A viral trend has taken off in Monmouth County. More than 300 people flocked to the Shore with a book in hand for the Silent Book Club of Monmouth County’s monthly meet up.

The book club gained popularity after an Instagram Reel it posted from last month’s gathering in Spring Lake gained more than three million views and comments from all over the world.

“It’s overwhelming, but it’s exciting to see how many people are connecting to this community,” said Kate Eckert, Silent Book Club of Monmouth County co-leader.

Attendees were given the option to get a green or red wrist brand, which indicated whether or not they wanted to socialize with the more than 300 people also filling the beach at 7th Avenue.

“I am an English teacher, so I spend a lot of my time during the school year talking about books with teenagers and explaining them,” said Christine Rockwell-Wardlow, of Howell “I really wanted an event where I could take a red band, enjoy the beach, which is my favorite part of living in Monmouth County and be surrounded by people who are doing the same activity, but not necessarily having to engage, unless I feel ready to do that.”

On the other side, Laura Fox chose to take a green band and has met many friends over the past two years she’s been coming to the book club’s events.

“As an adult, it’s really hard to make adult friendships and this has been such an incredible space with a lot of like-minded adults to make friends,” said Laura Fox, of Brick. “And it’s so easy. If you see someone who has read the same book that you have or is currently reading the same book to strike up a conversation.”

Kate Eckert met the other four leaders - Hannah Walker, Nicole Turnbull,

Kristen Broderick and Amy Santos - through the book club.

“We have a very finite format where it’s just two hours. You can come in any form of dress, bring any kind of book that you’d like and just sit among other people. You can choose to socialize. You don’t have to,” said Eckert. “It’s very low pressure, and a lot of people are really vibing with that idea.”

The global organization has multiple chapters in New Jersey, with many more opening up after the success seen in Monmouth County. People were also invited to participate in a book swap or donate books.

“I showed up and I didn’t realize this many people were going be here,” said Jess Zebrowski, Sayreville. “It’s honestly really, really cool. This is my first time and I’m excited to meet everybody.”

For more information or to join future Silent Book Club events check them out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silentbookclub_moco_nj?igsh=MXE3bmxqZWttZ3YyMg==