Though members may be unable to meet in person, book groups are continuing to thrive during lockdown as people look for an escape from their worries by delving into the world of literature.
One such group is being run by the Haven wellness centre, which is comprised of a group of eager readers in Stonehaven.
Set up just before lockdown restrictions were put in place, participants have decided to make their way through works of fiction and non-fiction which mirror people’s lives at the moment.
Meeting online, they first discussed Walden, a memoir written by American essayist Henry David Thoreau.
The book gives readers a glimpse into the life of the author, detailing his experiences over the course of two years, two months, and two days in a cabin he built near Walden Pond in Massachusetts.
The theme of self-imposed isolation made it seem like a natural starting point for the group.
Member Julia Morton said: “He really took time to ponder what society was and where he fit into it, which we felt was a good place to start given the similarities with our current situation today.
“We thought it would be nice to see if we had learned anything from his experiences, even though it took place in a different country and time period.”
Aside from drawing parallels between the past and today, the book club has been a place were people can come together and meet new faces with similar interests.
The 38-year-old added: “What I like about the book club is it has been really luxurious to meet new people, right now we are still drawing on the pool of people we already know so it was so good to see some new faces.”
Mrs Morton and the rest of the group are keen for others to share in the experience, as they take on Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell next.
The novel is based on the true story of Juana Maria, a Native Californian woman who was the last surviving member of her tribe and lived alone on San Nicolas Island off the coast of Alta California from 1835 until her rescue in 1853.
Those wishing to join the book club can register their interest via eventbrite.
Mrs Morton explained that those who can donate are encouraged to, but people can join for free and members will ensure that everyone has access to the book.
