
What weâre about
### đ About the Group
Welcome to a respectful, inclusive, and book-centred community dedicated to exploring literature from across Asia and beyond. Established in 2008, this group has brought together people who share a love for books, literature, and Asian culture. We warmly welcome individuals of all backgrounds, nationalities, and ethnicities.
Our aim is to provide a free and open platform for literary discussion, reflection, and knowledge sharing. The focus is solely on booksâwhether reading, recommending, or engaging in meaningful conversations about them.
There are no membership fees or event charges. This is a community-led initiative, built on mutual respect and a shared passion for learning through literature.
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### đ©âđ« A Note from Your Host
My name is Dr Nadia S., and I have had the pleasure of hosting this group since early 2025.
I am committed to maintaining this group as a free, welcoming, and intellectually enriching space. If you have a book youâd like to recommend, an excerpt you'd love to read aloud, or simply wish to share your thoughts on something that resonated with youâplease do post in the forum.
If you would like to co-host an event with me, I warmly encourage you to message me. Your involvementâwhether large or smallâis always welcome.
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### đ Types of Events
#### 1. Monthly Book Club Meetings
These take place on weekend afternoons at accessible Central London venues. A bookâselected by a hostâis shared 1â3 months in advance, and the session involves a participatory, structured discussion. Books span fiction and non-fiction, with a focus on Asian and diasporic writing, but remain open to a wider literary scope. Discussions are typically followed by informal socialising.
#### 2. Meet the Author
On occasion, we are joined by authors who take part in conversations about their work. These sessions are special opportunities to engage directly with the writerâs voice and perspective.
#### 3. Literary & Cultural Events
Members may suggest or organise events such as talks, film screenings, exhibitions, or panel discussionsâas long as they remain thematically connected to books or literary culture. Events may be:
- Hosted: Led and coordinated by a group member.
- For Information: Shared without a formal host; members may attend independently.
#### 4. Special Events
From time to time, we organise group outings to literary festivals (e.g., Hay-on-Wye, Edinburgh Fringe) or informal gatherings like picnics and social get-togethers. These events are optional and intended to build community in a relaxed setting.
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### đ§Ÿ Summary
- Free to join and participate â there are no charges at all.
- Respectful and inclusive â open to all, regardless of background.
- Book-focused â all discussions and events centre around literature.
- Collaborative â members are welcome to contribute ideas or co-host events.
- Safe and welcoming â guided by kindness, curiosity, and shared learning.
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If you are passionate about literature and thoughtful conversation, we look forward to welcoming you.
Warm regards,
Dr Nadia S.
Group Organiser/Host â 2025