August Book Club 2012

The Vanishers. Our book title for August was certainly appropriate as a title for what happened to the food! At one point I caught a glimpse down the table. I don't believe I have ever seen a meal where every single plate looked as if it had been licked clean. The heat this month dictated the menu rather than the book. Carla G. hosted and decided on a menu of cold salads and homemade ice cream. Terry brought our all-time book club favorite Pear salad and Diana brought a tomato, mozzarella, and home grown basil salad. Carla G. made her first chicken salad and it was delicious and Janie brought the croissants to go with it. The homemade vanilla ice cream went great with Darby's homemade fudge and salty butterscotch toppings. Pam made Sangria, Diana concocted a butterscotch cocktail and Arnora brought the flowers. The perfect cold complement to the hot temperatures.

We missed Denise, Lou, Liz, and Barb who were unable to join us this month.

Darby suggested our book based on a personal recommendation and Laura kicked off the discussion by praising this book as one of the best she's read in recent months.  She loved the writing which was adept at prolonging the mystery of the story right until the end. Several readers had taken notes to keep up with the characters and memorable quotes. This made two of our teachers, Darby and Terry, very happy.

To be honest, this months book is a bit difficult to review and capture in a nutshell. One of the quotes on the dust jacket described this book as an "astral detective thriller".  Our protagonist, Julia Severn, starts the story by telling us it is preposterous to begin with. A warning to "read at your own risk." Julia believes that she is being psychically attacked by her boss and mentor, Madame Ackerman. Julia's mother, who resembles Madame Ackerman, committed suicide when Julia was one month old. As Julia's health deteriorates, she embarks on a journey to heal herself and she stumbles across her mother's dark past. She must come to terms with her grief as she also realizes that she may be the unwitting psychic attacker rather than victim. In the process, Julia meets a number of people who both help and hinder her. Some are real, others are imagined or conjured up through astral travel.

The themes and characters are layered and the action sometimes ambiguous leaving some of us a bit confused at the end.  A little, "is it real or is it Memorex?" In fact, one of Laura's favorite quotes was on page 136, "Memory is unnecessary work. To forget is to respect the past, and to enable your pleasant future."  And Carla A. liked the quote on page 214 "People accuse therapists of seeing abuse where there isn't any; of fabricating memories for their patients. Maybe this is true. But if so, it's because neurosis without a perceptible cause is very hard to accept. How does one fix a problem that arose from nothing?"

In addition there was mythological symbolism of the wolf. A quick search provided this information on the wolf: They are highly misunderstood and have gained a reputation for being cold blooded. In reality, they they are friendly and social creatures who avoid aggression. The wolf is an incredible communicator. By using touch, body movements, eye contact as well as many vocal expressions - the wolf makes his point understood. Some might call these non-verbal cues "psychic" when used by humans.

And, Julia's last name, Severn, means boundary. This may or may not have anything to do with her character. But as I read into it, without being able to form some kind of psychic boundary, Julia left herself open to attack. Finding and setting boundaries of any kind in your life is always part of a healing experience.

In the end the book rate 4.3 among those who vote and 2 "liked it very much". Denise commented that by email that, while she enjoyed the book, she would have preferred more character to development.
Several of us plan to read it a second time.

Next month we will meet at Pam's and our book will be Beautiful Ruins. Lis will host in October and we read Prisoner of Heaven.

Book club members have traveled to this summer to: Europe, Brazil, California/Nevada, Colorado, S. Dakota. Others are heading off to Florida, Wyoming, Mexico. To those traveling now or soon - happy and safe journeys!

July Book Club 2012

Diana's Facebook post and review of book club was so good I just decided to re-post it as this months blog. Any additional comments by me will be in italics. Thanks Darby for hosting our brilliant meeting! We missed Arnora, Carla, Lou, and Laura. Good time at book club last night. Yummy cool salads, delicious cold cucumber soup, bread and butter, cocktails, and homemade peach pie. Plus a lively discussion of "In the Garden of Beasts." WWII, Hitler, Germany, America, and; Russia told from thr perspective of the Dodd's, ambassadors Erik Larson writes "novelistic historical accounts" and this one takes place between 1933-37 in the years Hitler was ascending to power. We agreed it was an interesting subject and some appreciated how the story was told in a somewhat detached state. Others in our group found the detached telling too text book, and challenging to personally connect with the story. Most felt sorry for Dodd, and were amazed by Martha's naivety, while perhaps applauding her boldness. A few in the group thought the story might have been more engaging by focusing on fewer characters and told solely from Martha's perspective. Overall ratings 2-3.5 with an average of 2.5. Our discussion ranked 5 in my opinion. The topic of war, politics, history repeating itself, collide and animate our discussions. We had a lively debate about human nature. It was difficult for us to put ourselves in the shoes of some of the Germans. How could they report on their neighbors with little or no provocation? We like to think we'd respond in a different way, but it's hard to know how you'd be given the same circumstances. I really appreciate listening to everyone's thoughts and; it always improves my opinion of whatever we've just read. The next meeting @ Carla G's and book is The Vanishers: A Novel by Heidi Julavits. Remember we switch back to the second Friday in Aug. and in doing so have a shorter time between meetings. We chose this book as it is highly recommended by Darby, and Laura and it is roughly 250 pages. Looking ahead to cooler times: October 12 book club @ Elisabeth's. October 13 - plans in the works for an overnight in Ft. Worth taking the train! Enjoy the museum, dining, shopping, and anything else you fancy. Love to all, cheers! Diana & Sherrie

June Book Club 2012

June's Book Club was held pool side at Denise's home. English Pub food was the fare of the evening and Denise provided soup and salad, Laura brought Fish and Chips from Baker Street. Liz brought sweet potato fettuccine, Diana brought Cider and Peach Dump Cake, Pam brought honied walnuts/honey goat cheese and strawberries, Janie brought Amish butter and bread.

Denise, Diana and I had all been traveling in the UK recently and we wanted more of the pub food. Also, our book, Corduroy Mansions was set in the Pimlico neighborhood of London where pub food is a staple. On that note, Diana and I were actually able to visit Pimlico on our trip to London. Diana bought several commemorative tea towels and we ended up dining with the owners of the gift store. They were able to fill us in on the history of the neighborhood over pizza and a beer. This did make the book a little more personal and meaningful for me.

The book is the first in a trilogy by Alexander McCall Smith written in a similar fashion to his 44 Scotland series. Both books are about apartment buildings and their residents and how their lives interact. Interestingly, our May book, The Elegance of the Hedgehog, was also about the residents of an apartment building. Seems we often, unwittingly, pick books of similar theme. The books similar in context but differ in their depth. Where Hedgehog was deep,  philosophical and dealt with life and death matters, Corduroy Mansions was lighter and more subtle.

Smith says that he prefers to write characters rather than plot. The group was a little divided on their enjoyment of this style. There are those that appreciated how the lack of plot mirrors daily life. Often nothing really significant happens and endings are not necessarily tied up in a neat fashion. Others were frustrated by the number of characters to keep up with and the fact that events that seemed to be leading up to something just didn't. Those that read Smith regularly said these story lines may or may not be picked up in the subsequent books. Most of us agreed that there were lots of comical parts to the book and everyone liked the introduction of William's dog, Freddie De Lay Hay. The book rated from 2-4 with 3.3 overall.

I made a hasty comment that perhaps we shouldn't read anymore of Smith's books because they are so "light". My apologies to those who love this author and I would like to amend that remark to perhaps reading him at say, Christmas, when we often look for lighter fare during a busy time.


Carla G. was absent but recommended several books for next months consideration. And, we're sorry we didn’t choose one of your books, yet. I believe a couple ladies had already read the Paris Wife and were not that enthusiastic about it. We looked at the other two and also discussed the following books, of which we chose the first two, one for July and one August. However, we had such a tough time choosing and want everyone to have input. So at present here’s the suggested reading, but other than the first and second books, the others are possible books, nothing set in stone.

For July we picked "In the Garden of Beasts" by Erik Larson. Having read two of his books that were very popular with the group we decided to try this one.

For August, we decided on "The Hare with the Amber Eyes" by Edmond Duvall. This book, part biography, part memoir, and part detective story intrigued us all.

Also up for consideration for future reading is "Wild"  by Cheryl Strayed  a memoir. This is a fairly new book and with a waiting list at the Library so we decided to wait to give it a better chance of availability. The Vanishers by Heidi Julavita is a novel with a paranormal theme and seemed like a possible selection for October (Halloween). And finally, The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty a 1922 historical novel.

We missed Lou, Terry, Carla G. and Barb. As a reminder, July's book club will still be on the 3rd Friday and then in August we'll be moving back to the 2nd Friday.

May 2012 Book Club

First, my apologies girls for the late post. As you know, Diana and I took a little trip across the pond and preparation and departure got in my way.

This months book club was held at Terry's lovely home where we found her and Darby making shrimp tempura along with cold shrimp. Our side dishes were an Asian salad, potatoes and asparagus, chips and salsa and cookies for dessert. We held the actual discussion in Terry's backyard oasis and the weather was perfect. It was a beautiful night. We were missing Lou, Denise, Lis and Barb.

May's book was "Remarkable Creatures" by Tracy Chevalier. We've previously read her books "The Girl with the Pearl Earring" and "Burning Bright".

"Remarkable Creatures" is about the friendship of two women living in the south coast of England circa 1810 and their discovery of fossils in the area. Mary Anning is 12 years old when she discovers her first fossil. At this time in history, Darwin is only 2. Elizabeth Philpot has been sent by her brother to live in Lyme Regis because it's cheaper for him. Elizabeth is older than Mary and teaches her to read. In the 1800's women are not routinely educated, especially in rural areas. But after Mary learns to read she also teaches herself geology and anatomy and ends up working with a professor at Oxford on the documentation of the fossils.

It must be kept in mind, at this time in history, there is no theory of evolution and most people hold to the theory of creationism. Fossils of extinct animals and dinosaurs do not figure into the equation of current thought.

There are many themes throughout the book: Creationism/Evolution; City living/country living; Education and the age of enlightenment vs. the dark ages.  Feminism and the condition of women is a big theme. At this time in history women are not allowed to walk the streets without an escort and these two are breaking barriers in a field that is dominated by men. There are other class and social issues.

It's true that Mary found several significant fossils from 1811-1828 and that her findings were some of the basis and influence for Darwin's work to come later. The fossils provided a different kind of life for Mary and Elizabeth than they would have normally had. Col. Birch helped them to auction the fossils to fund their life and work.

Of those that read the book - the rating was 3.2

June's book is Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith. Diana and I visited Pimlico, the London burrough where the story takes place. It was very fun to put ourselves into the story.

April Book Club 2012

Thank you, Diana, for being our guest Blogger for April. You did a beautiful job. While I thoroughly enjoyed my trip, I missed you all! I just wanted to say that I appreciated Darby's contribution of the Wabi-Sabi. That added another layer of depth to an already intensely satisfying story. I felt the whole story was summed up in one quote: that man's triumph over life was the conquering of language. And I felt the author was triumphant in that using philosophy as her vehicle. I was truly impressed with the character development. And one of my favorite parts is where Paloma refuses to talk to the therapist without an attorney present! And now, I will defer to Diana for the remainder if this months blog!

Our host for April 2012 book club was Barb. She greeted us in her lovely redesigned patio and photographed us as we arrived and gave us all gorgeous Peonies from her garden. The menu:

Salmon fillets - Barb
Garden Salad – Carla G
Mushroom Risotto - Diana
Sweet Potato Chili - Elisabeth
Focaccia bread with special balsamic and olive oil - Terry
Baked fudge – Darby
LA Baguette chocolate cake - Barb
Birthday Cookies – Denise
Wine – Pam
Coffee - Barb

After an exceptionally delicious meal, Darby started our discussion by reading an expert from an article on what is wabi-sabi. Excerpt …“Pared down to its barest essence, wabi-sabi is the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection and profundity in nature, of accepting the natural cycle of growth, decay, and death. It’s simple, slow and uncluttered and it reveres authenticity above all….” The article further elaborates and is worth reading. http://nobleharbor.com/tea/chado/WhatIsWabi-Sabi.htm

We loved Renee and her philosophical observances of the world. While she goes through her daily routines, she examines people, art, literature, movies and relationships in a wabi-sabi manner. She relishes the simple pleasures of daily tea and conversation with her dearest friend, tends to her cat Leo, contends with the demands of her employers and does so with unsuspecting humor. We were sad that she was tragically killed, but we realize that it is wabi-sabi. For we also loved Paloma, Renee’s 12 year counterpart, who believes the world is meaningless and plans to commit suicide. Once she and Renee become friends, Paloma begins to reexamine her views, and is on the brink of change, when Renee meets her untimely demise with a dry cleaning van. At first we are stunned and profoundly sad that Renee’s life comes to an abrupt end – after all she’s just opened a new chapter and she and Mr. Ozu are a perfect match. But, Renee’s death saves Paloma’s life as Paloma feels true loss and the heart ache for those left behind & realizes life is not meaningless.

Denise shared with us Googled Hedgehog quotes that elicited rereading many of our favorite quotes. http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1531887-l-el-gance-du-h-risson

“Do you know that it is in your company that I have had my finest thoughts?” One we’d all like to hear.
― Muriel Barbery, The Elegance of the Hedgehog

I’ll end now by saying that writing is a challenge for me, and especially so when sharing with my literary friends. My email summaries are ones I can easily express; about the good company, food, and plans.

And while I love to read, I find it a painful task to summarize a story; kind of like listening to music, love it but can’t perform. So I truly appreciate what a great job Sherrie does each month summarizing with humor, love, and dedication the recap of our meetings. The blog is our history is being recorded, and there are many instances when a question is asked and I can go to the blog and find out when something happened, when it’s going to happen, or what we thought. I say a big THANK YOU Sherrie and I personally hope you never miss book club again!!!haha

And finally, a good quote to end this book club blog.

“When something is bothering me, I seek refuge. No need to travel far; a trip to the realm of literary memory will suffice. For where can one find more noble distraction, more entertaining company, more delightful enchantment than in literature?”
― Muriel Barbery, The Elegance of the Hedgehog

For the record:

From our discussion, this book will be one of the most quoted, and without a doubt in our top books. It rated 4.9 of 5.

We decided, beginning in August, to change our meeting night back to the second Friday of the month except May and December and those dates determined closer to the meeting.

The book for May is "Remarkable Creatures" by Tracy Chevalier and the book for June is "Corduroy Mansion" by Alexander McCall Smith.

Here is the Chili recipe, I best write it now, lest I forget.
2 T olive oil
1 lrg onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 med sweet potatoes, diced
3 garlic gloves
3 T chili pdr
1 t salt
2 t cumin
1 t black pepper
1/4 t red pepper
2 t dried basil
1/2 t dried marjoram
1 can diced Ro-Tel tomatoes with chilies; 14oz can chicken or veg. broth (no MSG); Two 14 oz cans black beans, drained; Juice of 1 line (2 T); Heat olive oil, glaze onions and peppers. Add potatoes and garlic, simmer about 1 minute. Add tomatoes, broth, herbs and spices. Simmer uncovered about 30 min. Stir in beans, cook 10 more add lime toss and serve.

March 2012 Book Club

Our book this month was Ann Pachett's State of Wonder. The book doesn't have anything to do with the Irish but I threw the Shamrock in the photo since this is St. Patrick's Day weekend. Top O' the mornin' to ya!

Although in honor of the day Janie served a delicious Shepherd's pie. The meat dish was accompanied by a salad, scones, and fruit and topped off with cookies and brownies.

We had quite a small group last night thanks to this being spring break. Laura, Terry, Carla A., Pam, Barb and Darby were all out of town. We missed them but know they are all having fun.

This month's book starts us off in Minnesota winter and takes us to the stifling heat and humidity of the Amazon. Our protagonist, Dr. Marina Singh is a research scientist for a pharmaceutical company. This company had discovered a tribe in the Amazon where the women never experience menopause and are able, and do, conceive babies well in to their 70's. They are trying to find out why and develop a drug that would mimic the effect. One of the scientists is missing and presumed dead. Marina is in a relationship with her boss but he thinks nothing if sending Marina on this dangerous mission to find out what happened.

This is at least the 2nd book we've read about the Amazon. There was 100% agreement that neither of the books enticed us to want to go there.

Everyone liked the book. The book rated a 3.5 with Pam and Carla A. reporting an absentee vote of "liked it very much."

Carla G. liked the story and the writing but thought there were holes in the story and was not completely satisfied with the ending and we all agreed. Janie said the story construction was like a metaphor for the Amazon itself. It is a dangerous and demanding place. Survival requires you put your head down and deal with whatever is right in front of you. There's no time for sentimentality. Well said, Janie.

For me, the story kept reminding me of the old Kathryn Hepburn - Humphrey Bogart movie "The African Queen". That is not a bad thing at all. I just saw similarities in the story.

Books (and movies) like this make me very happy they I can travel vicariously to places I would never want to visit in real life.

While the story used a search and rescue mission as its vehicle the underlying story struggles with the ethical issues of industry vs. nature, progress vs. indigenous people, love vs. profit. The book kept my interest and curious to find out what happened.

Next month's book is The Elegance of the Hedgehog.

February 2012 Book Club

This month brings us around to celebrating our tradition and exchange of Valentine's. We were so sorry that Lou, Terry, Carla G., and Janie had other commitments. Among the cards and candies Darby surprised us with a balloon heart that popped up and expanded!

Arnora hosted this month and provided a delicious pulled pork. Diana brought a sweet potato and mushroom dish and Pam brought a Quinoa salad. There were veggies and dip, plate of breads and miniature cupcakes for dessert. We're still trying to polish off the wine and champagne from New Year's.

This months book was The Cat's Table by Michael Ondaatje. This is the most recent work from the author of The English Patient.

The book was generally well received by the group. The book rated 3.25.

The book is a fictionalized autobiography of the author's journey, at 11 years old, on a ship from Colombo (Ceylon, Shri Lanka) to London. Here he is to be reunited with his mother after an absence if 3-4 years. The story is about the people he meets and the experiences he has.

Though the protagonist is not orphaned, he is unaccompanied by adult supervision and therefore allowed the run of the ship with two friend's he makes. He has many of his own adventures but also observes much adult interaction of a secret and verboten nature.

The title takes it's name from the dining table furthest from the Captain's table and reserved for those of the lower classes.

Mr. Ondaatje has a keen use of description and metaphor and I enjoyed a few particular passages. Overall, I found the writing to be very passive and what should have been an exciting adventure left me feeling bored.

However, this is why we have book club. Laura offered a perspective from a former Asian student. He told her that in their culture, it is an insult to "attack" the reader with the story. Mr. Ondaatje identifies himself as Asian and this probably accounts for what seems like passivity in his writing.

Denise pointed out she had read that he is not big on character development. He also leaves a number of unanswered questions in the story. All of these techniques put more responsibility on the reader. In his book he points out that with art, the artists expression is not complete without the viewer. So, in his books, his writing is not complete until we, the reader, finish the story.

Next month's book is Ann Patchett's "State of Wonder". For March we have settled on "The Elegance of the Hedgehog.