Book Club Exchange: The Algonquin Book Club

A few days ago, I received a fantastic package in the mail from Algonquin -- a new book bag with the logo you see on the left and a great pamphlet called "Book Club Conversations Begin with Algonquin." Since I am a huge fan of Algonquin books and book clubs, I was extremely excited to see that Algonquin is devoting the time and effort to make things easier (and interesting) for book clubs.

Elisabeth Scharlatt, Algonquin's Publisher, states: "We're thrilled to launch the Algonquin Book Club series of events. We currently have five titles on the New York Times bestseller list, and WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is at #1 for the fifth week in a row and has over 4 million copies in print. These successes come from our continually thinking in creative ways. The Algonquin Book Club is yet another example of exploring new avenues to gain attention for our books and authors in an increasingly competitive environment. We look forward to more people discovering our fantastic book titles."

Each year Algonquin will be featuring four Algonquin Book Club selections at literary events held around the country, and they will simultaneously webcast these events on their site. For each event, an Algonquin author will be interviewed by a notable writer. The line-up for 2011 includes:

3/21: Julia Alvarez (IN THE TIME OF THE BUTTERFLIES) interviewed by Edwidge Danticat, author of BROTHER, I'M DYING

4/26: Sara Gruen (WATER FOR ELEPHANTS) interviewed by Kathryn Stockett, author of THE HELP

8/18: Heidi Durrow (THE GIRL WHO FELL FROM THE SKY) interviewed by Terry McMillan, author of GETTING TO HAPPY

10/20: Robert Goolrick (A RELIABLE WIFE) interviewed by Patricia Cornwell, author of PORT MORTUARY

And already scheduled for March 2012: Lauren Grodstein (A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY) interviewed by Stephen King, author of FULL DARK, NO STARS

On March 21 at 7:00pm EST, Algonquin author Julia Alvarez will be interviewed about her beloved classic, IN THE TIME OF THE BUTTERFLIES, by the critically acclaimed author Edwidge Danticat. You can tune in to the live webcast here.

In addition to these awesome events, the Algonquin Book Club is also featuring original essays, author bios, reading group guides, book club tips and idea, and wine and recipe pairings. They will also be giving away autographed copies of the books and tote bags. You can read more about the Algonquin Book Club and how to win here.