Celebrity book clubs are nothing new—Oprah's book club has been around for years, and more recently, Reese Witherspoon's book club has launched quite a few bestsellers. But neither Oprah nor any other celebrity can bring quite the same value to a book club that an author like Alice Hoffman can.
Most book lovers dream of discussing their favorite works with the authors who wrote them—and Alice Hoffman's new book club is letting readers do just that. Each month, Alice is choosing one of her own works, then hosting a Facebook Live Q&A to discuss the book with her fans.
For her first book club pick, Alice chose The Red Garden. If you missed it, you can watch the Facebook Live Q&A here. Her March pick will be Faithful.
Below, read a quick interview with Alice Hoffman about her book club, what she's been up to during quarantine, and why she enjoys adding magic to her writing.
What made you decide to start a book club?
I love book clubs and I think it’s so wonderful when people get together to share the books they love. I thought it would be fun to have a book club with my readers and be able to discuss their questions.
Why did you choose The Red Garden for your first book club selection?
The Red Garden is a favorite for many of my readers and for me. I love novels and linked short stories and this book holds a special place in my heart.
What are some of the ways you’ve filled your time during quarantine?
I’ve spent almost all of my time working on a new novel and taking the time to read. I’ve also been spending a lot of time with my dog Shelby.
You’re known for incorporating magical realism into your works—what draws you to that genre?
I started reading fairy tales when I was very young and that left a huge impact on my reading and writing life. I always want to read magic because magic opens the world.
What is the last book you read that you want to tell the world about?
I loved The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. I believe it’s the book that everyone is reading. It’s a novel that can give us hope.
Keep Reading: 13 Women's Book Club Books to Get Everyone Talking
Feature photo courtesy of Alice Hoffman / Photo credit Alyssa Peek
