On January 21st at 7pm Merit Badge Books will host the introductory meeting of the Better Man Book Group led by Matt Jackson.

The Better Man Book Group is intended to serve as a space for those who identify as men (and people who care about men) to explore books that expand our common cultural understanding of masculinity to include kindness, citizenship, supporting the vulnerable, and stepping up for community. The books chosen for this club are intended for participants to grow and act in this understanding.

FAQ

Q: Who can join this group?
A: We encourage attendees to be individuals who recognize that masculinity is a notion worth challenging and expanding on in order to improve the communities and culture we live in.

Q: How much does this cost?
A: Attendance at meetings is free. Because this group is hosted at Merit Badge Books, we encourage you to purchase books through the store so that we may continue to offer accessible community events.

Q: When does the group meet?
A: January 21, 7pm - Introductions and getting the project started. Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking to start a new habit, we’ll take this as an opportunity to get to know the folks in the room and what we all hope to gain by having a book group. Also, there will be snacks!

Q: Where do I sign up?
A: No need to sign up. Stop in for the introductory meeting if you can. If you can’t make it, but are interested in joining the group, you can stop by MBB to pick up books at any time. We’ll post the discussion dates to the website and social media ahead of time.

Q: What will we read?
A: Our tentative 2026 schedule is provided below, with finalized dates and agenda to come after group input.

February: To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
April: Futureproof: 9 Rules for Humans in the Age of AI and Automation - Kevin Roose
June: Notes on Being a Man - Scott Galloway
August: Dune - Frank Herbert
October: If Beale Street Could Talk - James Baldwin
December: Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands - Kate Beaton