This page describes the different types of meetings that the group arranges.
This not an exclusive list, suggestions for other formats (and volunteers to organise them) are always welcome.
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| Planning Meeting | Held twice a year, usually the first meeting in January and July. This is where the meeting schedule for the next 6 months is determined. Sometimes this occurs at the start of a schedule meeting, or as part of a social event. |
| Talks | A talk on a single subject, delivered by one person. Often accompanied by the discussion, and waving, of books. Constructive contributions from the audience are usually welcomed. |
| Talks from a Hat | An ad hoc talk (delivered by one person), or a discussion, on a single (small) subject. Subject determined by drawing from a 'hat'. |
| 100 Best Book Reports | Each person reads a book & reports on it at a later date. The books are chosen by picking a random number, from 1 to 101, and then seeing what
book occupies that position in various 'Top 100' critical works. The selectors are:
|
| Discussion | A semi-structured discussion on a relevant theme, or a topic suggested by an article, usually chaired by one person. Constructive contributions from the audience are encouraged. |
| Guest Speaker | Format varies, as it is usually left up to the guest.
One common format is for the guest to introduce themselves, read from their work, and then answer questions. |
| Debate | This is listed on the current meeting schedule, but I don't recall us ever having a scheduled debate, as opposed to one that arises during a normal meeting. |
| Short Story Readings Book Reviews |
A 'free-for-all' where anyone can bring along whatever they think is
interesting. Short stories, by other authors or self-written, to read aloud.
Reviews of books.
The first meeting of each six month period is usually one of these. Also used as a fallback if a scheduled meeting's topic is cancelled at short notice. |
| Social Events | Various kinds of social event: barbecues, parties. Hosted by members. Not normally listed on the formal meeting schedule. |