For two decades, the Issaquah Highlands Book Club has been bringing neighbors together over a shared love of reading—and building lasting friendships along the way. What started as a casual conversation among a few residents during a Bunco game has grown into a thriving group that continues to meet monthly at Blakely Hall.
Over the years, the book club has nurtured friendships that extend far beyond the pages. Lifelong friendships have blossomed among members, with many continuing to thrive long-distance after people leave the community.
“People have come and gone from the group, but most still remain linked,” said Lisa Collins, the current Book Club group leader. “Sharing a love of reading is very powerful.”
Book Club meets at Blakely Hall every second Tuesday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m.
Lisa said the Book Club stands out because members explore a wide range of books, not just bestsellers. She especially enjoys the variety of titles they read together. She still remembers the very first meeting at Blakely Hall, when the group discussed “The Mermaid Chair” by Sue Monk Kidd.
Any member can nominate books throughout the year. In December, the group votes on each selection. The titles with the most votes are added to the reading calendar for the following year. Members don’t even need to have read the selected book to attend the discussions, though they must be comfortable with spoilers.
“Funnily enough some of the best discussions come from books that didn’t land,” Lisa added. “There’s a lot to discuss when the writing or editing goes wrong.”
Lisa reflected that one of the biggest lessons over the years has been the importance of making space for everyone’s voice to be heard. She believes community grows stronger when people feel respected and free to share their perspectives—even if tastes differ.
Does this long-standing community group interest you? Drop by Book Club at Blakely Hall every second Tuesday of the month from 7–8:30 p.m.
“Reading books never goes out of style,” Lisa said. “The club will be here when it fits into your life, and it will be waiting until you can come back when life gets hectic.”
As published in the fall 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine >>>
