Welcome to Novel Exchanges!
Read deeply. Reflect honestly. Discuss boldly.
Novel Exchanges brings thoughtful readers together to participate in meaningful conversations that connect literature with modern life.
★★★★★
Jesse is incredibly well-prepared and excellent at facilitating conversations in each session. His discussions are thought-provoking, accessible, and will leave you thinking critically about various themes from the text that are highly relevant to today’s society. 10/10 recommend joining Novel Exchanges for all those looking to expand their minds and engage in meaningful conversations.
– Cara G.
★★★★★
Novel Exchanges is a wonderful way to explore a book. Whether that book is one that you have read before and want to explore again or a new book. There was a diverse group of participants which brought new perspectives. Jesse, the host, encouraged participation and everyone had the opportunity to share their ideas. He also kept to his 1 hour time slot, respecting participants time.
– Kathy M.
★★★★★
I loved the open-ended discussion style and how free everyone was to jump in, add on, and contribute their thoughts. I enjoyed listening to the different perspectives of participants, and I felt very comfortable sharing my own thoughts and ideas. Jesse is a powerful teacher who leads the discussions and keeps everyone on track, and he has obviously put a lot of effort into preparing for each session.
-Richard K.
✓ In-depth discussions
✓ Private sessions
✓ diverse literary works
✓ Experienced professional facilitator
✓ Virtual and in-person meetings
Professionally Facilitated Seminars for Avid Readers
We are living in an increasingly divided world. People struggle to communicate with each other. Information is fragmented by social media and partisan news sources. We seek escape from the exhaustion of our days in endless doom-scrolling.
True comfort lies in confronting the world and seeking understanding. It’s easier not to think—but only temporarily. If we fail to think, we fail to understand. And only through understanding can we see the path forward.
Read to gain insight into yourself.
Discuss to gain insight into others.
Read to understand the forces that shape the world.
Discuss to take action towards shaping a better world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you offer as a facilitator?
I have 6 years of classroom experience in BCPSS teaching high school and middle school ELA, and I was rated as highly effective each year. This gives me the ability to ensure all participants feel encouraged, and to keep the conversation engaging and on-topic.
I provide a google document and slide deck prior to each session that includes text-dependent questions, general philosophical questions, and relevant textual evidence. These tools help guide the conversation and give you an opportunity to think more deeply about the text, so that you can arrive at the conversation prepared to share your thoughts!
How do I enroll in a course?
You can visit our “Events” page to see a list of the courses offered each month. Press “Enroll today!” to be taken directly to our booking page. You can also use our calendar to see all our courses for the month! Be sure to click the first session in each course to be directed to the booking page.
How much do courses cost?
The cost of each course depends on the number and length of sessions. You can see the prices of each course on the booking and events pages!
Do you offer private sessions?
Yes! You can hire me to facilitate book discussions for a family book club, friendly gathering, a company retreat, or a youth activity group. My rates are negotiable. To learn more, visit the “Corporate & Private Offerings” page. Email [email protected] with inquiries.
What if I need to change the day or time of my class?
You can cancel your course selection free of charge up to 48 hours in advance of the first session, then sign up for a session that better fits your schedule.
How do I pay?
Our online payment system is easy and convenient. You can pay via credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You will be prompted to pay after you sign up for a course through our booking calendar!
What if I need to cancel last-minute?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance of the first session. Additionally, we do not offer discounts or refunds for missing one session of a multi-session course. However, you will receive notes as well as a video from the session to watch on your own time, so you are still caught up on the discussion!