Inspired by the Enlightment, motivated by modernity

Drawing inspiration from Enlightment era salons, the Reading Salon for Ruminators is an in-person book club built around a desire to get people together and talk about the big topics in life.

Each session is centered around one big theme and attendees are invited to bring a book they associate with the theme. All books are welcome. The books are guides to the conversation rather than the entire focus.

The sessions are a combination of round-table conversations as a group and smaller group discussions to dive deeper. Our Philosophy is to take a “yes, and…” approach to dialogue with an open and encouraging atmosphere.

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FAQs

About

  • At least once a month.

  • The sessions are 2 hours long usually.

  • Venues rotate around London. The exact venue is confirmed with each Luma listing.

  • Session capacity is confirmed on the Luma sign-up page. If an event is fully booked, we open a waitlist, which operates on a first come, first served basis.

  • Just yourself and the book you've chosen for the theme. Supplementary notes covering the session's themes and discussion points are published afterwards on the Random Ruminations Substack, so you can revisit the ideas (or catch up if you couldn't make detailed notes during the session.)

Logistics

  • Sign ups are done via Luma - the registration links are shared on the Ruminators website, Reading Salon Instagram, and in the WhatsApp community.

  • Cost varies by session, depending on the venue. The Reading Salon is run on a not-for-profit basis - all fees go directly towards venue hire and running costs, and any surplus goes towards future sessions.

  • When you register, Luma places a hold on your card for the ticket price. This is not an immediate charge — your card is only debited once your registration is confirmed/approved.

  • If you can no longer attend, refunds are only issued if you're able to find a replacement to take your spot — simply let us know who's coming in your place.

  • New sessions and themes are shared with the WhatsApp community and on the Reading Salon Instagram page.

Attending

  • There is no set reading, the idea is to bring a book you have read which ties to the theme.

  • Drop us a message! We are always happy to provide recommended readings.

  • Of course! This is a space which aims to encourage discussion of ideas and cultivate a love of reading.

  • No! Even a partial read or just familiarity with the theme is enough to join the conversation.