Book Club Night Kit

Stripped Down

Bunnie Xo

Cozy night

Bunnie Xo, host of the Dumb Blonde podcast, tells her own story of redemption with the same bold honesty her fans love. It's a warm, easy pick for a night about second chances, self-worth and becoming who you want to be.

Come As You Are: A Stripped Down Book Club Night

Bring your comfiest sweater and an open heart for a night of Southern comfort food, warm drinks and honest talk about Bunnie Xo's story of redemption. No judgment, just good company.

Reading level: Easy

Best for: A tight-knit group of friends who like heart-to-heart talks, a little laughter and a judgment-free couch

Discussion

Warm-up

1.Bunnie's voice is famously unfiltered. Did reading her felt like sitting across from a friend, and was there a moment early on when you felt pulled in?
2.Where did you curl up to read this, and was there a part that made you laugh out loud or put the book down just to breathe?

Digging in

1.The book is built around redemption. Which part of her journey made you feel most tender toward her, and why do you think it hit you that way?
2.She talks openly about parts of her life many people would keep hidden. How did it feel to read that kind of honesty, and is there something you wish you could be more open about?
3.Who are the 'safe people' in your own life, the ones who saw you clearly and loved you anyway? Did anyone in her story remind you of them?
4.The title suggests peeling back layers. What's one layer you've let go of over the years that made you feel more like yourself?

Going deep

1.Without giving away where she ends up, how did your feelings about forgiveness (forgiving others and forgiving yourself) shift as you read? Did any of it stay with you afterward?
2.Looking at the whole arc of her story, what does 'reaching your goals' mean to you now? Is there a gentle goal or fresh start you feel braver about after spending time with her?

On the table & to sip

To eat

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders on Soft Rolls

A nod to the Nashville life Bunnie shares with Jelly Roll. Make them as mild or fiery as your crowd likes, with pickles and slaw on the side.

Skillet Baked Mac and Cheese

Bubbly, golden and deeply comforting, the kind of Southern side that says 'you belong here.' It's easy to make ahead and keep warm.

Banana Pudding in Mason Jars

A sweet, nostalgic Southern classic that feels like a hug. Individual jars make serving easy and a little bit special.

To sip

Hot Honey Bourbon Toddy

A warm bourbon drink with honey and lemon that pairs with the Tennessee setting and helps everyone settle in.

Pink Marshmallow Spiked Hot Cocoa

A playful, blonde-bombshell twist on cocoa with a splash of Irish cream and pink marshmallows. Bold, sweet and unapologetic, like its author.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks (no alcohol)

A cozy, alcohol-free option that fills the room with a homey smell and keeps everyone included.