Beginning Our Literary Journey Together
Hey bookworms! Let's be honest, book clubs are amazing. They're a chance to connect with fellow literature lovers, dissect stories that captivated us, and maybe even discover some new favorites. But finding the right book can be tricky sometimes. The struggle is real! I mean, we've all been there, staring blankly at a towering shelf of potential reading material, feeling utterly overwhelmed. That's why I wanted to share my top five coffee table books—perfect for sparking lively conversations and enriching your book club experience. These are books that are visually stunning, intellectually stimulating and will definitely get your group talking.
Before we dive in, a quick disclaimer: This isn't an exhaustive list; it's just a starting point based on my experiences, my taste (which leans heavily towards beautifully illustrated editions) and what I've seen spark lively debates amongst my own friends.
people sitting around a coffee table, books and drinks | Image: Supplied
1. The Art of the Cocktail: A Visual Guide to Classic Drinks
Okay, I know this one might seem a little unusual for a book club, but The Art of the Cocktail, is visually stunning and a great conversation starter. It's basically a visual encyclopedia of classic drinks; absolutely gorgeous photographs of every beverage are paired with detailed recipe descriptions. Even if your book club isn't strictly about literature, this book allows for a fascinating exploration of history, culture, and mixology.
We used it in my book club last year and it lead to some amazing side-conversations about the evolution of drinking culture. Someone even brought in a vintage cocktail shaker which was neat!
Why it’s perfect for book clubs: This book is a conversation catalyst; it opens up opportunities to talk about food and culture beyond the context of typical literature selections.
coffee table book, the art of the cocktail | Image: Supplied
2. Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World
This is a powerful and inspirational book. It provides a great blend of history, science and beautiful illustrations. It's both informative and visually engaging, showcasing some of the most groundbreaking scientists of all time. It's a wonderful option for book clubs that value discussions about history and the achievements of women. It really sparked some wonderful conversations about the challenges women have had to overcome in science. This is a book that will make you feel empowered and informed.
Why it’s perfect for book clubs: It's a beautifully illustrated volume, and the accompanying biographies of these inspiring women present a rich landscape for intelligent, emotive, and engaged discussions.
coffee table book, women in science | Image: Supplied
3. The World Atlas of Coffee: From Bean to Brew
For coffee lovers (and who isn't a coffee lover?), this is a must-have. It's an incredible coffee guide that details everything from the bean’s origins to its roasting and brewing process. And I'm not even joking when I say the photography is incredible. It's the perfect companion for a relaxed evening discussion or a more in-depth exploration of coffee culture—after all, coffee is an essential part of any good book club meeting, isn't it?!
Why it’s perfect for book clubs: It's a visually rich and educational book, sparking conversations about geography, farming and of course, the universally beloved beverage that fuels our book club discussions.
coffee table book, world atlas of coffee | Image: Supplied
4. The Phaidon Atlas of 21st-Century World Architecture
If your book club enjoys the visual arts, this is a great pick. It features breathtaking photography of modern architectural wonders across the globe. This allows you to appreciate the art of architecture and sparks discussions about aesthetics, engineering, and the role of architecture in shaping our urban landscapes. Be prepared to be visually amazed!
Why it’s perfect for book clubs: The rich visuals inspire discussions about global cultures, design and the evolution of human ingenuity. Plus, it’s just plain pretty!
coffee table book, phaidon atlas of architecture | Image: Supplied
5. National Geographic: The Photographs
Finally, a classic choice that always delivers; the sheer quality of the images in this book is astonishing and it covers a vast range of subjects, from nature and wildlife to culture and history. It's a timeless collection that sparks conversations about so many things—photography, conservation, global societies, and it's just incredibly interesting. I'd reccomend it highly.
Why it’s perfect for book clubs: It's a great visual storytelling tool that allows you to explore a diverse range of topics and perspectives, making it really versatile.
coffee table book, national geographic photography | Image: Supplied
