The first rule of book club: Don’t talk about book club. We’re just kidding, but there are definitely rules to keep in mind when trying to be a respectful and engaged book club member. Here, we’ve rounded up the dos and don’ts for the book club meetings.

Do: Buy the book from Baldwin & Co.
We would truly appreciate your support and ask that you purchase your books for the book club from our bookstore—you can pick up the books in-store or have them shipped to your home. The books are discounted for members.

Don’t: Buy the book from other bookstores.
Choosing to purchase your books from Baldwin & Co. generates 3x as much economic benefit for our community versus shopping at a chain, and an incalculable benefit versus buying at a big box store.

Do: Read the book (or at least attempt to)
We get it. Sometimes you don’t have time to read, or you dislike the book so much that you can’t bring yourself to finish. Either way, do try to read each meeting’s book so you can contribute to the discussion.

Don’t: Forget that everyone reads at their own pace
There will always be someone who reads the book in a day and someone who doesn’t finish it until the day of the meeting. If you’re a speed reader, don’t spoil the book for others. If you’re slow but steady, make sure you give yourself enough time to finish. Keep in mind that everyone is busy and cut your fellow readers some slack when needed.

Do: Speak up
Don’t be afraid to share your thoughts, even if you disagree with the rest of your group. If everyone says the same thing, then there won’t be much in the way of interesting discussion. Let your unique voice be heard.

Don’t: Steamroll
No one likes a conversation hog, and every book club has one. Everyone’s opinion matters, so it’s important to make sure everyone gets a chance to express themselves.

Do: Bring questions
Writing down your thoughts ahead of time can be a great way of spurring conversation when it lulls.

Don’t: Feel like you have to weigh in every time
If you don’t feel like you have something unique to say on a particular topic of conversation, it’s okay to just listen. No need to repeat what others have already said!

Do: Take your turn and be polite
Sometimes multiple people will want to contribute at the same time. If you end up in the awkward situation of talking at the same time, graciously let the other person go first and then add on to what they say.

Don’t: Veer away from the book
It can be easy to get sidetracked and begin talking about other books, the latest episode of You, or real life. Staying on subject will keep our meeting focused and fun.