How to Organize Using Books

Genocide Prevention Project's list of suggested books can be found here. Organize a Book Club Choose a “core group” that will be dedicated attendees Find other people who are interested in joining Decide where and when to meet. Questions to ask include: How often will you get together? How quickly will you read? Do you want only one discussion per book or to discuss several sections separately? Will you meet in a public place (such as a library, bookstore, coffee shop or restaurant) or at members’ houses? Determine how to select the books. Will you read fiction or nonfiction or a combination of both? When selecting which edition of a book to read, do you want to limit yourself to paperbacks to cut down costs for members? Do you want to plan out a year’s worth of reading or choose books month by month (or some other time period)? Once you have organized your group and meeting place, think about the structure of the meetings. It is advisable to designate a “host” for each session. The host will take charge of choosing discussion questions and moderating the debate. The host could also choose the book each month. If you’re already a member of a book club, suggest a book from our “Books of Conscience” list to read during the month of April to commemorate Genocide Prevention Month. Organize a Reading or Reading Series Refer to our event guidelines for planning public events in your community, including organizing tips and a press kit that can be adapted to fit your event. Also keep in mind: Venue: cultural centers are often a good place to find a literary audience. Ask your local bookstores and libraries if they have an area designated for author readings and talks. If you’ve created original material calling for action on genocide, local coffee shops and music venues often have open mic nights to share your work. Religious organizations and community centers may also be willing to donate space or help you plan the event. Shaping your event: Is there a local author or professor who might be willing to read from his or her own book? Are there local survivors or members of a Diaspora community who could read and then share their experiences as compared to that in the reading? Can you invite local experts for a panel discussion or debate in addition to a reading from these or other books? Action: Consider asking all attendees to take a specific action, such as donating to a local survivor group or signing postcards or petitions that can be sent to the UN or state or national governors to advocate for genocide prevention. Have cards directing them to the Genocide Prevention Month website if they want to participate more. Ask local bookstores and libraries to display a table of books about genocide