Council Launches Book Group Compass

The New Zealand Book Council warmly invites you to our AGM on Wednesday 12 April, where popular writers and personalities Kate De Goldi, Fergus Barrowman, Bernadette Hall and chair Maggie Barry are launching an exciting new book group resource called The Book Group Compass.

Exploring the statement that No Two People Read The Same Book, the panel will discuss the relationship between writers and readers, looking at who writers write for, and the expectations that readers have.

Book Council Chief Executive, Karen Ross, says the discussion topic is an ideal launching pad for the Compass.

‘In a way, book groups offer an opportunity to see the world through different eyes, as communities of readers recount where books have taken them and share their personal reading experiences.’

The Compass is New Zealand’s first comprehensive guide offering practical information on everything from how to set up book groups and stimulate literary discussions, through to theme nights and other tactics to keep meetings interesting and engaging.

The Book Council’s AGM is on Wednesday 12 April 2006, at the National Library Auditorium, cnr Molesworth and Aitken Streets.

5.15pm, Annual General Meeting of the New Zealand Book Council
5.45pm–6.15pm, drinks will be served
6.15pm–7.15pm, panel discussion and launch of The Book Group Compass

Book Council members – free
Non-members – $10

For tickets call the New Zealand Book Council 0800 258 255 or email events@bookcouncil.org.nz

News Release

New Zealand Book Council Launches Book Group Compass

The New Zealand Book Council is launching an exciting new resource to help Kiwi book groups navigate their way through reading journeys.

Launched on 12 April, The Book Group Compass is New Zealand’s first comprehensive guide offering practical information on everything from how to set up book groups and stimulate literary discussions, through to theme nights and other tactics to keep meetings interesting and engaging.

Well–known New Zealand writers, including Elizabeth Knox, CK Stead and Fiona Kidman, have written quotes specifically for the Compass, and food writer Lois Daish has contributed a special cake recipe for book group hosts.

Book Council Chief Executive, Karen Ross, says The Book Group Compass was designed to help book groups get the most from their meetings, and will be of benefit to new and existing groups.

‘The popularity of book groups in New Zealand is continuing to rise, but people often feel overwhelmed about where to get started. The Compass brings the best information together from a wide range of sources, and is full of ideas about what to read and things to discuss.’

The Compass is available to Book Council group members and includes quarterly reading discussion notes on New Zealand and international titles. A Book Group membership also offers a subscription to literary news magazine Booknotes, reduced ticket prices to writer events, bookshop and theatre discounts throughout New Zealand, and many other great incentives.

The Book Council has ten $100 group memberships to give away nationwide. To go in the draw, readers should email competitions@bookcouncil.org.nz, or mail the New Zealand Book Council, Level 7, Navigate House, 69 Boulcott Street, Wellington, with their contact details on the back of the envelope.

The draw will be made on 16 May.

ENDS

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