February 2025
January 2025
Despite Mary Kay's warnings of ice and snow on the driveway, or maybe because of them, we all managed to arrive safely at Mary Kay's beautiful, oh-so-cool home. Mary Kay set an exquisite table for the group at which we enjoyed a delicious dinner of very tasty chicken, wild rice and spinach followed by apple pie that was as beautiful as it was delicious. (We learned that the tip to that gorgeous crust is to add more water. Needless to say, I've forgotten just how much more water).
Rebels that we are, we, to some degree, balked at the wildly positive reviews "The Women" has received by the vast majority of readers around the world. Many of us found fault with Kristin Hannan's writing style, the poor character development, the implausible plot-line, and, more. But, most of us also appreciated that the novel gave them something to think about, they learned something. Carol, perhaps correctly, pointed out that she thinks Hannah was writing for a younger generation that has little appreciation or understanding of Vietnam. Some of us just enjoyed what they thought was an engaging and entertaining story. In the end, we rewarded the book with a 6.
Next month, we will meet at Carol's on February 10 for a discussion of "There are Rivers in the Sky" by Elif Shafak. Stay warm, all!
Rebels that we are, we, to some degree, balked at the wildly positive reviews "The Women" has received by the vast majority of readers around the world. Many of us found fault with Kristin Hannan's writing style, the poor character development, the implausible plot-line, and, more. But, most of us also appreciated that the novel gave them something to think about, they learned something. Carol, perhaps correctly, pointed out that she thinks Hannah was writing for a younger generation that has little appreciation or understanding of Vietnam. Some of us just enjoyed what they thought was an engaging and entertaining story. In the end, we rewarded the book with a 6.
Next month, we will meet at Carol's on February 10 for a discussion of "There are Rivers in the Sky" by Elif Shafak. Stay warm, all!
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December 2024
nAfter a two hear hiatus, Betsy was thrilled to welcome the group back to her house for our annual Christmas dinner. Thank you, Carol, for stepping in so beautifully in 2022 and 2023.
This year brought some twists. Betsy requested that everyone bring her own china to help cut back on dishes. Happy to report this unusual (rude?) request worked! It greatly reduced clean-up time. In another twist, the focus of our game was us, not our books. We played a version of the British t.v show, "Would I lie to you?" We learned all sorts of things about one another. Who knew that Mary Ann stood in the way of a rolling car? Or that Mary witnessed a bunch of college boys at the urinals? Or that Susan crash landed in a hot air balloon? And, so much else! We did play one book-centered game because Betsy needed to give away a prize (she should just have given it to Angie who was sorely disappointed that members of her winning team in the "lying" game didn't get prizes. Sorry, Angie! You did receive warm applause). In the book-game, everyone was asked to arrange the year's books in chronological order in two minutes. Needless to say, Denise and Susan won. A tie-breaker declared Susan the winner. Also needless to say, we realized no one remembers anythig.
A big thank you to Denise who, once again, brought the champagne for our toast. As always it was delicious and so, so appreciated by all. AND, thank you, Mary who provided much needed assistance before everyone arrived. She says she did nothing but she was there to do all those pesky little tasks that one doesn't have time for during food prep, so, I am very grateful! Finally, thank you, Angie, who did a masterful job of preparing the beans which allowed me to concentrate on the main course.
I would be lying (keeping up the "would I lie to you" theme), if I didn't admit the dinner is a lot of work but as Brian observed, "You love it." I do love it and it is because I love all of you! Second Monday will forever be my favorite day of the month!
As is evident below, we sorely miss Eileen for many reasons but right up there is for her photography skills. We neglected to get our annual group photo. Mary did take a picture of the whole group- minus Mary, but it turned out to be a video not a still photo. If we have a full compliment in January. Perhaps we can remedy our missing photo. We do want proof that none of is aging a day! Come visit us in January, Eileen!
Merry Christmas, All!
This year brought some twists. Betsy requested that everyone bring her own china to help cut back on dishes. Happy to report this unusual (rude?) request worked! It greatly reduced clean-up time. In another twist, the focus of our game was us, not our books. We played a version of the British t.v show, "Would I lie to you?" We learned all sorts of things about one another. Who knew that Mary Ann stood in the way of a rolling car? Or that Mary witnessed a bunch of college boys at the urinals? Or that Susan crash landed in a hot air balloon? And, so much else! We did play one book-centered game because Betsy needed to give away a prize (she should just have given it to Angie who was sorely disappointed that members of her winning team in the "lying" game didn't get prizes. Sorry, Angie! You did receive warm applause). In the book-game, everyone was asked to arrange the year's books in chronological order in two minutes. Needless to say, Denise and Susan won. A tie-breaker declared Susan the winner. Also needless to say, we realized no one remembers anythig.
A big thank you to Denise who, once again, brought the champagne for our toast. As always it was delicious and so, so appreciated by all. AND, thank you, Mary who provided much needed assistance before everyone arrived. She says she did nothing but she was there to do all those pesky little tasks that one doesn't have time for during food prep, so, I am very grateful! Finally, thank you, Angie, who did a masterful job of preparing the beans which allowed me to concentrate on the main course.
I would be lying (keeping up the "would I lie to you" theme), if I didn't admit the dinner is a lot of work but as Brian observed, "You love it." I do love it and it is because I love all of you! Second Monday will forever be my favorite day of the month!
As is evident below, we sorely miss Eileen for many reasons but right up there is for her photography skills. We neglected to get our annual group photo. Mary did take a picture of the whole group- minus Mary, but it turned out to be a video not a still photo. If we have a full compliment in January. Perhaps we can remedy our missing photo. We do want proof that none of is aging a day! Come visit us in January, Eileen!
Merry Christmas, All!
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November, 2024
I think our group truly lived "This is Happiness" tonight. How appropriate that we could gather in Joan's gracious home which always calls to mind sentiments of a gentler kinder world such as that life depicted in this month's novel. And, Joan's menu was literally and figuratively food for the soul: wonderful appetizers of a variety of toasted rounds with delightful toppings; a scrumptious minestrone soup with homemade (of course!) bread all followed by no ordinary carrot cake. Recipes, Joan!
The whole evening felt as if we were taking to heart Niall William's longing for a time when nothing was rushed, when friends were just happy to be together, absent any discord or unpleasantness (no election talk!). There was no discord but there definitely was disagreement about the book. It scored a deceptively high score of 9 including two tens and one six but the scores didn't take into account the opinions of several people who found the book to be impossibly plodding and overly detailed and just could not finish. But, those who did, reveled in the characters, in William's wisdom, his poetry, his humor, his depiction of a little Irish village, and, of course, the introduction of electricity and its potential impact on the villagers' lives was fascinating. But, again, the naysayers just wanted a PLOT!
Next months is our Christmas dinner at Betsy's. January takes us to Mary Kay's for a discussion of "The Women" by Kristin Hannah.
The whole evening felt as if we were taking to heart Niall William's longing for a time when nothing was rushed, when friends were just happy to be together, absent any discord or unpleasantness (no election talk!). There was no discord but there definitely was disagreement about the book. It scored a deceptively high score of 9 including two tens and one six but the scores didn't take into account the opinions of several people who found the book to be impossibly plodding and overly detailed and just could not finish. But, those who did, reveled in the characters, in William's wisdom, his poetry, his humor, his depiction of a little Irish village, and, of course, the introduction of electricity and its potential impact on the villagers' lives was fascinating. But, again, the naysayers just wanted a PLOT!
Next months is our Christmas dinner at Betsy's. January takes us to Mary Kay's for a discussion of "The Women" by Kristin Hannah.
Watching Joan do her thing
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Joan does Joan
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October 2024
Many, many thanks to Mary Ann for stepping in at the 11th hour and agreeing to host. Her last minute hosting duties didn't prevent her from doing her usual masterful job of entertaining. The bolognese and salad were absolutely delicious and who could forget the chocolate kahlua trifle! (Recipes, Mary Ann!) The food was feast for our souls while the table was a feast for the eyes.
It's hard to sum up our discussion of "Erasure"; it's such a multi-layered book. My notes on our discussion are totally blank probably reflecting our inability to put into words just how much we appreciated, or didn't, the book.Some commented that they thought the novel within the novel could have been left out at no loss; others felt it was crucial to the book's message, to Everett's condemnation of the publishing world. Some were too offended by the novel within the novel to even read it. "Erasure's" final score of seven including two nines and one four and everything inbetween might reflect the degree to which members struggled to reach any consensus or even opinion on how they themselves felt about the book. If anyone would like to add some notes to this summary, feel free to pass them along. Perhaps I'm jet-lagged and my powers of recall are suffering (more than normal).
Next month, we are taking a radical turn and reading "This is Happiness" by Niall Williams which Mary Ann assures us is a delightlful, funny, upbeat novel. Joan will be hosting on November 11. Have a good month all!.
It's hard to sum up our discussion of "Erasure"; it's such a multi-layered book. My notes on our discussion are totally blank probably reflecting our inability to put into words just how much we appreciated, or didn't, the book.Some commented that they thought the novel within the novel could have been left out at no loss; others felt it was crucial to the book's message, to Everett's condemnation of the publishing world. Some were too offended by the novel within the novel to even read it. "Erasure's" final score of seven including two nines and one four and everything inbetween might reflect the degree to which members struggled to reach any consensus or even opinion on how they themselves felt about the book. If anyone would like to add some notes to this summary, feel free to pass them along. Perhaps I'm jet-lagged and my powers of recall are suffering (more than normal).
Next month, we are taking a radical turn and reading "This is Happiness" by Niall Williams which Mary Ann assures us is a delightlful, funny, upbeat novel. Joan will be hosting on November 11. Have a good month all!.
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September 2024
Angie brought all her peerless entertaining skills to book club last night. What a perfect night beginning with appetizers and drinks outside overlooking Roland's beautiful backyard. Then we moved to Angie's elegant dining room table where we were treated to an oh-so-delicious Korean dinner in honor of our book's character of Marx. It included Chicken Bulgogi, Asian slaw and fried rice. Dessert was peach shortcake topped with a mixture of icecream and whipped sugar flavored with just the perfect amount of sugar (You had to be there to have heard the sugar and whipped cream discussion). Angie has promised to send recipes for all, complete with all her usual tweaks.
"Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" was generally well received earning a very respectable 8 including one high score of 10 and two lows of 6. It perhaps fell in the " I appreciated it more than I loved it" category for many. Our readers agreed Zevin is a skillful writer who brought tremendous creativity and imagination to the story. We all gained an appreciation for gaming and came to recognize it as a real art. Many could have used less emphasis on the gaming element, however, and more on the story and characters.
Next month, Mary Kay will say goodbye to beautiful Minnesota just in time to host book club on October 14. We will discuss "Erasure", our second Percival Everett novel.
"Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" was generally well received earning a very respectable 8 including one high score of 10 and two lows of 6. It perhaps fell in the " I appreciated it more than I loved it" category for many. Our readers agreed Zevin is a skillful writer who brought tremendous creativity and imagination to the story. We all gained an appreciation for gaming and came to recognize it as a real art. Many could have used less emphasis on the gaming element, however, and more on the story and characters.
Next month, Mary Kay will say goodbye to beautiful Minnesota just in time to host book club on October 14. We will discuss "Erasure", our second Percival Everett novel.
Beautiful ladies in blue
Not one of our best pictures!
August 2024
Perhaps we weren't at the beach or on a river cruise or enjoying visiting family or friends but, nevertheless, five bookclubbers were lucky to partake of Peg's wonderful, warm hospitality starting with drinks and cheese and crackers outside in Peg's beautiful back yard followed by dinner in the dining room where Peg served us a delicious chicken and pasta dish accompanied by bread and a blueberry watermelon salad. She capped off the dinner with a delicious peach, strawberry crisp with ice cream. A perfect summer feast!
Our book earned a 7, with one high 9 and one low 5. The big takeaway was that everyone came away from the book wanting more about the trial, not so much about the marriage. As one of us said, Grunwald took on some very interesting issues but didn't quite get there in her treatment of them. We wanted to hear more about some of the more interesting characters, Lottie, the pastor, Mercy and especially Darrow and Bryan. But, we found it to be an engaging story and no one regretted reading it.
I should add that Angie regaled us all with stories of her anniversary celebration in Europe where Roland set a VERY high bar for the husbands of the world. Now that I've given you that tease, I'll leave it to Angie to fill you in when we meet at her house on September 9 for a discussion of "Tomorrow, and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" by Gabrielle Zevin.
Our book earned a 7, with one high 9 and one low 5. The big takeaway was that everyone came away from the book wanting more about the trial, not so much about the marriage. As one of us said, Grunwald took on some very interesting issues but didn't quite get there in her treatment of them. We wanted to hear more about some of the more interesting characters, Lottie, the pastor, Mercy and especially Darrow and Bryan. But, we found it to be an engaging story and no one regretted reading it.
I should add that Angie regaled us all with stories of her anniversary celebration in Europe where Roland set a VERY high bar for the husbands of the world. Now that I've given you that tease, I'll leave it to Angie to fill you in when we meet at her house on September 9 for a discussion of "Tomorrow, and Tomorrow and Tomorrow" by Gabrielle Zevin.
July 2024
Major props to Denise who, with just one day to prepare following her vacation, hosted a delicious and delightful book club. We'd suggested to her that she just serve pizza but that is not in Denise's DNA. Instead, we were greeted with refreshing strawberry gin fizzes, followed by a lovely green salad, perfectly flavored beef tenderloin strips and shrimp, prosciutto palmiers and croissants and, the pièce de resistance, a devil's food cake with marshmallow frosting. Denise, we are all in awe of you. Thank you for not listening to our pizza suggestion!
"James" was very well received by the group, earning an overall score of 9 with no score lower than 8 and two high 10's. Perhaps the chocolate cake somewhat dulled our senses as the discussion probably didn't do the book justice but I think it's a book that made us all think and ache for James, a real tour de force by Percival Everett {pièce de resistance, tour de force - just keeping up my french theme) . All agreed the final line, "I am James", was one of those wonderful last lines which will stick with us. Even if our discussion was somewhat brief, James" did encourage some great discussion about race, immigration etc. It was no doubt a book club gathering where we overstayed our welcome, but, hey, "we are Book Club."
We have a slight scheduling change. Unbeknownst to this spacey organizer, Angie said she never volunteered for a hosting month. She is happy to do August so we will meet at Angie's on August 12th, where we'll discuss Lisa Grunwald's "The Evolution of Annabel Craig." Have a good month everyone!
"James" was very well received by the group, earning an overall score of 9 with no score lower than 8 and two high 10's. Perhaps the chocolate cake somewhat dulled our senses as the discussion probably didn't do the book justice but I think it's a book that made us all think and ache for James, a real tour de force by Percival Everett {pièce de resistance, tour de force - just keeping up my french theme) . All agreed the final line, "I am James", was one of those wonderful last lines which will stick with us. Even if our discussion was somewhat brief, James" did encourage some great discussion about race, immigration etc. It was no doubt a book club gathering where we overstayed our welcome, but, hey, "we are Book Club."
We have a slight scheduling change. Unbeknownst to this spacey organizer, Angie said she never volunteered for a hosting month. She is happy to do August so we will meet at Angie's on August 12th, where we'll discuss Lisa Grunwald's "The Evolution of Annabel Craig." Have a good month everyone!
June 2024
It always feels a little awkward doing the write-ups for gatherings held at my own house so allow me to put this in a form of a thank you. Thank you to all who came, and to those who were absent, for always making our monthly book clubs one of the highlights of my month. Your friendships, particularly at a time when two of our group are struggling, mean the world to me and, I'm sure, to all of us. Even though I was serious when, in the midst of one of our more senile conversations, of which there were many last night (Will anyone ever forget Peg's funeral story?), I said I worried about what we're all going to sound like in ten years, still, senile or not. I know you all will continue to be the same group that brings laughter and love into all of our lives no matter the state of our minds.
That said, I hope everyone enjoyed the aperol spritzes, lamb ragu, apple salad and raspberry spuma.
To our absentees, we all agreed we should avoid allowing two months to go by before we discuss a book. Most of us would have benefited from a second reading to refresh our memories. It's a hard book discussion to summarize but I think Carol said it best when she said it's one of those books you might appreciate more than like or even love. Intimacy is totally lacking from the story. It's hard, therefore, to feel a connection to the characters which may be one of the reasons people struggled to like it. However, most seem to admire Hernan Diaz's imaginative and creative approach to writing a novel. It's a profond novel. If only some of us could have remembered just a few of those profond themes. The book earned a 7 with one low score of 3 and three high scores of 9.
Denise has volunteered to host next month on July 8 despite the fact she will just be getting home from vacation. We suggested she just serve pizza. Denise, whatever you do, make it very very easy! Our book is Percival Everett's "James" which is new this year and not yet out in paperback. However, there are a lot of copies in the library but do try to reserve a copy ASAP. Have a good month, all!
That said, I hope everyone enjoyed the aperol spritzes, lamb ragu, apple salad and raspberry spuma.
To our absentees, we all agreed we should avoid allowing two months to go by before we discuss a book. Most of us would have benefited from a second reading to refresh our memories. It's a hard book discussion to summarize but I think Carol said it best when she said it's one of those books you might appreciate more than like or even love. Intimacy is totally lacking from the story. It's hard, therefore, to feel a connection to the characters which may be one of the reasons people struggled to like it. However, most seem to admire Hernan Diaz's imaginative and creative approach to writing a novel. It's a profond novel. If only some of us could have remembered just a few of those profond themes. The book earned a 7 with one low score of 3 and three high scores of 9.
Denise has volunteered to host next month on July 8 despite the fact she will just be getting home from vacation. We suggested she just serve pizza. Denise, whatever you do, make it very very easy! Our book is Percival Everett's "James" which is new this year and not yet out in paperback. However, there are a lot of copies in the library but do try to reserve a copy ASAP. Have a good month, all!
May 2024
A "small but mighty" group met at Carol's house. SHE cooked, a delicious lasagne that some members wanted to attribute to George. Although Carol says she doesn't like to cook, her lasagne could have been from a master chef. Carol, please send the recipe to Betsy so SHE can post it! While you're at it, send the recipe for the chocolate cake with salted caramel frosting. It was very tempting. George delighted us with his sweet focaccia bread loved by all. Thank you so much for a meal and evening that fed our souls along with our bodies. We're grateful that Susan was able to join in and share some laughs with everyone.
Absent members would be interested in knowing that the "small but mighty" group had a lively and lengthly discussion of a book that most of us read a month ago. That doesn't mean that there wasn't extraneous subjects discussed. Could it be scandalous that Peg was thrown out of a restaurant or that Carol's cousin is forever banned from Yankee stadium? Mary Ann, always in the know, raved about Lemon Creek Fabrics in Berrien Springs. Back to the book, Carol read a poignant passage that made all of us reflect more deeply on the Jewish experience. The thought surfaced about where do you call home like Leila's family who had lived in many different countries and cultures. Some felt the book wandered a little and were disappointed in the end. Others thought that the cast of characters were rich and any other ending would have seemed too contrived. There was one rating of a 10 and several 7's for an overall score of 8.
Next month, we will meet at Betsy's and discuss Trust by Herman Diaz.
April, 2024
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March, 2024
Members of the Clean Plate Club - always a reflection of a great cook
There's an award winning cake behind the flowers!
Despite several traveling bookclubbers who brought our usual numbers down, we carried on and had a delightful evening thanks largely to Mary Kay and John. John came to the rescue of Mary Kay who was recovering from carpal tunnel surgery and prepared the main course, a wonderful dinner of Sheet Pan Chicken with Augula, Potatoes and Garlic Yogurt accompanied by asparagus and crusty bread. A collective thank you to John for rising to the occasion so beautifully! As a fun, very Mary Kay- touch, she served us the 1963 (the year "Absolution" took place) award winning Betty Crocker bundt cake, Kentucky Butter Cake with strawberry ice cream. And, of course, who doesn't always enjoy an evening in Mary Kay's home. I, for one, never tire of taking in all the interesting art, furnishings, etc.
Big news in book club land! We have rated TWO BOOKS IN A ROW a ten! Everyone loved "Absolution" We had five scores of ten and two nines. All the moral complexities of the book provided for wonderful conversation. We resolved nothing but, wasn't that the point? There are no easy answers. And, of course, despite the serious themes of the book, everyone had fun taking a walk down memory lane and remembering life in the sixties. We highly recommend Diane Rehm's interview with Alice McDermott which only heightened our appreciation of the book. https://wamu.org/event/diane-rehm-book-club-a-conversation-with-alice-mcdermott/
Our book in April, when we meet at Denise's on the 8th, is "The Postcard" by Anne Berest. It's on the long side so don't delay! Can we possibly make it three tens in a row?
Big news in book club land! We have rated TWO BOOKS IN A ROW a ten! Everyone loved "Absolution" We had five scores of ten and two nines. All the moral complexities of the book provided for wonderful conversation. We resolved nothing but, wasn't that the point? There are no easy answers. And, of course, despite the serious themes of the book, everyone had fun taking a walk down memory lane and remembering life in the sixties. We highly recommend Diane Rehm's interview with Alice McDermott which only heightened our appreciation of the book. https://wamu.org/event/diane-rehm-book-club-a-conversation-with-alice-mcdermott/
Our book in April, when we meet at Denise's on the 8th, is "The Postcard" by Anne Berest. It's on the long side so don't delay! Can we possibly make it three tens in a row?
February, 2024
More than one person was overheard saying "Mary Ann just has such flair!" Madame Flair did not disappoint at our February book club. We gathered at her dining room table which was undoubtedly as romantic a setting as any you might find in this Valentine month and enjoyed a scrumptious dinner of beef bourguignon with rice and salad. Dessert was a delightful fluffy strawberry square whose recipe was handed down to Mary Ann by her mother. Everyone was calling for the recipe. I'll see that it is posted to our site. Thank you, Mary Ann for a wonderful evening!
Perhaps Mary Ann's dinner just put all of us in a generous state of mind when tonight's book club saw our third (?) perfect ten! However, more likely the rating reflected the obvious enthusiasm felt for our book by nearly all. We saw two low (hardly "low") scores of eight by those who found all the characters and story lines confusing but most were filled with admiration for McBride's skills as a writer. No question there are painful aspects to the story - how could there not be - but, in the end, I think we were grateful for our encounter with characters and a story that left us feeling so appreciative and somewhat awe-struck by their beauty.
March will move us to Mary Kay's on the 11th. Our book is "Absolution" by Alice McDermott.
Perhaps Mary Ann's dinner just put all of us in a generous state of mind when tonight's book club saw our third (?) perfect ten! However, more likely the rating reflected the obvious enthusiasm felt for our book by nearly all. We saw two low (hardly "low") scores of eight by those who found all the characters and story lines confusing but most were filled with admiration for McBride's skills as a writer. No question there are painful aspects to the story - how could there not be - but, in the end, I think we were grateful for our encounter with characters and a story that left us feeling so appreciative and somewhat awe-struck by their beauty.
March will move us to Mary Kay's on the 11th. Our book is "Absolution" by Alice McDermott.
January, 2024
Many thanks to Mary for creating such a warm welcoming escape from the January chill. In a first for our book club, we experienced a traveling feast as we moved from preprandial (look it up!) refreshments in the family room to a scrumptious dinner at Mary's beautiful dining room table (always a gorgeous study in blue) and, finally, to a feast of words and laughter in the living room.
In keeping with our book's Indian theme, Mary served an outstanding lamb tagine with couscous accompanied by a wonderful salad and rolls. The deliciousness continued into dessert where we all loved the beautiful pear and apricot tart with Graeter's salted caramel ice cream. (Recipes, Mary!)
Our book, "Independence", was very well-received, earning a score of 8 which included two tens and one low score of 6. Despite the generally good response, it was not one of our more stellar discussions. I am somewhat at a loss to summarize our comments. I remember one reader said she found the romances a little soap oper-y but tempered that criticism by admitting it was also one of the factors that drew her in to the story. Readers appreciated learning about the history behind the independence movement. They found the tumultuous relationship between the sisters very realistic. All in all, I think most just enjoyed a book with a strong engaging story.
Next month takes us to Mary Ann's on February 12. Our book is "The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store" by James McBride.
In keeping with our book's Indian theme, Mary served an outstanding lamb tagine with couscous accompanied by a wonderful salad and rolls. The deliciousness continued into dessert where we all loved the beautiful pear and apricot tart with Graeter's salted caramel ice cream. (Recipes, Mary!)
Our book, "Independence", was very well-received, earning a score of 8 which included two tens and one low score of 6. Despite the generally good response, it was not one of our more stellar discussions. I am somewhat at a loss to summarize our comments. I remember one reader said she found the romances a little soap oper-y but tempered that criticism by admitting it was also one of the factors that drew her in to the story. Readers appreciated learning about the history behind the independence movement. They found the tumultuous relationship between the sisters very realistic. All in all, I think most just enjoyed a book with a strong engaging story.
Next month takes us to Mary Ann's on February 12. Our book is "The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store" by James McBride.
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December, 2023
Our annual Christmas dinner never disappoints! As the years fly by, it seems our friendships only grow and deepen as expressed so beautifully in Carol's grace, an expression of gratitude not only for the abundant and wonderful meal but for each other.
Carol's home provided a feast for the eyes, beautiful decorations at every turn, many of which were made by Carol's own hands. The meal was a group effort, with Carol and George at the helm. Although absent, Denise saw to it that we still had our champagne toast. Thank you, Denise! Susan and Mary Ann served outstanding appetizers. More than one person was overheard saying, " I really shouldn't go back for more, but...." Dinner was a perfect prime rib, Carol's out-of-this-world scalloped potatoes, everyone's favorite fruit salad originally introduced to us by Denise, a yummy broccoli salad and, of course, no meal at the Efta-Mooneys is complete without George's homemade bread.
We took a break from feasting to play the quiz which featured a variety of formats: charades, Heads-up, Identify the photographs of members' clothing,homes and food over the year, Who Said It, and more. (Note to Betsy, make it a little shorter next year). There were the usual cases where even the person who wore the shoes in the photo didn't know they were hers and the person who "said it" didn't remember saying it. This quiz designer shudders to think what we'll be like when we're eighty!
We returned to the table to savor a Joan Imler dessert which is always hard, if not impossible, to beat - this time it was her famous German chocolate cake which included minor adaptations because no one makes more tweaks to a recipe than Joan (except maybe Angie). It was delicious!
We missed Denise, of course, but pray she will soon be fully recovered. Eileen did not surprise us by flying in as I'd hoped she would. Both she and her photography skills were sorely missed. George filled in admirably on the group photo.
Merry Christmas, dear friends! We are a special group if I do say so myself! AND. thank you so much Carol and George for hosting us in such warmth and style; you are a true gift!
Carol's home provided a feast for the eyes, beautiful decorations at every turn, many of which were made by Carol's own hands. The meal was a group effort, with Carol and George at the helm. Although absent, Denise saw to it that we still had our champagne toast. Thank you, Denise! Susan and Mary Ann served outstanding appetizers. More than one person was overheard saying, " I really shouldn't go back for more, but...." Dinner was a perfect prime rib, Carol's out-of-this-world scalloped potatoes, everyone's favorite fruit salad originally introduced to us by Denise, a yummy broccoli salad and, of course, no meal at the Efta-Mooneys is complete without George's homemade bread.
We took a break from feasting to play the quiz which featured a variety of formats: charades, Heads-up, Identify the photographs of members' clothing,homes and food over the year, Who Said It, and more. (Note to Betsy, make it a little shorter next year). There were the usual cases where even the person who wore the shoes in the photo didn't know they were hers and the person who "said it" didn't remember saying it. This quiz designer shudders to think what we'll be like when we're eighty!
We returned to the table to savor a Joan Imler dessert which is always hard, if not impossible, to beat - this time it was her famous German chocolate cake which included minor adaptations because no one makes more tweaks to a recipe than Joan (except maybe Angie). It was delicious!
We missed Denise, of course, but pray she will soon be fully recovered. Eileen did not surprise us by flying in as I'd hoped she would. Both she and her photography skills were sorely missed. George filled in admirably on the group photo.
Merry Christmas, dear friends! We are a special group if I do say so myself! AND. thank you so much Carol and George for hosting us in such warmth and style; you are a true gift!
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November 2023
Beautiful Ladies in Pink
The full compliment of our book club met tonight to savor a delectable and delightful gathering at Soledad's. Jay's "Best Book Club Husband" crown remains firm on his head as he, with help from Soledad, served us a feast of penne pasta, a fantastic green salad and crusty white bread, all topped off by Bananas Foster which conjured up Mary Ann's memories of a Sacred Heart Parish retreat, somewhere, sometime, made by someone AND a Brandy Alexander chocolate pie which could not have been any lighter or smoother - just delicious, everything! (Send me the recipes, Soledad, and I'll see that they get posted) Thank you, Jay, once again, for going the extra mile for us! Thank you, Soledad, for buying that fantastic salad dressing at Trader Joe's. (Eileen, where is the wink, wink emoji?)
How to sum up the discussion of "The Magnificent Amberson's"? It produced quite a lively discussion, mostly centered around the characters as opposed to plot, themes, etc. Lucy was a favorite. Georgie, not so much. Mary gave beautiful readings of several passages which made an impression on her. On the other hand, we agreed that the language was often offensive and hard to read. No question the book is quite dated and would never earn a Pulitzer in 2023. (We all thought "My Antonia" which came out in the same year would have been the better choice.) But, nevertheless, it was appreciated enough to earn a respectable 7 with one high score of 9 and one low score of 4
Next month takes us to Carol's for our annual Christmas dinner. She has graciously agreed to fill in for Betsy, the gimp, once again. In January, we'll meet at Mary's when we'll discuss "Independence" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. Happy Thanksgiving, all!
How to sum up the discussion of "The Magnificent Amberson's"? It produced quite a lively discussion, mostly centered around the characters as opposed to plot, themes, etc. Lucy was a favorite. Georgie, not so much. Mary gave beautiful readings of several passages which made an impression on her. On the other hand, we agreed that the language was often offensive and hard to read. No question the book is quite dated and would never earn a Pulitzer in 2023. (We all thought "My Antonia" which came out in the same year would have been the better choice.) But, nevertheless, it was appreciated enough to earn a respectable 7 with one high score of 9 and one low score of 4
Next month takes us to Carol's for our annual Christmas dinner. She has graciously agreed to fill in for Betsy, the gimp, once again. In January, we'll meet at Mary's when we'll discuss "Independence" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. Happy Thanksgiving, all!
October 2023
I think everyone's obvious reluctance to leave Susan's house provides proof of just what a wonderful time we all had at our October book club. Susan set the tone with her delicious three-course dinner of butternut squash soup, a pasta salad with croissants and a yummy yummy yummy honey cake with pistachio ice cream (recipes, Susan!) - a perfect dinner for the chilly fall night. After considerable time, we tore ourselves away from the table to move into the living room for our discussion.
"Small Great Things" scored an 8, winning broad approval by almost all. We had one low score of 6 and two high scores of 9. Readers generally felt it was a very engaging story. Some agreed with critics who felt the book tackled too many issues. One of the more interesting remarks was that the book felt more like an essay than a novel (we would love it if that absentee voter could elaborate on that) but she still liked the book. A frequent observation was that the book will "stick with them"; it made them think. I could go on but I should have taken better notes. We shared many laughs including when Susan started checking out the website for books we'd read over the years. We all agreed Eileen really failed us when she didn't include a brief synopsis of every book. Eileen, if you're reading this, can you get started on that in your spare time?
Next month takes us to Soledad's on November 13. We will discuss Indiana native Booth Tarkington's "The Magnificent Ambersons." Jay, time to start planning your dessert(s)!
Thank you, Susan, for a delightful evening which, I think, produced one of our best group pictures, particularly of our hostess! If only it included our dear Carol who was sorely missed and for whom prayers are flowing for both her and George.
"Small Great Things" scored an 8, winning broad approval by almost all. We had one low score of 6 and two high scores of 9. Readers generally felt it was a very engaging story. Some agreed with critics who felt the book tackled too many issues. One of the more interesting remarks was that the book felt more like an essay than a novel (we would love it if that absentee voter could elaborate on that) but she still liked the book. A frequent observation was that the book will "stick with them"; it made them think. I could go on but I should have taken better notes. We shared many laughs including when Susan started checking out the website for books we'd read over the years. We all agreed Eileen really failed us when she didn't include a brief synopsis of every book. Eileen, if you're reading this, can you get started on that in your spare time?
Next month takes us to Soledad's on November 13. We will discuss Indiana native Booth Tarkington's "The Magnificent Ambersons." Jay, time to start planning your dessert(s)!
Thank you, Susan, for a delightful evening which, I think, produced one of our best group pictures, particularly of our hostess! If only it included our dear Carol who was sorely missed and for whom prayers are flowing for both her and George.
September 2023
My only regret about the night's book club gathering is that our absent members were cheated out of enjoying Angie's wonderful dinner which was a true delight. She served grilled salmon (thank you, Roland!) which had the most wonderful subtle flavor of lemon and thyme, a delicious green salad AND a black rice salad which definitely was right up there among top ten book club dishes. It is making me re-think my football weekend dinner menu in a couple of weeks. Finally, although she says she's "not a baker", she could have fooled all of us when she brought out a summer peach and blackberry galette with ice cream which was as tasty as it was beautiful. She has promised to post all recipes complete with her tweaks.
If only our opinions of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" equaled our opinions of the food. While there were no haters, nor were there any lovers. The most positive statements were something like "It was a pleasant, sweet, feel-good story." But the majority found the story to be contrived, corny, predictable, too many coincidences, too much unexplained. Some liked the use of the Octopus' voice but wished they would have gotten more accurate insight into octopus behavior ("How can an Octopus possibly know all about lawn mowers?) We voted the book a 6 with a low score of 4 and a high score of 7 though two of the three sevens were absentee votes which I'm guessing might have become lower had they listened to the discussion but I'm letting my bias come through (For the record, I was not the 4.)
Next month takes us to Susan's where we will discuss Jodi Picoult's "Small Great Things."
See everyone then, if not before!
If only our opinions of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" equaled our opinions of the food. While there were no haters, nor were there any lovers. The most positive statements were something like "It was a pleasant, sweet, feel-good story." But the majority found the story to be contrived, corny, predictable, too many coincidences, too much unexplained. Some liked the use of the Octopus' voice but wished they would have gotten more accurate insight into octopus behavior ("How can an Octopus possibly know all about lawn mowers?) We voted the book a 6 with a low score of 4 and a high score of 7 though two of the three sevens were absentee votes which I'm guessing might have become lower had they listened to the discussion but I'm letting my bias come through (For the record, I was not the 4.)
Next month takes us to Susan's where we will discuss Jodi Picoult's "Small Great Things."
See everyone then, if not before!
August 2023
This month's book club was intended to be a simple pot-luck evening. All Peg needed to do was offer beverages and a roof over our heads. However, Peg ignored the plan and provided us a delightful, delectable, decorous (okay, maybe not, but I needed another D word) evening complete with a sit down dinner at her beautifully set dining room table which was a vision in blue. It was all we could do to tear ourselves away from the table to discuss the book. Members must also pat themselves on the backs for supplying some delicious dishes.
Denise's chicken salad was outstanding; Soledad/Jay's caprese salad included the best tomatoes any of us had had in ages; Susan's lemon bars absolutely melted in our mouths; Mary Ann's vegetables and guac were as beautiful as they were tasty; slacker Betsy did a great job buying cheese. Recipes everyone! (I hope I didn't forget anything!)
We may, in fact, have taken our sweet time in moving to the living room to discuss the book because, on the whole, it was not hugely popular. Two of us really liked it, found the main character to be very interesting and thought provoking. Others were not particularly taken by Marie, nor most of the other characters, would have appreciated more character development, more emotion, some dialogue. They found the story slow and tedious. One member who always finishes the book could not bring herself to finish this one. Some were bothered by the writing style while others found it to be very well-written. So, a real mixed bag resulting in a score of 6 with a low of 2 and two highs of 8.
Next month, we meet at Angie's on September 11, for a discussion of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt. Some of us are dubious but those of us who have already read it say it is delightful. Have a good month, all!
Denise's chicken salad was outstanding; Soledad/Jay's caprese salad included the best tomatoes any of us had had in ages; Susan's lemon bars absolutely melted in our mouths; Mary Ann's vegetables and guac were as beautiful as they were tasty; slacker Betsy did a great job buying cheese. Recipes everyone! (I hope I didn't forget anything!)
We may, in fact, have taken our sweet time in moving to the living room to discuss the book because, on the whole, it was not hugely popular. Two of us really liked it, found the main character to be very interesting and thought provoking. Others were not particularly taken by Marie, nor most of the other characters, would have appreciated more character development, more emotion, some dialogue. They found the story slow and tedious. One member who always finishes the book could not bring herself to finish this one. Some were bothered by the writing style while others found it to be very well-written. So, a real mixed bag resulting in a score of 6 with a low of 2 and two highs of 8.
Next month, we meet at Angie's on September 11, for a discussion of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by Shelby Van Pelt. Some of us are dubious but those of us who have already read it say it is delightful. Have a good month, all!
June 2023
Peg offered a wonderful feast for our farewell book club for Eileen. Most of us kicked off the evening with gin and tonics to which Angie brought lessons learned in New Zealand. Ina Garten's chicken salad, roasted asparagus (rave reviews) and croissants were the perfect summer supper. The seasonal theme was further enhanced by a delectable rhubarb crisp topped with ice cream and the summer's first home-grown strawberries. Thank you, Peg!
Yours Truly took the unusual step of giving people permission to not finish the book after hearing numerous complaints, including her own's. Nevertheless, the majority did finish the book, including Yours Truly, and it wasn't met with quite the disapproval Yours Truly feared. In fact, Yours Truly came around to really liking it and awarded it the high score of 8. The majority gave it a 7 while one person gave it a 4, resulting in a very average score of 6. But, enough about Yours Truly. In general, members enjoyed the main character of Hank with all his complexities while others found the story line and all the characters, hard to follow.
Next month, we MAY meet to discuss "Matrix" by Lauren Groff. If we do not end up meeting in July due to absenteeism, we will discuss the book in August, possibly at Angie's (TBD).
Our wonderful evening ended on a sad note as hugs and kisses were exchanged with Eileen. Many of us will undoubtedly see her before her move to North Carolina in July but is, nevertheless, the end of an era as we acknowledged the departure of one of our founding members. Eileen, you will be sorely missed. But, we wish you all the best as you begin your new adventure in the Tarheel state. We promise to stay in touch through emails, texts, phone calls and, of course, the wonderful website to which you brought all your inimitable creative juices. So much love to you and the whole Sweeney family!
Yours Truly took the unusual step of giving people permission to not finish the book after hearing numerous complaints, including her own's. Nevertheless, the majority did finish the book, including Yours Truly, and it wasn't met with quite the disapproval Yours Truly feared. In fact, Yours Truly came around to really liking it and awarded it the high score of 8. The majority gave it a 7 while one person gave it a 4, resulting in a very average score of 6. But, enough about Yours Truly. In general, members enjoyed the main character of Hank with all his complexities while others found the story line and all the characters, hard to follow.
Next month, we MAY meet to discuss "Matrix" by Lauren Groff. If we do not end up meeting in July due to absenteeism, we will discuss the book in August, possibly at Angie's (TBD).
Our wonderful evening ended on a sad note as hugs and kisses were exchanged with Eileen. Many of us will undoubtedly see her before her move to North Carolina in July but is, nevertheless, the end of an era as we acknowledged the departure of one of our founding members. Eileen, you will be sorely missed. But, we wish you all the best as you begin your new adventure in the Tarheel state. We promise to stay in touch through emails, texts, phone calls and, of course, the wonderful website to which you brought all your inimitable creative juices. So much love to you and the whole Sweeney family!
May 2023
We had an intimate gathering at Betsy's. Small though our numbers were, we still had a wonderful evening of laughs, good conversation and good (I hope!) food .
Summing up our discussion of "Sea of Tranquility" presents almost as many challenges as did reading/understanding the book. In general, I would say the majority agreed it is an impressive, imaginative, well-written, smart novel. I would also say the majority said that despite all that, they just did not truly enjoy the book. One member read the book twice and felt her appreciation of it grew significantly with the second reading. It earned a score of 7 including three high scores of 8 and one low of 3.
Next month takes us to Angie's for a discussion of Richard Russo's "Straight Man." Fair warning, the library does not have many copies but you can easily purchase used copies of the book from Better World Books or Amazon. It's fairly long so don't delay! See everyone in June!
Summing up our discussion of "Sea of Tranquility" presents almost as many challenges as did reading/understanding the book. In general, I would say the majority agreed it is an impressive, imaginative, well-written, smart novel. I would also say the majority said that despite all that, they just did not truly enjoy the book. One member read the book twice and felt her appreciation of it grew significantly with the second reading. It earned a score of 7 including three high scores of 8 and one low of 3.
Next month takes us to Angie's for a discussion of Richard Russo's "Straight Man." Fair warning, the library does not have many copies but you can easily purchase used copies of the book from Better World Books or Amazon. It's fairly long so don't delay! See everyone in June!
April 2023
We could easily forget the sleet and cold of an APRIL day while feasting on a delicious dinner of Chicken Marbella, George's homemade baguettes, Cosco's Famous Dave's cornbread, a crisp chopped salad, all capped off by the perfect combination of a brownie and exquisite lime mousse. Carol may only make dinner "three times a year" but when she does, she does it beautifully. (Recipes, please) Many thanks, Carol, for a hosting a delightful evening!
"The Dictionary of Lost Words" provided us a great discussion, eliciting much praise and very little criticism as reflected by its score of 9 which included three low scores of 8 and three highs of 10. Members found much to love about the book's treatment of the place of words and language in society , the rendering of a broad range of characters whose voices are often ignored, the process of building a dictionary and so much more. There was nothing schlocky (sorry, absent members, you had to be there) about it. The only criticisms that come to mind was a regret that the author missed the cultural element of words and one person felt the book dragged towards the end.
Next month, we will meet at Betsy's (note change to schedule) when we will discuss Emily St. John Mandel's newest book, "Sea of Tranquility". The date is May 8, just a few days before our May 13 farewell party for Morgan and Eileen.
"The Dictionary of Lost Words" provided us a great discussion, eliciting much praise and very little criticism as reflected by its score of 9 which included three low scores of 8 and three highs of 10. Members found much to love about the book's treatment of the place of words and language in society , the rendering of a broad range of characters whose voices are often ignored, the process of building a dictionary and so much more. There was nothing schlocky (sorry, absent members, you had to be there) about it. The only criticisms that come to mind was a regret that the author missed the cultural element of words and one person felt the book dragged towards the end.
Next month, we will meet at Betsy's (note change to schedule) when we will discuss Emily St. John Mandel's newest book, "Sea of Tranquility". The date is May 8, just a few days before our May 13 farewell party for Morgan and Eileen.
March 2023
Many thanks to Mary Kay for taking us out of a cold snowy night into her always lovely warm welcoming home. She started the night out with a great selection of cheese and crackers (name of cheese that brought many raves, Mary Kay?), olives, pickles all of which preceded a scrumptious dinner of pasta with salmon and dried roasted tomatoes, served alongside beans and grapes. Later in the evening we all enjoyed a simple but elegant and delicious Italian pear cake with ice cream Recipes, Mary Kay!
"This Tender Land" was largely well received. It earned an overall score of 7 with two 9's and one 5 for the high and low scores. Its detracters found it overly sentimental and hard to believe at times. But, the majority found the story entertaining and engaging and enjoyed its thoughtfullness and, indeed, tenderrness. It goes without saying there was all the usual fun and laughter but, we could not help but miss Eileen and worry about everything she and Morgan are going through. Eileen, you have our love and prayers.
Next month, we are changing our date to April 17th so as not to conflict with Easter Monday. We will be at Carol's enjoying a discussion of "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams. A happy and blessed Easter to all!
"This Tender Land" was largely well received. It earned an overall score of 7 with two 9's and one 5 for the high and low scores. Its detracters found it overly sentimental and hard to believe at times. But, the majority found the story entertaining and engaging and enjoyed its thoughtfullness and, indeed, tenderrness. It goes without saying there was all the usual fun and laughter but, we could not help but miss Eileen and worry about everything she and Morgan are going through. Eileen, you have our love and prayers.
Next month, we are changing our date to April 17th so as not to conflict with Easter Monday. We will be at Carol's enjoying a discussion of "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams. A happy and blessed Easter to all!
February 2023
Book club literally sparkled last night! We dined in front of the fire place at Mary Ann's beautiful table, the perfect setting for a delicious dinner of pork tenderloin and rice in a wonderful sauce and roasted asparagus. We were all thrilled that Eileen took time away from Morgan's bedside to join us for dinner.
"Demon Copperhead", while largely very well received, earning a score of 8, was probably one of our "loved it/did not like it so much" books, with few opinions falling in between. Four people gave it the high scores of 10's while three gave it our low scores of 5 and 6's. Those who loved it appreciated the characters, good and bad, the clever connections to "David Copperfield", the general portrayal of a very bleak landscape which gave us much food for thought and empathy. Those who did not love it just found it too heavy, too bleak. Some faulted the upbeat ending which they felt didn't jive with the rest of the book. This writer has to say it was probably one of our more depressing, if good, discussions. BUT, no worries. Mary Ann took care of that by moving us back into the dining room- from-heaven where we thoroughly enjoyed a heart-shaped cranberry pudding and the usual book club laughs ensued. Thank you, Mary Ann for a lovely evening! You truly outdid yourself. And, thank Butler Dan for us as well!
Next month takes us to Mary Kay's for a discussion of "This Tender Land" by William Kent Krueger. The date is March 13
"Demon Copperhead", while largely very well received, earning a score of 8, was probably one of our "loved it/did not like it so much" books, with few opinions falling in between. Four people gave it the high scores of 10's while three gave it our low scores of 5 and 6's. Those who loved it appreciated the characters, good and bad, the clever connections to "David Copperfield", the general portrayal of a very bleak landscape which gave us much food for thought and empathy. Those who did not love it just found it too heavy, too bleak. Some faulted the upbeat ending which they felt didn't jive with the rest of the book. This writer has to say it was probably one of our more depressing, if good, discussions. BUT, no worries. Mary Ann took care of that by moving us back into the dining room- from-heaven where we thoroughly enjoyed a heart-shaped cranberry pudding and the usual book club laughs ensued. Thank you, Mary Ann for a lovely evening! You truly outdid yourself. And, thank Butler Dan for us as well!
Next month takes us to Mary Kay's for a discussion of "This Tender Land" by William Kent Krueger. The date is March 13
January 2023
Sometimes it feels as if winter lends itself to the most wonderful book club gatherings and tonight's gathering at Susan's offered evidence to support my theory. It's clearly good for the soul to come out of the cold and gather for food and friendship. And, what wonderful food Susan provided us as we assembled around her gorgeous table! The chicken and rice Chicken D'Iberville was a definite winner as were the perfectly glazed carrots, the broccoli and cauliflower, the croissants, not to mention the chocolate trifle cheesecake which capped off our dinner. Recipes, Susan!
"My Grandmother Asked me to Tell You She's Sorry" was largely met with praise. Three scores of 6 pulled down the overalll score but still, the book earned a very respectable score of 8 which included one high of 9. Those who weren't crazy about the book weren't fans of the fairy tale motif. Conversely, those who enjoyed the book really appreciated the author's creativity in merging fantasy with reality and loved the characters, all the twists and turns and the positive uplifiting themes.
Listen up, children! February's book is MAYBE Barbara Kingsolver's "Demon Copperhead." Susan originally ruled it out because she was worried it is too long (560 pages) but members (naively?) assured her that we can do it. This is our chance to set a new book club record for our longest book, so, yes, we can do it! However, there is also concern that everyone will not be able to get the book as the library waiting list is pretty long. So, we decided that everyone should let me know by January 23 if they have a copy of the book. If not, we will switch to reading "Memphis" by Tara Stringfellow. Regardless, whatever our book, we will definitely be meeting at Mary Ann's on February 13.
"My Grandmother Asked me to Tell You She's Sorry" was largely met with praise. Three scores of 6 pulled down the overalll score but still, the book earned a very respectable score of 8 which included one high of 9. Those who weren't crazy about the book weren't fans of the fairy tale motif. Conversely, those who enjoyed the book really appreciated the author's creativity in merging fantasy with reality and loved the characters, all the twists and turns and the positive uplifiting themes.
Listen up, children! February's book is MAYBE Barbara Kingsolver's "Demon Copperhead." Susan originally ruled it out because she was worried it is too long (560 pages) but members (naively?) assured her that we can do it. This is our chance to set a new book club record for our longest book, so, yes, we can do it! However, there is also concern that everyone will not be able to get the book as the library waiting list is pretty long. So, we decided that everyone should let me know by January 23 if they have a copy of the book. If not, we will switch to reading "Memphis" by Tara Stringfellow. Regardless, whatever our book, we will definitely be meeting at Mary Ann's on February 13.
December 2022
Betsy is likely selfishly not yet ready to totally give up the hosting reins of our annual Christmas dinner. However, no question that Carol (and George) should be named permanent stand-in hosts when Betsy has her next every-four-years foot surgery (Say it ain't so!). Carol (and George) did a phenomenal job! She brought all her inimitable artistry to create a magical Christmas ambiance to her home. So many of her decorations have been hand-made. We were in awe! Carol, if you're missing a stocking or two, you might check out Soledad's house.
And, the food and drink! Carol received help from several quarters. In keeping with tradition, Denise supplied the champagne, wonderful, as always. Angie brought her vast culinary skills to the hors d'oeuvres: Smoked Salmon Seven Layer Dip, Pâté, and Polenta Bites with Wild Mushrooms and Fontina (Recipes on the website). Our third "collaborator", Mary Kay, provided two scrumptious pies for dessert, a pecan and a cherry, perfect endings to a perfect meal. But, prior to that perfect ending, we were treated to George's prime rib (YUM!) with horseradish sauce (so smooth and tasty), potatoes with gruyère, a fruit salad (Denise's fruit salad recipe?), George's homemade bread - always a treat - and a broccoli dish which brought a wonderful sweetness to an absolutely delectable, delicious, dynamic dinner (recipes, please!). We are all so grateful!
Then, there was the game... Betsy possibly took things to new heights in difficulty. She will attempt to dumb things down a bit next year and will also do a better job of spelling out every.....last....rule. Nevertheless, we had a lot of fun, if not too much success. As always, Betsy came away a little concerned about our mental states. As part of the night's game, we had to identify who said certain quotes from our gatherings over the past four years. Amazing how often not even the person who was responsible for the quote could remember saying it!
The best Christmas parties should leave you feeling warm, fuzzy and grateful for your friendships.... and bring lots of laughter. Thank you, Carol, for an evening that fully hit the mark on every count. Merry Christmas to all!
And, the food and drink! Carol received help from several quarters. In keeping with tradition, Denise supplied the champagne, wonderful, as always. Angie brought her vast culinary skills to the hors d'oeuvres: Smoked Salmon Seven Layer Dip, Pâté, and Polenta Bites with Wild Mushrooms and Fontina (Recipes on the website). Our third "collaborator", Mary Kay, provided two scrumptious pies for dessert, a pecan and a cherry, perfect endings to a perfect meal. But, prior to that perfect ending, we were treated to George's prime rib (YUM!) with horseradish sauce (so smooth and tasty), potatoes with gruyère, a fruit salad (Denise's fruit salad recipe?), George's homemade bread - always a treat - and a broccoli dish which brought a wonderful sweetness to an absolutely delectable, delicious, dynamic dinner (recipes, please!). We are all so grateful!
Then, there was the game... Betsy possibly took things to new heights in difficulty. She will attempt to dumb things down a bit next year and will also do a better job of spelling out every.....last....rule. Nevertheless, we had a lot of fun, if not too much success. As always, Betsy came away a little concerned about our mental states. As part of the night's game, we had to identify who said certain quotes from our gatherings over the past four years. Amazing how often not even the person who was responsible for the quote could remember saying it!
The best Christmas parties should leave you feeling warm, fuzzy and grateful for your friendships.... and bring lots of laughter. Thank you, Carol, for an evening that fully hit the mark on every count. Merry Christmas to all!
November, 2022
Eileen greeted us in the warmth of her kitchen on a cold, almost wintry night, with delicious spiced cider or a hot toddy. As she lit the candles on her beautifully set dinner table, she said this could be the last time that she hosts book club since they hope to move to Raleigh! Eileen treated us to a feast of Rigatoni with Squash & Caramelized Onions along with salad and Diane's favorite rolls. Dessert captured the seasonal flavors of gingerbread and pumpkin in a trifle. Of course, the chocolate lovers were not disappointed either. Eileen had bitesize squares of flourless chocolate cake. Recipes were requested for everything.
"So Big" garnered a lot of discussion. Pre-dinner, it was agreed that we wouldn't discuss it until "it was time." Some of us were surprised at the abrupt ending. Selina's character was richly drawn and admired for her drive, determination and enjoyment of the beauty of life. She was an example of feminism in her time. Many thought the other characters were merely stereotypes although Roelf and Dallas were admired too. It felt dated, in some ways, as Peg noted that there was no sex in the book. To others, it reflected a throwback to their grandparents' era. Betsy joined us on FaceTime and heard some of our discussion. She rated the book a 10 along with Susan! The lowest score was 6 with others coming in at 8 or 9. The overall rating was an 8.
Next month, we will meet at Carol's for our Christmas dinner.
January, we will meet at Susan's and read "My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry," by Fredrik Backman. It was first published in the United Kingdom as My Grandmother Sends Her Regards and Apologises.
"So Big" garnered a lot of discussion. Pre-dinner, it was agreed that we wouldn't discuss it until "it was time." Some of us were surprised at the abrupt ending. Selina's character was richly drawn and admired for her drive, determination and enjoyment of the beauty of life. She was an example of feminism in her time. Many thought the other characters were merely stereotypes although Roelf and Dallas were admired too. It felt dated, in some ways, as Peg noted that there was no sex in the book. To others, it reflected a throwback to their grandparents' era. Betsy joined us on FaceTime and heard some of our discussion. She rated the book a 10 along with Susan! The lowest score was 6 with others coming in at 8 or 9. The overall rating was an 8.
Next month, we will meet at Carol's for our Christmas dinner.
January, we will meet at Susan's and read "My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry," by Fredrik Backman. It was first published in the United Kingdom as My Grandmother Sends Her Regards and Apologises.
October, 2022
Although our group was small, we enjoyed the intimacy of the evening and even talked a lot about the book. We welcomed Mary Kay back after her wonderful summer in Minnesota. Peg had a few stories about her Viking cruise. Mary has worn a path back and forth to Cleveland these last weeks which will continue for a few more weeks. Carol has been working diligently on immigration cases while attending fairs with George. Denise was catching up on sleep after having a 4 month old for 4 days.
Regarding the book, everyone had various aspects that they liked. A few readers commented that they laughed out loud while reading. A few people weren't happy with the contrived ending but enjoyed it over all. One person, who submitted text comments, dared to say that she didn't like the device of Six-thirty, the dog! We agreed that it was a comical way to treat a very serious subject. Ratings ranged from 6 to 9 with an average of 8. It looks like we've had a string of very popular books.
Perhaps I developed my own chicken pot pie ala "Supper at Six". The recipe for chicken packets and the fruit salad with orange cinnamon dressing is in the recipe section.
Next month, we meet at Joan's according to the website. This may have changed since she hosted in May. We will be discussing So Big by Edna Ferber, Betsy's choice.
Regarding the book, everyone had various aspects that they liked. A few readers commented that they laughed out loud while reading. A few people weren't happy with the contrived ending but enjoyed it over all. One person, who submitted text comments, dared to say that she didn't like the device of Six-thirty, the dog! We agreed that it was a comical way to treat a very serious subject. Ratings ranged from 6 to 9 with an average of 8. It looks like we've had a string of very popular books.
Perhaps I developed my own chicken pot pie ala "Supper at Six". The recipe for chicken packets and the fruit salad with orange cinnamon dressing is in the recipe section.
Next month, we meet at Joan's according to the website. This may have changed since she hosted in May. We will be discussing So Big by Edna Ferber, Betsy's choice.
September, 2022
I loved entertaining everyone for dinner and the book discussion at my house last night. We missed only Mary Kay who continues to bask in the pleasures of summertime in Minnesota. At your request, I've added the recipe for Summer Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes and Corn to the website.
Our members loved "Horse" almost to a person. One person, who shall remain nameless, was not quite as enthusiastic, resulting in the still respectable low score of a 7 while another gave it a 10 for an overall score of 9. Everyone loved the story, loved learning about a topic about which we knew very little, loved the plot which covered very different, yet simultaneously disturbingly similar, times in history. Our discussion probably didn't quite do the book justice, not the first time that's happened and it won't be the last!
Next month, we meet at Denise's for a discussion of "Lessons in Chemistry." Due to Betsy's absence in October and her selfish desire to be present for the discussion of her pick, we "picked" (she sort of dictated the choice) November's book as well, "So Big" by Edna Ferber.
Our members loved "Horse" almost to a person. One person, who shall remain nameless, was not quite as enthusiastic, resulting in the still respectable low score of a 7 while another gave it a 10 for an overall score of 9. Everyone loved the story, loved learning about a topic about which we knew very little, loved the plot which covered very different, yet simultaneously disturbingly similar, times in history. Our discussion probably didn't quite do the book justice, not the first time that's happened and it won't be the last!
Next month, we meet at Denise's for a discussion of "Lessons in Chemistry." Due to Betsy's absence in October and her selfish desire to be present for the discussion of her pick, we "picked" (she sort of dictated the choice) November's book as well, "So Big" by Edna Ferber.
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August, 2022
I know I speak for all of us when I say how grateful we all were to Mary for providing us with exactly what we needed on this very difficult day. Her delicious dinner of wild rice salad, lemon chicken and cheese bread capped off by a scrumptious raspberry cream torte on a shortbread crust was so enjoyed by all. But, Mary, giving us the opportunity to gather together, to share our memories of Diane, to toast her beautiful life provided us much needed food for the soul. Needless to say, the evening was much more subdued than our usual gathering but how could that not be?
We started the evening with a champagne toast to Diane. I was asked to include the toast, so, here you go:
A toast to Diane, our friend who brought us so much kindness, love, compassion, good humor and smiles. To Diane who kept us laughing with comments like "I really liked that there was sex in the book; we haven't had that for a long time" . To Diane who loved all things Alaska, thus her book selection of "Hold the Dark", a dark dreary book which contained everything our purely good Diane despaired of. To a heaven where there is no whipped cream, no spice, no sauce, and, of course, no onions! To our friend who made this world a better place in every way.
In honor of Diane's love for Ireland, we offer this Irish prayer:
Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.” God bless Diane!
Speaking for myself, I had a difficult time getting my head into the book discussion. I remembered even less about "The Awakening" than I normally remember about our books every month which is saying a lot. But, others did much better and a good, if short, discussion ensued. The book earned largely 8's but also a 5 and a 3 which pulled down the final score to a 7.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's when we'll discuss "Horse" by Geraldine Brooks.
Towards the end of the evening, Peg suggested that each of us give a memory of Diane. Thank you for that, Peg! Denise, for one, recalled how Diane would sit in her living room's big armchair where her feet couldn't touch the floor and she happily swung her legs back and forth all night, at times scrunching her face up (great imitation, Denise!). It was such a vivid and typical image of Diane that brought smiles to all.
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven:... A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." Last night, we largely wept but we will laugh again, as Diane would want. We love you, Diane.
We started the evening with a champagne toast to Diane. I was asked to include the toast, so, here you go:
A toast to Diane, our friend who brought us so much kindness, love, compassion, good humor and smiles. To Diane who kept us laughing with comments like "I really liked that there was sex in the book; we haven't had that for a long time" . To Diane who loved all things Alaska, thus her book selection of "Hold the Dark", a dark dreary book which contained everything our purely good Diane despaired of. To a heaven where there is no whipped cream, no spice, no sauce, and, of course, no onions! To our friend who made this world a better place in every way.
In honor of Diane's love for Ireland, we offer this Irish prayer:
Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.” God bless Diane!
Speaking for myself, I had a difficult time getting my head into the book discussion. I remembered even less about "The Awakening" than I normally remember about our books every month which is saying a lot. But, others did much better and a good, if short, discussion ensued. The book earned largely 8's but also a 5 and a 3 which pulled down the final score to a 7.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's when we'll discuss "Horse" by Geraldine Brooks.
Towards the end of the evening, Peg suggested that each of us give a memory of Diane. Thank you for that, Peg! Denise, for one, recalled how Diane would sit in her living room's big armchair where her feet couldn't touch the floor and she happily swung her legs back and forth all night, at times scrunching her face up (great imitation, Denise!). It was such a vivid and typical image of Diane that brought smiles to all.
"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven:... A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." Last night, we largely wept but we will laugh again, as Diane would want. We love you, Diane.
July, 2022
My only regret for this month's book club is that I neglected to get a picture of Peg's gorgeous dinner table, a study in beautiful blue. The table was surpassed only by the delicious meal of shrimp salad, spinach and feta salad and tomatoes topped with mozzarella, the perfect summer meal which was capped off with a scrumptious blueberry and peach cobbler. Peg, the balsamic syrup was not missed in the least, just hope you're able to eventually remove the spoon from the concrete "syrup."
Our book was a huge hit. It earned a score of 9 which included three tens and a "low" score of one 8. There really were no criticisms to speak of; it was almost as if we were all searching for negative comments, to no avail. We all enjoyed getting a glimpse into life in Nigeria - just hope things have improved! For what it's worth, Brian, who has spent a lot of time in Nigeria says the parts of the country in which the story took place are all Christian. The Muslim areas are in the north.
We meet next month on August 8th at Mary's for a discussion of Kate Chopin's "The Awakening."
Two issues were raised: Poor Mary Ann is missing out on a lot of emails because people are continuing to use her gmail address instead of the yahoo. I find myself texting her all the time to alert her to something she missed. My recommendation is that everyone "reply all " to any of my recent emails. That should guarantee that all email addresses are current. Secondly, sadly, Betsy must have yet more tendon surgery to repair yet another torn tendon in the same foot. That will take place in mid October. Consequently, I will not be able to do our annual Christmas dinner. However, Carol has graciously offered her home and her table which seats 15 AND George's prime rib so we will happily move the dinner to her house. Up for discussion is whether we want to cater the rest of the dinner or ask for volunteers to bring in the side dishes. So, just give this a little thought, please. Caterers are in high demand in December so if we go that route, we'll likely want to book one ASAP.
Thanks all, most especially Peg for treating us to a stellar evening!
Our book was a huge hit. It earned a score of 9 which included three tens and a "low" score of one 8. There really were no criticisms to speak of; it was almost as if we were all searching for negative comments, to no avail. We all enjoyed getting a glimpse into life in Nigeria - just hope things have improved! For what it's worth, Brian, who has spent a lot of time in Nigeria says the parts of the country in which the story took place are all Christian. The Muslim areas are in the north.
We meet next month on August 8th at Mary's for a discussion of Kate Chopin's "The Awakening."
Two issues were raised: Poor Mary Ann is missing out on a lot of emails because people are continuing to use her gmail address instead of the yahoo. I find myself texting her all the time to alert her to something she missed. My recommendation is that everyone "reply all " to any of my recent emails. That should guarantee that all email addresses are current. Secondly, sadly, Betsy must have yet more tendon surgery to repair yet another torn tendon in the same foot. That will take place in mid October. Consequently, I will not be able to do our annual Christmas dinner. However, Carol has graciously offered her home and her table which seats 15 AND George's prime rib so we will happily move the dinner to her house. Up for discussion is whether we want to cater the rest of the dinner or ask for volunteers to bring in the side dishes. So, just give this a little thought, please. Caterers are in high demand in December so if we go that route, we'll likely want to book one ASAP.
Thanks all, most especially Peg for treating us to a stellar evening!
June, 2022
We were long overdue for a bookclub at Soledad's but it was well worth the wait! In addition to an evening of laughter and good conversation, Soledad treated us to a wonderful dinner of shrimp, chicken, caesar salad, tomatoes with mozzarella and basil and a crusty bread - all just scrumptious! Dinner was capped off by two unforgettable desserts prepared by Jay, of course, a chocolate strawberry cake and lemon meringue pie. Everyone but our resident chocoholic (Eileen) insisted on trying a "little of each" but, thankfully, Jay didn't take the "little" part too seriously. Soledad, please extend our deepest gratitude to Jay. He must know how much we all look forward to our Jay-Desserts!
"OH William" was largely met with praise, earning an 8 which included six 9's and a low score of 5. In general, our members felt the characters were beautifully drawn and displayed so perfectly the complexity of the human condition. I would like to do more justice to the less enthusiastic comments but the naysayers weren't terribly vocal naysayers. One member did say that while she appreciated the book in many ways, it just didn't grab her. Another member was not a fan of William who she declared a "wimp."
Next month, we're at Peg's on July 11 for a discussion of "The Girl with the Louding Voice" by Abi Dare. Have a good month, everyone!
"OH William" was largely met with praise, earning an 8 which included six 9's and a low score of 5. In general, our members felt the characters were beautifully drawn and displayed so perfectly the complexity of the human condition. I would like to do more justice to the less enthusiastic comments but the naysayers weren't terribly vocal naysayers. One member did say that while she appreciated the book in many ways, it just didn't grab her. Another member was not a fan of William who she declared a "wimp."
Next month, we're at Peg's on July 11 for a discussion of "The Girl with the Louding Voice" by Abi Dare. Have a good month, everyone!
May, 2022
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I'm sorry so many could not be at Joan's tonight because they missed the pleasure our evenings at Joan's always present. She prepared a wonderful chicken Greek salad and crusty bread for us with assistance from several others (see photos). It featured a Greek potato salad which was out of this world. Recipe, please! The meal was a perfect summertime (we skipped spring, as usual) dinner in Joan's wonderful country home. Even the roofers must have sensed they were disturbing our bucolic gathering as they left quite promptly. I should add that we started our meal with a prayer for all of our missing members but, most especially, Diane who was sorely missed. Thank you, Carol, for leading us so beautifully.
"The Personal Librarian" definitely got mixed reviews. It earned one ten and one five with all other scores scattered in between for a total score of 7. People either found the story fascinating and loved it or felt it had the potential to be a great story but was not well-fleshed out. We did not have an overly long discussion but we made up for that with a lot of great discussion about just about every serious issue of the day. Yet, we still managed to work in the laughs - all in all, a very enjoyable evening. And, we thorougly enjoyed the peach pie despite Joan's protestations that it flopped. It was, needless to say, delicious!
Next month, we meet on June 13th at Soledad's where we will discuss Elizabeth Strout's latest book, "Oh William." Almost everyone voted to meet at 6:30 so consider that our new start time. I will try to remind everyone of that once or twice or more (because, we're known to forget things) before we meet. If you haven't yet signed up for a slot on the new schedule, please do so. Thank you all and have a good month!
"The Personal Librarian" definitely got mixed reviews. It earned one ten and one five with all other scores scattered in between for a total score of 7. People either found the story fascinating and loved it or felt it had the potential to be a great story but was not well-fleshed out. We did not have an overly long discussion but we made up for that with a lot of great discussion about just about every serious issue of the day. Yet, we still managed to work in the laughs - all in all, a very enjoyable evening. And, we thorougly enjoyed the peach pie despite Joan's protestations that it flopped. It was, needless to say, delicious!
Next month, we meet on June 13th at Soledad's where we will discuss Elizabeth Strout's latest book, "Oh William." Almost everyone voted to meet at 6:30 so consider that our new start time. I will try to remind everyone of that once or twice or more (because, we're known to forget things) before we meet. If you haven't yet signed up for a slot on the new schedule, please do so. Thank you all and have a good month!
April, 2022
A big thank you to Eileen for treating us to a scrumptious dinner of rice with meatballs (recipe, please!), salad (containing all the ingredients Morgan doesn't like but which we loved) and a crusty white bread, all capped off by a mouth-watering coca cola chocolate cake with ice cream (recipe, please!). We savored every morsel.
Our book nearly received a unanimous vote of all 8's but for one 7. However, it should be pointed out that two people couldn't finish it because they found it to be "soooooooo boring". But, for the most part, members thought it is very well written, beautifully reflective of the immigrant experience and of the importance of stories in establishing identity.
Needless to say, despite all the usual laughter ("Do you want to hear a funny story about Peg?"), a shadow hung over us as our thoughts were so much on our dear Diane who we, of course, sorely missed. Our love and prayers go out to her.
Next month's book is "The Personal Librarian" by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. A reminder that we are meeting on May 16, a week later than originally scheduled, at Joan's house. Is it possible her garden will be a-bloom? We can hope.
A happy and blessed Easter to all!
Our book nearly received a unanimous vote of all 8's but for one 7. However, it should be pointed out that two people couldn't finish it because they found it to be "soooooooo boring". But, for the most part, members thought it is very well written, beautifully reflective of the immigrant experience and of the importance of stories in establishing identity.
Needless to say, despite all the usual laughter ("Do you want to hear a funny story about Peg?"), a shadow hung over us as our thoughts were so much on our dear Diane who we, of course, sorely missed. Our love and prayers go out to her.
Next month's book is "The Personal Librarian" by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. A reminder that we are meeting on May 16, a week later than originally scheduled, at Joan's house. Is it possible her garden will be a-bloom? We can hope.
A happy and blessed Easter to all!
March, 2022
March at Mary Kay's house was another wonderfully long (are we all getting livelier as we get older?) and fun book club gathering. Mary Kay kicked off the evening with a delicious sit-down dinner of wild rice and chicken soup with salad. Even though it was Canadian, not Minnesotan wild rice, it was a fitting accompaniment to this month's book, situated in Minnesota. There were calls from every direction to see the recipes posted on our website, all so good! Several hours later, Mary Kay closed off the dinner with a scrumptious Minnesota blueberry dump cake. However, dessert did not signal the end to the evening. The laughter and warm conversation carried on. What a lovely evening! Thank you, Mary Kay!
In between all the feasting we still managed to discuss the book....and lots of other things. With the exception of one slacker (yours truly), everyone finished the book and, for the most part, liked it, even loved it. There were a few less enthusiastic readers, thus the eventual somewhat middling score of 7 which included four 9's and a low score of 3. It's hard to summarize the discussion of such a quirky book thus I will draw on absentee Mary's eloquent written review in which she wrote "The deep dive into Tookie's unusual life along with George Floyd and the pandemic and the Indian cluture took me to places I have never been....the need for forgiveness was so touching." Several commented that they likely would never have finished the book had they had not been reading it for book club but were really glad they did.
One quick scheduling note, due to hostess conflicts, our May gathering will be on May 16th, not the 9th, still at Joan's house.
April 11 takes us to Eileen's where we will discuss "The Last Gift" by Abdulrazak Gurnah. Book club, a perfect way to mark the start of Holy Week (Yes, I realize the connection is weak).
In between all the feasting we still managed to discuss the book....and lots of other things. With the exception of one slacker (yours truly), everyone finished the book and, for the most part, liked it, even loved it. There were a few less enthusiastic readers, thus the eventual somewhat middling score of 7 which included four 9's and a low score of 3. It's hard to summarize the discussion of such a quirky book thus I will draw on absentee Mary's eloquent written review in which she wrote "The deep dive into Tookie's unusual life along with George Floyd and the pandemic and the Indian cluture took me to places I have never been....the need for forgiveness was so touching." Several commented that they likely would never have finished the book had they had not been reading it for book club but were really glad they did.
One quick scheduling note, due to hostess conflicts, our May gathering will be on May 16th, not the 9th, still at Joan's house.
April 11 takes us to Eileen's where we will discuss "The Last Gift" by Abdulrazak Gurnah. Book club, a perfect way to mark the start of Holy Week (Yes, I realize the connection is weak).
February, 2022
A huge thank you to Peg for treating us all to a delightful February book club. We enjoyed an absolutetly delicious dinner of beef stew on mashed potatoes and a lovely salad around Peg's dining room table. A scrumptious dessert of peach cobbler and ice cream capped off the meal. It was comfort food at its best. And, wonders of wonders, we actually discussed the book in between bites!
Our book was met with great enthusiasm, earning it an 8 which included highs of five 9's and lows of two 7's. Even most of those who found fault with aspects of the book still found much to admire. Many shared the opinion that they would have appreciated more insight into the characters of Landry and Prentiss. Soledad was happy and gratified to have chosen a true book club "hit." And, it should be noted it achieved 100% readership!
Next month, we will be at Mary Kay's where we'll discuss "The Sentence" by Louise Erdrich.
Our book was met with great enthusiasm, earning it an 8 which included highs of five 9's and lows of two 7's. Even most of those who found fault with aspects of the book still found much to admire. Many shared the opinion that they would have appreciated more insight into the characters of Landry and Prentiss. Soledad was happy and gratified to have chosen a true book club "hit." And, it should be noted it achieved 100% readership!
Next month, we will be at Mary Kay's where we'll discuss "The Sentence" by Louise Erdrich.
January, 2022
The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Despite being back on Zoom - something we never thought would happen - and despite missing Jay's incomparable dessert(s), we had a lively remote gathering tonight which included an excellent (especially for Zoom!) discussion of "The Plot." Most seem to agree it was a well-crafted, couldn't-put-it-down, intriguing, thoughtful mystery which also raised some intriguing moral questions The book's detractors had a variety of criticisms: over-the-top ending, predictable ending, not enough emphasis on the literary questions raised, despicable characters ("the most evil book I've ever read!), etc. But, all in all it was a good gathering, if no substitute for being all together, as scheduled, at Soledad's.
Next month, on February 14th, we'll meet at Peg's. The book is "The Sweetness of Water" by Nathan Harris. Everyone cross your fingers that we'll be able to meet live and in person! Stay healthy, everyone!
Despite being back on Zoom - something we never thought would happen - and despite missing Jay's incomparable dessert(s), we had a lively remote gathering tonight which included an excellent (especially for Zoom!) discussion of "The Plot." Most seem to agree it was a well-crafted, couldn't-put-it-down, intriguing, thoughtful mystery which also raised some intriguing moral questions The book's detractors had a variety of criticisms: over-the-top ending, predictable ending, not enough emphasis on the literary questions raised, despicable characters ("the most evil book I've ever read!), etc. But, all in all it was a good gathering, if no substitute for being all together, as scheduled, at Soledad's.
Next month, on February 14th, we'll meet at Peg's. The book is "The Sweetness of Water" by Nathan Harris. Everyone cross your fingers that we'll be able to meet live and in person! Stay healthy, everyone!
December, 2021
The best way to kick off the holiday season is dinner with our friends at Betsy's house! I can't say it any better than Mary already has so I quote her here: "The evening was so much fun…I repeat, I have not laughed that much in years! ( or maybe our last dinner at your house!).
Everything: the fabulous food (did not miss the cognac),the game (despite the rules controversy),the champagne (thank you, Denise), the bookmarks (thank you, Carol and Eileen) made for such a heartwarming time. I treasure each one of you…
Thank you again, Betsy for all the efforts you made to make this evening happen."
Betsy has already posted the recipes on the site so we can share them with our families too.
Everything: the fabulous food (did not miss the cognac),the game (despite the rules controversy),the champagne (thank you, Denise), the bookmarks (thank you, Carol and Eileen) made for such a heartwarming time. I treasure each one of you…
Thank you again, Betsy for all the efforts you made to make this evening happen."
Betsy has already posted the recipes on the site so we can share them with our families too.
November, 2021
Many thanks to Carol for a great book club gathering. The cozy warm relaxing tone was set by the beautiful fall-themed table resplendent with all the best comfort foods: German potato salad, sausages, apple salad (I'm overlooking something delicious???) and topped off by one of Carol's inimitable pies, an apple this time. No one does pie better!
"A Long Petal of the Sea" was notable in that we were an unusually unified bunch in our opinions of the book, no haters, no lovers - thus, a score of 7. It produced one 8 and three sixes - mostly 7's. There seemed to be more appreciation for what the book taught us about the history of the times rather than for the story and its characters
Next month is our Christmas dinner at Betsy's on December 13. More on that later. On January 10, we meet at Soledad's for a discussion of "The Plot" by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Carol proposed two other books whose names I promised to send along as well: "Personal Librarian" and "The Lincoln Highway".
A Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
"A Long Petal of the Sea" was notable in that we were an unusually unified bunch in our opinions of the book, no haters, no lovers - thus, a score of 7. It produced one 8 and three sixes - mostly 7's. There seemed to be more appreciation for what the book taught us about the history of the times rather than for the story and its characters
Next month is our Christmas dinner at Betsy's on December 13. More on that later. On January 10, we meet at Soledad's for a discussion of "The Plot" by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Carol proposed two other books whose names I promised to send along as well: "Personal Librarian" and "The Lincoln Highway".
A Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
October, 2021
Thank you Denise for such a delightful celebration of Columbus Day - including the Most Delicious Lasagna ever! Everyone enjoyed the lovely salad and let's not forget the Mocha Chocolate cake for dessert! Oh and we talked about the book too. The Rose Code was generally well liked. A fascinating story about British code breakers in WWII, we amazed ourselves by the majority of the club finishing the 656 page book. We rated it a 7.
Next month, still on our historical fiction kick (sorry, Betsy), we are reading Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende, a mere 368 pages. See you at Carol's on Nov. 8th.
Next month, still on our historical fiction kick (sorry, Betsy), we are reading Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende, a mere 368 pages. See you at Carol's on Nov. 8th.
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September, 2021
What a delight book club was tonight chez Mary Ann! Julia Child couldn't have possibly regaled us with a finer selection of french delicacies. from the champagne (sshh, it was actually spanish), to the cheeses, the pastries, the Pork tenderloin with the pinot gris sauce, the shrimp, the grapes - too many treats to recall! The culinary side of the evening was topped off by a scrumptious mountain of chocolate profiteroles. Just as beautiful as the food itself was the candlelit dining room table which would have made Emma Bovary swoon with jealousy. Thank you, Mary Ann! It was all so fun and so so delicious.
We had an excellent discussion of Madame Bovary, really one of our best. Much of the discussion centered around Flaubert's renunciation of the bourgeois society of 19th century France and its potential to produce an Emma. Although, not much loved, or even liked by anyone, there were various degrees of sympathy for Emma and the life she endured. We rated it an eight, with three tens at the top and one five at the bottom.
Next month, we will meet at Denise's on October 11, for a discussion of "The Rose Code" by Kate Quinn. It's a long one so, start reading! Mary Ann assures us it's a quick read.
We had an excellent discussion of Madame Bovary, really one of our best. Much of the discussion centered around Flaubert's renunciation of the bourgeois society of 19th century France and its potential to produce an Emma. Although, not much loved, or even liked by anyone, there were various degrees of sympathy for Emma and the life she endured. We rated it an eight, with three tens at the top and one five at the bottom.
Next month, we will meet at Denise's on October 11, for a discussion of "The Rose Code" by Kate Quinn. It's a long one so, start reading! Mary Ann assures us it's a quick read.
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August 2021
Thank you, Mary, for a lovely warm inviting August book club! Please send or post the quinoa recipe that was such a hit with everyone. And, the blueberry cake and sorbet were delicious as well. Everything was!
Our book discussion was short but sweet which pretty much sums up the general feeling toward the book, a good light funny read without a whole lot of substance. It earned a seven, pulling in one low score of four and one high score of eight.
Next month's book, Madame Bovary by Flaubert, should take our "substance meter" up a notch or two. Mary Ann is the host; the date is September 13. I'll leave you with this picture of two pretty ladies who brought the garden into our perfect evening.
Our book discussion was short but sweet which pretty much sums up the general feeling toward the book, a good light funny read without a whole lot of substance. It earned a seven, pulling in one low score of four and one high score of eight.
Next month's book, Madame Bovary by Flaubert, should take our "substance meter" up a notch or two. Mary Ann is the host; the date is September 13. I'll leave you with this picture of two pretty ladies who brought the garden into our perfect evening.
July, 2021
As much as we were all sorry the weather didn't cooperate and we weren't able to travel to Rick and Diane's lake house, it's hard to imagine we could have had any more fun than we had at their "real" house! And, thanks to Diane, we may have discovered a new tradition worth repeating. Bringing the husbands into the mix was a lot of fun - always good to switch things up a little!
Our dinner of pulled pork, corn bread and salad was so tasty - just delicious! Thank you to all who contributed delectable appetizers and desserts but most especially to Rick and Diane for hosting and treating us to a truly memorable afternoon and evening.
Prior to the men's arrival we did have a good discussion of "The Midnight Library." It elicited extremely mixed reviews; there were the lovers, the haters and the inbetween-ers as reflected by its score of 6 which included two 2's and two 9's. Our 2's found it to be predictable and tedious. Our 9's thought it was a fun and intriguing read which made them ponder some of their own choices in life. We did get into a friendly disagreement as to whether the author's main goal was to get readers to reflect on quantum physics/parallel universes or the more obvious questions as to what gives life meaning, etc. As the writer of these little monthly missives, I will take the liberty of saying I think our quantum theorist bookclubber (initials are CM) is just way too smart and gives the author more credit for creativity than is his due. (Forgive the editorial; I do try to maintain objectivity but, occasionally, I fail.)
Next month, Peg will host (note the change from the original schedule). We meet on August 9 and the book is Anne Tyler's "Redhead by the Side of the Road." If the book is as great as the title, it should be excellent. Have a good month, all!
Our dinner of pulled pork, corn bread and salad was so tasty - just delicious! Thank you to all who contributed delectable appetizers and desserts but most especially to Rick and Diane for hosting and treating us to a truly memorable afternoon and evening.
Prior to the men's arrival we did have a good discussion of "The Midnight Library." It elicited extremely mixed reviews; there were the lovers, the haters and the inbetween-ers as reflected by its score of 6 which included two 2's and two 9's. Our 2's found it to be predictable and tedious. Our 9's thought it was a fun and intriguing read which made them ponder some of their own choices in life. We did get into a friendly disagreement as to whether the author's main goal was to get readers to reflect on quantum physics/parallel universes or the more obvious questions as to what gives life meaning, etc. As the writer of these little monthly missives, I will take the liberty of saying I think our quantum theorist bookclubber (initials are CM) is just way too smart and gives the author more credit for creativity than is his due. (Forgive the editorial; I do try to maintain objectivity but, occasionally, I fail.)
Next month, Peg will host (note the change from the original schedule). We meet on August 9 and the book is Anne Tyler's "Redhead by the Side of the Road." If the book is as great as the title, it should be excellent. Have a good month, all!
June, 2021
What a beautiful summer night in Angie's gorgeous backyard, dining on Angie's always-wonderful cooking, all while enjoying wonderful conversation and lots of laughs! Angie, the quiches, the salad, the asparagus soup and Roland's favorite dessert were all such a treat. You truly spoiled us Thank you so much!
"The Voyage of the Morning LIght" was met with a somewhat lukewarm response, pulling in mostly sevens with a high of ten and a low of one six. I think most of our members wanted more from the book, more character development principally.
Next month, on July 12, Diane has generously invited us to book club at the Klee lake house! In theory (call me skeptical), we will discuss the month's book upon our arrival at the lake at about 2:00. The book is "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig. Then, a couple hours later, the husbands, will join us for dinner. Stay tuned for more details. It should be a great time.
"The Voyage of the Morning LIght" was met with a somewhat lukewarm response, pulling in mostly sevens with a high of ten and a low of one six. I think most of our members wanted more from the book, more character development principally.
Next month, on July 12, Diane has generously invited us to book club at the Klee lake house! In theory (call me skeptical), we will discuss the month's book upon our arrival at the lake at about 2:00. The book is "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig. Then, a couple hours later, the husbands, will join us for dinner. Stay tuned for more details. It should be a great time.
May, 2021
This month treated us to a full contingent of all our members at Betsy's house where we crowded around her dining room table and enjoyed a dinner together - such a treat after our long absence.
Our book, "Leave the World Behind" was not met with an abundance of enthusiasm but, speaking for myself, I thought its proponents did a good job of highlighting where the book succeeds. It was rated a rather lowly 4, but, on the positive side, 100% of our members read the book so it deserves praise for that achievement!
Next month takes us to Angie's on June 14 for a discussion of Marina Endicott's "The Voyage of the Morning Light."
Our book, "Leave the World Behind" was not met with an abundance of enthusiasm but, speaking for myself, I thought its proponents did a good job of highlighting where the book succeeds. It was rated a rather lowly 4, but, on the positive side, 100% of our members read the book so it deserves praise for that achievement!
Next month takes us to Angie's on June 14 for a discussion of Marina Endicott's "The Voyage of the Morning Light."
April, 2021
A small but very enthusiastic group gathered at Susan's for our first post-zoom/Covid book club. It was thrilling to be back together, live and in-person. Susan prepared a feast worthy of the celebration: wonderful cheeses, roasted vegetables, shirmp, pin wheels, fruit cups and a dessert of chocolate kahlua cake with ice cream Thank you, Susan, everything was delicious! How we've missed refreshments during our Zoom days!
"The Little Red Chairs" was received with very mixed reviews. Unfortunately, some of the more enthusiastic readers were not with us tonight, but, they did send in their rating. Thus, poor Mary was tasked with almost single handedly having to point out the book's many good, thought-provoking and interesting points. Carol sent in a positive review which all agreed was excellent. She said, among other things, that as hard and painful as the book is, she is certain it will stick with her for some time and gave her much to think about. And, then there were those who strongly disliked/hated/couldn't bring themselves to finish it. The book earned a respectable score of 7 with a high of 10 and a low or 2. As I said, it ran the gamut!
Next month, on May 10, we'll meet at Betsy's for a discussion of "Leave the World Behind" by Rumaan Alam.
"The Little Red Chairs" was received with very mixed reviews. Unfortunately, some of the more enthusiastic readers were not with us tonight, but, they did send in their rating. Thus, poor Mary was tasked with almost single handedly having to point out the book's many good, thought-provoking and interesting points. Carol sent in a positive review which all agreed was excellent. She said, among other things, that as hard and painful as the book is, she is certain it will stick with her for some time and gave her much to think about. And, then there were those who strongly disliked/hated/couldn't bring themselves to finish it. The book earned a respectable score of 7 with a high of 10 and a low or 2. As I said, it ran the gamut!
Next month, on May 10, we'll meet at Betsy's for a discussion of "Leave the World Behind" by Rumaan Alam.
March, 2021
The popularity of the book was apparent immediately as little time elapsed before we started discussing it. We muddled along without our esteemed leader. There was great discussion of the landscape with pictures shared on Zoom from Mary and Peg. Everyone commented on the respect and treatment of the Indians and Mexicans by the French priests. Susan helped us properly pronounce their names, the fictional ones as well as the real ones the book was based upon. The book was rated a 9 with one 7 as the low end and two tens. Once the "business" of the meeting was over, the important topic of the Meghan and Harry interview was dissected.
Everyone is looking forward to April's meeting which could be on Betsy's patio or a location to be determined! Stay tuned.
THIS JUST IN: Susan will be hosting April's meeting IN HER HOUSE!!!!! Thank you for stepping up, Susan.
Everyone is looking forward to April's meeting which could be on Betsy's patio or a location to be determined! Stay tuned.
THIS JUST IN: Susan will be hosting April's meeting IN HER HOUSE!!!!! Thank you for stepping up, Susan.
February, 2021
The evening began with much discussion about vaccines. We're all looking forward to the days when we'll be back together live and in person! However, once again, zooming didn't stop us from enjoying our virtual book club.
"The Women of the Copper Country" was enthusiastically received, not a single hater in the group. Everyone enjoyed learning about a time in history that was foreign to most of us and were moved by Annie's very tragic but brave story. It earned a rating of 8, with two tens at the high end and three sevens at the low end.
We have chosen books for the next two months. On March 8th, we will discuss a classic, Willa Cather's "Death Comes for the Archbishop." If all goes as we anticipate, we will meet at someone's house(!!!!!) on April 12 for a discussion of Edna O'Brian's "The Little Red Chairs." Now, dear readers, if you pick up this book, you've got the wrong one:
"The Women of the Copper Country" was enthusiastically received, not a single hater in the group. Everyone enjoyed learning about a time in history that was foreign to most of us and were moved by Annie's very tragic but brave story. It earned a rating of 8, with two tens at the high end and three sevens at the low end.
We have chosen books for the next two months. On March 8th, we will discuss a classic, Willa Cather's "Death Comes for the Archbishop." If all goes as we anticipate, we will meet at someone's house(!!!!!) on April 12 for a discussion of Edna O'Brian's "The Little Red Chairs." Now, dear readers, if you pick up this book, you've got the wrong one:
January, 2021
Another zoom book club in the books, proof that life does continue even without food, perhaps not perfectly, but if we've learned anything the past few months, it's to not let perfection be the enemy of the good.
We had a lively discussion of "Monogamy" which really ran the gamut in the opinion column. It pulled in a low score of five and a high score of 9, eventually earning a 7.
Next month, we'll once again be on zoom unless we're hit by that heat wave I keep waiting for. I truly want to try an arctic book club eventually. Our book is "The Women of Copper Country" by Mary Doria Russell. Get your vaccines everyone; we could conceivably meet live and in person in March!
We had a lively discussion of "Monogamy" which really ran the gamut in the opinion column. It pulled in a low score of five and a high score of 9, eventually earning a 7.
Next month, we'll once again be on zoom unless we're hit by that heat wave I keep waiting for. I truly want to try an arctic book club eventually. Our book is "The Women of Copper Country" by Mary Doria Russell. Get your vaccines everyone; we could conceivably meet live and in person in March!
December, 2020
Last night's zoom call was so uneventful (no hostess to thank, no food to rave about, etc.) that I almost thought I wouldn't add a post for December but then I thought there might come a day when Covid-19 will be but a distant memory and we all might wonder what happened to December, 2020. The history major in me just couldn't leave it undocumented. So, if you are reading this on that day in the distant future, we're in the midst of a pandemic and are mostly hiding in our homes. Reason told us that perhaps we should not try gathering on Betsy's patio in 30 degree temperatures, as planned, so we zoomed, a process whereby everyone stares at a Brady Bunch screen full of faces and tries to determine when they might talk without risking interrupting one of the other "Brady" family members. It's not ideal, particularly because we can't eat or drink but it beats having no contact with one another for months on end. This writer is hoping for a slightly warmer day in January so we might gather outside around the fires and see Mary Kay in her ice-fishing apparel. Our January Book is Sue Miller's "Monogamy". Oh, and, yes, we did discuss "The Girl who Takes an Eye for Eye." It earned a 5 which was pretty much the consensus. Merry Christmas dear friends!
November, 2020
Our summer-like November book club was enjoyed by all. Who would ever have predicted we'd be experiencing 70+ degree temps! Many thanks to our food committee, chaired by Susan, for all the yummy treats. It all worked out beautifully! And, MANY thanks to Angie for supplying the champagne toast that went on and on and on. We had a lot to celebrate: the election, the Irish, Jay LaVerne and the weather! (Plus, we realized that as long as we're eating or drinking, we could go mask-less.)
We had a good discussion of "The Vanishing Half" which pulled in a score of 7. The high scores were six eights; the low, were a couple of sixes. While several felt it fell short of expectations, I think everyone agreed it provided for a thoughtful discussion of important issues.
In a departure from our usual practice, we chose three books for the next three months which Mary Ann and Eileen S. recommended. On December 14, we will discuss "The Girl who Takes an Eye for an Eye" by David Lagercrantz. Unless the unseasonably warm temps return in December, we will take another stab at an arctic book club on Betsy's patio beneath the heat lamps and around a fire. Fur coats are encouraged.
In January, we will discuss "Monogamy" by Sue Miller. February's book is "The Women of Copper Country" by Mary Doria Russell.
We had a good discussion of "The Vanishing Half" which pulled in a score of 7. The high scores were six eights; the low, were a couple of sixes. While several felt it fell short of expectations, I think everyone agreed it provided for a thoughtful discussion of important issues.
In a departure from our usual practice, we chose three books for the next three months which Mary Ann and Eileen S. recommended. On December 14, we will discuss "The Girl who Takes an Eye for an Eye" by David Lagercrantz. Unless the unseasonably warm temps return in December, we will take another stab at an arctic book club on Betsy's patio beneath the heat lamps and around a fire. Fur coats are encouraged.
In January, we will discuss "Monogamy" by Sue Miller. February's book is "The Women of Copper Country" by Mary Doria Russell.
October, 2020
Mary Ann said it best: "Betsy, You are a welcoming and wonderful host. Thank you for Christmas in October! A truly delicious and delightful evening from your beautifully decorated seasonal tables and toasty heaters to your scrumptious, perfectly prepared menu. And the conversation was equally inspiring. Then too you managed to sneak a quiz into our gift exchange! Thanks to Denise for kicking off the party with flutes of champagne. From beginning to end a perfect evening. We are blessed! "
From Betsy:
Christmas in October worked beautifully! The heat lamps did their job and allowed us to enjoy a wonderful evening under the stars. A reminder to all that November's book is "The Vanishing Half", by Brit Bennett. As far as where we'll meet, the tentative plan is to meet at Betsy's under the heat lamps, in winter coats. We will need four or five people to volunteer to bring refreshments but let's worry about that closer to the date when we have a clearer picture of whether or not the weather is going to cooperate. Should it be a "go", we'll meet at 4:00 p.m. on November 9. The later start time will enable Joan to join us and will give the day time to warm up.
Mary Ann said it best: "Betsy, You are a welcoming and wonderful host. Thank you for Christmas in October! A truly delicious and delightful evening from your beautifully decorated seasonal tables and toasty heaters to your scrumptious, perfectly prepared menu. And the conversation was equally inspiring. Then too you managed to sneak a quiz into our gift exchange! Thanks to Denise for kicking off the party with flutes of champagne. From beginning to end a perfect evening. We are blessed! "
From Betsy:
Christmas in October worked beautifully! The heat lamps did their job and allowed us to enjoy a wonderful evening under the stars. A reminder to all that November's book is "The Vanishing Half", by Brit Bennett. As far as where we'll meet, the tentative plan is to meet at Betsy's under the heat lamps, in winter coats. We will need four or five people to volunteer to bring refreshments but let's worry about that closer to the date when we have a clearer picture of whether or not the weather is going to cooperate. Should it be a "go", we'll meet at 4:00 p.m. on November 9. The later start time will enable Joan to join us and will give the day time to warm up.
September, 2020
The chilly early autumn temperatures didn't stop us from having a wonderful time in Carol's beautiful backyard today. Actually, I didn't even notice anyone shivering but maybe we're just gearing up for socializing in the great outdoors over the months to come. Carol's coffee, pastries and lovely fruit bowl undoubtedly took the chill off things. Thank you, Carol. It was a great morning, wonderful to be together!
"The Water Dancer" was very well received, pulling in an excellent score of 9 including two tens and one low score of 7. Everyone (?) agreed the characters were very well drawn. The magical realism element was met with mixed reviews though most said they came to really appreciate it.
Next month, on the 5th or the 12th at 6:00 (?) we will be at Betsy's for Christmas in October. Details to follow.
November's plans are somewhat tentative. If Betsy's heat lamps prove to do the trick, we will wrap up in our warmest winter gear and meet at her house on the patio. We will probably do some kind of pot-luck hors d'oeuvres but, details, to follow on this front as well. Isn't this the story of 2020, ever uncertain? One thing remains sure, our book is "The Vanishing Half" by Bret Bennett. And, the date is November 9.....unless it rains. See everyone in October, if not before!
"The Water Dancer" was very well received, pulling in an excellent score of 9 including two tens and one low score of 7. Everyone (?) agreed the characters were very well drawn. The magical realism element was met with mixed reviews though most said they came to really appreciate it.
Next month, on the 5th or the 12th at 6:00 (?) we will be at Betsy's for Christmas in October. Details to follow.
November's plans are somewhat tentative. If Betsy's heat lamps prove to do the trick, we will wrap up in our warmest winter gear and meet at her house on the patio. We will probably do some kind of pot-luck hors d'oeuvres but, details, to follow on this front as well. Isn't this the story of 2020, ever uncertain? One thing remains sure, our book is "The Vanishing Half" by Bret Bennett. And, the date is November 9.....unless it rains. See everyone in October, if not before!
August, 2020
Somehow these pictures of our lovely summer gathering at Mary Ann's clash with the theme of this month's book. Word to the wise, if you're scheduled to host an outdoor book club in the age of pandemics, leave your shedule wide open to accomodate the members who refuse to leave! Almost four hours after our start, we all mustered up the intestinal fortitude to return to our mundane existences (Just trying to stay loyal to Camus here). Mary Ann's beautfiul summertime continental breakfast set the tone for a wonderful relaxing day. The picture does not do it justice but everything was as delcious as it was pretty!
As predicted by many, "The Plague" provided lots of material for a great discussion. We all agreed it is a tough read but most thoght it was worth the effort. In the end it earned a 9 with two tens at the high end and one six at the low end in addition to one who gave up on it. Maybe we should start counting the "just couldn't bring myself to finsh" votes as 1's? There are so many parallels to our personal "plague" but, beyond that, fasninating characters and much food for thought.
Next month, on September 14, we will meet at Carol's for a discussion of Ta'Nehisi Coates', "The Water Dancer"which is a work of fiction and very different from our last Coates selection. We're going to keep the 10-12a.m. time slot which I realize might be a problem for those who are going back to work but it seems to be our best alternative. In October, I am going to host our Christmas dinner a couple months early, outside on my patio with as much social distancing as possible. I can't guarantee six feet between each guest but I will do my best. Brian and I have decided to invest in some patio gas heaters to try to extend the outdoor season so, never fear, you will not freeze. Hopefully, we'll have an Indian Summer this year. Heaven knows, we deserve it!
As predicted by many, "The Plague" provided lots of material for a great discussion. We all agreed it is a tough read but most thoght it was worth the effort. In the end it earned a 9 with two tens at the high end and one six at the low end in addition to one who gave up on it. Maybe we should start counting the "just couldn't bring myself to finsh" votes as 1's? There are so many parallels to our personal "plague" but, beyond that, fasninating characters and much food for thought.
Next month, on September 14, we will meet at Carol's for a discussion of Ta'Nehisi Coates', "The Water Dancer"which is a work of fiction and very different from our last Coates selection. We're going to keep the 10-12a.m. time slot which I realize might be a problem for those who are going back to work but it seems to be our best alternative. In October, I am going to host our Christmas dinner a couple months early, outside on my patio with as much social distancing as possible. I can't guarantee six feet between each guest but I will do my best. Brian and I have decided to invest in some patio gas heaters to try to extend the outdoor season so, never fear, you will not freeze. Hopefully, we'll have an Indian Summer this year. Heaven knows, we deserve it!
July, 2020
It was so wonderful to be together this morning, live and in person, in Peg's pretty backyard! We enjoyed Mary's homemade scones, Betsy's leftover cake and Peg's delicious fruit salad and cherries as well as coffee. Who knew such simplicity could bring such happiness! Thank you, Peg, for stepping in for Mary Ann and volunteering to host. We are all VERY grateful.
This month's book, "Girl, Woman, Other" was very well-received. It earned a 9 which included three 10's and no score under 8. We all so appreciated the character development - 12 very distinct characters, with such disparate personalities. Carol wisely said - and all agreed - that she appreciated how many stereotypes were debunked. We also loved Mary Ann's very apt description of the book as a "conversation."
Next month, in theory, Eileen L is our hostess. However, if Eileen's yard is not suited to entertaining or if she would just rather reschedule her hosting duties, that is fine. The alternatives would be to see if Mary Ann would like to host, and, if not, we can just throw it out to the group and see who has a backyard that is well-suited to hosting. We can continue to keep things as simple as the hostess likes. We all said we are determined to meet, rather than zooming, as long as possible, even if we're sitting around a campfire in winter coats (a slight, but only slight, exagerration). August's book is "The Plague" by Albert Camus. What could be more appropriate! The date is August 10.
This month's book, "Girl, Woman, Other" was very well-received. It earned a 9 which included three 10's and no score under 8. We all so appreciated the character development - 12 very distinct characters, with such disparate personalities. Carol wisely said - and all agreed - that she appreciated how many stereotypes were debunked. We also loved Mary Ann's very apt description of the book as a "conversation."
Next month, in theory, Eileen L is our hostess. However, if Eileen's yard is not suited to entertaining or if she would just rather reschedule her hosting duties, that is fine. The alternatives would be to see if Mary Ann would like to host, and, if not, we can just throw it out to the group and see who has a backyard that is well-suited to hosting. We can continue to keep things as simple as the hostess likes. We all said we are determined to meet, rather than zooming, as long as possible, even if we're sitting around a campfire in winter coats (a slight, but only slight, exagerration). August's book is "The Plague" by Albert Camus. What could be more appropriate! The date is August 10.
June, 2020
Our third zoom book club went very well although, wouldn't it be nice if it were our last zoom book club! We all miss the food, not to mention being together, actually, not virtually. Nevertheless, we had an excellent discussion of "Feast your Eyes" which was met with almost universal praise. It earned a nine, our highest score in a long time, I believe. The low score was an eight and it earned two tens. I announced the results of July's book vote. By an overwhelming majority, "Girl, Woman, Other" by Bernadine Evaristo won. We will decide later this month if we're going to try an outdoor, daytime book club. Mary Ann has offered to host. Her back yard would be very conducive to spreading out but we'll discuss later.
May, 2020
We had another Zoom gathering this month which went just fine but it would be great to actually spend time together in a real house, not an electronic room! Our book, "Writers and Lovers" was well-received, earning scores ranging from nines to a seven. We will meet again June 8, probably on Zoom again, for a discussion of "Feast your Eyes." Happy quarantining, everyone!
We had another Zoom gathering this month which went just fine but it would be great to actually spend time together in a real house, not an electronic room! Our book, "Writers and Lovers" was well-received, earning scores ranging from nines to a seven. We will meet again June 8, probably on Zoom again, for a discussion of "Feast your Eyes." Happy quarantining, everyone!
April, 2020
A Zoom Book Club
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Apologies to all for this group picture - not one of our best, but, perhaps reflective of our general state of mind. We look a bit tired, tired of the quarantine perhaps? Nevertheless, we rallied and had a good Zoom book club complete with lots of discussion about the quarantine, the usual laughter, and even a reasonably good discussion about our book, "The Night Watchman." The only thing missing was refreshments. Mary Kay, our scheduled hostess, refused to deliver her usual scrumptious fare to each and every one of our houses.
The response to "The Night Watchman" was interesting. It was definitely a loved-it or strongly-disliked it book. We had only one vote in the middle. It earned several tens and several three and fours among other votes. Those who loved it, loved everything about it, the characters, the history, the story, plot development. Those who didn't care for it, general seemed to find the plot boring and unengaging. The final score was a 7.
Next month's book club is scheduled for May 11 at Betsy's house. It remains to be seen if we'll be able to meet live and in person. Stay tuned for more on that front. The book is "Writers and Lovers" by Lily King.
Stay healthy, all!
Book Recommendations in the Age of Quarantine:
As we sit home, wishing there was something to do besides watching the news, here is a book list compiled by the New York Times of what their favorite authors (and some of ours) are reading. Each title is followed by the author who suggested it. Follow the link above for more info on a particular title.
The Princess Bride by William Goldman (Celest Ng)
The Summer Book by Tove Jansson (Elizabeth Gilbert)
Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott (Kiley Reid)
I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith (Lily King)
Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simpson(Lily King)
A Room With a View by E. M. Forster (Lily King)
Autumn by Ali Smith (Lily King)
Love, Nina by Nina Stibbe
Love in a Cold Climate by Nancy Mitford (Ruth Ware)
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson (Bryan Stevenson)
Writers and Lovers by Lily King (Ann Patchett)
News of the World by Paulette Jiles (Erik Larson)
Cousin Bette by Honore de Balzac (Min Jin Lee)
Winter Morning Walks by Ted Kooser (Luis Alberto Urrea)
The In-Betweens by Mira Ptacin ( J. Courtney Sullivan)
The Ledger by Jane Hirshfield (Amy Bloom)
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson (Joshua Ferris)
Sabbath’s Theater by Philip Roth (Taffy Brodesser-Akner)
The Essential Ellison by Harlon Elllison ( Victor LaValle)
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (Curtis Sittenfeld)
“Yes Please” by Amy Poehler (Curtis Sittenfeld)
Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome (Helen Simonson)
The Color Purple by Alice Walker (Tayari Jones)
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed (Glennon Doyle)
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters (Madeline Miller)
In The Time of Butterflies by Julia Alvarez (Madeline Miller)
The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka (Madeline Miller)
Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth ( Lucy Kalanithi)
March 2020
Many thanks to Peg for a delightful evening! We missed several of our members but look forward to hearing all about Spain, Tahiti, etc etc. Our absentees missed some wonderful goodies all of which were capped off by my new favorite dessert, Orange pound cake served with roasted oranges and ice cream - just delicious!
I'm afraid "The Silent Patient" was not hugely popular; it just didn't work for most of us. Interestingly, it scored quite highly among several absent members who submitted votes, so, this might be a case where "group-think" pulled the scores down. In the end, it earned a five.
Next month, remember, everyone, that we are meeting a week later than normal, April 20, at Mary Kay's. Our book, "The Night Watchman," is on the long side so you may want to start reading soon and take advantage of the extra week. Happy Easter, everyone!
I'm afraid "The Silent Patient" was not hugely popular; it just didn't work for most of us. Interestingly, it scored quite highly among several absent members who submitted votes, so, this might be a case where "group-think" pulled the scores down. In the end, it earned a five.
Next month, remember, everyone, that we are meeting a week later than normal, April 20, at Mary Kay's. Our book, "The Night Watchman," is on the long side so you may want to start reading soon and take advantage of the extra week. Happy Easter, everyone!
February 2020
This picture is but a small and very inadequate example of the fun and delicious array of Dutch foods Denise prepared for us tonight. In addition to the Dutch chocolate cake and windmill cookie, there was a selection of delicious Dutch cheeses, a scrumptious savory tart (recipe, please!), fruit and Dutch cheese popcorn. Thank you, Denise! Everything was just perfect, the food and your usual fantastic and gracious hospitality.
Our book, "The Dutch House," was generally well received. All agreed it had its flaws but most still really appreciated Ann Patchett's writing, the wonderful brother sister relationship and the story as a whole. A few were not so happy with the book thus pulling down its final score to a 7.
Next month, we will be at Peg's, on March 9 for a discussion of "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides. Also, it seems we will have to make some schedule changes. Mary Kay cannot host after all on April 13, AND, there was talk of changing the April date to the following week since the 13th is Easter Monday. So, please check your calendars both for availability and for possible hostessing duties. Thanks, all!
Next month, we will be at Peg's, on March 9 for a discussion of "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides. Also, it seems we will have to make some schedule changes. Mary Kay cannot host after all on April 13, AND, there was talk of changing the April date to the following week since the 13th is Easter Monday. So, please check your calendars both for availability and for possible hostessing duties. Thanks, all!
January 2020
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What luck to have assigned book club to Susan in the month we read a book situated in France. Our resident French teacher brought her love for all things French to her table decor and to the incredibly beautiful and tasty refreshments. It was a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! She capped off the night with a sumptuous crème brulée, a personal favorite of this writer. The caramelized sugar topping was perfection!
"Ribbons of Scarlet" was generally well-received. While many felt it had its shortcomings, people still enjoyed the stories of all of the women as well as the historical element. The book earned a seven which is slightly deceptive since one member, who shall remain nameless, pulled the score down with a rating of four. Other scores hovered mostly around eight and nine.
Next month takes us to Denise's on February 10. The book selection is Ann Patchett's "The Dutch House." See everyone in February!
"Ribbons of Scarlet" was generally well-received. While many felt it had its shortcomings, people still enjoyed the stories of all of the women as well as the historical element. The book earned a seven which is slightly deceptive since one member, who shall remain nameless, pulled the score down with a rating of four. Other scores hovered mostly around eight and nine.
Next month takes us to Denise's on February 10. The book selection is Ann Patchett's "The Dutch House." See everyone in February!
December 2019
Our traditional Christmas dinner at Betsy's was the highlight of our bookclub year. Delicious food, elegantly served amid great friends and lots of laughter. Denise and Susan maintained their crowns as Queens of the Quiz. How do they do it year after year? Do they read the books? And how does Betsy keep coming up with those categories (who said it?)? It was such a lovely evening with lovely friends - Thanks to all who made it such a memorable time.
Our traditional Christmas dinner at Betsy's was the highlight of our bookclub year. Delicious food, elegantly served amid great friends and lots of laughter. Denise and Susan maintained their crowns as Queens of the Quiz. How do they do it year after year? Do they read the books? And how does Betsy keep coming up with those categories (who said it?)? It was such a lovely evening with lovely friends - Thanks to all who made it such a memorable time.
November, 2019
What a wonderful November book club we had at Carol's tonight. The food was as tasty as it was beautiful. The apple cake with caramel and whipped cream was incredible. The book discussion of "My Cousin Rachel" which earned a score of eight, was excellent, and, more importantly, lots of fun. A very sinister book certainly produced a lot of laughs! I believe we felt Rachel was guilty by a vote of about three to one. We all thoroughly enjoyed a tour of Carol's now-completely finished house including her quilting/crafts room and George's workroom. But, above all, I think we all felt the same gratitude, which Carol expressed, for one another and our friendships. Thank you, Carol, for a special night!
Next month, we're at my house for the Christmas dinner, of course. But, on January 13th, we'll meet at Susan's for a discussion of "Ribbons of Scarlet" by Kate Quinn et al.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
October, 2019
Soledad can proudly lay claim to hosting one of our longer book clubs, a sure sign that everyone was having too much fun to leave. Not only did the night run long, but, so did our conversation about Costco. Too bad some of you world travelers had to miss! Europe can't hold a candle to Costco.
As usual, we have not only Soledad to thank for the delicious goodies she prepared for us, but also Jay who outdid himself with two absolutely scrumptious desserts, a chocolate box cake and a lemony tart with fruit and an out-of-this world coconut crust (Right, Carol?). Soledad, please be sure to let Jay know just how much we all look forward to our annual taste of sweet perfection.
"The Library Book" elicited a mixed reaction. It earned a 7, bringing in a low score of 4 and a high of 9. There was much people appreciated about it but several members found it to be slow-going.
Next month takes us to Carol's on November 11, for a discussion of Daphne du Maurier's "My Cousin Rachel." See everyone then!
September, 2019
We missed several of our members tonight and they missed a great book club evening at Diane's. Diane presented us with a selection of delicious appetizers topped off by a very yummy cake at the end of the night which brought many requests for the recipe. Please send, Diane!
"My Brilliant Friend" was generally very well received earning a score of eight, including two tens. Two people, who shall remained nameless, were responsible for pulling the score down from a probably nine. We had a good discussion - fairly lengthy for us!
Next month Jay LaVerne is on tap to bake for us (no pressure, Jay!) when we meet at Soledad's on October 14th. Our book is "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean. Cancel your Columbus Day plans and join us, everyone!
August, 2019
We had lots of fun, laughs and delicious treats at Mary Kay's tonight. John made a wonderful seafood salad for us which we all thoroughly enjoyed along with an array of fabulous cheeses, olives, roasted peppers, all topped off by a delicious peach cobbler. Who needs dinner when we have book club!
"The Island of Sea Women" was very well-received, earning a score of 8 which is deceptively low - amazing how one little seven among all eight and nines can pull down a book's score. While there was much about the book people liked, everyone really appreciated learning about a side of history about which most of us knew almost nothing.
Next month, we are at Diane's where we will discuss "My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante. Supposedly, there's a place on this site where I'm supposed to enter summer reads that came recommended. I'm not seeing it, so, here you go: "Summer of '69", "The Summer Wives", "Bear Town" and "News of the World."
July, 2019
Altho we we're missing 4 vacationing members, we enjoyed a relaxed summer evening at Eileen's. Pasta (recipe here) and Broccoli salads were savored along with a smattering of conversation about the book. Girl at War got mixed reviews - some really liked it and others - meh...It rated a 7 with 3 of our missing members emailing their votes. Travel seemed to be a much more interesting topic and we all agreed we were blessed to be able to experience as much of the world as we do.
Next month we meet at Mary Kay's and we are reading The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See.
Altho we we're missing 4 vacationing members, we enjoyed a relaxed summer evening at Eileen's. Pasta (recipe here) and Broccoli salads were savored along with a smattering of conversation about the book. Girl at War got mixed reviews - some really liked it and others - meh...It rated a 7 with 3 of our missing members emailing their votes. Travel seemed to be a much more interesting topic and we all agreed we were blessed to be able to experience as much of the world as we do.
Next month we meet at Mary Kay's and we are reading The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See.
June, 2019
True to form, Denise treated us to a feast tonight, delicious snacks and candies, chicken salad croissant sandwiches, delicious puff pastry (recipe please!), bacon wrapped water chestnuts, all topped off by a fabulous blueberry tarte. Outstanding!
Something, be it the refreshments, Denise's lovely home, our sparkling personalities or all of the above, brought out the best in us as we enjoyed possibly one of the longest book discussions we've had. "Women Talking" was very well-received, pulling in a rating of nine. Several people said their opinion of the book went up after the discussion as often seems to be the case. Angie highly recommends the audio version.
Next month, we meet at Eileen's on July 8. Our book is "Girl at War" by Sara Novic. Enjoy the beautiful weather now that it has finally arrived!
May, 2019
Wonderful to see almost everyone at my house tonight! We missed Diane, Mary Kay and Joan. “The Other Americans” was not terribly popular. In fact, it earned only a four, our lowest rated book ever!
Next month, we’ll be at Denise’s where, hopefully, we can end this dry spell although I admit I worry the book, “Women Talking” by Marilyn Toews, won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but give it a chance. It took me a little bit to get into it. As promised, I will try to get out a cast of characters.
Here’s to warm spring days SOON!
April, 2019
Somehow, Joan manages to work a full day, drive the long trip home and still host an incredible book club with two succulent savory tortes/galettes, cheese and crackers, piles of fruit and a lemon cake that only Joan could make because she knows to use not one, not two, but three recipes to come up with the perfect cake. Joan, please send recipes for everything!
What to say about "The Lost Girls of Paris"....... Well, it provided plenty of laughter which is always a good thing. But, in the end, it earned only a 5, possibly one of our lowest rated books? Who knew we are so talented at ripping a spy novel to shreds.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's on May 13. Our book is "The Other Americans" by Leila Lalami (There's a quiz question somewhere in that author's name). Happy Easter everyone! Oh, and Mary Kay, we missed you but trust you are having a wonderful time with old friends!
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March, 2019
Our March gathering brought our much-anticipated visit to Angie's new house which definitely did not disappoint. Angie brought her impeccable taste to the task of creating her new home and, as Peg, said, it looks like Angie's home - high praise, indeed. It's lovely! We might even forgive her for selling the Summers Drive house.
Nor did Angie disappoint us with her usual array of delicious treats. She borrowed on the greek tone set by this month's book and made a selection of appetizers with all the wonderful fresh flavors of Greece. The dessert, a bourbon bread pudding, won exceedingly high praise. Recipes, please, Angie!
"Circe" was not hugely popular. In fact, I would say it was generally fairly unpopular although it did win one ten and several seven and eights, pulling in a final score of six. It would seem the characters just didn't resonate with people. Those less familiar with greek mythology found it unnecessarily confusing.
Next month, on April 8, we meet at Joan's for a discussion of "The Lost Girls of Paris" by Pam Jenoff. It was voted a must-read book by Pop Sugar!!! (No worries, it has won praise by more serious reviewers) See everyone next month!
February, 2019
Two people are owed thank-you's this month: Mary Ann, for recommending a wonderful book, "Educated," which was met with universal approval, earning it a 9, and, Mary for hosting a delicious - in every sense of the word - respite from the cold. She started the evening with a delicious butternut squash soup and capped it off with a fantastic apple tart which served as a birthday cake for Carol. In between the soup and cake, we enjoyed numerous delicious snacks.
"Educated" produced a lively discussion and lots of wonderment at the extent to which the author was able to overcome her incredible home life. Truly an amazing story!
Next month, we meet at Angie's, on March 11. You won't want to miss the tour of her new home! We will be discussing "Circe" by Madeline Miller. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
Two people are owed thank-you's this month: Mary Ann, for recommending a wonderful book, "Educated," which was met with universal approval, earning it a 9, and, Mary for hosting a delicious - in every sense of the word - respite from the cold. She started the evening with a delicious butternut squash soup and capped it off with a fantastic apple tart which served as a birthday cake for Carol. In between the soup and cake, we enjoyed numerous delicious snacks.
"Educated" produced a lively discussion and lots of wonderment at the extent to which the author was able to overcome her incredible home life. Truly an amazing story!
Next month, we meet at Angie's, on March 11. You won't want to miss the tour of her new home! We will be discussing "Circe" by Madeline Miller. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!
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January, 2019
It's always a good sign when your guests overstay their welcome. Mary Ann was probably wondering if we'd EVER leave! But, what a lovely start to the New Year: delicious white chili and snacks, a scrumptious Texas sheet cake with coffee ice cream, a tremendously upbeat discussion of "The Radium Girls" which led to an even more upbeat discussion of the sex abuse scandal in the Catholic Church, all topped off by truly upbeat conversation and laughter - what we do best. Thank you, Mary Ann for kicking our new year off in style!
We missed Mary Kary, our only absentee. But, we trust she is lapping up the Califormia sunshine and enjoying those grandbabies.
"The Radium Girls" earned a seven. Although it no doubt led to one of the more serious (hardly upbeat!) book discussions we've had, most of us were genuinely glad we read the book and learned about a very sad chapter in our country's history. Perhaps we'll won't take a field trip to Ottawa but I think the book will stick with all of us.
Next month, we meet at Mary's to discuss "Educated" by Tara Westover. It's an "in" book right now on the book club circuit so no one should have any trouble finding it. See everyone on February 11, stay warm!
We missed Mary Kary, our only absentee. But, we trust she is lapping up the Califormia sunshine and enjoying those grandbabies.
"The Radium Girls" earned a seven. Although it no doubt led to one of the more serious (hardly upbeat!) book discussions we've had, most of us were genuinely glad we read the book and learned about a very sad chapter in our country's history. Perhaps we'll won't take a field trip to Ottawa but I think the book will stick with all of us.
Next month, we meet at Mary's to discuss "Educated" by Tara Westover. It's an "in" book right now on the book club circuit so no one should have any trouble finding it. See everyone on February 11, stay warm!
Toasting Denise with her delicious Prosecco.
December, 2018
Last night was the party I look forward to all year and Betsy did not disappoint! Her festive dining room was filled with fun, laughter and delectable food from start to finish. The Lemon Ginger Shrimp as a starter was my favorite. The conversation was as piquant as the shrimp, and I don't think I have laughed that much since last year's dinner. Check out the menu for all the deliciousness served up by Betsy. And the Quiz...what can I say? Why do you make it so hard? Audio and Visual categories? Arrghhhhh! Susan did not lose her crown (for the third year in a row) and Mary came in second. Congrats to them and thanks to Betsy for writing the quiz and all that goes into making this event one of our favorite holiday traditions. An elegant evening with wonderful friends - a great way to end the year.
Last night was the party I look forward to all year and Betsy did not disappoint! Her festive dining room was filled with fun, laughter and delectable food from start to finish. The Lemon Ginger Shrimp as a starter was my favorite. The conversation was as piquant as the shrimp, and I don't think I have laughed that much since last year's dinner. Check out the menu for all the deliciousness served up by Betsy. And the Quiz...what can I say? Why do you make it so hard? Audio and Visual categories? Arrghhhhh! Susan did not lose her crown (for the third year in a row) and Mary came in second. Congrats to them and thanks to Betsy for writing the quiz and all that goes into making this event one of our favorite holiday traditions. An elegant evening with wonderful friends - a great way to end the year.
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November, 2018
What a treat it was to spend the evening in Eileen L's stunning home all while enjoying a fabulous dinner, sharing stories and laughter and, yes, even discussing the book a decent amount of time. Thank you, Eileen! Contrary to everything you'd led us to believe, you are a first rate hostess.
"The Leavers" got a so-so response which probably explains its rating of 5. We all agreed it was a good first effort by the author but she could use some editing help (ask Angie!) and some character development work. Nevertheless, the book did provide much food for thought about adoption, cultural differences, immigration, etc.
Next month, we'll meet for the Christmas dinner at my house. January 14 takes us to Mary Ann's where we'll talk about "The Radium Girls" by Kate Moore. It's just a little on the long side so, start reading soon! What else is there to do in December? Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
"The Leavers" got a so-so response which probably explains its rating of 5. We all agreed it was a good first effort by the author but she could use some editing help (ask Angie!) and some character development work. Nevertheless, the book did provide much food for thought about adoption, cultural differences, immigration, etc.
Next month, we'll meet for the Christmas dinner at my house. January 14 takes us to Mary Ann's where we'll talk about "The Radium Girls" by Kate Moore. It's just a little on the long side so, start reading soon! What else is there to do in December? Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
A lovely dinner in a lovely house!
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October, 2018
We missed many of you tonight, however, great food, friendship and fun prevailed. Susan, thank you for a wonderful night! Those little Brussel sprouts wrapped in bacon were a personal favorite. The extra tasty apple cobbler was a delicious finishing touch to a feast of petites bouchées (honoring our french teacher here) .
"My Italian Bulldozer" probably received more laughs than praise. It wasn't a favorite though most agreed it was a pleasant, amusing little read. AND, kudos to "Bulldozer", everyone finished the book! That may be only the second time that has happened. (Needless to say, I can't remember what we read the other time.) We rated the book a 5.
Next month, we meet at New Eileen's as we affectionately call her. Eileen, you will need to send everyone your address. We know you live very close to Carol's old house. The book is "The Leavers" by Lisa Ko. The date is, November 12.
I will likely get out a sign-up sheet out for the next rotation some time soon, so, please take a look at your calendars to see what dates between January, 2019 and February, 2020 you CANNOT host. Also, be sure you mark your calendars for December 10, the date of our Christmas dinner.
From Eileen: While you are emailing Betsy for the schedule, if you have moved this year please include your new address info so we can update our files.
Thanks all and enjoy the beautiful fall weather!
We missed many of you tonight, however, great food, friendship and fun prevailed. Susan, thank you for a wonderful night! Those little Brussel sprouts wrapped in bacon were a personal favorite. The extra tasty apple cobbler was a delicious finishing touch to a feast of petites bouchées (honoring our french teacher here) .
"My Italian Bulldozer" probably received more laughs than praise. It wasn't a favorite though most agreed it was a pleasant, amusing little read. AND, kudos to "Bulldozer", everyone finished the book! That may be only the second time that has happened. (Needless to say, I can't remember what we read the other time.) We rated the book a 5.
Next month, we meet at New Eileen's as we affectionately call her. Eileen, you will need to send everyone your address. We know you live very close to Carol's old house. The book is "The Leavers" by Lisa Ko. The date is, November 12.
I will likely get out a sign-up sheet out for the next rotation some time soon, so, please take a look at your calendars to see what dates between January, 2019 and February, 2020 you CANNOT host. Also, be sure you mark your calendars for December 10, the date of our Christmas dinner.
From Eileen: While you are emailing Betsy for the schedule, if you have moved this year please include your new address info so we can update our files.
Thanks all and enjoy the beautiful fall weather!
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September, 2018
What a fun night we had at Diane's beautiful new home! Our tour of the house was met with oohs and aahs at every turn. And, the fun didn't stop after the tour. Though we got off to a "subdued" start as one member commented, things quickly picked up speed and laughs came fast and furious. No doubt the fabulous array of goodies helped. Thank you, Diane for all of the wonderful treats topped off by the perfect chocolate cake!
Our discussion of "All My Puny Sorrows" was very good. Most interesting was that it was met with possibly the most diverse range of opinions of any book we've read. It earned three tens but also a two, four and five. The average score was 8; the median score was 8.
Next month, we meet at Susan's on October 8. In honor of that famous Italian whose holiday it is (i.e. Columbus), we will be reading "My Italian Bulldozer" by Alexander McCall Smith. (Actually I just made up the honoree bit) For those who don't do depressing, this promises to be a book for you!
Our discussion of "All My Puny Sorrows" was very good. Most interesting was that it was met with possibly the most diverse range of opinions of any book we've read. It earned three tens but also a two, four and five. The average score was 8; the median score was 8.
Next month, we meet at Susan's on October 8. In honor of that famous Italian whose holiday it is (i.e. Columbus), we will be reading "My Italian Bulldozer" by Alexander McCall Smith. (Actually I just made up the honoree bit) For those who don't do depressing, this promises to be a book for you!
August, 2018
We all so enjoyed a beautiful summer evening at Joan's tonight. She always does such a great job of bringing farm to table - flowers from her garden AND a wonderful dessert of peaches and whipped cream starring peaches from her very own trees! Of course, dessert was preceded by a great selection of outstanding snacks. Thank you, Joan. Who needs a working oven!?
"The House of Broken Angels" produced a real mixture of responses. Some loved it; some, not so much. All agreed it came with some truly touching, beautiful moments. When all was said and done, the book earned a very respectable 7.
Next month, we meet at Diane's new home for a discussion of "All My Puny Sorrows" by Miriam Toews. Diane, could you please send everyone your new address? The date is September 10. For those who are looking ahead, we have added Susan on October 8 and "new" Eileen on Nov. 12.
We all so enjoyed a beautiful summer evening at Joan's tonight. She always does such a great job of bringing farm to table - flowers from her garden AND a wonderful dessert of peaches and whipped cream starring peaches from her very own trees! Of course, dessert was preceded by a great selection of outstanding snacks. Thank you, Joan. Who needs a working oven!?
"The House of Broken Angels" produced a real mixture of responses. Some loved it; some, not so much. All agreed it came with some truly touching, beautiful moments. When all was said and done, the book earned a very respectable 7.
Next month, we meet at Diane's new home for a discussion of "All My Puny Sorrows" by Miriam Toews. Diane, could you please send everyone your new address? The date is September 10. For those who are looking ahead, we have added Susan on October 8 and "new" Eileen on Nov. 12.
July, 2018
A small but lively group enjoyed Soledad's (and Jay's) beautiful backyard on a lovely summer evening. The book was discussed briefly, including comments that it was poorly titled (should have been After the Fall). While not considered great literature by any, it was an OK beach read and It did lead us to a more interesting discussion of our favorite disaster films and the scariest things we have ever done. The book squeaked out a 7 rating.
Next month we will meet at either Mary Kay's or Joan's (they will figure it out and email us) and the book will be "The House of Broken Angels" by Luis Alberto Urrea.
A small but lively group enjoyed Soledad's (and Jay's) beautiful backyard on a lovely summer evening. The book was discussed briefly, including comments that it was poorly titled (should have been After the Fall). While not considered great literature by any, it was an OK beach read and It did lead us to a more interesting discussion of our favorite disaster films and the scariest things we have ever done. The book squeaked out a 7 rating.
Next month we will meet at either Mary Kay's or Joan's (they will figure it out and email us) and the book will be "The House of Broken Angels" by Luis Alberto Urrea.
June, 2018
My only regret tonight was that I did not take pictures of George and Carol's gorgeous new home. It was so gratifying to see all the familiar furniture and artwork in their new surroundings. Everything fits perfectly and, you'd never know they haven't been settled for months and months, at least if you didn't see the bedrooms and basement which peg-leg Betsy did not.
And, course, as always, we enjoyed a delicious array of wonderful food, topped off by a scrumptious "American" chocolate cake in honor of our book, "An American Marriage." Speaking of which, the book earned a rating of seven and garnered a middling discussion. Well....maybe less than middling.
Next month, on July 9, we meet at Soledad's. Our book is "Before the Fall" by Noah Hawley.
My only regret tonight was that I did not take pictures of George and Carol's gorgeous new home. It was so gratifying to see all the familiar furniture and artwork in their new surroundings. Everything fits perfectly and, you'd never know they haven't been settled for months and months, at least if you didn't see the bedrooms and basement which peg-leg Betsy did not.
And, course, as always, we enjoyed a delicious array of wonderful food, topped off by a scrumptious "American" chocolate cake in honor of our book, "An American Marriage." Speaking of which, the book earned a rating of seven and garnered a middling discussion. Well....maybe less than middling.
Next month, on July 9, we meet at Soledad's. Our book is "Before the Fall" by Noah Hawley.
April 2018
We bid farewell to Angie's lovely home.
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Angie, your book club thanks you for all the memorable evenings over the years in your beautiful home! Tonight ranked right up there with your best which is saying a lot. The evening was so unforgettable that I can remember every last one of the scrumptious dishes you served us: Deer Creek cheddar cheese, truffle mousse, winter galette, salmon spread, garlic and herbs, salmon canapes, marinated vegetables and..... who could ever forget the wild berry cobbler (please send recipe)! You ended our days on Summers Drive with a true flourish. I have no doubt that you will create equally memorable evenings in your new home in Sable Ridge to which you will soon bring your own inimitable style.
This month's book, "The Great Alone" received little, if any, high praise or even low praise. Perhaps, we should just avoid books about Alaska in the future? We're not doing so well after reading a grand total of two. This more recent book earned an average rating of 5. (median and mode were both 4) which actually might be several points higher than our last Alaskan book had we been rating our books at the time.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's (provided she's not recovering from foot surgery) for a discussion of "An American Marriage" by Tayari Jones. The date is May 14.
Happy moving day, Carol, our other Sable-Ridger-to-be! We look forward to giving you a tall glass of wine after your busy day on the 14th; you MUST come and put your feet up.
Love and hugs to Angie and Carol as they embark on this next chapter in their lives!
This month's book, "The Great Alone" received little, if any, high praise or even low praise. Perhaps, we should just avoid books about Alaska in the future? We're not doing so well after reading a grand total of two. This more recent book earned an average rating of 5. (median and mode were both 4) which actually might be several points higher than our last Alaskan book had we been rating our books at the time.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's (provided she's not recovering from foot surgery) for a discussion of "An American Marriage" by Tayari Jones. The date is May 14.
Happy moving day, Carol, our other Sable-Ridger-to-be! We look forward to giving you a tall glass of wine after your busy day on the 14th; you MUST come and put your feet up.
Love and hugs to Angie and Carol as they embark on this next chapter in their lives!
March, 2018
Mary Kay treated us to an out-of-this-world Swedish feast tonight in keeping with this month's book locale. The picture can't begin to do it justice but, as I said to Mary Kay, the number of people who returned for seconds was proof of how much everyone enjoyed every bite! She capped off the evening with a Swedish caramel cake. Mary Kay, you have to send us the recipe. I'm on the same page as Peg who said it was one of the best things she'd ever eaten
"A Man Called Ove" was very popular with the bulk of our membership. thus earning a score of eight. (The median was eight and the mode was nine.)
Next month's book is, "The Great Alone" by Hannah Kristin. We meet at Angie's on April 9. If Angie sells their house, this could be our last gathering at Angie's beautiful home so you won't want to miss!
Happy Easter to all and bon voyage to Mary Ann who will be in Paris, poor thing.
"A Man Called Ove" was very popular with the bulk of our membership. thus earning a score of eight. (The median was eight and the mode was nine.)
Next month's book is, "The Great Alone" by Hannah Kristin. We meet at Angie's on April 9. If Angie sells their house, this could be our last gathering at Angie's beautiful home so you won't want to miss!
Happy Easter to all and bon voyage to Mary Ann who will be in Paris, poor thing.
February 2018
What a wonderful time we all had at Eileen's tonight! Poor thing, she probably thought she'd never get rid of us. But, it's her own fault for entertaining us so beautifully and filling us with wonderful food and drink capped off by a delicious Valentine's dessert of coca cola cake and ice cream. And, I should also mention the wonderful and beautiful chicken and broccoli roll; recipe definitely ought to be posted to our site.
It was a night of Eileens as we welcomed our new member, Eileen Lindburg. Eileen, we are so happy to have you join us. I only hope we didn't scare you off with talk of vacuum cleaners and the like. Normally, we are HIGHLY intellectual.
"Sing Unburied Sing' was met with a wide range of opinions. There were those who loved everything about it, others who really appreaciated it but weren't totally captivated by it, others who didn't like much about it at all and....one, bona fide hater. The book garnered a 7 by our usual methodology. But, some were not satisfied with our usual methodology, the results of which they felt resulted in a deceptively low score, so a long discussion ensued on how else to rate the book. So, for the fun of it, here is the median: 8 and, the mode: 9. Never fear, haters, 7 will go down as its official score in the offical annals of book club scores.
Next month, we meet at Mary Kay's on March 12 for a discussion of "A Man called Ove" by Frederik Backman. Stay warm everyone, spring is just around the corner. Well, not really, but we can dream.
January 2018
We rang in the new year in grand style tonight at Mary's. Mary prepared a wonderful selection of appetizers including cheeses, homemade filled crescent rolls, fruit, nuts and a very tasty pissaladiere featuring perfectly carmelized onions (too bad Diane wasn't there). In keeping with the English theme of the book, she treated us to a delicious trifle, a personal favorite of mine and many others judging by the rave reviews. Thank you, Mary, for spoiling us so beautifully!
We had a very lively discussion of "The Remains of the Day", probably one of our all-time best. The book earned a 9. I think Stevens would be quite please with our banter (If you didn't read the book, that will go right over your head),
Next month we will meet at Eileen's on February 12, where we hope to welcome a friend of Carol's into the fold. I believe her name is Eileen, as well?? Our book is "Sing Unburied Sing" by Jeremy Ward. Stay warm everyone!
December, 2017
Once again, Betsy has made an incredible feast for our Bookclub members. From the fantastic Cauliflower Soup to the fabulous Caramel Custard, each course was better than the last, served with delicious wines too! But even more engaging was the conversation that ranged from solving the problems of the world to home grocery delivery. The high point of the evening was THE QUIZ. Betsy outdid herself this time with 6 categories of questions - the favorite was Name that Book from her terse plot description. Susan was the winner(again...) with Denise coming in second. Congrats to them for their attention to detail.Thanks again, Betsy (and Sous) for a delicious evening of food, friendship and fun. Merry Christmas to all.
November, 2017
Okay, so photography is not my forte (great picture of the chandelier, Bets!) However, the discerning eye will recognize the wonderful feast Denise treated us to tonight. Thank you so much, Denise! Everything was delicious, as always! Remember I want the fake caviar recipe. Your dessert may have tried your patience but your guests loved every last morsel.
"A Gentleman in Moscow" was met with rave reviews, undoubtedly our most popular book in a long time. It earned a 9.3! Mary Ann, it was well worth the months and months we waited for it; thank you for the recommendation. It set the tone for a wonderfully relaxing, civilized, pleasant evening.
Next month we have our annual Christmas dinner at my house. Please let me know if you cannot make it. The date is December 11, at 6:30.
January 8, we meet at Mary's for a discussion of "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro.
A happy and blessed Thanksgiving to all!
"A Gentleman in Moscow" was met with rave reviews, undoubtedly our most popular book in a long time. It earned a 9.3! Mary Ann, it was well worth the months and months we waited for it; thank you for the recommendation. It set the tone for a wonderfully relaxing, civilized, pleasant evening.
Next month we have our annual Christmas dinner at my house. Please let me know if you cannot make it. The date is December 11, at 6:30.
January 8, we meet at Mary's for a discussion of "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro.
A happy and blessed Thanksgiving to all!
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October, 2017
Our gathering at Mary Ann's tonight felt like the perfect start to the fall season.. I heard more than one person comment on how much they love Mary Ann's family room and, for good reason!.. As usual, she set a beautiful table and served us a delicious selection of treats. I'm just kicking myself that I didn't get a picture. The evening was capped off with an out-of-this-world apple crisp (recipe, please!). Thank you, Mary Ann, it was all such fun!
Four of the seven attendees finished "Swing Time," this month's book, It earned a very respectable score of seven (much to my dismay - please allow me an occasional editorial). Just for the fun of it, we allowed those who hadn't finished it to rate the book. The non-finishers gave it a three.. Our discussion was actually quite respectable.... for us, anyway.
Next month, at long last, we are reading "A Gentleman in Moscow." by Amor Towles. We meet at Denise's on November 13th. See everyone then!
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September 2017
Such a great evening tonight - so many laughs, wonderful food including a scrumptious carrot cake, good conversation, great attendance and, last but not least, a little birthday celebration in honor of Susan featuring a real live birthday cake! (Apparently, birthday cakes are not Jim Van Fleit's strong point.) I think we are truly lucky to have one another! Thank you, Peg for a wonderful, wonderful time.
We welcomed Carol's sister, Nancy, a refugee from Hurricane Irma. Hopefully, we provided a port in the storm for her. Carol, please tell her she is welcome to come back any time!
"The Monsters of Templeton" was liked, if not loved, by almost all (we had one outlier who shall remain nameless). The general consensus was that the author tried to cram too much into one story. However, many of the characters were wonderful; the setting was beautifully drawn. Our memories, such as they are, just weren't quite up to the task of keeping everything straight. The book earned a seven.
Next month, we meet at Mary Ann's, on October 9. Our book is Zadie Smith's "Swing Time." It is on the long side so get your books ASAP and start reading!
Meringues with fruit, creme fraiche and vanilla ice cream
August, 2017
Everyone gets thanked this month! Our second annual pot-luck book club was another hit. We had a wonderful selection of dishes, each one outstanding! Pictured above is the dessert. (Susan should be adding a picture of the group)
"The Other Einstein" did not get rave reviews. It scored a five. I believe the most common criticism was that our members questioned its historic accuracy and its very black and white portrayal of the characters, in particular Albert Einstein who other more reliable sources tell us was a flawed human being but he was not quite the villain the book portrayed him to be.
Now for the news our absent members are waiting for, the great reveal of next month's book. "The Monsters of Templeton" won with three first place votes and two second place votes. The runners up, in order, were "Medicine Walk ", Candy Girl", "Committed" and "A Wild Swan."
We meet next month, on September 11 at Peg's. Enjoy the waning days of Summer everyone!
July 2017
A small, but enthusiastic - and very beautiful (see picture above) - group enjoyed a wonderful evening at Susan's tonight. Thank you, Susan! Your apologies aside, everthing, including the chicken skewers was wonderful. Please post recipes, especially the one for the delicious tart. We loved sitting outside overlooking your beautiful garden. You have good reason to be very sad at the prospect of it being wiped out by some silly pipeline.
Our feelings about "The Handmaid's Tale" really ran the gamut from scores of eight to scores of three, with an average of six. It was just a bit too grim and unbelievable for some, but, others among us found it to be very thought provoking and a well-crafted story.
Next month, we're going to repeat last summer's potluck book club. We'll meet at Betsy's on August 14. Everyone should bring an appetizer. The book is, "The Other Einstein" by Marie Benedict, the source for a television show some of you may have seen.
Safe travels to all our vacationers!
June, 2017
As the picture shows, it was another book club extraordinaire at Angie's. She never disappoints! The table was beautiful; the food was perfection and, as always, it was such a pleasure being in Angie's lovely home which our book club will not allow her to sell. Angie, banish that thought! Everything was delicious but the quiche was exceptional. Please post the recipe to the website, Angie. Oh, and also the mango and strawberry mousse! And, the andouille and shrimp, and the chicken and I must go to that chesse story to buy the little red thingies - yum!
We had a good discussion of "The Infinite." All seem to agree that it is an impressive first novel; we will surely be hearing more from our St. Joe grad in the years to come. The book earned a seven. I think this was the closest we've come to a consensus decision.
Next month, we'll be at Susan's, on July 10, for a discussion of Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale." It is the "in" book right now so reserve your copy now at the library, or buy it. I will be posting the new schedule soon. Stay tuned.
May, 2017
What a pleasure it was to be in Carol's beautiful home tonight! In honor of this month's book, "Norwegian by Night," Carol prepared a splendid selection of Norwegian, and other, treats for our enjoyment. I think ski queen might just be everyone's new favorite cheese! All of the cheeses, the tapenade, the fruit, the salmon were wonderful. And, ever helpful, St. George made a delicious foccacia for us. I am sure that somewhere in Norway, they're eating foccacia and tapenade. I doubt any dessert in all of Norway could be better than the key lime and lemon meringue pies. As I said to Carol, I am certain this is the first time our members went back for seconds of dessert.
Our book earned a seven. There were no haters, a few who really liked it and a few for whom it just didn't quite work. I think all agreed that the main character, Sheldon, was great.
Next month, we meet at Angie's house on June 12th. We're all looking forward to reading Nick Mainieri's "The Infinite." Nick Mainieri is a graduate of our very own St. Joe High School, son of ND's former baseball coach and a classmate of some of our children. Enjoy the advent of spring, everyone!
April 2017
It's so wonderful to have Joan back in the fold not only because we love her and missed her during her "sabbatical" but because going to Joan's is always such a treat! AND, the treats were a-plenty tonight: lucious strawberry rhubarb fizzes, an out of this world quiche which served to introduce everyone to ramps, outstanding hummi (plural of hummus in case you didn't know) and an incredible raspberry peach meringue to top off the feast! And, how we've missed visiting Joan's big old farmhouse which she might curse but we know that, deep down, she loves it because how could she not; it has such character!
In keeping with our recent trend (does two months, a trend make?) we had a very lively discussion of this month's book, "Sweet Tooth." While it was not everyone's cup of tea, the majority seemed to really like it. It earned a 7, though that score may change when Joan and Eileen finish the book and add their scores to the average.
In keeping with this review's "homecoming" theme, we will have another homecoming next month when we return to Carol's after her slightly longer hiatus. For those who don't know, Carol lives at 216 Peashway; you'll find the front door actually faced Foster Street. Our book is Derek Miller's "Norwegian by Night." The date is May 8. Happy Easter to all!
March 2017
Mary deserves high praise for tonight's book club. She prepared a veritable feast of wonderful Irish foods which connected wonderfully (?) with the theme of tonight's book (you know, the MECCA, Notre Dame, Irish.....credit Mary Ann with that one; it was lost on some of us). Everything was fabulous, the soda bread, the lamb meatballs, the savory pancakes, all topped off by an incredible key lime cake.
Almost as great as the food was our discussion of "Between the World and Me," probably one of our best discussions ever (It's a low bar, I know). This was a red letter night, we scored a book a 10!
After a pretty amusing debate, we settled on next month's book which we think we haven't read though we almost settled on several others that it turns out we had already read, so, who knows, perhaps we really have read "Sweet Tooth" by Ian McEwan too. But, that's the book. We meet at Joan's on April 10. Have a good month, all!
February 2017
We were a small group tonight at Diane's but, nevertheless, it was a lovey cozy evening in front of the fire. Diane's wonderful selection of Valentine-themed goodies, topped off by ameretto cupcakes, left everyone happy and satisfied. AND, thanks to Peg, we learned a new way to eat cupcakes! Think sandwiches. Diane, though your house may be too small for your large family, it suits our group perfectly. We can only hope the new house works as well (Yes, the Klees are building a new house on St. Peter's, not far from their current home.)
"Circling the Sun" earned a six. I've decided we're a tough group to crack - still waiting for a book that gets nines and tens. I would say this was a "everyone liked it but few loved it"
book. Thank you, Eileen for bringing all the great pictures of Beryl - very fun!
Next month, we meet at Mary's on March 13th, for a discussion of "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. We look forward to welcoming our travelers back to the fold!
"Circling the Sun" earned a six. I've decided we're a tough group to crack - still waiting for a book that gets nines and tens. I would say this was a "everyone liked it but few loved it"
book. Thank you, Eileen for bringing all the great pictures of Beryl - very fun!
Next month, we meet at Mary's on March 13th, for a discussion of "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates. We look forward to welcoming our travelers back to the fold!
January 2017
Where to begin? Such a perfect evening at Denise's! Her culinary skills were on full display: a fabulous sausage artichoke soup (perfect for a cold winter night), a wonderfully delicious and interesting array of snacks and not one, but TWO, incredible desserts. Denise, please be sure to post the recipes.
Furthermore, we had a spirited discussion of "I'm Still Here" which garnered a whopping score of 3! Mary has agreed to do a term paper on comatose patients by the time we meet in February. It was such a fun evening, no one wanted to leave our cozy setting to brave the cold and snow.
We welcomed Joan back to the fold, yet another highlight of the evening. Don't ever leave us again, Joan!
Next month, on February 13, we meet at Diane's. the book is, "Circling the Sun," by Paula McLain. Stay warm, everyone!
December 2016
It's the most wonderful time of the Bookclub year - our festive dinner at Betsy's! The dinner was 5 star from the first course to dessert. Betsy outdid herself with Braised Pork with Mushrooms, Apples and Calvados. The recipe for this delicious dish is on our recipe page but you can also see wonderful pictures with the recipe here: Recipe
Betsy's beautiful house and delicious food was the perfect setting to remember and celebrate our many years of friendship. We laughed so much! And of course we talked about books! It was a magical evening. Thanks Betsy! Merry Christmas to all!
Betsy's beautiful house and delicious food was the perfect setting to remember and celebrate our many years of friendship. We laughed so much! And of course we talked about books! It was a magical evening. Thanks Betsy! Merry Christmas to all!
November 2016
Such a fun evening tonight at Soledad's! Needless to say, since we were at Soledad/Jay's, the food was out of this world. As usual, Jay spoiled us with not one, but two cakes, a wonderfully smooth brandy alexander cake and a light and perfect pumpkin cheesecake, each as tasty as it was beautiful Soledad, be sure to give Jay a big thank you from all of us... and, also for the delicious shrimp and perfect fall soup. You/he spoil us!
I'm not sure, but I think we achieved a first tonight. EVERYONE finished the book. We had an excellent discussion of "The Underground Railroad" which led us to a broader discussion of issues of race - really quite productive...especially for us! We rated the book an 8.
Next month we'll meet at Betsy's for our Christmas dinner. In January, we'll be at Mary Ann's. The book is, "I'm Still Here (Je suis la)" by Clelie Avit.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
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October 2016
We may be getting old and forgetful and leaving our phones in refrigerators (she shall remain nameless), but, I think we're getting even more fun with age! Thank you, Susan, for a wonderful, book club night filled with lots of laughter, wonderful refreshments (the cake and ice cream combination was absolutely perfect), and last but not least, a good and lively discussion of the "Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore" which earned a pretty average grade of 6. The characters won some high praise but many of us felt the plot got bogged down in parts.
We are all looking forward to welcoming Diane back into the fold. Hopefully, she will be feeling hale and hearty by November 14 when we meet at Soledad's (IF she's not "behind the wall" - her words, not mine). Our book selection is, "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead. We discussed going on the self-guided underground railroad in Cass County in honor of the book. I'm going to suggest that we actually do it rather than just talk about it as is our wont. So, if you are interested, let me know which of the following dates might work for you: Tuesday, afternoon, Oct. 18; Thursday afternoon, Oct. 20; Saturday morning, Oct. 22 or Sunday afternoon, Oct. 23.
We are all looking forward to welcoming Diane back into the fold. Hopefully, she will be feeling hale and hearty by November 14 when we meet at Soledad's (IF she's not "behind the wall" - her words, not mine). Our book selection is, "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead. We discussed going on the self-guided underground railroad in Cass County in honor of the book. I'm going to suggest that we actually do it rather than just talk about it as is our wont. So, if you are interested, let me know which of the following dates might work for you: Tuesday, afternoon, Oct. 18; Thursday afternoon, Oct. 20; Saturday morning, Oct. 22 or Sunday afternoon, Oct. 23.
Our group with the addition of Anne, Susan's guest from France
September 2016
Thank you everyone for coming tonight! I loved seeing everyone. We missed only Diane who, hopefully, will be back in our midst in October, hale and hearty. Thank you, Susan, for bringing your french houseguest, Anne. She was delightful and a real champ to sit there so patiently while we all spoke at break-neck speed about everything and anything. Our conversations rarely follow a logical path and, tonight was no exception.
We had a very respectable discussion of "The Turner House." And, it merited a highly respectable score of 7.
Next month, we meet at Susan's to discuss "Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore" by Robin Sloan. See everyone then!
Thank you everyone for coming tonight! I loved seeing everyone. We missed only Diane who, hopefully, will be back in our midst in October, hale and hearty. Thank you, Susan, for bringing your french houseguest, Anne. She was delightful and a real champ to sit there so patiently while we all spoke at break-neck speed about everything and anything. Our conversations rarely follow a logical path and, tonight was no exception.
We had a very respectable discussion of "The Turner House." And, it merited a highly respectable score of 7.
Next month, we meet at Susan's to discuss "Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore" by Robin Sloan. See everyone then!
August, 2016
Mary Kay and John's beautiful new dresser and 19th century Austrian family heirloom mirror.
Mary Kay treated us to a delightful August summer book club with lots of wonderful treats including a delicious rum cake (see recipes) which was not, in the least, dry as she swore it was. She also gave us a tour of the latest additions to her beautiful home and furnishings including their gorgeous new custom-made dresser. Mary Kay gets eight drawers plus lots of wonderful little jewelry drawers while John gets three - maybe. We all drooled with envy.
A "HIgh Wind in Jamaica" got very mixed reviews. People either hated it or really liked it, thus its final score of a six.
Next month, we meet at Betsy's on September 12, where we will be discussing "The Turner House" by Angela Flourney. I believe Susan will be bringing one of her french visitors so start brushing up any french you ever learned. Enjoy the rest of your summers, everyone!
July, 2016
Pot-luck book club at Betsy's, and, welcome back, Carol!
Our small group had a great time tonight at our group's first pot-luck book club. We all enjoyed the wide and varied selection of delicious food. Betsy enjoyed the simplicity.
Believe it or not, after all the disparaging comments over email, we had a very good discussion of "Sartoris" and the four of us who finished the book all rated it an eight. Even my advanced math skills tells me that's an average of eight! AND, it was one of our better discussions. In the end, all of us who finished the book (four of us) were very glad we did.
Next month, there is a change in schedule. Mary Kay will host on August 8th. She is trading with Soledad who will take November. Diane, you're off the hook for the time being but we'll keep you in mind when we need a sub. The book is "A High Wind in Jamaica" by Richard Hughes. Believe it or not, it's considered a classic though few have heard of it. I know it can be purchased - can't tell you about its availability in libraries but I don't think that will be a problem. It should be a very quick read.
It was wonderful to see and welcome Carol back into the fold who is, thus far, enjoying her retirement though she's yet to really rest in the midst of a lot of grandmother duties. Remember, if you're sending out emails, to be sure she's on the list.
We decided to start our own book club Angie's List. Stay tuned for a new tab on the website with helpful recommendations for electricians, plumbers etc etc.
I'll leave you with this:
June, 2016
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Sometimes it's hard to find words to describe some of our book club gatherings. Such is the case with tonight's gathering which brought some great laughs including probably one of our biggest ones ever - at the expense of Peg - over the existence of a Russian singer who sings about God and Jimminy Cricket. We doubted the existence of such a singer until a google search revealed that Regina Spektor actually exists and Betsy's daughter confirmed, via a text, that she is indeed Russian, and, she's actually popular with the young crowd which is why Lizzie wanted to know how her mother's book club friends could possibly be cool enough to be asking about her ethnicity. The discovery of Regina's identity came after we searched google for the names of popular Russian singers and Mary read off the ten Russian female singers in an impeccable Russian accent! Who knew Mary can speak Russian! Who knew that there actually are ten Russian female pop musicians!
Also the source of much laughter was our first - but not last - rating of the book. We have decided to start rating our books on a scale of one to ten and keeping track of the scores on the website. This should go very smoothly as long as Susan isn't present. But, if she is present, as she was tonight, she can be counted on to question everyone's vote, "A seven? Really????? But, you said you LOVED it???? A seven is a low score!!!!". Of course, that sort of set off a debate among the teachers - and, heaven knows we have enough of those - as to what qualifies as a glowing, good, average or bad score. Long story short, we gave "Sisi: Empress on her Own" an average score of 5.5.
At this point, I'm past due in thanking Peg, not only for the great laughs, but for the wonderful Austrian-Hungarian themed refreshments (Okay, Italy and French beverages are close enough) served on a beautiful woven tablecloth which has some connection to the theme but I can't quite remember what it is. The Austrian chocolate torte was a feast for the eyes and the palates! And, speaking of "who knew," who knew sauerkraut hors d'oeuvres could be so yummy! Thank you, Peg; you outdid yourself!
As you can tell by our rating, the book got mixed reviews. There was a lot of debate on the merits of historical fiction. Some of us were bothered by the lack of historical accuracy in this particular piece of historical fiction; some just appreciated reading a good story set during a fascinating time and didn't really care if the story wasn't absolutely accurate.
Next month, we're going to read an actual classic, "Sartoris" by Faulkner. For those of you who might be scared off at the prospect of reading Faulkner, who isn't always easy-going, this is supposed to be his most accessible novel and a great starting point to enjoy WF. You may find you might need to purchase the book as there isn't a lot of availability in libraries so don't wait until the last minute to look.
Also in the news tonight was two notable achievements by our book club progeny: Alejandra LaVerne scored the highest score in her class on her medical boards and Peter Sweeney has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel! Congratulations to Eileen and Soledad.
See everyone next month, on July 11, at Diane's!
Also the source of much laughter was our first - but not last - rating of the book. We have decided to start rating our books on a scale of one to ten and keeping track of the scores on the website. This should go very smoothly as long as Susan isn't present. But, if she is present, as she was tonight, she can be counted on to question everyone's vote, "A seven? Really????? But, you said you LOVED it???? A seven is a low score!!!!". Of course, that sort of set off a debate among the teachers - and, heaven knows we have enough of those - as to what qualifies as a glowing, good, average or bad score. Long story short, we gave "Sisi: Empress on her Own" an average score of 5.5.
At this point, I'm past due in thanking Peg, not only for the great laughs, but for the wonderful Austrian-Hungarian themed refreshments (Okay, Italy and French beverages are close enough) served on a beautiful woven tablecloth which has some connection to the theme but I can't quite remember what it is. The Austrian chocolate torte was a feast for the eyes and the palates! And, speaking of "who knew," who knew sauerkraut hors d'oeuvres could be so yummy! Thank you, Peg; you outdid yourself!
As you can tell by our rating, the book got mixed reviews. There was a lot of debate on the merits of historical fiction. Some of us were bothered by the lack of historical accuracy in this particular piece of historical fiction; some just appreciated reading a good story set during a fascinating time and didn't really care if the story wasn't absolutely accurate.
Next month, we're going to read an actual classic, "Sartoris" by Faulkner. For those of you who might be scared off at the prospect of reading Faulkner, who isn't always easy-going, this is supposed to be his most accessible novel and a great starting point to enjoy WF. You may find you might need to purchase the book as there isn't a lot of availability in libraries so don't wait until the last minute to look.
Also in the news tonight was two notable achievements by our book club progeny: Alejandra LaVerne scored the highest score in her class on her medical boards and Peter Sweeney has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel! Congratulations to Eileen and Soledad.
See everyone next month, on July 11, at Diane's!
May 2016
A big thank you to Eileen for hosting a wonderful book club. It's not easy to put on a party after working a full day but she did it, seemingly effortlessly....and with the help of Costco which sells a mean cheese cake! Everything was delicious!
And, we had a very respectable - for us - discussion of "The Last Painting of Sarah de Vos" which, I think, everyone liked, some, quite a bit. We even enjoyed googling Dutch female artists and looking at some of the paintings that inspired the book.
Next month, we meet at Peg's, on June 13. The book is "Sisi: Empress on her Own" by Allison Pataki. It's a little on the long side, so don't leave it until the last minute.
Mary Kay, I think we may have to re-think the June weekend in Bloomington. While there is great interest, it is not a good time for almost everyone. Perhaps we can reschedule? We'd love to go!
April 2016
Such a bittersweet night - our last book club at Tonda's (hopefully just for a while) yet, a thoroughly enjoyable evening thanks to Tonda's inimitable hostessing skills, her lovely home, absolutely delicious foods AND another version of her friend's absolutely scrumptious cheesecake for which, alas, we will not get the recipe. However, Tonda, please do send the other recipes! We wish you the best of times taking care of your grandchild and, please, come back any time! You will be missed.
"The Nightingale" got mixed reviews. It was loved by some, not so much by others. If there was consensus on anything it was that we've all read enough books about WWII for a while. So, next month, we will move from the world of war to the world of art when we read "The Last Painting of Sara de Vos" by Dominic Smith.
I believe we are meeting at Eileen's next month unless it's Diane's but I'm pretty sure it's Eileen's. Eileen or Diane, let us know if I've got this wrong, please. Now, last year, I said it could be our last visit to Eileen's house. Well, it wasn't, but this year, it really could be so you won't want to miss. The date is May 9.
Once again, happy birthday, Peg! And, Denise, we will look forward to news of your new grandson, David!
March 2016
This month's book club had all the makings of a perfect book club night -wonderful food, a good discussion about the book as well as the state of the world and Donald Trump (lots of head shaking went on), a visit from Maura Malloy and little Anna Mae (adorable!!!!), lots of laughs AND lots of planning. We need to appoint a social chairman to organize our trips to the Wellfield Gardens in Elkhart, the Sawyer Michigan shops, an overnight to Grand Rapids to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright house as well as their fabulous art show and, finally, a trip to Mary Kay's home in Bloomington. Now, take heed everyone, the last one is actually going to happen which isn't to say the others won't, but, we have been known to be all-talk! But Bloomington will happen; we're scheduled to go there June 16 - June 18th. So mark your calendars! And, thank you Mary Kay for the invitation! And, thank you, Susan for such a fun night. Please post the recipe for those great roll-ups!
We did have a lively discussion of "The Discreet Hero." I think there were a few who did not love the book but we didn't have any haters unless they just kept their opinion to themselves. Some genuinely loved the book. I think all agreed is was a good change of pace for us.
Next month, we meet at Tonda's on April 11, to discuss Kristin Hannah's "The NIghtingale." A lot of us have already read it but, that's okay, no one minds and everyone would like to discuss it.
Please remember to let me know what dates you cannot host this coming book club year. I've got everyone who was there tonight but I need the rest of you. Thanks!
February 2016
Jay did not disappoint with his desserts! A 3 chocolate mousse and a dark chocolate raspberry torte were worth every calorie!
It was a cheery group that braved the snow on Monday night - we missed our snowbirds but carried on bravely without them. After regaling each other with stories of our brilliant grandchildren we had a short discussion about the book! This is the Story of a Happy Marriage was enjoyed by most of us although some were thrown by the short story/ essay format. These were not characters we could fall in love with or hate. They came and went too quickly. The writers in the group were enthralled with Ann Patchett's descriptions of her writing process. Thank you Soledad and Jay for a lovely evening. Soledad has picked out The Discreet Hero: A Novel by Mario Varga Llosa for next month.
January 2016
A small but very lucky group came in from the cold and enjoyed a warm and welcoming January book club at Mary's. She treated us to a delicious butternut squash pear soup accompanied by a homemade cheese-y bread on the side (recipes, Mary!) followed by very tasty appetizers followed by a flourless chocolate cake, all delicious!
"Moloka'i" was generally well-received by the group. I would give the discussion a grade of "B-" based on a totally arbitrary judgement call.
In February, we are scheduled to read Ann Patchett's "This is the Story of Happy Marriage." In theory, Soledad is hosting on February 8th. However, in talking about it tonight, it seems like a lot of people won't be in town. Soledad asked that we take a poll and find out if the 8th or the 15th would work better. If attendance is likely going to be very slim both nights, we may just cancel February. Soledad had only four people at her house last year; it's not fair to her to host another small group though the four of us do remember having a very fun night last year. So, please, let me know which night has your vote and I'll get back to you all.
Finally, please pray that Soledad's daughter, Catalina, has a smooth recovery after being struck by a car in December and ending up with a broken leg. As Soledad said, it could have been far worse, but, nevertheless, it will be several months before Catalina is recovered.
December 2015
This was definitely not the usual bookclub meeting! A fabulous feast was prepared by Betsy and served in her beautifully decorated dining room. From the Kir Royale cocktails to the Gran Marnier Souffles we were pampered with a feast for all our senses. Betsy did not forget the details that made it a special night such as the "Novel Teas" party favors and the wonderful trivia game that capped the dinner. Who could forget that? Or perhaps the better question is Who can remember that? It was the Merriest of Christmas parties! Thank you Betsy for such a fun and delicious evening and our thanks to Brian too for his gracious serving and clean-up! Betsy has posted her wonderful recipes here.
November 2015
I am hard pressed to come up with adequate words to thank Angie for the absolutely delicious feast she prepared for us tonight. It was some of the best Tex/Mex food (in keeping with this month's book southwestern setting) I, for one, have had - the pizza, the Mexican slaw, the barbecued chicken, the empanadas - all incredible. We closed out the night with a scrumptious flan. Angie please post the recipes!
It was a fun evening with a little bit of everything: wonderful food, a beautiful selection of jewelry from which to shop, courtesy of Annie Klee Mahoney, a good, if short, discussion of "The Same Sky" which was generally well-received and, as always, lots of laughter.
Next month, we'll meet at Betsy's for a Christmas dinner instead of our traditional restaurant night. The date is December 14. Let's start at 6:30, instead of 7:00. Please let me know if you cannot make it. Peg, I know you will be in D.C. tending to more important matters. I am excited to host everyone!
January's book is "Moloka'i" by Alan Brennert. The date is January 11.
Tonda is looking for someone to trade hosting duties with her. She is scheduled for January. She cannot do March. Soledad is on for February and Mary for April. I think April might be Tonda's preference. Mary, could you trade? If not, Soledad?
October 2015
We had near perfect attendance tonight at Mary Kay's. We missed you, Mary! Many thanks to Mary Kay for the fabulous selection of cheese (Is there anything better than cheese?!) and the out-of-this world pear cake! (Don't forget to share the recipe on the website!)
This month's book, "God Help the Child" was received somewhat lukewarmly by the group. No one hated it, no one loved it. Many agreed it did not stack up to Tony Morrison's earlier books. Nevertheless, we had a respectable discussion. We concluded that we must be getting smarter judging by improved discussion skills of late.
Next month, we meet at Angie's for a discussion of "The Same Sky" by Amanda Eyre Ward. The also-rans that some of you requested the names of are "People of the Book" by Geraldine Brooks and "My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrone.
September 2015
A Mideastern feast at Mary Ann's, September 15, 2015
Many thanks to Mary Ann for a really delightful book club gathering. It was a notable night in many ways. First, in honor of this month's book which is set in Beirut, Mary Ann treated us to an outstanding Mideastern feast provided by Elia's (a special reward goes to the member who can give us the definitive pronunciation of that restaurant's name). She has set a really high bar for book-themed refreshments! The picture above doesn't begin to do it justice. Second, we may have actually spent more time discussing the book than our lives. Third, Angie stayed out until 9:57, an all-time late hour for her! Fourth, we are all the wiser in the myriad ways one might use blue Dawn.
It's hard to summarize the reaction to "An Unnecessary Woman." While no one seemed to love it, everyone seemed to admire it, if that make sense. And, as I said, it produced a great discussion.
Next month, we meet at Mary Kay's on Columbus Day (!!!!), October 12. The book is Toni Morrison's newest, "God Help the Child."
August 2015
We had such a fun time at Peg's tonight. Retirement is suiting Peg well. She prepared a wonderful selection of hors d'oeuvres, each as tasty as it was pretty and an out-of-this-world lemon meringue pie. Thank you, Peg!
However, we sorely missed Diane who recommended this month's book, "Hold the Dark." We were ALL looking forward to hearing how she felt about the book since it featured all her favorite themes: incest, bloody massacres, knives in the throat, children killed by wolves, the "heroine" sleeping with the narrator for no apparent reason. Diane, if you didn't read it, we all insist that you do. We'd love to get your feedback.
Next month, we're scheduled to meet at Mary Ann's on September 14. However, already, we know of four of us who cannot make it. Mary Ann, would there be another night that week that might work for you? Tuesday looked good for all of us. I think you have a regular commitment on the third Monday so it won't work to delay a week. Please let us know. The book is "An Unnecessary Woman," by Rabin Alameddine. We can only hope it offers as many laughs as "Hold the Dark."
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July 2015
Thank you, Diane, for treating us to a wonderful book club evening at your home. We missed the many members who couldn't make it and they missed some wonderful refreshments, including a delicious cake! Oh, and also a stew that was supposed to be reminiscent of the food in the book (perhaps just a bit of a stretch but it tasted great!).
"At the Water's Edge" was met with mixed reviews but it provided for some good conversation - always better to have some disagreement than to have everyone love or hate a book.
Next month, on August 10, we meet at Peg's, not Mary Ann's as I reported last week. The book is "Hold the Dark" by William Giraldi. See everyone then!
June 2015
It's hard to believe that Susan, in France, and Mary Kay, in Italy, could possibly be enjoying better food than we had at Denise's tonight. Denise, everything, from start to finish, was absolutely wonderful. Don't be bashful about posting everything to the website!
AND, we had a very respectable discussion of "All the Light You Cannot See" which was loved by all. We were also lucky to have a guest, Eileen's sister, Mary Beth, who was a great addition to the discussion. All in all, it was a perfect evening! Denise, thank for hosting so splendidly in the midst of playing nursemaid to Dave!
Next month, we're discussing "At the Water's Edge" by Sara Gruen. I realized after we all broke up that we didn't settle hosting duties. Mary Ann is scheduled but I believe Diane wanted to trade with her. I'm going to let the two of them work this out and get back to us with news of the July location.
It's hard to believe that Susan, in France, and Mary Kay, in Italy, could possibly be enjoying better food than we had at Denise's tonight. Denise, everything, from start to finish, was absolutely wonderful. Don't be bashful about posting everything to the website!
AND, we had a very respectable discussion of "All the Light You Cannot See" which was loved by all. We were also lucky to have a guest, Eileen's sister, Mary Beth, who was a great addition to the discussion. All in all, it was a perfect evening! Denise, thank for hosting so splendidly in the midst of playing nursemaid to Dave!
Next month, we're discussing "At the Water's Edge" by Sara Gruen. I realized after we all broke up that we didn't settle hosting duties. Mary Ann is scheduled but I believe Diane wanted to trade with her. I'm going to let the two of them work this out and get back to us with news of the July location.
Chez Denise
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May 2015
Though small in numbers, our little group of Eileen, Peg, Mary, Denise, Susan and Betsy, had a wonderful time at Eileen's tonight. Eileen treated us to a lavish spread of wonderful refreshments. We had a good discussion of "Station Eleven" which was met with high praise by most, if not all. I will miss book club at Old Chicago Road; I always enjoy looking out the windows as we visit and watching the cloud formations and the sun set over the fields.
Next month, on June 8, we meet at Denise's to discuss "All the light we cannot see" by Anthony Doerr. It's a long one but everyone who has read it (a good number among our group) says it reads very quickly and is really really good. Happy end of the school year to our few remaining teachers. We'll celebrate Peg's retirement when we meet next!
2015 Gathering at Betsy's house.
Back row: Eileen, Betsy, Susan, Mary Ann, Denise
Front row: Mary, Angie, Tonda, Peg, Diane, Soledad, Mary Kay.
April 2015
We had 100% attendance tonight at Betsy's house! Consequently, there really isn't much need to report on how things went but, for the sake of documenting our history on the website, let it be known that we discussed "We Are all Completely Beside Ourselves." If anyone really didn't like the book, she was very silent. As requested, I have posted the recipes on our website.
Next month we meet at Eileen's, on May 11, for a discussion of "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel. Everyone left me to make the decision as to what book we will discuss, therefore, I reserve the right to take no blame if it wasn't a popular decision.
We had 100% attendance tonight at Betsy's house! Consequently, there really isn't much need to report on how things went but, for the sake of documenting our history on the website, let it be known that we discussed "We Are all Completely Beside Ourselves." If anyone really didn't like the book, she was very silent. As requested, I have posted the recipes on our website.
Next month we meet at Eileen's, on May 11, for a discussion of "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel. Everyone left me to make the decision as to what book we will discuss, therefore, I reserve the right to take no blame if it wasn't a popular decision.
February 2015
Thank you to Susan for a wonderful February book club! She treated us to outstanding refreshments not the least of which were some fabulous wines courtesy of "her man" at Martin's and a scrumptious white chocolate dessert. She's promised to post the recipe on our website. I wouldn't mind the mini-meatloaf recipe too.
"Lila" got mixed reviews, running the gamut from "loved it" to "hated it." Next month, on March 9th, we'll meet at Mary's for a discussion of "We Are all Completely beside Ourselves" by Karen Joy Fowler. Unfortunately, I will not be there and will miss you all. Eileen, can I count on you to do the monthly report?
January 2015
We had such fun at Soledad's tonight, all four of us: Peg, Denise, Soledad and Betsy! We shared lots and lots of good laughs, discussed the book a little (Peg thinks we had a pretty good discussion. Well, we've had worse, I guess) and, on top of Soledad's wonderful refreshments, we enjoyed two of Jay's incomparable desserts, a chocolate mousse cake in an edible chocolate box and an out-of-this-world lemon cake. Small though our numbers were, it was a wonderful book club evening.
We all enjoyed the book and sharing all of our own deep dark secrets. Okay, I made that up, but while the book may not have been the great American novel, we agreed it was well written, good characters, lots of funny parts and food for thought.
Next month, we meet at Susan's (Finally! Right, Susan?) on February 9. The book is "Lila" by Marilynne Robinson. I'm looking forward to reading it, having heard some wonderful things.
See below for this year's version of our January group picture. (Note, the wine glasses are all empty!)
November 2014
As we all lingered at Tonda's tonight, I commented that her home is just so cozy, no one could stand to leave. It was indeed a lovely book club evening in front of the fire, topped off by delicious refreshments including a pumpkin cheesecake that may have won the award for all-time-most-raved-about book club dessert. Eileen will be posting it to our website soon. Thank you, Tonda, for a wonderful evening.
Our book selection, "Everything I Never Told You" seemed to get a mostly positive response. All agreed it was definitely a painful story but did give us food for thought.
Next month, we'll have our annual Christmas dinner at Macri's, December 8th at 6:30. Please let me know if you can't make it but I'm hoping we'll have the full contingent there so we can take our annual (okay, this is only the second time, but "annual" has to start somewhere) group picture. Eileen, can you bring your camera?
January's book is "The Husband's Secret," by Liane Moriarty. We meet at Soledad's. Rumor has it, Jay is already planning what dessert(s) he'll cook for us. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
October 2014
Angie never disappoints and tonight was no exception. She presented us with one delicious dish after another, each one more delicious than the last. We're glad you retired, Angie - all the more time to spend on spoiling us! Thank you for a great evening. And don't forget to post that recipe to our site.
Between two movies and the book, we had a fun discussion of "Rebecca." One of the slower members of the group (me) even learned that the main character remained nameless throughout the book!
Next month, on November 10, we meet at Tonda's. The book is, Everything I Never Told you by Celeste Ng.
Some of you were wondering who is hosting in January and February. It's Soledad and Susan, respectively. See everyone in November.
September 2014
Many thanks to Denise for treating us to a lovely evening. We enjoyed a very tasty selection of snacks AND a birthday cake for Susan with brownies on the side - all very yummy.
The book, "The Invention of Wings" was very well-received and we even managed a pretty decent - for us - discussion!
Next month, we meet at Angie's on October 13. We decided to do a tried and true classic, Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca which most of us have probably read in some distant past (i.e. You're going to need to re-read). We thought it would be fun.
Mary Kay, we're all thinking of you and sending prayers your way. Denise, have a wonderful trip to England/France. Mary Ann, we can't wait to see pictures of baby Jacob. And, finally, please pray that all goes well for our daughter Lizzie as we await the birth of #6 grandchild. Did I forget anyone?
August 2014,
Thanks to all who came to my house for bookclub. We had a rousing discussion of The Goldfinch, which a surprising number of us actually finished. Most of us liked it while some thought it could have been edited a little more thoroughly. We missed Betsy, Angie and Denise and we will be most anxious to hear about their vacation adventures and wedding stories. Be sure to bring your pictures next time! For Sept we will be reading "The Invention of Wings", by Sue Monk Kidd. We will be meeting at Angie's on Sept 8th. In case anyone is interested in following up on the book I mentioned it is "A Year of No Sugar" by Eve O. Schaub
Eileen
Eileen
July 2014
Bon voyage to Betsy as she heads off to South Africa. Since she is on her way I have decided to pick up the slack and report on a lovely evening at Diane's last night on South Twin Lake--Howe, Indiana. Sorry for those of you who missed it but as a Minnesota girl, I would rate this as a perfect 10 lake night on the pontoon----mirror calm waters, a comfortable temp and no mosquitoes. Those in attendance were Soledad and myself. Diane took us out for a very nice boat ride and when we returned she served up a dessert that we were wild about--something I think is called: "Heath Bar Dessert". It was a big hit and we have encouraged her to share it on our website--hint, hint Diane. All three of us agreed that we enjoyed "Orphan Train" and we actually discussed it while on the water for the usual amount of time but soon lingered into discussion of Pierce Bronsnan's finer qualities.Next month, for August, I believe that Eileen will host. We will be discussing, "The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt. As a reminder we choose that book for August during our May meeting due to the fact that it is a long but intriguing read. Happy summer. Mary Kay
June 2014 Book Club
We missed our absent members tonight and they missed a real treat, seeing Mary Kay's beautiful new home! All the planning and decision making (and, some of us know just how Mary Kay can labor over decorating decisions) really paid off, Mary Kay; the house is just stunning.
The refreshments were yummy. I especially loved the strawberry rhubarb crisp and the tapenade! Thank you for hosting us, Mary Kay, on our first summer night.
For the most part, everyone seemed to enjoy "The Tilted World." All agreed it had its shortcomings, but it was a good, well written story.
Next month is a little tentative. We're planning on going to Diane's lake house but it won't be our usual second Monday. She is going to get back to us on a date. The book is "Orphan Train: A Novel" by Cristina Baker Kline.
I'm pretty sure we also decided on August's book. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. We're going to read "The Goldfinch" by Donna Tart. It was this year's Pulitzer prize winner for fiction. It is a long one, almost 800 pages, so, the hope is, with enough advance notice, everyone will be able to read it. (I know, I know, it's not going to happen - but, we can dream.) Enjoy your summer vacations, teachers!
May 2014 Book Club
Most of our members were at Peg's tonight to enjoy a wonderful book club on a beautiful warm night, finally! Thank you, Peg for the delicious refreshments. Enjoy the left over cake; I'm jealous. Your house looked lovely with all the Mother's Day flowers!
For those who like to keep track of these things, "The Art of Hearing Heartbeats" was generally well-received. I think most of us agreed it wasn't a great book but it was just a lovely story that captivated us. And, I have to say, it was one of our longer discussions.
Next month, we're reading "The Tilted World" by Tom Franklin and Beth Ann Fennelly. Side note: Beth Ann is a former student of Ken DeBoer's. We're meeting at Mary Kay's new house, not Susan's, as originally scheduled. The date is June 9.
Joan, we're all thinking of you as you welcome grandchild number three. We'll expect pictures in June!
For those who like to keep track of these things, "The Art of Hearing Heartbeats" was generally well-received. I think most of us agreed it wasn't a great book but it was just a lovely story that captivated us. And, I have to say, it was one of our longer discussions.
Next month, we're reading "The Tilted World" by Tom Franklin and Beth Ann Fennelly. Side note: Beth Ann is a former student of Ken DeBoer's. We're meeting at Mary Kay's new house, not Susan's, as originally scheduled. The date is June 9.
Joan, we're all thinking of you as you welcome grandchild number three. We'll expect pictures in June!
April 2014 Book Club
There's nothing like book club at Joan's and she didn't disappoint tonight. Of course we heard lots of Joan's usual protests: "It's nothing, just..." but nothing is really ever "just" at Joan's. Who else roasts coconut to sprinkle over ice cream with hot fudge?! Everything, not just the ice cream, was delicious, Joan. Thank you!
Despite Peg's valiant attempts to steer us back to discussing the book, we seemed to be more interested in talking about such lofty things as washers and dryers. "Still Life with Bread Crumbs" met with mixed reviews. All agreed it's not great literature but, still, some of us really enjoyed it, others, not so much.
Next month, we'll be at Peg's where she may have full control over our unwieldy bunch. The date is May 12. The book is The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Phillip Sendker. Happy Easter, everyone!
Still Life with Cat. ©Eileen Klee Sweeney 2014
March 2014 Book Club
We were an intimate little group at Mary's tonight but that didn't stop us from covering just about every topic imaginable. And, we even talked about "The Lost Wife" a little, a very little. The book met with mixed reactions. Some really liked it, some not as much. Our little group also thoroughly enjoyed Mary's fabulous spread of green food including a wonderful split pea soup and delicious little homemade pastries spread with green icing. She did St. Patrick proud. Thank you Mary! Now, if the rest of you want to know anything about Argon skin products, frangipani exfoliator, Ebay, Paypal, Amazon, cleaning banisters, restoring family heirlooms, etc etc etc, we're your go-to bunch.
I show Joan as our next hostess on April 14. Peg thought she might be hosting so, let us all know if I have that wrong. The book is Anna Quindlen's "Still LIfe with Bread Crumbs." Have a good month, everyone!
I show Joan as our next hostess on April 14. Peg thought she might be hosting so, let us all know if I have that wrong. The book is Anna Quindlen's "Still LIfe with Bread Crumbs." Have a good month, everyone!
February 2014 Book Club
A big thank you for Mary Ann who treated us to a lovely evening and a warm, relaxing respite from the cold. As usual, Mary Ann's table of treats was beautiful, not to mention delicious! The dessert was scrumptious - I'm sure we'd all love it if Mary Ann would post it to the website.
Those who finished "The Power of One", all three (?) of us, seemed to like it. The discussion was on the brief side, however.
Next month, Mary is trading with Denise; she will host. The date is March 10. The book is "The Lost Wife," by Alyson Richman. Stay warm, everyone!
A big thank you for Mary Ann who treated us to a lovely evening and a warm, relaxing respite from the cold. As usual, Mary Ann's table of treats was beautiful, not to mention delicious! The dessert was scrumptious - I'm sure we'd all love it if Mary Ann would post it to the website.
Those who finished "The Power of One", all three (?) of us, seemed to like it. The discussion was on the brief side, however.
Next month, Mary is trading with Denise; she will host. The date is March 10. The book is "The Lost Wife," by Alyson Richman. Stay warm, everyone!
January 2014 Book Club
Thank you everyone - except Tonda, who we missed of course - for coming tonight. It was good to have such a great turn out to mark the start of a new year! There was lots of laughs, lots of eating and a little discussion of "The Heart of the Matter" whose heavy tone didn't quite seem to mesh with the rest of the evening. Plus, there were just a "few" who hadn't read the book and had no idea what we were talking about. Nevertheless, we had a good LITTLE discussion. Graham Greene is probably rolling over in his grave, but, oh well, it sounds as if he wasn't too crazy about his own book anyway.
Next month, we meet at Mary Ann's on February 10 to discuss "The Power of One" by Bryce Courtenay. I apologize ahead of time, it's a long one but it sounds really good. Run to your libraries soon!
Next month, we meet at Mary Ann's on February 10 to discuss "The Power of One" by Bryce Courtenay. I apologize ahead of time, it's a long one but it sounds really good. Run to your libraries soon!
November 2013 Book Club
Kudos to Mary Kay for treating us to a wonderful evening, our last in her Cherokee Ln. home! I think that bread pudding is a definite candidate for our recipes listing and is there any better combination than figs and goat cheese! It was a great to gather together on a cold snowy evening and share not only a very good discussion of Americanah but also of everyone's travels and weddings. Tonda, you'll have to fill us in on your son's wedding in December.
In December, we'll have our holiday dinner at Villa Macri's in Toscana Village, December 9th at 6:30. Please let me know if you will not be able to attend.
January's book is The Heart of the Matter by Graham Greene. That date is January 13. I'll get back to everyone soon with the new schedule including January's location. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
October 2013 Book Club
What a fabulous evening in Angie’s beautiful home! We laughed a lot. Angie prepared marvelous treats from the Middle East to accompany the culture of the book against Middle Eastern background music . I have asked Angie to email us the recipe for the carrot soup-to die for! A further treat was the presence of the lovely Lauren.
Tonda shared pictures from her son’s wedding over the weekend and reported that it was a wonderful celebration. I can attest that Diane’s son’s wedding was also wonderful. We are a fortunate group.
The book for November is Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a noted Nigerian author.
Mary Kay is scheduled to host on Monday, Nov. 11th.
When Betsy returns, she may set a new schedule as we have reached the end of the current schedule.
Mary Ann
What a fabulous evening in Angie’s beautiful home! We laughed a lot. Angie prepared marvelous treats from the Middle East to accompany the culture of the book against Middle Eastern background music . I have asked Angie to email us the recipe for the carrot soup-to die for! A further treat was the presence of the lovely Lauren.
Tonda shared pictures from her son’s wedding over the weekend and reported that it was a wonderful celebration. I can attest that Diane’s son’s wedding was also wonderful. We are a fortunate group.
The book for November is Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a noted Nigerian author.
Mary Kay is scheduled to host on Monday, Nov. 11th.
When Betsy returns, she may set a new schedule as we have reached the end of the current schedule.
Mary Ann
September 2013 Book Club
Many thanks to Soledad for a great September gathering. In particular, many thanks to Soledad for marrying Jay who absolutely spoiled us with an incredible crème brûlée and chocolate cheesecake. Soledad, promise us you'll post the recipes!
Our discussion of "The Typist" was short but enthusiastic. Everyone seemed to really enjoy it. Next month, we meet at Angie's, on October 14, for a discussion of Khalid Hosseini's latest, "And the Mountains Echoed."
Don't forget,everyone, to send pictures of important family or lifetime events to Eileen so she can post them on the web site. Or, better yet, give it a try yourself; it's really kind of fun. We've had a couple weddings this summer, with two more to come in October; it would be fun to see pictures on our site. Speaking of which, Soledad announced the engagement of their daughter, Catalina! Congratulations to the proud parents.
We were all wondering what came of Arthur MacArthur. Check out this website for the rest of the story as well as some great pictures: http://www.ozatwar.com/usarmy/arthurmacarthur.htm
The dining room of the MacArthur Suite in the Manila Hotel, where the General lived while in Manila. Each chair is carved with the American flag and MacArthur's head. The suite overlooks Manila Bay.
August 2013 Book Club
Joan never fails to disappoint! We were treated to a wonderful array of refreshments tonight, much of which came straight from Joan's garden - so, so tasty! However, the food was not the biggest treat. That prize his to go to little Ki Ki (sp?), Joan's granddaughter who is visiting for a couple of weeks. What a little character, so much personality!
We had kind of a meandering discussion of "The LIght Between Oceans." Staying on topic was definitely not our strong point tonight, but then, when is it? However, in general, the book was very well received. Next month we meet on September 9th at Soledad's. The book is "The Typist" by Michael Knight.
Have a great start to the new school year, all you teachers!
July 2013 Book Club
Tonda did her usual splendid job of hosting tonight. Thank you, Tonda, for all the delicious treats. I must remember not to forget (how's that for a middle aged woman's reminder!) to buy those crackers at Whole Foods.
"Nemesis" seemed to have been met with mixed reviews. But, it did result in some interesting discussion. I, for one, was intrigued enough that I intend to read it.
Next month, we meet at Joan's on August 12. We will be discussing "The LIght Between Oceans" by ML Stedman. Joan, it will be wonderful to see you at book club!
"Nemesis" seemed to have been met with mixed reviews. But, it did result in some interesting discussion. I, for one, was intrigued enough that I intend to read it.
Next month, we meet at Joan's on August 12. We will be discussing "The LIght Between Oceans" by ML Stedman. Joan, it will be wonderful to see you at book club!
June 2013 Book Club
Our numbers were few tonight but that didn't stop us from having a wonderful time at Susan's. Thank you, Susan, for the delicious refreshments in your beautiful home! Thank you, Denise for the pictures of your gorgeous wedding and, Soledad, the picture of Alejandra and her groom made us want more so, both of you, bring your pictures in July for all to see!
"Tell the Wolves I'm Home" was well received by three of the four of us who had read it with mixed feelings by the lone dissenter.
I THINK we're at Tonda's in July on the 8th. Tonda, if I have that wrong, please let everyone know. The book is "Nemesis" by Philip Roth. Susan and Peg assured us that we will love it.
"Tell the Wolves I'm Home" was well received by three of the four of us who had read it with mixed feelings by the lone dissenter.
I THINK we're at Tonda's in July on the 8th. Tonda, if I have that wrong, please let everyone know. The book is "Nemesis" by Philip Roth. Susan and Peg assured us that we will love it.
May 2013 Meeting
We had a great time at Eileen's tonight. She went with an Italian theme in honor of "Beautiful Ruins"and treated us to a selection of yummy Italian appetizers as well as a beautiful dessert whose picture is posted below. It was as tasty as it was pretty.
Further making for a delightful evening was the fact that everyone seemed to really love the book so the room was alive with praise for book and food alike.
Next month, June 10th, we'll be at Susan's. The book is "Tell the Wolves I'm Home" by Carol Rifka Brunt. We expect to hear wedding reports from Denise and Soledad. Best wishes for beautiful weddings to both of you!
Eileen's gelato and Italian cookies, designed and made from scratch!
April 2013 Meeting
Cinque Terre
Many thanks to Diane for a great book club in her new home. Many of us commented on what a cozy, warm house it is - very welcoming. Diane treated us to many delicious goodies but to those of you who couldn't make it, you have to take a look at her creation in honor of the penguin theme from this month's book. I'm not sure the pictures do the penguins justice but you'll have to take our word for it that they were a true masterpiece.
As for the book, it was generally met with high praise. If you didn't get a chance to read it and want lots of laughs, give it a try.
Next month, we meet at Eileen's on May 13. The book is Beautiful Ruins situated in beautiful Cinque Terre (see picture) in Italy, by Jess Walters. Enjoy the beautiful weather (we hope!) everyone!
As for the book, it was generally met with high praise. If you didn't get a chance to read it and want lots of laughs, give it a try.
Next month, we meet at Eileen's on May 13. The book is Beautiful Ruins situated in beautiful Cinque Terre (see picture) in Italy, by Jess Walters. Enjoy the beautiful weather (we hope!) everyone!
Diane's delicious penguins
March 2013 Meeting
Thank you, Amy, for a lovely night in your beautiful new home. I actually enjoyed hearing real live kids talking in the background! And, I wouldn't mind another piece of the wonderful apple pie. You blueberry pie people don't know what you were missing!
Next month we're at Diane's beautiful new home. The book is "Where'd You Go Bernadette" by Maria Semple. The date is April 8, an early second Monday so don't be caught unaware!
Happy Easter, everyone!
Next month we're at Diane's beautiful new home. The book is "Where'd You Go Bernadette" by Maria Semple. The date is April 8, an early second Monday so don't be caught unaware!
Happy Easter, everyone!
February 2013 Meeting
I think one of the wiser decisions I ever made was to invite Denise to join our book club - another fabulous evening chez Denise with oh-so-tasty snacks and a scrumptious chocolate dessert. (Needless to say, we appreciate Denise for many reasons other than her culinary skills) Don't forget, Denise to send recipes!
Next month, we're at Diane's new house! The date is March 11. Diane, can you send your new address and directions. I think most of you are aware that Diane lives in the new triangle area behind Eddy St. Commons. The book is "The Language of Flowers" by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.
For those of you who signed up for the cooking class, I'll take a look at everyone's preferences and will contact chef Laurent tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Next month, we're at Diane's new house! The date is March 11. Diane, can you send your new address and directions. I think most of you are aware that Diane lives in the new triangle area behind Eddy St. Commons. The book is "The Language of Flowers" by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.
For those of you who signed up for the cooking class, I'll take a look at everyone's preferences and will contact chef Laurent tomorrow. Stay tuned!