BREAKING: Women across the globe are flocking to book clubs, not just for literary discussions, but to forge meaningful connections in an increasingly isolated world. In 2025, new reports reveal that these gatherings are becoming a vital lifeline for women seeking friendship and community.
Just launched in June 2025, the monthly book club at Melbourne’s Amplify Bookstore has already attracted a dedicated following. Co-founder Xuan Teo states that this initiative has transformed into a powerful vehicle for social connection, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces, particularly for people of color. “There are a lot of book clubs out there, but few feel like safe spaces for people of color,” Teo explains.
The Amplify Bookstore, noted as Australia’s only bookstore specializing in works by authors of color, has become a hub for diverse voices and deeper conversations. Attendees frequently exchange contact information, fostering friendships that extend beyond the bookstore’s walls. “It’s heartwarming to see,” Xuan adds. “Everyone’s getting along well, and there’s a lot of chatter before and after the events.”
Parallel to this, Mika Nakamura heads up The Cookbook Club in Sydney, a monthly gathering where participants cook from a selected cookbook and share dishes. This “no pressure” social club has become a sanctuary for young women aiming to connect. “The Cookbook Club was initially a way for me to make friends,” Nakamura shares, highlighting the communal aspect of cooking and sharing meals as a means to foster genuine connections.
Loneliness is a growing public health concern, with the Medibank Loneliness Population Index indicating that over half of Australians experience loneliness on a weekly basis. The World Health Organization has linked strong social connections to improved health and longevity. “The shared experience of cooking creates a real sense of belonging,” says Nakamura, emphasizing that her events help people form lasting friendships.
Across the ocean, Erin Woodward founded the Gloss Book Club in London in 2008 after struggling to find community in a new city. Today, the club has expanded globally, hosting gatherings in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Woodward notes that the book serves as a catalyst for conversation and connection. “Walking into a room full of strangers can be terrifying, especially for introverts. The book is the olive branch to friendship,” she states.
Each month, between 15 and 20 women gather for discussions that delve into character developments and overarching themes, leading to meaningful dialogues. Woodward believes that the book club environment allows women to set aside digital distractions and connect authentically. “I think we need more spaces like that,” she asserts.
The rise of these book clubs highlights a significant cultural shift as women actively seek out community and connection. With loneliness on the rise and social isolation becoming a pressing issue, initiatives like those at Amplify Bookstore, The Cookbook Club, and the Gloss Book Club are not just about reading—they’re about reclaiming human connection in a world that desperately needs it.
As these clubs continue to grow, the focus remains on fostering relationships that break down barriers and create inclusive environments. For women everywhere, joining a book club could be the answer to combating loneliness and forging lifelong friendships.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as these communities evolve and inspire others to join in the quest for connection.
