"What is a Book Tasting?"
A Book Tasting gives readers the opportunity to "sample" a variety of genres to help them develop new "tastes" and foster a love of reading.
Books, books, books: Gather a selection of least 3 different genres of books from your own collection or from your local library for your family to read during the tasting.
Props, of course!: The following are some suggestions to help you create a fun atmosphere consistent with the theme. You can make it as elaborate or as simple as you like.
- Tablecloth (we like the red checkered ones but any tablecloth will do)
- Chef's hat, apron
- Bud vase with flowers
- Battery-operated votive candles
- Serving tray (to serve the books)
- Background music (try searching "restaurant music" on any streaming service)
- Menu and Placemat (check out this fun print out for you to use or create your own)
"How does a Book Tasting work?"
The whole point of the "tasting" is to try books that a reader might not normally choose. Start off by "serving" a selection of books from your first genre as your Appetizer. Give your family a few minutes to look over the offerings and then each reader should choose one to look through and from which to read a few pages. After a few minutes, each reader can use the Placemat to jot any thoughts they have while reading and answer the questions posed in the Menu. After everyone has had time to complete, each reader discusses his/her selection. When finished, the books from the Appetizer are cleared and the second and third genres are served as the Entree and Dessert in the same way. It's important to remember that readers are not expected to read the books they choose cover to cover but instead read just enough to be able to decide if they like the genre and would consider finishing the book.
That's all there is to it! Happy reading!
