Love books and reading? Of course you do. National Book Month is back this October. Here are some ways of celebrating your favorite reads.
It’s finally time again – time to celebrate our love for books.
Every October, National Book Month returns to the US to celebrate reading, literacy, and a shared love for books. Created by the National Book Foundation in 2003, this month-long event encourages readers to discover new authors, show love for old favorites, and generally participate in book fairs and reading activities across the country — indeed a celebration of all things books!
Whether you’re in the US or elsewhere, National Book Month is a perfect opportunity to celebrate your passion for books in your own way. Let’s explore how you can join in.
1. Pick Up a New Book
It may sound like a no-brainer, but the first thing to do to celebrate National Book Month should be… pick up a new book. Perhaps challenge yourself with something you wouldn’t normally read or try a brand new author.
2. Visit Your Local Library or Bookstore
If your local library or bookstore is celebrating National Book Month, even better! See what events they have lined up for October, and join some author readings, book signings, or other events. If your local reading hotspots don’t have events in October, don’t despair. Show them some love anyway by picking up a new book (or ten) and reading some authors you’ve been wanting to try.
3. Join or Start a Book Club
Personally speaking, I’ve often found book clubs intimidating. I generally want to read what I like and take my time. On the other hand, there’s nothing quite like a bookish friend, and what better place to find those than a book club?
If, like me, you find book clubs a little unnerving at times, try starting your own. Choose a group of people you really want to read with, such as friends, family, or even co-workers, and pick a genre or genres that suits you.
4. Host a Book Swap
Book swaps are a great way to discover new reads without buying more books. They’re also fantastic for swapping favorites and having chats about why you like them so much. There’s nothing quite like introducing a friend to a favorite author to find they love them too. So why not host a book swap at your home, get everyone to bring some wine and cheese and their favorite reads, and enjoy.
5. Read Aloud to Children
This is, of course, easily done if you have kids of your own. However, you can also read to nieces and nephews or volunteer at your local school or nursery. Kids have great imaginations and love getting absorbed in exciting stories. You never know, you might inspire the next generation of young readers. Top tip: Another great place to share your love for reading could be your local care home. Many elderly people struggle with their sight and would love someone to read to them.
6. Attend a Literary Event
Another great way to celebrate National Book Month is to explore local literary events. Many cities host literary festivals, book fairs, and other reading-related events.
Why not see what’s happening near you and go with some friends or family? You may be able to meet some favorite authors or find new and exciting books to love.
7. Support Local Authors
Look up some local authors or writing groups and immerse yourself in their books. There’s nothing quite like discovering a brand new author when they’re still ‘fresh’, and following their career. Supporting authors by buying their work and engaging with them on social media is one of the best ways you can encourage the craft.
8. Try Your Hand at Writing Something
Lover of books and reading? Why don’t you use this National Book Month to write something yourself? NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) is technically in November, but you could do a practice round in October and see where you land. Who knows, perhaps you’re the next big writer you’re looking for.
9. Write a Book Review
Another great way to support authors you love is by sharing that love. What do I mean by that? Write some reviews online and share your praises on social media.
Writing books can feel like fairly thankless work in the beginning. Unless you’re already a famous author or a publisher commissions you to work for them, your earnings won’t be huge at all. Having people share your work and tell others all about why they should read it is the best boost for authors. You may just help them make a career out of writing and create more books you love.
10. Share Your Favorite Books
You may already be shouting about your favorite reads to anyone willing to listen. Regardless, make it your mission to talk even more about your most-loved books this October. A book you’ve devoured and enjoyed may well be a life-changer for the next person, too. Whatever you do, this National Book Month, make sure you spend lots of time talking about books, reading books, and loving books. Easy, right?
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Odessa
Julia Gallacher
Julia Gallacher is a creative copywriter and maker of literary art prints. She owns and runs Highland Fables (@highlandfables), a one-mum-show where she enjoys reading, writing, and creating while looking after her family in rural Scotland. Julia is a massive book lover with a passion for both reading and writing fiction. Her debut novel The Tree of Nine Worlds has gained some popularity online. She loves to read classics by the likes of L.M. Montgomery. Anything featuring literature and gardens is generally her jam - suggestions are always welcome and may be rewarded with homemade bread!
