June Book Club & Paint by Numbers Picnic: My Friends

Join Chicago Lit Society for a cozy summer picnic inspired by My Friends by Fredrik Backman - a heartfelt story about friendship, memory, grief, and the people who leave lasting marks on our lives.

We’ll gather outdoors at 3 PM for an afternoon of meaningful conversation, creativity, and connection surrounded by summer sunshine and fellow book lovers. Whether you’re a longtime Backman fan or reading him for the first time, this event is designed to feel warm, reflective, and community-centered.

We’ll explore themes like friendship, nostalgia, grief, memory, and the invisible ways people shape our lives long after moments have passed.

✨ WHAT TO EXPECT
Throughout the afternoon, we’ll move through a mix of discussion and interactive activities inspired by the novel:

• Fun, personal icebreakers designed to help everyone connect
• A guided group discussion of My Friends and its themes of connection, loss, and memory
• A Friendship Web activity inspired by the relationships in the story
• A relaxing outdoor paint-by-number activity (all paint, brushes, and canvases included!)
• A “Forever Moment” reflection conversation while we paint and sip together
• A welcoming space to meet fellow readers and enjoy a creative summer afternoon

No painting experience is needed - this is a relaxed, social picnic experience focused on conversation, creativity, and connection.

While reading My Friends is not required, it is strongly recommended if you’d like to engage in the discussion portion of the event fully.

💛 THE EXPERIENCE
This event is designed to feel thoughtful, social, and welcoming - not academic or intimidating. The goal is to create space for meaningful conversation while also keeping things cozy, interactive, and approachable for both new and experienced readers.

Expect a laid-back summer picnic atmosphere where it’s easy to meet new people, share stories, paint together, and reflect on the friendships and moments that stayed with us.

Light picnic snacks will be available, but guests are encouraged to bring their own favorite snacks, drinks, blankets, or picnic essentials to enjoy throughout the afternoon.

📚 PERFECT FOR:
• Chicagoans in their 20s and 30s looking to connect with fellow book lovers
• Readers who enjoy thoughtful but low-pressure discussions
• Anyone who loves creative, interactive community events
• People wanting a cozy summer activity that combines books, art, and conversation

📍 The meeting spot will be the AIDS Garden in Belmont Harbor - right by the "Self Portrait" green man statue - where we’ll gather nearby to set up for the afternoon. Communication will remain open through Instagram (@chicagolitsociety) and the Bookclubs app for members running late.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Belmont Harbor, AIDS Garden, Chicago, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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