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There was a kind of emptiness inside of me, a sort of void that seemed to linger, all until things took a turn and I was introduced to book clubs in Dubai. Actually, three book clubs to be exact; all in the same year in 2019. Each book club has its unique flavor and essence yet they all share similar aspects.
Let me give a glimpse into each book club initiative that I got acquainted with;
First is “Maqha al Rawihat”. This group is made up of Arabic ladies, with the majority coming from Palestine and Jordan. All ladies come from different fields which add interest and variety to the group. Our meetings are biweekly during the morning time, and they take place in Dubai Ladies Club.
Second is “Istirahat Sayyidat”. It is another combination of Arabic ladies, yet the majority is made up of local ladies that add the Emirati hospitality and authentic flavor to the mix. This book club is one of the initiatives of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation. This group meets weekly, during evening time in the ‘Lounge Dubai Mall’ or ‘Jamal bin Hwaireb Center’.
And last but not least is “Iqraa”. This book group includes men and women. The level of discussion is usually very deep and insightful since the members are highly educated people that include couples, college members, career executives, friends, and new joiners. They gather biweekly in a coffee shop in Marina area in the evenings.
What makes these book clubs special is that although they are filled with diverse people coming from different nationalities, religions, ideas, beliefs, even different social status, academic ranks, and different fields and specializations, and life achievements, yet none of these differences matter when the common goal is the love of books and reading. All those different people come together under one roof of the book clubs. Those beautiful bookworms share a “supreme” purpose; the book, the mind, and the thoughts.
In my opinion some of the main benefits of these book clubs include, expanding one’s horizons. As one gets the opportunity to explore new topics and note different perspectives on different subjects, topics, authors, books, and ideas. It broadens thinking and analytical skills of participants.
Another benefit is sociability. Members have a few hours to spend together in an enjoyable time, not only discussing the selected books but also networking. It is a break from the routine of life and a door opener to other social connections.
Something that I consider another benefit is the chance to discussing “dry” topics such as methodology, history, even some physics or math which at other circumstances might not be so welcomed but with some participants, who might be specialized in such topics, provide the opportunity to explain and simplify such “dry” topics to help make them more comprehendible. It is surely a mental stimulator to new topics and challenges.
Another advantage is improving communication skills. Everybody, including non-readers, for one reason or another, gets a chance to give a mini presentation of the book with his/her impressions and opinions. It is an opportunity for self-expression and for sharing one’s thoughts and passions.
And a favorite outcome is the opportunity to try different genres. It is interesting to explore and be exposed to different topics such as history, classics, biographies, novels, bestsellers, ‘self-help’, drama, etc. It is an opportunity to gain awareness and knowledge in different fields.
Finally, sometimes we agree to disagree on many subjects; we can even get into heated discussions and have the courtesy to stop one another. We speak freely knowing that there won’t be judgment or prejudice. We learn to be good listeners, more tolerant, and learn from each other. At the end of each book club meeting everyone leaves back to their busy lives but with something new in mind and heart.
The three book clubs mentioned above have a yearly schedule, sometimes they coordinate together and offer bigger platforms for discussions and talks, such as Jameel Art Center or Book fairs. They are also active participants in the international Prize for Arabic Fiction (IPAF) that is held in Abu Dhabi since 2008.
If you are interested in any of the above book clubs or would like more information please find them on social media platforms as they always welcome new members and book lovers.
