About Reader's Corner

Blackwell's Readers' Corner was formed in July 1999 when a number of Blackwell's employees decided that they wanted an opportunity to talk about books as well as to sell them. Meeting once a month in an Oxford pub, it has proved a popular and successful focal point for our members, giving rise to many memorable discussions. The group has expanded to attract members from all over Oxford, and indeed the world, as virtual members have joined, too. We have publishers, charity workers, council workers and members from many other professions, all united by a common interest in modern fiction.

The reading group provides us with the opportunity to find out about new authors, to read the latest book by old favourites, and to read (or re-read) modern classics as well as contemporary novels.

About Reader's Corner continues

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The group is entirely democratic, so anyone can nominate a book for discussion. We then choose the books two months in advance, based on a popular vote by those attending the meeting. The discussion of each book lasts about an hour, but usually extends into a broader discussion of literature in general. Members are encouraged to air their views on those authors we like and dislike, not just the books under discussion, and to learn about the writers other members of the group admire. Ultimately, the group meetings are intended to be fun as well as fulfilling an intellectual desire to talk about books, thus transforming a solitary occupation into a social one.

The group believe that the books we have chosen have opened a window onto the work of many authors new to us, as well as reawakening interest in old favourites. Long may it continue!

For more details about how you can join in with the group, please email Tom Childs at tom_childs@yahoo.com, marking your correspondence 'Readers' Corner'.