I’m always looking for fun ways to liven up my book clubs, and recently I’ve been really into incorporating themed foods and drinks into the event. In my opinion, it makes the book club experience even more memorable when you can eat a slice of homemade bread with Laura Ingalls while reading Prairie Fires or indulge in a Gin Rickley with Jay Gatsby while reading The Great Gatsby.
If you’re looking for an immersive experience to share with the members of your book club, pairing your books with a special treat is definitely the way to go. That’s why I rounded up eight of my favorite book & booze combinations. Serve one of these cocktails at your next club for a sure-fire hit.
Little Women + Mulled Apple Cider
The March family loves mulled apple cider and you can make some in a flash for your guests. Mix together one gallon of apple cider, one sliced orange, 2-3 cinnamon sticks, one tablespoon allspice over the stove. Bring the mixture to a boil and then let it simmer for two hours before adding two cups of spiced rum. Serve warm.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory + Baileys On Ice
What better drink to serve for a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory book club than Bailey’s On Ice? Pour 3.5 ounces of straight Bailey’s over ice and serve to your guests for a tasty after-dinner drink-for-dessert that will have you feeling like you’re floating down the chocolate river.
1984 + Gin and Tonic
Gin makes a frequent appearance in George Orwell’s classic dystopian novel, 1984. Pretend you are living in Orwell’s society for a night and indulge in the classic drink with your book club! It’s also a fairly simple drink to make. Just combine 2 ounces of gin, tonic water, and a lime wedge together in a bar glass. Stir and serve.
Lord of the Rings + Honeyed Mead
Pick up a bottle of honeyed mead to enjoy at your book club. Honeyed mead is one of the oldest drinks known to mankind. Drink it with the middle Earthers as you discuss Frodo’s antics with your good friends. Serve it hot or cold, it is up to you, but I recommend doing so in goblets to make it extra book-like.
Sweetbitter + Champagne
This novel is all about the world of restaurants and wine, so why not enjoy a favorite bottle of champagne while discussing the inner workings of the New York City restaurant scene? On the other hand, if you are just having a rough day, delve into this read while enjoying a glass of favorite red wine while in the bathtub.
Lolita + Lemon Drops
This book is controversial, and you might need something sweet to sip on while discussing some of the themes throughout the book. While any cocktail would be fitting, the lemon drop is my favorite for this book club. To make, combine two cups of frozen vodka, ½ cup of lemon juice, ½ cup of sugar into a shaker. Mix well, pour over ice, and serve with thinly sliced lemon wedges.
As I Lay Dying + Mint Juleps
This book is quintessentially southern, so you need something as equally southern to drink while reading and Mint Juleps are just the thing. Combine ¼ cup of syrup with eight crushed mint leaves. Next, add two ounces of bourbon with crushed ice and stir well. Pour in a copper cup and serve when frost begins to form on the outside.
Breakfast At Tiffany’s + Mimosas
Mix with orange juice for a breakfast beverage or drink it plain for something a little edgier. Or, depending on your budget, serve glasses of Prosecco for your book club instead!
The next time it’s your turn to host your book club meeting, I highly recommend pairing one of these books and booze combinations. Not only will the drinks help the conversation flow a little more freely, but it’s always fun to create an immersive experience at your book club.
Which one of these are you most excited to try first? Any pairings you think are a must- try?
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