It would be great if a speaker had read the books he/she is going to talk about, however, it's impractical. While I have read the medieval mysteries I discussed and would be very enthusiastic, it's not a genre everyone likes. If I felt a group would prefer something like The Kite Runner I don't think I should have to read it. I would do some research and read some reviews to be able to tell a group about it, and stir up some enthusiasm. I don't even have time to read the books on my to-read list, much less one for a random group. I would only feel it necessary to read one if it were for an actual book club discussion.
I agree with you. We all have our own tastes in reading that won't necessarily mesh with our patrons. We have to be able to know enough about each genre so that we can suggest books for each reader, no matter their preferences. As you said, if you are leading an in-depth book discussion, it is probably more important for you to have read the book, while it might not be quite as necessary with a booktalk lasting a few minutes on each book.
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