Literati, an Austin, Tex.-based company begun in 2017 that offers book subscription boxes for children, is expanding into virtual, branded book clubs. The book clubs will be overseen by a quartet of celebrities, including basketball star Stephen Curry, Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai, businessman Sir Richard Branson, and author Susan Orlean. Another book club will be run by the Joseph Campbell Foundation.
Readers can join the book clubs for $24.95 per month and members will receive a copy of the book selected by the curator as well as a note and special packaging. An accompanying app will offer subscribers the opportunity to interact with the hosts in book discussions. The new services are expected to launch in October.
Each club will have a different focus. Stephen Curry's club, named "Underrated," is "an exploration of what it means to break barriers." Malala Yousafzai’s club, "Fearless", will promote overlooked voices. Branson's club, dubbed "Reading with Richard" will offer adventure and inspiration titles. Susan Orlean's club, called "Private Collection," will feature her favorite books from her personal library. Joseph Campbell’s club, "Myth and Meaning," will feature modern selections from the Joseph Campbell Foundation, as well as titles that Campbell loved.
“We believe in the power of books to inspire lifelong learning and spark a deeper conversation,” said Jessica Ewing, Literati’s CEO and founder, in a statement. “Our luminaries are looking to provide something uniquely valuable to the world. Whether it's surfacing underdog writers, highlighting new female voices, or sharing beloved books from their private collection, their selections carry a deeply personal meaning.”
