.png)
Guest Column: Why Our School Needs a Book Club
- Matthew Munden
- Aug 23
- 2 min read
By Camila Hurtado
Guest Writer
Imagine finishing a book that moved you deeply—only to close the last page and have no one to talk to about it. Many of us have felt this before, and it’s exactly why I believe IDEA Rio Vista College Prep needs a book club. A book club transforms reading, which is often a solitary activity, into a shared experience that builds knowledge, strengthens friendships, and fosters personal growth.
"...each book allows you to live an alternate version of your life based on different choices..."
Humans are naturally social creatures. From our earliest history, people have gathered together to share stories, support one another, and feel a sense of belonging. A book club gives students that same opportunity in a modern setting: the chance to connect through books. Far from simply “reading together,” book clubs encourage open discussion, exchange of ideas, and exploration of new perspectives. This kind of socialization is especially important for teens, as it helps us develop maturity, confidence, and stronger communication skills.
Book clubs also encourage something many teenagers admit they struggle with—reading more often. Reading has countless benefits: it reduces stress, sharpens focus, strengthens memory, expands vocabulary, and builds critical thinking skills. A school book club makes reading approachable by offering a variety of genres and authors so there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you already love books or want to give them a chance, you’ll find a place in the club.
"Humans are naturally social creatures. From our earliest history, people have gathered together to share stories..."
For our first selection, I chose The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. The story explores a magical library where each book allows you to live an alternate version of your life based on different choices. It’s an engaging, easy-to-read novel with short chapters and a relatable protagonist, making it the perfect starting point for our club. Afterward, future book choices will be voted on by all members, ensuring everyone has a voice.
Ultimately, my goal is simple: I want to create a welcoming, fun space for students to share their love of reading. A school book club will not only build community but also show that reading doesn’t have to feel like homework—it can be exciting, eye-opening, and even life-changing. Through this club, I hope we can all discover the joy of exploring new worlds and living countless lives through books.
IDEA Rio Vista's Book Club starts on August 28th. Meeting will be after school in room 161.
