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Homegrown Book Club
How to Build a Homegrown Book Club With Your Kids đź“š
Not sure how to connect with your child? Feeling like conversations are shorter and screens are louder?
Here’s a simple, powerful strategy: Start a family book club.
It doesn’t require a membership, a library card (though that helps!), or a formal meeting schedule. Just you, your child, a good book — and a little intentional time together.
Why a Family Book Club Works
- Creates built-in conversation starters
- Encourages deeper thinking
- Builds routine connection time
- Shows your child you value what they value
Instead of just telling your child to read, read alongside them. Each of you gets your own copy of the same book. Set small daily goals — maybe 10–20 pages per day — and discuss what you’re reading at dinner, in the car, or before bed.
Even a quick “What did you think of that chapter?” can open doors.
How To Start
- Choose the book together. Ownership increases excitement.
- Set a simple goal. One chapter per night works great.
- Schedule discussion time. Dinner works perfectly for sneak-peek conversations.
- Celebrate finishing. Ice cream, movie night, or picking the next book.
Book Ideas to Try
For Ages 5 – 12
A Town’s Not-So-Perfect Perfect Christmas Tree
A heartwarming father-and-son story that’s perfect for reading aloud and discussing together.
For Teens
SKYDROP: The App That Dares You to Follow
A suspenseful, tech-driven thriller that sparks conversation about choices, risk, and consequences.
Moral Demise: A Thrilling Genetic Mystery
A gripping story filled with tension and real-world themes — ideal for meaningful parent-teen discussions.
Make It About Connection — Not Completion
This isn’t about speed. It’s about shared experience.
Ask questions like:
- “Who do you trust in the story?”
- “What would you have done differently?”
- “What do you think will happen next?”
When you read the same story, you step into the same world. That world becomes common ground — and common ground builds connection.
Final Thought
If you're wondering how to connect with your child, start simple.
Read together. Grow together. Talk more.
And watch what happens.
All Dads. All In. Always On Deck.
Final Tip
Start with a short book if you’re new to this! That quick win and discussion spark really encourages kids and teens to keep going — and before you know it, reading becomes one of your favorite shared traditions. 
Check out Moral Demise – A great first read with only 70 pages. See the link above.
