For members of book groups, reading is timeless

By Gerald Hay

Are you looking for an exciting job that will keep you interested?

Why not join a book group? National Book Lover’s Day is August 9th!

Kathy Coenen of Lenexa and Melody Kazmi of Overland Park, longtime book lovers, are active members of book groups at the Johnson County Library. Like many others, their interest in books began around first grade when they learned to read and has changed in many ways as they have been exposed to many authors over time.

Kazmi’s first book was Frosty the Snowman. Today, she is a Stephen King fan and is currently reading The Dispatcher: Murder by Other Means, a hardcover science fiction book by John Scalzi.

Run Jane Run was Coenen’s first book. Her last book was Oath and Honor by Liz Cheney.

“I am an avid reader. I have loved it ever since I could read,” she said.

Kazmi shared this love of reading.

“I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have a book,” she added.

Most people have a book to read in their hand or in their backpack, or a recording to listen to.

Both in their 70s, they say that joining a book club for older adults offers significant benefits, whether you’re an avid reader or a newbie rediscovering your interest in reading.

Tim Wholf, director of the Johnson County Department of Aging and Human Services, agreed.

“Reading is good for the brain. This is because our brain is always fully engaged when we read. The more we read, the better our brain can process new information. This keeps the brain fit for many years to come, which can help ward off symptoms of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia,” he said.

Reading is also a recreational activity and offers a therapeutic escape from everyday stressors.

“It makes you pause in a busy life,” Coenen said.

When asked, they gave several reasons why reading is important at any age: to learn new things and make healthy discoveries, to stimulate the brain and sharpen the mind, to contain a lot of new information and impart knowledge, and to connect with others and find like-minded people.

“You get to meet people. We need to be around people,” Kazmi said.

Wholf believes that socialization through membership in a reading group is important, especially in the aging process.

“As we get older, it’s important that we are aware of the impact that social isolation and loneliness can have on us. Book clubs are a great way for seniors to socialise and make new friends,” he said. “If you choose to join a book club, you have a great opportunity to socialise and make new friends, all united by a shared love of books and reading. Being able to chat about the latest book with like-minded friends allows you to discuss your opinions in a relaxed and non-judgmental environment.”

Books also offer an endless choice of reading options – from fiction to non-fiction, from historical romance to contemporary novels. Books also revolve around different book genres and authors.

“Not everyone likes the same things. That’s OK,” Kazmi said, admitting that she is a “diverse reader” who enjoys thrillers, comedies, crime, science fiction, historical novels, etc.

Her interest as a girl was sparked by the pictures and story in Frosty’s book. It still is.

“If someone doesn’t like a graphic novel, they should get a new life,” she joked.

The book groups also vary in size, and they have different formats and working methods. Both families also have a strong interest in reading.

Coenen, a member of the Monticello Library Book Group for about five years, is a grandmother to three grandchildren, ages 18, 14 and 12, who have gone to the library with her throughout their lives.

“My book group is made up of about 20 people from all walks of life, ranging from young to middle-aged and older,” she said.

Kazmi, a retired library worker, attends three book groups in Johnson County, including the Shawnee Book Group with 12-15 members and a Mystery Book Group with six members. Her membership in the Shawnee group has lasted for more than 15 years.

“Most people in all groups are older and retired,” she said.

Kazmi often watches her three grandchildren, ages 4, 5, and 7, and carries a bag full of books so the family can read together. When she’s not attending an in-person book club meeting, she often listens to audiobooks while knitting or participates in book club discussions virtually. She just finished listening to the audiobook “A Book Club to Die For” by Dorothy St. James with the crime book group.

Both book lovers participate in the same Zoom book group with about 9-12 members.

After a novel is completed, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, book groups usually have a discussion period in which each member gets a chance to share their thoughts on the book. Opinions often differ.

“If everyone liked the book, there is nothing to discuss,” Kazmi said with a smile.

Although she professes a love of books and reading, she also admits that with occasional reading she does not make it onto her personal bestseller list and does not even make it to the last chapter.

“If you are not interested in the first 50 pages, put the book down,” Kazmi said bluntly. “Find something else to read.”

Johnson County Library – Promoting the collective knowledge of the community