How It Works

McGill has partnered with PBC Guru to create a Virtual Alumni Book Club where members have a say in which books we read. The book club will link up through a private forum where all participants can discuss the current book and connect with one another, guided by a facilitator from PBC Guru. Joining is completely free; all you need is a copy of the book. The book club will read one book every two months, giving everyone plenty of time to enjoy each selection.

Already a member? Log in to the book club online forum and join the discussion here!

Our October to December Selection:

Cover image for current book

A Pair of Wings

by Carole Hopson

Why Join

1. Connect with fellow McGill alumni around the world: Our book club will introduce you to fellow alumni across industries, generations, and geographies, all of whom will bring their own perspectives to our reading of the book. Join to be introduced to new people, and possibly make connections for career, business or other opportunities.
2. Practice meaningful self-care: Reading can reduce stress, help you sleep better, and improve your relationships. Reading also increases your mental acuity and your creativity.
3. Embrace lifelong learning: The books we read together and the discussions that take place in the book club forum will provide enriching new insights into topics such as leadership, communication skills, and cultivating a fulfilling life.

The Books

Below are a few examples of books the group might choose from. We will vote between several options each period and select a book based on readers’ interests.

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Cover image for example book entitled
Cover image for example book entitled
Cover image for example book entitled
Cover image for example book entitled
Cover image for example book entitled

Frequently Asked Questions

How often will books be read, what is the time commitment and what are the expectations?

We plan to start the book club by reading one book every two months. The texts selected will be lifelong learning, personal growth, novels and other topics and take an average of nine hours to read cover to cover. If you have between one and two hours a week to devote to reading, you should be fine!

Will there be any in-person meetings of the book club?

No, the book club will take place entirely online. You can participate from anywhere you have Internet access and on days and times that are convenient to you.

Is there any cost to participate?

Participation is free for all McGill alumni!

How do I get the books?

Participants can purchase their own copies or get books for free from their local library.

How do book club discussions work?

The book club will have a moderator from PBC Guru who will manage the online forum where discussions occur. The moderator will pose questions, share relevant articles and facilitate conversation about topics in the book. Members will be encouraged to post and share, as well. This format encourages ongoing conversation and makes it easy for readers to connect with each other through the forum.

How do I make a forum profile?

During our sign-up process, the information you enter will automatically generate your profile. After you complete the sign-up, we'll send you a link to the forum and you can begin to post right away!

What exactly is PBC Guru and what do they have to do with the book club?

Professional Book Club (PBC) Guru is a book club management company that works with businesses, alumni associations and professional societies. McGill is teaming up with PBC to put this program in place for alumni. You can visit their website at www.pbc.guru if you want to see more of what they do.

I've already signed up. How do I log in?

If you are already a member, you can click here to log in.

What if my question isn't answered?

Feel free to send an email to info@pbc.guru or contact McGill Alumni Relations at info.alumni@mcgill.ca and we will be happy to help.