Write On! interviews author Jackie Claridge Wood, Global Girls Online Book Club.

Global Girls Online Book Club is a global online book club, run through a Facebook Group but also active on Instagram, YouTube and via an email newsletter. There are lots of author and member interaction, including author-giveaways and Zoom discussions.

 WO: Where did the idea for the Global Girls Online Book Club come from?

 Jackie, GGOBC: Covid lockdowns had just started, and I was reading lots and thought it would be a great idea to have others to discuss books with and to get authors from all around the world involved.

 WO: Can you tell us a bit about how the book club works?

Jackie, GGOBC: We have a monthly book club read, which is chosen by our members and a Zoom discussion at the end of the month, which often has the author involved. Most days we have an author for the day, where they share posts about themselves and often do book giveaways. Members can also join in with questions.

WO: Recently, Write On! explored the theme of ‘Misunderstandings.’ These can be used with great effect when writing. Do you have a favourite literary misunderstanding? Is it something that ever happens in the book club?

Jackie, GGOBC: My all-time favourite literary misunderstanding would have to be Romeo And Juliet.

WO: What one piece of advice would you give to someone looking to set up a book club?

Jackie, GGOBC: There are always people looking to join a book club. As long as you offer some consistency, I say just go for it!

WO: Question from Instagram user: @lisalovesbooksx – How does someone join the Global Girls Online Book Club?

Jackie, GGOBC: Click this link to join our FB Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/2707378716037558

Click this link to sign up to our newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1024829/127800471936042830/share

WO: Can you tell us anything about future projects?

Jackie, GGOBC: We’re hoping to get more authors involved. If you think this might be you, please contact me through the FB Group or the newsletter. Also, last year I hosted our first ever in-person Reader/Author Lunch Event in Sydney, Australia and am planning on doing it again this year, in the hope of building ever-greater participant numbers.

WO: Lastly, if you could choose one fictional animal/creature to be a pet or companion, who would it be and why?

Jackie, GGOBC: I’d love Garfield as a pet! I think he would be a lot of hard work but would also give a lot of cuddles and loyalty.

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You can find out more about the Global Girls Online Book Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/2707378716037558, sign up for their newsletter here: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1024829/127800471936042830/share and join their YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@globalgirlsonlinebookclub5746

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Issue 25, featuring Sheila O’Flanagan, is out now. You will find it in libraries and other outlets. Alternatively, all current and previous editions can be found on our magazines page here. 

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