Book Clubs Thrive in Toronto as Young Readers Seek Community

In a surprising turn of events, young readers in Toronto are flocking to book clubs, driven by a desire for connection and community. Molly Dunn, a twenty-five-year-old sales associate at BMV, a local bookstore, initiated this trend by launching a book club in February 2023. Despite a winter storm that left the sidewalks treacherous, the inaugural meeting attracted seventeen attendees, exceeding Dunn’s expectations and signaling the start of a new cultural phenomenon.

Dunn’s enthusiasm set the tone for the gathering, which featured an array of snacks and beverages to create a welcoming atmosphere. Among the attendees were Naufel Ahmed, a twenty-three-year-old who struggled to find English-language book clubs in the Middle East, and Natalia Buia, a thirty-six-year-old avid reader who appreciated the chance to engage with fellow literature enthusiasts. The group’s first discussion centered on Ocean Vuong’s debut novel, *On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous*, reflecting the contemporary preferences of today’s readers.

The rise of young book clubs in Toronto is not an isolated incident. According to the Canadian Leisure and Reading Study, there has been a notable increase in the participation of younger individuals in book clubs over the past few years. Claire Foster, manager of Type Books, remarked that we are currently experiencing a “season of book clubs.” This new wave of gatherings deviates from traditional models, which often conjure images of older women discussing books over wine.

Iman Ahmednur, co-founder of We’re Not Strangers, emphasized the importance of embracing diverse themes in book selections to attract a younger audience. Their club hosts unique events, such as a Galentine’s-themed gathering, and focuses on trending titles popularized through platforms like BookTok. Such innovative approaches are indicative of a broader trend, with many book clubs now adopting niche themes to engage participants.

For instance, the Toronto Silent Book Club invites attendees to read quietly together in cafes, while Queen Books offers a *Growing Pains* club for readers aged fifteen and older who want to explore literature beyond the young adult genre. Wine About Books organizes various gatherings, including a romantasy club and a cookbook club, appealing to a wide range of interests. These clubs provide an antidote to the isolation of online interactions, allowing participants to engage in face-to-face discussions.

The transition to online book clubs began in the 1990s, with Oprah Winfrey’s influential *Oprah’s Book Club* playing a significant role in popularizing such communities. Although online platforms fostered connections among readers, many individuals, like Shizza Khan, are now seeking in-person interactions. Khan, a twenty-seven-year-old who commuted over an hour to attend Dunn’s event, expressed her desire to meet others in Toronto beyond her online book club.

During the inaugural meeting, a common theme emerged: the need for community. Attendees recounted feelings of loneliness in a bustling city, highlighting the importance of social connections. The book club served not only as a forum for literary discussion but also as a way to forge relationships. As Stefania Kuczynski, a master’s student in library and information science, pointed out, the essence of book clubs lies in community building, as participants seek to share their love of literature with others.

The desire for social interaction extends to various forms of gatherings in Toronto, with people joining running groups and other events as potential avenues for dating. When asked if her book club attracted individuals seeking romantic connections, Foster indicated it was not a focus of their group. This sentiment reflects the lingering perception of book clubs as predominantly female spaces. Raheleh Abbasinejad, a facilitator at Queen Books, noted that her events typically see more female attendees, although specific genres can attract a more balanced audience.

Conversely, Aaron Cain, a librarian at the Toronto Public Library, observed that their Dystopia Book Club stands out for its higher male attendance, likely due to the genre’s historical appeal. While Cain’s club is currently on hiatus, it illustrates the diversity of interests that can bring people together.

Throughout this exploration of book clubs in Toronto, it became clear that these gatherings offer more than literary discussions; they provide a sense of belonging. The trend has even reached personal circles, with friends expressing interest in forming their own clubs. One acquaintance, inspired by shared readings of Elena Ferrante, decided to start a group called “The Ferrante Fanatics.” This type of initiative underscores the organic growth of book clubs within social networks, further embedding them into the fabric of community life.

As book clubs continue to flourish in Toronto, they not only serve as platforms for literary exploration but also as vital spaces for fostering friendships and connections. The resurgence of interest in these gatherings reflects a collective yearning for meaningful engagement in an increasingly digital world, demonstrating that, sometimes, the best way to connect is over a good book.