There’s something special about a book that lingers in your heart long after you’ve turned the last page. A really good book doesn’t just tell a story—it opens a world, leaves footprints on your soul, and makes you want to say to the next person you see, “You have to read this.”
That’s exactly what book clubs are about. Not just reading—but sharing. My mom and I have always bonded over books. Some of our best conversations have taken place between chapters, over coffee, or while curled up under blankets with a glass of wine. And every once in a while, a story comes along that feels like it was written just for you.
One of those stories for us was My Oxford Year. That book will stay with me forever. It sparked something deep in me—a longing for England, for the charm of Oxford, for the beautiful ache of growing up and falling in love with a life you never expected. When I found out Netflix was turning it into a movie, I may have squealed out loud. I can’t wait to see it come to life.
Every year, I get to pass on a little bit of literary magic to my students when I read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone aloud. Watching their minds and hearts open to Hogwarts—seeing them fall in love with reading—it’s something I’ll always cherish. There’s nothing like seeing a child discover that books are more than words. They are worlds.
Whether it’s your very first time reading a beloved story or you're reuniting with familiar characters like old friends, reading becomes even more magical when it’s shared.
If you’re part of a book club (or thinking about starting one), we have some beautiful bookish finds at The View Café & Gifts. These cozy pieces are perfect for your next gathering—or as gifts for the literary lovers in your life:
Book Club Cocktail Napkins
Add a witty touch to your wine and reading night with these charming cocktail napkins that say, “What happens at book club stays at book club.” A must-have for your next literary gathering.
Book Club Bookmark
Never lose your place again with this elegant bookmark featuring a vintage-style book club design. It’s the perfect little something for yourself—or each member of your group.
Book Club Embroidered Book Journal
Keep track of your reads, favorite quotes, and book club notes in this beautifully embroidered fabric journal. It’s a book lover’s dream come true—functional and oh-so-pretty.
Wine Charm Set – Book Club
Set the scene for your next book night with these themed wine charms—each one with a different bookish phrase so you’ll never mix up your glass again.
Book Club Pen
Add a touch of literary flair to your writing. This pen is perfect for jotting down notes, journaling, or annotating your current read—and it makes a sweet addition to any book-themed gift.
Canvas Tote – Book Club
This roomy, durable tote is made for hauling books to and from meetings. With its fun book club print, it’s equal parts practical and adorable.
Book Club Canvas Tote Bag (Large)
An oversized option for the reader who always brings just one more book. Sturdy enough for your latest haul and cute enough to carry everywhere.
Coffee & Books Graphic Sweatshirt
Soft, cozy, and bookish to the core. This sweatshirt is perfect for chilly reading days or snuggling into the couch with your favorite characters and a warm cup of coffee.
And if your book club dreams of Aperol Spritzes by the Italian coast (don’t we all?), pour a glass and add a little European flair to your next meeting with:
Mini Market Tote – Aperol Spritz
Bright and cheerful, this mini tote is a pop of Italian sunshine. It’s perfect for gifting, summer outings, or just carrying your essentials in style.
Barware Book Box – “It’s an Aperol Spritz Kind of Day”
Disguised like a book but filled with bar tools, this clever set is perfect for the bookworm who enjoys a cocktail. It's charming, functional, and ready to toast your next chapter.
Feelin’ Spritzy Wine Glass
Raise a glass in this fun and flirty wine glass. The perfect pairing with your current read—or with a beachy playlist and daydreams of Positano.
So here’s to turning pages, sharing stories, and gathering around books with the people you love. Because reading is better when it’s shared—and book clubs are the coziest kind of community.
What are you and your book club reading?
See you between the pages,
Sammi
