Many people see reading as a chore rather than a source of enjoyment, which continues to contribute to declining literacy rates among both adults and children. To help shift this narrative, a number of celebrities have used their platforms to promote literacy and spark a love for books through their own book clubs.
The rise of celebrity book clubs has steadily created a buzz among readers, while also encouraging people who may not have picked up a book in years to return to reading. Beyond building communities, these clubs have also played an important role in boosting book sales at a time when the publishing industry continues to face changing reading habits and declining sales.
Most book clubs follow a simple but impactful format: selecting a monthly title, reading it together, and creating space for discussion. In doing so, they foster connection, conversation and communities of readers.
Here are five celebrity book clubs worth joining or adding to your reading list.
Dua Lipa — Service95 Book Club
Grammy Award-winning singer Dua Lipa launched the Service95 Book Club in 2023 as an extension of her editorial platform, Service95. Created to share her lifelong love of reading, the club aims to keep the spirit of libraries alive and encourage younger audiences to discover the joy of books.
The platform features curated reading recommendations, exclusive conversations between Dua and authors, as well as archives of previous selections. Past reads include Half of a Yellow Sun, Bad Feminist and A Thousand Splendid Suns, showcasing a wide range of genres and voices.
Nandi Madida — The Motherhood Network Book Club
On her recently launched podcast The Motherhood Network, Nandi Madida introduced a dedicated book club segment focused on storytelling, motherhood and personal growth.
The segment debuted with Mpoomy Ledwaba as the first guest following the release of her debut book How Did We Get Here. The podcast has also featured Sho Madjozi, who expanded her creative portfolio with the children’s book Shoma and the Stars.
Oprah Winfrey — Oprah’s Book Club
Few celebrity book clubs have had the cultural impact of Oprah’s Book Club. Officially launched on The Oprah Winfrey Show on September 17, 1996, the club began as a monthly television segment, with its first selection being The Deep End of the Ocean.
Over the years, Oprah’s Book Club has become one of publishing’s most influential platforms, introducing both emerging and established writers to global audiences and significantly boosting book sales. In 2023, the club marked its 100th selection with Hello Beautiful.
Mpoomy Ledwaba — Wisdom & Wellness Book Club
Mpoomy Ledwaba’s Wisdom & Wellness Book Club forms part of her successful podcast and wellness platform of the same name. Since its launch, she has consistently encouraged her audience to read through monthly recommendations and curated selections.
Her reading choices often extend beyond South African authors, reflecting both her international reach and interest in global storytelling. The club continues to build a community centred on self-development, wellness and meaningful conversations.
Reese Witherspoon — Reese’s Book Club
Reese Witherspoon launched Reese’s Book Club in May 2017 under her media company Hello Sunshine. The club’s first official pick was Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine in June of the same year.
Since then, Reese’s Book Club has become known for its ability to elevate authors and significantly boost sales of selected titles. Many of its picks have gone on to become bestsellers and screen adaptations, further cementing its influence within publishing.
Celebrity book clubs have become more than just reading lists. They are helping to revive reading culture, create communities and remind audiences that books can still entertain, educate and connect people across generations.
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