While the variety and commitment of members matter more than the quantity, do ensure there will be enough people for a good discussion in the event of a few absentees or non-finishers. I started a Reading Group of ten women eight years ago in Melbourne, and another in Sydney five years ago. In my experience of Reading Groups I have seen how beneficial the choosing of the reading of books can be. Usually about twelve people make up a group and take turns to hold a monthly meeting at home. Sometimes the books are paid for individually, or the groups may have the system of one member each month choosing and paying for the books that month.
Members find they read with far more pleasure and understanding.
In Western Australia in metropolitan areas and in the remote wheat towns and farms, the Reading Groups have flourished for years. I have attended very many discussion evenings, they are very lively.