Melanin & Manuscripts: Richmond's Premier Book Club
Dillon & Co. had the wonderful opportunity to catch up with Tangee Augustin, who is not only the host but also the curator of the Melanin & Manuscripts book club. In our engaging discussion, we delved into how this vibrant book club was founded, the thoughtful process behind how the books are chosen for each reading session, and the overall dynamics and engagement of the community within the book club. It's a unique space that fosters a love for literature among its members and promotes rich discussions. The book club is proudly located in the culturally rich city of Richmond, VA, which adds to its charm and appeal.
What's the name of your book club and how did it come to be?
Absolutely! It's melanin & manuscripts. Back in 2018, a friend and I discovered the Badass Women's Book Club and decided to join. However, a few months in, we recognized that this chapter was not quite aligned with our vision. The host invited me to lead the Richmond chapter, and I accepted the challenge. We soon realized the book selections were primarily from their base, which didn’t resonate with our goals. We wanted to uplift indie authors, particularly those from black and brown communities. So, we took the leap and created our own book club! Although my partner moved away, I was committed to carrying it forward with the enthusiastic members who joined. We proudly named ourselves Black Queens Who Read. Yet, over time, I felt that name was limiting and perpetuated certain stereotypes within our community. Why should we need a title that implies we're proving our ability to read? So, we embraced a new identity and rebranded to Melanin and Manuscripts. We've been holding monthly meetups since 2018, and this year, I felt inspired to launch an Instagram account to showcase our readings and share my passion for books with the wider Bookstagram community.
Are you the only host for the book club?
Yes, I am the host and curator, so I manage almost everything related to our meetups and discussions. I lead them, connect people, and oversee our online media.
What do you enjoy most about being the host?
For me, it's about confidently connecting with incredible individuals, especially women who share a passion for reading. This creates a vibrant sisterhood built on our collective love for literature. We all have our unique reasons for immersing ourselves in books, and that’s something to celebrate. I coined a term challenging members to boldly share their reasons for reading. When we launched on Instagram, I encouraged everyone to express their motivations. What emerged was a fascinating tapestry of shared experiences. Many of us discovered our love for reading at a young age. We embrace the powerful escapism that books offer, along with a deep appreciation for literature and the voices of black authors. It's a journey we confidently undertake together.
How do you balance leading the discussion while allowing everyone to contribute their thoughts?
Absolutely! Our meetups are informal yet structured, creating an engaging atmosphere. We use GroupMe for easy communication during our reading sessions, sharing thoughts and updates. I announce meeting details and remind everyone to bring their books. I facilitate discussions with thoughtful questions, and many books include discussion prompts from authors like Kennedy Ryan. Members also use book journals to jot down insights for exploration. Everyone is encouraged to share their perspectives, fostering rich discussions and diverse viewpoints. We also discuss authors’ writing styles. At the end of each meeting, we spin a fun wheel to select our next book for the upcoming month.
What’s the most memorable book club discussion or meeting you’ve had?
There's an abundance of incredible books out there, and one that truly stood out for us was Grown Woman. We definitely read it as part of our October selection. Grown Woman by Sarai Johnson, or as she prefers, Sarah Johnson, resonated deeply with everyone. We had a substantial gathering where the book was the main topic of discussion. Not only did we engage in a fulfilling in-person meeting, but we also had the privilege of inviting the author to join us. This virtual session allowed us to ask her insightful questions about her book and her inspiration for choosing it.
What do you think makes for a successful book club discussion?
A successful book club discussion relies on everyone feeling comfortable sharing their thoughts about the reading material without judgment. It’s normal for some to love the book while others may not, and that’s acceptable. Our book club thrives on sharing diverse perspectives with a structured approach. Members should come prepared with discussion questions and strive to read most of the book before meetings. We follow a one-book-per-month cycle, prioritizing reading it together. I provide context, background, and a synopsis before each meeting. Engagement and inclusivity are crucial; differing opinions enrich our discussions. Tactful disagreements about characters or themes are part of the process, distinguishing our analysis from personal opinions about the author, leading to a meaningful experience.
How do you keep the meetings fun and engaging, even if the book isn’t a group favorite?
Absolutely! This is a crucial point that enhances your question. We focus on enjoyment and connection, incorporating a social aspect into our gatherings. Whether at serene locations or vibrant restaurants, we create an engaging atmosphere. This fall, we embraced neutral browns and oranges and are hosting our Pages and Plates Literary Friendsgiving. Each gathering has a unique theme with delicious foods and beverages that foster social connection. Sometimes, we have everyone bring their own cuisine, and other times, we meet at a lively restaurant for meaningful discussions. There’s always a fun theme, inviting everyone to dress in specific colors and bring their favorite book. I also challenge everyone to envision characters from our readings as if they were real-life individuals in a movie adaptation. It’s always a blast!
Are there any upcoming books that you're especially excited for the group to read?
Currently, we are delving into a powerful book called The Reformatory. It’s a challenging read for us, considering it’s set in the post-election atmosphere during the Jim Crow era. While it’s intense, we are eager to transition to something lighter and more uplifting soon. We don’t have a specific title in mind at the moment, but I’ve compiled a comprehensive TBR list with plenty of options. We’re definitely leaning towards something light-hearted—perhaps a seasonal holiday novella or a delightful romance read, as we all enjoy those genres. Whatever it is, it will be a comforting and enjoyable choice.
How do you handle members who may not finish the book or don't participate much in the discussion?
We handle scheduling effectively in our book club by conducting polls to find suitable dates and times for meetings. We understand that not everyone can attend due to unique schedules, and that's perfectly normal. For those who cannot make it, I occasionally arrange virtual meetings, though this isn't our usual practice. We encourage participation regardless of whether you’ve finished the book; most attendees are eager to engage and often say, ‘let's discuss it anyway.’ Our discussions are welcoming, allowing those who are just a few chapters away from completion to contribute. We ensure everyone is aligned and dive into open dialogue about the book when ready.
Do you have any book recommendations for us based on what we've read so far?
I've got some incredible book recommendations for you! Let’s dive into some genres, starting with mystery, thriller, or crime fiction. I absolutely recommend any of S.A. Cosby's books. He’s from Virginia, which adds an extra layer of authenticity to his stories. There’s something special about reading books by local authors, especially when they reference familiar places. It’s a thrill to spot Richmond or VCU in his work, especially since I went there myself! S.A. Cosby weaves these locations into his narratives seamlessly. Another author to check out is Sadeqa Johnson, who also hails from Virginia and incorporates local settings in her writing. For mystery and thriller enthusiasts, S.A. Cosby is a must-read. Additionally, Kennedy Ryan is a phenomenal author who has a fantastic range of romance series that readers adore. Furthermore, for those interested in urban fiction, don’t miss "Demon's Dream" by Elle Kayson. Those are just a few of my top picks, and I know you'll love them!
Do you have any tips for people who might want to start their own book club?
I encourage you to use social media to engage with others. I started my Instagram page in May, and the response has been amazing. If you want to buddy read, consider forming a book club. It’s exciting to read a great book and discuss it, which can be tough with non-reader friends or family. A book club encourages this exchange. One tip: come prepared! As a clinical director managing over 30 people, I keep things fun and use group chats for scheduling and input on meeting times. Our recent silent reading event was a hit, and we're now planning a Friendsgiving potluck. Engaging your community is essential. I promote our book club on Instagram with what we read, monthly recommendations, and reviews. People are keen to join and ask about virtual participation, especially from outside Richmond. Offering both in-person and virtual options can expand your reach. Lastly, fully commit to the reading material; I’ve tackled many books with enthusiasm since 2018.
Melanin & Manuscripts can be found on Instagram at melaninandmanuscripts/
Listen to the interview on Spotify