Read smarter

If you like the idea of a book club but can't stand the thought of actually socializing with people, The Rumpus Book Club may be a pleasing alternative. Hosted by The Rumpus, an online pop-culture magazine with essays, comics and reviews that place an emphasis on the smart and unexpected, the reading group follows the same ethos. For $25 monthly, members receive a new book and are invited to post in an online forum. At month's end, the author joins in for a moderated discussion. Happy reading—no boring small talk required. http://store.therumpus.net/product/the-rumpus-book-club.