FAQ

Questions
answered.

About the group

We started this group because we wanted somewhere to meet people and read more.

Each month we pick a book — fiction, memoir, poetry — and get together somewhere in Sydney to talk about it.

We use queer as a broad umbrella, covering the full LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Lesbian, trans, bisexual, non-binary, and everything else under it. We're doing our best to be inclusive.

Everyone welcome. No gatekeeping. You don't even have to finish the book.

Frequently asked questions
Do I have to have finished the book?
Ideally, but it's not the end of the world if you haven't. It helps to have something to talk about — even if you only got halfway through.
What if I hated the book?
Even better. Tell us why.
How will the meeting work?
We'll do a quick round of introductions and then go around asking what you thought — did you like it, what was the best bit, and a few other questions. It should be low stress.
What if I'm shy?
We're a bunch of readers. We're all shy. Don't worry.
Are there any ground rules?
Let everyone speak, listen and encourage the quieter members, be nice to people and don't just talk to the people you fancy. No peacocking. We'll do our best with pronouns — please assume good intent and help make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable.
I have particular requirements to be able to participate.
Drop us a line at readqueerbookssydney@gmail.com and we'll do our best to make it work.
Is this a dating group?
Nope. But it is a way to meet people who share a common interest.
Can I suggest a book?
Absolutely. There'll be some voting involved, though some books might bypass this.
What genres do you cover?
Everything except self-help and business books.
I write books. Will you consider reading mine?
It depends.
Where exactly is it?
The outside terrace at the Oxford Hotel, 134 Oxford St Darlinghurst. It's covered, so weather shouldn't be an issue — though if it's absolutely bucketing we might move inside.
How big will the group get?
No cap. History tells us a lot of people register but not everyone shows — we expect around 5-10 people. If there are more we'll break into smaller groups.
Can I bring a friend who isn't queer?
As long as they're lovely, absolutely.
How far in advance do you announce the next book?
We try to have the next 2-3 books lined up so you can plan ahead.
Is it free?
Yes. Just RSVP so we know how many to expect.
How do I find out about future meetings?
RSVP to one event and you'll hear about the next one. Or drop us a line at readqueerbookssydney@gmail.com.