The experience of having someone read a book to you is nothing short of wonderful. You close your eyes, immerse yourself in another world, and emerge feeling inspired to read the book yourself. It’s a feeling Elena Shirin Meger and Caroline Bushra von der Goltz, founders of online book club Vorleser_innen, know very well. Every week, the pair invite interesting people to share their favorite literature live on Instagram. After sharing book extracts, the hosts and their guests answer questions sent in advance by the community. Elena, a coach and mindfulness trainer, first came up with the idea during a Vipassana meditation retreat. She joined forces with Caroline and they launched the project during the 2020 lockdown as a virtual place for closeness, exchange and inspiration.
Guests have included Hamburg artist and illustrator Eva Dietrich, who read from the 2000 book “All about Love” by bell hooks (AKA Gloria Jean Watkins) in which the American feminist describes the “transformative power” of love as a form of goodwill, sympathy and care. It’s one of many books that have featured on the channel. To join the next reading from Mehtap Sert check out the channel and get yourself a club membership.
Text: Nike Wilhelms / Photos: Vlada Karpovich & Cottonbro
For tickets and information visit the Vorleser_innen Instagram, where you will also find excerpts from previous readings, book tips and quotes.
