If you thought book clubs were a thing of the past, think again. Tanuj Sondhi, a teenager studying at Lycée Albert 1er, recently launched his own unique take on the concept, Riviera Readers, with the help and support of two friends. In an interview with Monaco Life, he explains the inspiration behind the founding of this relaxed and “pressure-free” club.
“I started this book club because I saw a gap for it in Monaco,” explains Sondhi. “A lot of kids my age are distracted by social media and spend hours scrolling on TikTok and Instagram—time that could be used to read a book. I wanted to bring back a passion for reading and make it a part of our daily lives again.”
Unlike traditional book clubs, Riviera Readers does not assign books or require structured discussions. Instead, participants bring a book of their choice and gather at the Princess Grace Irish Library for uninterrupted reading time. Those who wish can stay afterward for informal conversations, sharing their literary experiences and discoveries over snacks.
“I chose the Irish Library because it has such a great selection of books,” says Sondhi. “I’ve been going there since I was a little kid, and it’s played a big role in igniting my passion for reading.”
A peaceful space to read and connect
The club officially launched on Sunday 9th February, with its first open session set for Wednesday 19th February. From there, the sessions will be happening weekly. Open to people of all ages, Riviera Readers has already attracted a diverse group of participants, including one member who plans to use the sessions to practice reading in English.
“We have readers from ages eight to 85 planning to attend,” says Sondhi. “It will be interesting to see the variety of books people bring.”
Sondhi describes Riviera Readers as a “flexible” and “pressure-free” space.
“Instead of having a ‘Book of the Month’—something I don’t believe in because we all have different tastes—everyone brings their own book,” he explains. “The reading session lasts two hours, but people can stay for 30 minutes, an hour, or as long as they like. No one will interrupt you. At the end, you can socialise and discuss your book if you want or just enjoy free drinks and snacks.”
So far, fiction seems to be a popular genre among those who have signed up, but there’s also interest in history, particularly the Aztecs and Incas. As for Sondhi, his personal reading tastes have evolved over time.
“As a child, I loved fantasy, especially the Harry Potter books, but now I enjoy real-life stories,” he says. “One of my favourites is Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, which explores the themes of colonialism and tradition. Also, lately, I’ve started reading books by Ray Dalio on economics.”
Growing the literary community in Monaco
“The response [to the concept] has been very positive, and I’m really happy about it,” says Sondhi.
Looking ahead, he hopes to expand the club’s reach, saying, “If we gain more members, I’d love to organise outdoor sessions and even collaborate with the Monaco Government. I also hope to host guest lectures during our meetings.”
When asked which authors—living or dead—he would invite to the club if he could, Sondhi says with a smile, “Definitely J.K. Rowling, Joseph Conrad and Oscar Wilde—it feels fitting since we’re meeting at the Irish Library. And Ray Dalio—I just love his books.”
Information about the club’s upcoming sessions will be posted on the official Instagram page, @Riviera_Readers. Attendance is free, and anyone interested in signing up to be a part of the club should email Sondhi at tanujsondhi2008@gmail.com.
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