Lit Circles They’ll Love OKC book clubs for tweens and teens BY MARISA MOHI . PHOTOS PROVIDED,
G etting tweens and teens to put down their phones and pick up a book isn’t always easy. But what if reading felt more like hanging out with friends than homework? That’s the magic of these OKC-area book clubs specifically designed for older kids — they turn reading into an engaging social experience. Centered around popular, youth-friendly titles they won’t typically encounter in school, these clubs give kids a chance to explore new stories and big ideas in a low-pressure, peer-supported space. And when it’s time to gather and talk books, tweens and teens get more than just a literary discussion — they practice critical thinking, build confidence and connect with new friends. The case for book clubs Reading is more important than ever. A 2023 report from the National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed that only 14 percent of U.S. 13-year-olds read for fun every day, down from 35 percent in 1984. Plus, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that the percentage of 13-year-olds who “never or hardly ever” read for fun has risen nearly 10 percentage points over the decade. This decline means many teens are missing out on opportunities to reinforce what they’ve learned in school and develop a lasting love of reading. Strong reading skills are the foundation for learning across all subjects — and they’re essential for future success, whether in college, trade programs or the workplace.
BEST OF BOOKS’ FOREVER YOUNG BOOK CLUB FOCUSES ON YOUNG ADULT BOOKS AND IS OPEN TO TEEN AND ADULT READERS.
Forever Young Book Club Best of Books, Edmond bestofbooksok.com
Best of Books has been an Edmond institution for decades, but their Forever Young Book Club is brand new this year. The club focuses on young adult books and is open to teen and adult readers. Meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month. Tell the cashier you’re joining the book club when you purchase your book, and you’ll receive a 15 percent discount. The store also often hosts signings for bestselling authors as well as other fun events.
54 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2025
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