Kearny now has a reason to start the morning with excitement, and it is not just the smell of fresh coffee. Curiosity by Nest, the inviting space created by Jessica Barahona, has introduced the community to the Silent Book Club Series. This is not just a book club, it is a unique experience that brings together the joy of reading, delicious food, and genuine connection.
Jessica, whose love for cooking is matched by her dedication to building community, envisioned a space where people could escape daily routines, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and immerse themselves in reading. Her goal is simple but impactful, to provide a home away from home where people feel welcomed and connected. The success of the series is clear, with every session consistently reaching full capacity and readers returning month after month.
Curiosity by Nest is the newest chapter of the Silent Book Club Organization, and it is part of a vibrant global movement. Founded in 2015, the Silent Book Club Organization now has over 2,000 chapters in more than 60 countries. Its mission is to unite book lovers around the world through the shared joy of reading, and Curiosity by Nest is bringing that mission to life right here in the local community.
Each session at Curiosity by Nest is thoughtfully structured to create a warm, memorable experience. The first 30 minutes are all about settling in, guests receive welcome gifts, place orders for drinks and snacks, and get comfortable in the cozy space.
The next hour is dedicated to silent reading, where attendees enjoy the books they have brought or choose from a small selection available at the event. While readers immerse themselves in their stories, Jessica and her husband are busy in the kitchen preparing a delicious breakfast, and Maribel and Marisol, the Mari Twins, host the event.
They theme each session and make sure everyone feels included and happy. The final minutes of the two-hour gathering are filled with warmth and celebration. The readers are recognized with special accolades, fun raffles bring smiles, and the session concludes with a serene Japanese tea, leaving everyone feeling peaceful and truly at home.
The impact of the Silent Book Club is already reaching far beyond Kearny. One visitor traveled from Colombia, sharing that she had never experienced a space so full of love for reading. Guests often note that these sessions go beyond individual reading, they foster genuine friendships.
A particularly memorable moment was a reader celebrating her birthday during a morning read, surprised with cupcakes and a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Adding to the charm are the themed Imagine Cookies by Maya, specially baked to match the day’s decorations, creating an extra layer of delight for participants.
Looking ahead, dates are already scheduled through August, with plans to welcome even more readers and continue building community. Jessica and her team are grateful for the support of their loyal readers, knowing that something as simple as reading together can have a profound impact.
Silent Book Club at Curiosity by Nest is more than the next exciting event in Kearny, it is a celebration of connection and love of reading. In a world that moves fast, Curiosity by Nest offers a welcoming space where readers can feel at home, one page at a time.
Marisol Joven is a longtime Kearny resident, freelance writer, community advocate, and one half of the Mari Twins, with family roots in Spain and Ecuador.
