Book Clubs and Other Events for Readers in New York City

So, you've finally finished the last chapter of your new book and you need to vent. Why not find a book club in New York City to do just that? SecretNYC tells about the best reading clubs and events for literary fans in the city.

1. Hush Hour at Lofty Pigeon Books

• Where: 743 Church Ave, Brooklyn.

Lofty Pigeon Books in Brooklyn is reimagining the way we discuss the books we’ve read. Every second Wednesday of the month from 18:30 to 20 p.m., the store invites guests to bring their latest book or buy one on the spot for 00% off — and read in silence. Can you imagine?!

After about half an hour, visitors are invited to chat, grab a bite to eat, and share what they like about the new book. Be prepared for lots of inspiration.

2. McNally Jackson Book Clubs

• Where: various places.

McNally Jackson With five locations across the city, the book club provides ample opportunities for book fans to gather together to discuss new (or not-so-new) reads. Topics run the gamut from new releases to more niche interests. For example, on April 16, Downtown Brooklyn will host the Broken Dishes Book Club with Swati. The group will dive into Virginia Fieto’s lively gothic tale, Victorian Psycho.

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By booking a spot at any of the events, you can use your $5 store coupon to purchase a book of your choice.

3. The Ripped Bodice Book Clubs

• Where: 218 Fifth Ave, Brooklyn.

Ripped Body – a women’s bookstore focused on romance novels. Whether you’re into historical romances a la Bridgerton or can’t resist the lure of juicy romance, this charming little shop is sure to become your go-to. Its three book clubs have different sub-genres: Happily Everyone After focuses on current bestsellers; Queer Lit Book Club celebrates LGBTQ+ writers; and Quest for Love: Fantasy & Paranormal Romance Book Club will transport you to another world you won’t want to leave.

4. Book Club Bar

• Where: 197 E 3rd Street.

Book Club Bar caters to everyone's interests and offers a cocktail menu to choose from. Experts especially love the East Village hotspot's events, like creative writing workshops and author talks. What really stole the hearts of attendees was its singles event, Bored of Dating Apps, where you can let your love of literature guide you through the romance department (and beyond).

5. Book Club Bar

• Where: various places.

The New York Public Library, with branches all over the city, offers readers plenty of opportunities to participate in book chat. With reading groups dedicated to classics, celebrity memoirs, fiction bestsellers and not only, the choice is huge. Visit Page NYPL events to find out what's happening in your area.

6. The center for fiction

• Where: 15 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn.

From book clubs to author meet-ups, Center for Fiction offers a wide menu for literature lovers. But instead of one-off events, Center for Fiction hosts multi-part classes, group workshops, and other ways to connect with book fans in your chosen genre.

7. Astoria Bookshop's Hidden Gems Book Club

• Where: 36-19 30th St, Queens.

Tracking down a bestseller is easy. But what about lesser-known stories that are exciting and have a gripping plot? Astoria Bookshop will help you find them. Once a month, book dealer Alex hosts a group discussion of those great books that might have escaped your attention.

8. The Lit Bar

• Where: 131 Alexander Ave.

Noelle Santos couldn't stand the thought of the Bronx being without a bookstore after Barnes & Noble closed in 2016. Taking matters into her own hands, she opened The Lit Bar.

The area's only independent bookstore (and wine bar) caters to a diverse audience. The renowned venue "encourages curious readers and welcomes literary and social gatherings."