> It's real simple: Give new members an Amazon gift card to purchase the book. You buy the gift card, then send the code. Or, buy a gift card to their local bookstore so they can walk in and buy a physical copy, or they can use the funds to place an online order and have the book shipped through the store.

I wouldn't do any of this. If I can't put my info in online and a few days later, the book shows up at my house, I definitely will not do it.

> The best way to get a book club off the ground is to make sure everyone has the book in hand before the discussion starts.

Worth noting that none of what you just described actually assures this. Giving someone currency to buy a book isn't the same as buying them the book. I already have the ability to buy a book.