Explore Our Bookclubs | Adventure Awaits!

  • Original (OG) Sci-Fi Fantasy Bookclub

    Since March 2022, our OG Bookclub has been a cornerstone for sci-fi and fantasy enthusiasts seeking stories by underrepresented voices. Whether you're drawn to futuristic worlds or epic fantastical realms, this club offers a welcoming space to discuss diverse perspectives in these beloved genres.

    Join us the first Thursday(ish) of every month at the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon.

  • Romantasy Bookclub

    Calling all romantics and yearners! Our Romantasy Bookclub, launched in May 2024, celebrates the beautiful fusion of Romance with Science Friction and Fantasy.

    We meet the third Thursday(ish) of each month at Dreamhouse PDX for cozy discussions about love, adventure, and magical worlds.

  • Horror Bookclub

    Starting January 2025, our newest bookclub will dive into the chilling and thrilling works of underrepresented horror authors. If you crave spine-tingling tales and deep, thought-provoking discussions, this is the group for you!

    Join us every other month on the second Thursday(ish) for a night of frights and insights.

Shayna Hodge (they/them) is a passionate advocate for the power of storytelling and community. As a devoted sci-fi and fantasy enthusiast who moonlights here at Parallel Worlds, they bring a lifelong love of literature—spanning fantasy, horror, and romance—to every bookish endeavor.

Shayna is committed to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where readers from all walks of life, especially those with neurodivergent experiences, can connect over their shared love of books. They believe in the transformative power of literature to heal, inspire, and unite, drawing from their own experiences to foster a nurturing environment for all.

Have questions? Find them on Instagram.

Meet Shayna- Your Bookclub Overlord

Bookclub FAQs

What types of Sci-Fi & Fantasy books do we read?

Our bookclubs aim to highlight underrepresented authors.

When/Where do we meet and how long are the meets?

Our bookclubs are 1.5 ish hours long.

  • OG Science Fiction & Fantasy Bookclub - 1st Thursdays

  • Romantasy Bookclub - 3rd Thursdays

  • Horror Bookclub - 2nd Thursday (every other month)

    Location changes! Please check out our
    events page, newsletter, Instagram or Discord for date/place/time details!

Should I read the book to completion prior to meeting?

Yes! but you are more than welcome to attend without finishing, as long as you are okay with spoilers!

How are books Recommended?

Books are recommended through the Discord via the relevant Discord thread.

Are there bookclub recommendation requirements?

Yes! Recs must be:

  • Available in Paperback

  • No more than 450(ish) pages

  • Diverse and under-represented authors

  • Parallel Worlds can order the books in a reasonable amount of time

How are books selected?

At the end of each bookclub meeting, the recommended books will be shared with the club. That evening, you will be able to vote for the next book via the Discord.

Does membership/attending cost anything?

Our bookclub is free! We offer a 20% off discount for bookclub books, but you don’t have to purchase the book from Parallel Worlds!

Where can I see what books have already been read?

Within the ‘Past Bookclub Books’ Discord thread.

How are the bookclubs at Parallel Worlds Bookshop organized?

Our Bookclubs and Discord community are entirely volunteer-led! Each club is managed by dedicated members who take on roles like moderation, planning, and research. Together, they create engaging discussions, plan events, and ensure a welcoming space for all book lovers.