21st Century Literature discussion

If you join in reading groups/discussions (in-person or online), how does it change your reading? Does it tend to change what you read in any way? Does it change how you read in any way? If so, in what ways?

Definitely changes how I read - I'm much more likely to persist with a book I'm not enjoying if I know a spirited discussion is probable. Otherwise, I'm a promiscuous book abandoner.

It has also been changing what I read, recently, which is part of the reason I joined the groups I did - wanting some motivation to read outside of my comfort zone. So for example this year, I've already read more translated books in a month and a half than I did for all of last year. Some were specifically for discussions, but many were recommended by group members outside of group reads or buddy reads.

So far delving into these groups has really enriched my reading experience.

Since I review books, I approach my book club reading in the exact same way. Do I mind reading books analytically - I’m used to it now. School teaches you how so I’m continuing to use the skills taught at the age of 15 (thank you Oxford O Level English Practice- a textbook we referred to as OLEP )

I try to take a few notes and slow down when reading for a group book club discussion. Maybe even read up on the book a little bit beforehand and check out a few (non-spoiler) reviews either here or elsewhere. I always want to know why readers feel strongly about a book, like or dislike, going in and understand a little bit of what I'm getting into.

The "how" is exactly the same, but the "what" is hugely affected. Probably 75% of my reading is guided by what books are chosen in groups - I get much more out of books if I can discuss them. I've already read a huge number of books over my lifespan; I'd rather read books I know I'll have an opportunity to discuss.

I'm with you Greg . For me reading as a group activity enhances my experience . I have read so many authors I would have passed by in ignorance . As for how I read , I'm aware in a group that some are able to better analyse structure and form so am happy to learn and be surprised . I prefer reading groups that suggest participants avoid a declaration of like / dislike until the book is finished, as by doing so it can inhibit wider discussion. With group reads I'm more likely to finish a book even if not enjoying it . As a newbie to reading in depth I found a great entry point was commenting on YouTube / booktube videos , which was really helpful in building confidence .

I have only taken part in one group read since my student days. It was for a book that I would not have chosen if left to my own devices, so, in that respect it broadened the scope of my reading. I wouldn’t say I enjoyed the book but I found the discussion enlightening; particularly when someone had a different take on events.
Others in the group provided links for a wealth of background information - author interviews, contextual criticism, history of the geographical setting. As a result I did much more background reading than I would normally do, which gave more context but radically slowed my reading.
Overall, I enjoyed the group read & would do it again if there was a book I wanted to understand in more depth.
Several years after I ceased having to read set books for study, I made a conscious decision to move away from an overtly analytical dissection of whatever I was reading. Primarily because I felt friends got more enjoyment from their reading than I did. I wanted to get back to reading as I did as a child - for the love of stories & sometimes just the sound of words. I think I may be a little odd in this but I also find the repetitive mechanical act of reading quite soothing.
In summary, I’d say my group reading experience is akin to study & could be perceived as more informed. My personal reading experience is more intuitive.

I definitely agree with Greg and Hester, I love talking about books I've read in a group. I really enjoy hearing about other people's interpretations and analyses of the books and discussing all aspects of them. It helps me look at books in different ways, understand them better and often reminds me of things in the book that I hadn't remembered. I also like reading books I otherwise wouldn't have been attracted to or even known about. Apart from seeking recommendations, this is why I've signed up to Goodreads online groups, so I can read other people's views on books in a more interactive way, rather than (or as well as) single reviews. I also think discussing books with other people helps you to get to know them better, as opinions are often connected to personal knowledge or experiences.

I used to let group reads choose a lot of what I would read, but I've backed away from that. Now I will only read one or maybe two books in a month as part of a group read, and usually then only if it's a book I was planning to read anyway and I have a copy of the book or can get my hands on one cheap. If I've already read the book then by all means I'll jump into a discussion.

The only change I make to my reading process is that sometimes I read a little faster than I might otherwise just to stay current with the group. I also research the book and author a little bit so I can contribute to the discussion beyond just "I liked it" or "I didn't." Likewise, I prefer reading with people who can thoughtfully discuss a book whether they liked it or not.

I usually read much more carefully when reading a group book in the hopes of contributing to, and benefiting from, a good discussion. If I'm moderating, I'll do a lot more background reading, researching, highlighting, etc.. Moderating can start to feel like homework, but hopefully will spur a good discussion.