Hi all! In February, Jean Thomas did a fascinating review of Geraldine Brooks’ novel Horse, which inspired a lively discussion. It was great to see several faces who haven’t joined us regularly for Book Talk, and I sincerely hope all those folks will continue to attend!
In fact, there are only three remaining meetings in our current “season”, and here is a quick review of our topics:
On Wednesday, March 1, we will celebrate our “Magical Mystery Tour”. All are invited to share the authors and titles of favorite mystery books and series. Whether you love Christie classics, Chandler noir, spy novels, true crime, police procedurals or just a good puzzle, come with some titles to share and be ready to tell us why these stories and characters entertain you. Sandy McCreight has generously offered to point out many of the mystery series we carry in the library, and I will share a list of some of my favorites. (Warning: I am addicted to mysteries as recreational reading!) And by the way, do not think a mystery cannot include very good literature. Case in point – John Le Carre. Please come and have fun!
On April 5, we feature Pastor Tara, presenting Praying With Our Feet, by Lindsay Krinks. I suspect this will relate to the social concerns aspects of our faith, and it is always interesting to hear our pastors talk about literature outside scripture. Come and talk with Pastor Tara!
For our last meeting of the year, on May 3, we will be sharing our thoughts on the one book we are reading together – These Precious Days, by Ann Patchett. Those of us who read a lot of contemporary fiction are familiar with the very popular Patchett who has written a broad range of stories. But outside fiction, Patchett is well known as an essayist, bookstore owner, and speaker. This collection of 20+ essays covers her thoughts about writing and how it intersects with every aspect of her life: friendships, family, education, life in a small town, the literary community (she drops a few names here), and even the long journey of cancer. It is skillfully written and very heartfelt. Many of our regulars have already offered to talk about one or more of their favorite essays for this meeting. Speakers will include Susan Russell, Cherie Huse, Janet Lind, Sandy McCreight, me and whomever else I can recruit. Please join us as we wrap up another year of good books and good.
Book Talks meet the first Wednesday of each month at 2:00 p.m. in our Fireside Library.
conversation.
Cindy Rushing