyone interested or do they know of one already going?  I would prefer a group that is predominantly into reading fiction.  Please get in touch on moolicent@tiscali.co.uk thanks!

I am interested in forming a reading group in the Northamptonshire area, meeting somewhere near Wellingborough or Kettering. The sort of group I have in mind is one that would meet in a pub once a month for an informal chat about various books, to be chosen by its participants to read.   If anyone is interested in joining such a group, please contact Mike Sumner on the e-mail address Bookman333@aol.com

I am looking for a readers group to join in the Berkhamsted area. If anyone is a member of one or knows of one please contact Becky St.John at adrian_becky@lineone.net

I am interested in joining a 'local' readers group, in the Bromley area. Karen  david.woosnam@virgin.net

Would love to join a reading group, preferably all female.Is there any such group either online, or in the Essex area? I live in Clacton on Sea. Please do contact me.
juliemarkham@hotmail.com

I would be interested in joining a reading group in Basildon, Essex. Weekends would be a good time for me or failing that most evenings. many thanks
Gill Edwards  mike.edwards@swatchway.fsnet.co.uk

South West

WANTED!  a book group in/around Steyning/Shoreham, West Sussex.  I have recently moved to Steyning and I am looking for an all-female group, mixed age range would be great but I guess mature readers as I am 60.  Left to myself I read modern fiction and generally like quite challenging, thought-provoking books, but I am a lazy reader and need a book group to make me read other stuff, classics, biographies, anything to widen my knowledge!  Please email me at hildegarden@googlemail.com  Hilde Morris (posted May 2008)

Hi! I'm looking for a reading group to join in or around the area of Trowbridge,west wiltshire. If there any Reading Groups in the area that meet during the day or evenings please email me at chriskay6@btinternet.com  (Posted March 2008)

Brighton and Hove Reading Group: I have been running a Brighton and Hove reading group for about three years.  It's always been popular, but as members come and go as their life circumstances change, we're always ready to welcome new members. There are equal numbers of men and women, and a good range of ages, so don't be shy - indulge your love of reading and meet some like-minded people.

We read a good mixture of books - classic fiction, contemporary fiction, and the occasional memoir, travel book or play. We meet once a month in a pub (whoever chooses the book chooses the pub, so we get to visit a good variety of drinking places). It's a lively and informal group. If you'd like to join, please contact Nick at Brightonreading at yahoo dot co dot uk. (Posted March 2008)

Chippenham Reading Group (Posted February 2008)

If you enjoy reading and talking about books then come along to our readers group.  The group meets at the Jubilee Building on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7.45pm.  Books can be collected from the library prior to the meeting.  For further details, contact Kathryn Preston on 01249 650536 or email kathrynpreston@wiltshire.gov.uk  

Corsham Readers' Group (Posted February 2008)
 
If you enjoy reading and talking about books then come along to our readers group.  The group meets at members homes on the 1st Thursday of the month 7.30pm.  Books can be collected from the library prior to the meeting.  For further details, contact Kathryn Preston on 01249 713159 or email kathrynpreston@wiltshire.gov.uk

I am looking to join a reading group; any offers, please can you contact me on lucy2hartfield@hotmail.com Many Thanks, Lucy Hartfield

I'm looking for a book club in Somerset, within a reasonable driving distance of Bridgwater – or how about joining me in starting a group? amanda@godden.blues.wanadoo.co.uk

Reading group welcomes new readers. Meetings in the Cricklade area at the Blackthorn Centre, near Swindon, once a month on Friday mornings. Mostly novels, classic and contemporary, but always open to new ideas.  For further info contact borrill@tinyonline.co.uk

Nailsea Library:  Somerset Square, Nailsea, Bristol BS48 1RQ - Meets first Thursday of every month - Reads mainly fiction, also nonfiction and classics: Contact: Caroline Poole 012 7585 4583

Winterbourne Library - Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne, Bristol BS36 1LA:  Meets one Tuesday each month  Contact: Ms. Wellman 014 5477 8849
 
Westbury Library - Falcondale Road, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3JZ: Meets last Thurs of each month, 2.30 - 4pm  Contact: 0117 9038552  westbury_library@bristol-city.gov.uk

Bishopsworth Library: Bishopsworth Road, Bishopsworth, Bristol BS13 7LN:  Meets last Monday of each month, 6:00pm, Contact: 0117 9038566  bishopsworth_library@bristol-city.gov.uk

Sea Mills Reading Group - Sylvan Way, Sea Mills, Bristol BS9 2LA:  Meets 2nd Monday of each month, 10.30-11.30am, Contact:  0117 9038555
seamills_library@bristol-city.gov.uk

Bank House Reading Group

The Bank House Reading Group meets monthly in Stafford. Contact Paul paul.brett@talk21.com

I would be interested to hear of a Readers Group in Bristol or Bath. As I work full time I would only be able to attend meetings in the evening.
Evelyn.  evelynanders@hotmail.com

Does anyone know of any reading groups in the Reading/Henley area? Amy.Sexon@sybase.com

Reading group in Oxford looking for new members.  We cover contemporary fiction and non-fiction, one title each month. Mixture of female and male writers, translated works, colonial literature, etc.  Contact Nicola Weideling:  nicola.weideling@repp.co.uk

I am looking for a readers group in Southampton or possibly helping to start one. isabel.lewzey@tcp.co.uk

Devizes Library Readers Group
Meet 2nd Monday of the month 7.30pm at:
Devizes Library
Sheep Street
Devizes
Wiltshire SN10 1DL
Contact: Wendy Beaver 01380 726878
wendybeaver@wiltshire.gov.uk

I am looking for a reading group in the Maidenhead ,Beaconsfield or High Wycombe area. Please get in touch if you are looking for new members. Karen at trevor_quantrill@msn.com

Do you like talking about the books you have read and the authors you have tried? Would you like to learn more by sharing your enjoyment with other people? Perhaps you would like to widen the scope of your reading? Then you might like to join the Droitwich Readers Group.

There is no membership fee. Just come along to the meetings when you want to. Be prepared to read the book choice beforehand and to talk about it informally with others. Some copies of the books will be available from the library.

We meet in the library at 7.15pm promptly, one Tuesday a month. Other meetings or events may be arranged during the year.
For further information, contact:

The Librarian
Droitwich Spa Library
Victoria Square
Droitwich Spa
WR9 8DQ
Tel: (01905) 773292 or 779970
Fax: (01905) 797401
Email :- DroitwichLib@worcestershire.gov.uk

Midlands

Bearwood Book Group

We're an informal and relaxed readers' group who meet every six weeks in our homes around Bearwood in the West Midlands.  We've read mostly modern British fiction in the six or so months we've been established.  New members welcome: for further details contact Dan on dancarins@phonecoop.coop  (posted March 2008)

'I am looking to join a reading group in Carterton, Oxfordshire, or am looking for people to help set one up. If you can help, or you're interested in starting a group email me christopher.wogan@oup.com

Wolverhampton City Libraries - LGBT Reading Group (posted October 2007)

A friendly reading group (open to everyone regardless of orientation) that will be looking at both fiction and non-fiction usually with an LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi and trans) theme. All books loaned by the library, free of charge. Suggestions welcome!

Venue: The Greyhound Public House
Location: 14 Bond Street, Wolverhampton
Date/s: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month: 2007 = 21st Nov / 19th Dec 2008 = 16th Jan / 20th Feb / 19th Mar etc
Time/s: 7pm - 8pm
Phone: 01902 552025 (Jayne Fellows or Rebecca Graham)
Facilities: On site catering, toilets, disabled access, parking and smoking area.

We are a Reading Group based at Ilkeston Library in the centre of Ilkeston, Derbyshire.  We meet every third Thursday in the month from 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm.  There are approximately 15 of us, mostly female but currently with one male.  Our reading choice varies and we chose our books from the Derbyshire BookChat list, or amongst ourselves, or chosing themed days.  We also have speakers and social events, recently including a visit to D H Lawrence's house.  For more information contact toriaoxley@hotmail.com

I'm new to Worcester and looking to either join an existing group or start a new (possibly pub-based!) one in the Worcester area.  If anyone knows of any or is interested in helping me start one up, please contact me.  susiedotcom@googlemail.com  (posted June 2007)

Birmingham Book Group
 
We are a friendly book group who meet once a month (usually the last Thursday of the month) in a city centre pub. We try to pick a different pub each month and members take it in turns to chose books leading to a varied selection. Its relaxed and informal....contact jade_quarrell@yahoo.co.uk (Posted May 2007)

I'd like to start or join a reading group in the Ledbury area. I'd like the books to be wide-ranging to help me get out of my reading rut; I'd like the group to be a good excuse to get together for a gossip and a glass of wine.  For more information and contact details, visit www.everyword.co.uk/readinggroup.htm  (Posted April 2007)

Hello! I am looking for a reading group in the Milton Keynes area. The subjects I'm interested in are: literature, history and philosophy. Some of my favorites authors are Tolstoy and Eca de Queiros (Portuguese writer).  I can be contacted on my e-mail address shaylabittencourt@yahoo.com.br
 
I am looking to join a reading group preferably in the Birmingham area (but maybe West Midlands) which meets evenings or weekends. Any suggestions most welcome, regards Berni. Please contact Bernimurray@yahoo.com

The Melton Bookshop Bookworms
have 14 members - led by Stephanie (former book shop assistant/ ex-LSA and present English GTP). We have two male members and the rest are female. We are aged from twenty to retirement and range from Teachers to Newspaper editor to house wife. We have grown too big for the Bookshop, though still meet there sometimes, on the first Thursday of every month - 7.30 until 9.15/9.30. We often meet at one of the members houses nearby which can accommodate us all.We are located in Melton Mowbary, L eicestershire. Contact details are either through the Melton Bookshop, on Leicester Street, where we meet sometimes and buy our books at 15% discount for the reading group's monthly choice - 01664 567769 (Julian Duxbury) or by my mobile or email, as Book Group leader (Stephanie Eldridge - jonnyandsteph@aol.com or 07910 643 319).

Halton Libraries Reading Groups
There are reading groups at Halton Lea Library, Widnes Library and Runcorn Library. They are free and everyone is welcome, plus a new Classics Reading Group. Our groups consists of both men and women of various ages and new faces and opinions are always welcomed. We aim to make sure everyone gets to have their say even if they didn't manage to read the entire book. Occasionally we have Reading Group nights focusing on a particular event such as the Orange and Booker Prizes, or a Christmas evening (a speciality for the quiz goers!)

Halton Lea Library
First Thursday of the month 5.45 - 7pm
Third Wednesday of the month 1 - 2pm

Widnes Library
2nd Tuesday of the month - 5.45pm - 7pm
Last Monday of the month - 6 - 7pm

Poetry Reading Group - 2nd Thursday of the month 7-8pm
Classics Reading Group - 3rd Wednesday of the month

Runcorn Library
Last Tuesday of the month - 10.30 am - 11.30am

For more information contact janette.fleming@halton.gov.uk

Cleethorpes readers' group - We have 20+ members, all female, age range from late twenties to eighty years. This year was our seventh birthday. We look forward to hearing from you. Contact Joyce Walker joyce.walker@ntlworld.com.

I am looking for a reader's club, or those interested in starting one, in the North Cotswolds area, around Evesham, Chipping Campden, Broadway area, down to Cheltenham. All those who work or want to meet new people in the evening, please get in touch, at larahoffman@hotmail.com.

Our reading group at Coventry Central Library meet up roughly the last Thursday of every month. Members vary from 45 and over but anybody is welcome to come along. We read all types of fiction, mostly contemporary works and titles from award lists. We supply the books and regular monthly newsletter. Meetings are informal so just come along to the next meeting, no need to book. Refreshments are provided.   For more details contact Dave Haywood or June Edwards on 02476 832314 or drop into the library: Coventry Central Library
Smithford Way, Coventry, CV1 1FY (posted January 2005).

I would like to join a book reading group in the Birmingham area that meets in the evening, as I am at work during the day.dave_pettit@talk21.com (November 2003)

Is anyone interested in setting up a reading group in the West Midlands, specifcally in or around the Stourbridge area? Or is there an existing group nearby?
Please email me at swann_angie@hotmail.com

I am the co-ordinator of Waterstone's Nottingham Contemporary Fiction Reading Group.
If you fancy joining us, we meet in Waterstone's coffee shop twice a month and would love to get new members (especially men!)
Please call:
Susan Butterworth
Waterstone's
1/5 Bridlesmith Gate
Nottingham
NG1 2GR
0115 9484499
tobysnake@btinternet.com

Sheldon Readers Group meets every other Friday from 2.00 to 3.30 p.m. at the Sheldon Library to discuss fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children?s books. Contact the library on 0121 464 3512 or sheldon.library@birmingham.gov.uk for more information.

Weoley Castle Readers? Circle meets on the last Friday of every month (except during a summer gap) to discuss books based around a monthly theme. For more information contact Jayne Wallace or Wendy Hadley at Weoley Castle Library on 0121 464 1664.

We are a small friendly, informal group who meet once a month (roughly) in a pub in the Northamptonshire village of Boughton. We have only recently begun (April, 2002), and the books that we have read to date are 'The Wasp Factory', and 'The Poisonwood Bible'. The book that we are reading for our next meeting on June 23rd is 'Perfume' by Patrick Suskind.
We are happy to welcome new members.  If you would like any more information, please get in touch with me, Simon May, by e-mail at simon.may@rathlin.net
Thank you, Simon May  www.rathlin.net

I live in a village on the South Nottinghamshire / Leicestershire border and would like to join an existing reading group in an attempt to re-kindle my lost love of books and to discover new authors to read.  An informal and friendly group would probably suit me best. Please contact me at gingersmudge@aol.com if you think I might suit your group.  (PS - I am the Smudge part, and my husband is the Ginger part, although he prefers Strawberry Blonde!)

I'd like to set up a new readers group in Blackpool Lancashire, preferably meeting up in pubs and having a relaxed chat about books, and things. I'd imagine we'd read a variety of books, from new release - because they've won prizes or caused controversy or just sound interesting - or perhaps older books that we realized we should have reader but haven't got around to yet.  I'm male and in my late 20s - so not your typical bookgroup member - everyone welcome! Drop me an email if you're interested at blackpoolbookgroup@yahoo.co.uk (Posted September 2007)


I am interested in any groups in the Manchester, especially South Manchester area that focus on fantasy and some sci-fi.  None of my friends share the same kind of passion for fantasy books so I am feeling in desperate need to talk to others in the 'fantasy community.' lorien.perry@virgin.net (posted August 2007)

Are you interested in joining a bookgroup in Manchester City centre? We are a small, mixed group of readers who meet on the first Wednesday of each month in a bar in town. We take it in turns to chose books and read a wide range of different things. Its quite an informal thing and it would be great to welcome a few fellow book lovers. If you are interested then get in touch - lindsaybainbridge@hotmail.com

We have been established for 12 years and meet once a month on a Monday evening in Gteater Manchester.  We never have more than 12 members at any one time but sometimes members relocate and we have room for another member.  We are all professional women, some of us retired, and we are opinionated and argumentative.    Would you like to join us?  susan@cssystems.net

We are a small, friendly group who meet on the first Thursday of every month, 6pm at Boskoops, Old Eldon Square, Newcastle upon Tyne. More information from smithtl@hotmail.co.uk

Hi,  I'm starting a new reader's group in Didsbury in Manchester. I plan to hold our first meeting in the Didsbury (a pub) on Weds 17th January. We'll decide what book to read and how often we'll meet.  Please could anyone who wants to come contact me on http://community.livejournal.com/didsbury_books/ so I can get an idea of numbers.  Thanks.  Kate Tomlinson

Hi
I'm looking for approx 10 people  who want to join a  reading group (not too serious) in the Wilmslow/ Stockport area. The plan is to meet once a month in different pub /  restaraunt to discuss a different book over food. The book and choice of venue will be rotated each month between the members of group. If you are interested, drop me a few lines about yourself at KayCallaghan@aol.com  

We are a group in South Manchester and we meet on the last Wednesday of the month in The Red Lion pub in Withington. We've recently read things including: The History of Mr Polly (HG Wells), Casanova (Andrew Miller), Casino Royale (Ian Fleming), The Time Traveller's Wife (Audrey Niffenegger)... We tend to take turns in choosing. The next two books are going to be Prozac Nation (Wurtzel) for the end of September and The Black Book (Pamuk) for the end of October(2006).There are about 5 of us meeting on a regular basis, though there are more people who come and go a bit less often! We range in profession and age; some married, some single... We're friendly and lively, and like to meet up outside of the books if we can find time. If we sound like your cup of tea, do get in touch! Contact Beth at bethlangton@aol.com

I would like to join a book club in the Macclesfield area. If one does not exist then I am willing to set one up. Is anyone else interested? Email Helen Dawson helen@mattison36.freeserve.co.uk

I'm interested in joining a book club or Reading group in Central Manchester(I live in Chorlton). Does anyone know of one? Is there one in South Manchester that I could join? Email Pavla at Pavlagin@msn.com

Are you 35-55, female and do you enjoy reading? I live in Lancaster and would really like to start up a reading group for like-minded women. If you are interested in joining please email me at libby_osborn@lycos.co.uk

I'd love to join - or help set up - a reading group in Harrogate. Anyone else? Contact Alison - communications@bradford.anglican.org

Failsworth Library Readers Group.

This is a small group of about ten people that meets at Failsworth Library, Main Street,Failsworth Manchester M35 9PD on the first Wednesday of the month. There are only two men and eight women in the group age ranging from 30 to 70, coming from a variety of different backgrounds. Group prefers award-winning books. Books selected from a number of titles identified by each group member.
Email Ainsley Williams or call 0161 681 2405

Would anyone be interested in starting a reading group in the Chester area?
I would suggest an informal relaxed meeting say once a month for Sunday brunch or an evening in a pub. All suggestions and interest welcome.  If you are interested, please e-mail me at sarah_ca_hall@hotmail.com

I am a member of a Reading Group based in Orton, near Tebay in Cumbria.  We meet each month and cover a range of mainly fiction titles, sometimes using sets of books from Cumbria Library Services, sometimes begging, borrowing and buying copies.  Recent reads have included Dr Thorne by Anthony Trollope, The Kite Runner, White Mughals and If no one speaks of remarkable things.  Any new members would be welcome - contact sally@stoneleighcomms.co.uk.

I have started to negotiate with Alfreton, Derbyshire Public Library to set up a reading group.  If anyone is interested please e-mail me at ckenyon05@aol.com.  I propose that this group would incorporate a wide range of reading including Poetry.  choices will be made by the members with help from the Librarians and the lists published by Penguin newsletter, etc.
The aim is to enjoy and read other things than we would normally read.  If there are enough of us perhaps we could get speakers.  Honest opinions with tea and biscuits.
come on....Chris Kenyon.

Graphic Novel Readers Group
 
Every other Saturday 1pm - 2:30pm in either Blackburn Central Library or Darwen Library.
Come along and join us, everyone is welcome. For more information contact Angela Robinson on 01254 587 244 or e-mail angela.robinson@blackburn.gov.uk (June 2005)
 

My name is Maureen and our reading group is in Berwick upon Tweed, Northumberland and is now almost 10 years old.  We meet monthly and over the years have reviewed around 120 books.  The readers group is an offshoot of  the Creative Writing  Classes and Distant Learning courses where students gain credits and a certificate in  various genres of creative writing. Details e-mail  mavismaureen@aol.com  (January 2005)


I  would like to join, or set up, a reading group in Leeds - either in city centre (eg. in Borders) or north Leeds. If anyone is interested in joining (or helping!) please contact me: Sam Holland mizkittyuk@hotmail.com (January 2005)

Name: Liverpool Central Library Reading Group
Have read Cold Mountain, Plainsong, To Kill a Mockingbird and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. Everyone interested is welcome
Meets: Group meets once a month on the first Tuesday of the month, 6.00pm to 7.30pm approx. in the Conference Room on Floor 2 of the Central Library. Next meeting is March 2nd.
Address: Liverpool Central Library,William Brown Street,Liverpool, L3 8EW
Call/email: Mike Taylor: 0151 233 5829/31 michael.taylor@liverpool.gov.uk or Bill Renshaw: 0151 233 5858/59 william.renshaw@liverpool.gov.uk

A new readers group will be starting at Walkden Library on Thursday 11 September at 2 p.m. For the first meeting bring along a Big Read- your all time favourite fiction book and for the second meeting on 9 October the group will be reading Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier. From then on, the group will decide what it will read. For more information contact Chris or Hannah at Walkden Library on  0161 790 4579.

We are an evenly mixed group that caters for all ages and tastes that meets monthly on Monday evenings in Drury Lane library in Wakefield. Call Julie Walker or Pam Yates at the library on 01924 305 376 for more information.

I live in the Saddleworth area of Manchester and wish to know whether there are any reading circles in the area or based in the city of Manchester.
JohnR.Walley@ukgateway.net

I have recently moved to the Harrogate North Yorkshire area and am interested in joining a Reading group.
Do you know of any groups in this area?Heather Heather@hjlofthouse.fsnet.co.uk

I've just moved to Bradford WYorks and am interested in joining a reading group locally.alyson.rhodes@ntlworld.com

I would like to join a readers group in the Stockport area. trishajameshome@aol.com

Does anyone know of any Readers groups in South Manchester?
Barbara Safer  barbarashafer44@hotmail.com

We are a friendly group meeting on the first Tuesday of every month at Redhill library. Membership is free. Come along to a meeting or contact Rhoswen Cowell for further details. rhoswencowell@hotmail.com

I am moving to South Manchester this summer and I wish to join a readers group. Does anyone know of any in this area? If so, or if you are planning on starting a group, please contact me.
catherinesarsfield@hotmail.com



North East

I am looking for a reading group in Scarborough. If you know of one with room for a new member (female, mid-50s) or would like to help set up a new one, contact me at maureen@peaksoft.co.uk (June 2008).

I'm planning to start a reading group to meet monthly in pubs/cafes in Durham city centre. I'm trying to set up something for younger people (interest so far has been from people in their twenties), who can't easily get to other groups because of when they are timed. Currently thinking of meeting on a weekday evening or a Saturday afternoon. Books to be decided by members - not genre-specific. For more information e-mail sam.d@btinternet.com. (Posted February 2008)

Liverpool Book Group - We are a large group who meet one Wednesday night every month. We mostly read fiction. We've been running for almost two years now and are always open to new members, email me for the next meeting date at vicwhyte@gmail.com

Leeds Reading Group - we meet the first Wednesday of each month in Central Leeds. If you're interested in learning more about the group, please email: leedsbookgroup@fsmail.net (posted: January 2007).

Hi, I'm trying to find a readers' group in Sheffield. If anyone can help me, please email Emma at emmiejo79@yahoo.co.uk. Thanks.

The Journal newspaper's Culture Club runs a book group in Newcastle, usually held on the 1st weds of each month at 6pm.  For more information contact rachel.suddart@ncjmedia.co.uk

Hi, I'm looking to start a group in Leeds, meeting once a month somewhere central, probably Starbucks or similar. All types of books and people welcome! Contact me: aime.tolson@ntlworld.com

New Leeds Reading Group1st monday of the month at my book shop or brasserie opposite. Discounts for members, and a chance to win a book each month. Books to be chosen at 1st meeting. If interested email me at the following:
thethumbedpage@tiscali.co.uk.

Hi my name's Nicole and I'm looking to join a book club in the Harrogate area OR start my own with some willing helpers! If you're interested please contact me:  nicolemountain@hotmail.com  (March 2005)

I'm interested in starting a sociable twenties/thirties reading group in the Barnsley/Sheffield, South Yorkshire area.  Books will be chosen democratically by members and discussed over beer at a local pub on monthly basis. If anyone is interested, please email me, Jonathan at:  jrussell@jrussell-adsl.demon.co.uk or call me on 07801 748936 (Posted 20 December 2004)

The Birtley Library Readers Group meets on the first Thursday of the month at 10.30 a.m. For more information contact Chris Myhill on 0191 433 6101.

The Low Fell Library Readers Group meets on the last Thursday of the month at 2.00 p.m. For more information contact Chris Myhill on 0191 487 9360.

Peter Camm holds a readers? group at the Sunderland City Library and Arts Centre on the first Monday of each month (barring August and bank holidays). For more information call the Library Enquiries Desk on 0191 514 8435.

Newton Hall Library
Alnwick Road
Newton Hall
Durham
DH1 5NL
Tel: 0191 386 7695
Email: Terry Hall/Cultural Services/DCC@DCC
Miss Hall runs two monthly reading groups at Newton Hall, on the second Thursday of the month at 2pm, and the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm.  Both groups tackle a wide range of material from Orange and Booker Prize-winners to biography, Philip Pullman and science fiction novels, and all members are encouraged to help choose the next book!

Does anyone know of an existing readers group in the North East of England (near Newcastle, preferably)? Would anyone be interested in helping to set one up?
Elaine Darlington Brown
elaine.darlington.brown@environment-agency.gov.uk

Denton Burn library in Newcastle is running a monthly readers group on Monday afternoons. The books are varied, including horror, family sagas, sci-fi and classics. Contact Denton Burn library on 0191 274 2906 for more information.

Scotland

There are two reading groups at McDonald Road Library in Edinburgh. Me