This post is part of Reading While Parenting, a monthly feature at A Wonderful Mess, where we delve into exactly how parents can read and what reading can add to parenthood. Reading While Parenting essays come once a month, except when there are “reading clubs” in January and June through August.

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When you were a kid, did you ever have the fantasy of being in a store after it was closed? A toy store probably ranked high in possibilities in this dream, but a bookstore or library was also a contender in my fantasy. Now, as a midlife woman, I get to live it out. Once a month, I go to our local independent children’s book store and meet with my book club after hours. It smells of fresh books, has a warm and bright interior, and other adults are there talking about books. It’s bliss.

I believe in the incredible potential of book clubs. And today we are going to talk more about the benefits and challenges of book clubs!

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As always—Just a little reminder: The content on A Wonderful Mess posted by Dr. Kathryn Barbash, PsyD, is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical, clinical, legal, or professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your licensed mental health professional or other qualified health provider.

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