Here are some questions group organizers might have.
Who should read together?
Reading groups are great for:
- Schools where bullying is a concern or where parents want to learn togetehr
- Church groups in communities that want to change violence dynamics
- Family groups that want to change dynamics
- Work groups in organizations that focus on children’s needs (Professional Development)
- Community groups, whether a small group of neighbors or a community organization that wants to create positive change.
- Recovery groups made up of individuals who need to turn their lives around.
How do I organize a group?
Choose a date to pass out books. Put up flyers and use social media to get sign-ups. Based on interest, request books to pass out during the event. At or before the event, choose one or two “reader leaders” to manage the reading project using our Discussion Guide [coming soon].
How big should our group be?
- Intimate—the minimum number of copies you can requst is 6. This is the perfect size for a close group of family or friends, or a ‘core group’ in a larger organization
- Friendly—a group of about 30 is also ideal. A group this size can begin and end a meeting together, breaking into smaller groups for more intimate discussion.
- Big Read – YES, you can even request copies for your whole school! When ordering large quantities of books, we will work with you to structure discussions and gatherings in the way that best suits your community.
How often should we meet?
20 meetings
The greatest work can be done in 20 meetings—a semester of 1-hour classes that discusses a chapter each week. Our ongoing Zorgos Core Group at Oakland Parents Together runs twice a year.
FOR EXAMPLE:
- parents can meet over a semester while kids are in an after-school class
- meet before or after church
- weekly evening or after-school meetings at the school
- online check-ins.
Join us for our ongoing reading group at Oakland Parents Together, Tuesday mornings at 10. Start at any chapter… read it and drop in!
5 meetings
Meeting monthly over the same period of time (one semester/5 months), readers can talk for 2 hours about a cluster of chapters.
3 meetings
The book is divided into 3 parts. Meet three times to discuss each part, and set up ongoing support groups to share positive parenting resources.
1 meeting
Ongoing book groups of engaged readers usually hold one meeting to discuss a book…. that’s okay, too!
The Zorgos Reader 