Let book club members get settled into their seats for the meeting. Some book club meetings allow their members to talk and eat snacks before the formal meeting starts.
Encourage discussions by posing questions about the book. Use reading guides to help edge the discussion along its course.
Allow children to discuss the book on their own. While occasional prompting and motivation to stay on topic may be required, letting the children discuss what they desire to keeps them interested in the book and each other's opinions.
Make your presence known to the book club members. Children often find the availability of one or two adults reassuring and can help them keep their discussions on track.
Discourage rudeness, interruptions and talking out of turn. Encourage differing opinions and alternative interpretations of the book.
Be firm but keep the atmosphere fun. Nothing can decrease a child's interest in a book club like the reminder of an academic environment. Remind children that they are free to talk and lead discussions.
Appreciate all book club members' contributions. Active appreciation of every child's thoughts on a book can encourage them to remain active in the book club. Make sure each child gets a turn at voicing his opinion.