THE BOOK CLUB

This group evolved out of the fact that the two highly sought-after literature groups were full. It was suggested that another was formed.

Reading is a very popular pursuit of the Third Age and many people enjoy the opportunity to share their thoughts about books they have read and to experience texts, which they may not have even thought of choosing for themselves. However, it is not possible to have a satisfying discussion in which everyone has a chance to participate if groups are too large. .

We meet only once a month to give members enough time to finish and think about the chosen book and indulge their love of personal reading. The meetings last for 2 hours and discussion of the chosen book may range over current affairs connected with the subject matter as well as appreciation / criticism of the text in hand. Books are chosen and voted for by the whole club.

Once a year in April we have a literary lunch attended by all members at which books are recommended according to agreed categories such as general fiction, non-fiction, classics, travel etc. and voted on by the whole group. A list is compiled of which month each chosen book will be discussed over the following year. Each member is responsible for acquiring his or her copy of the book but we try to support each other in suggesting cost-cutting ways of doing this. Amongst titles already discussed are: The Kite Runner, A Small Island, Mansfield Park, and A History of Tractors in Ukrainian, Human Traces and The Riddle of the Sands. Our chosen title in January is The English by Jeremy Paxman followed by Saturday by Ian McEwan in February.

The club started 18 months ago with 8 members and now has 22 members. A year ago, when our numbers soared we decided to divide into 2 reading circles, each reading the same texts and meeting at the same time at different venues, Uplands and Ebley. This has worked well, and rather than turn anyone away, we are prepared to create 3 circles if numbers rise accordingly. As a united club, we have established a second lunch each year in October where all members can meet to share concerns and decide upon the way forward.

If you wish to know more about the Book Club please contact:

Catherine Lillington on 01453757105.

January 2008

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