January 2008 marks the 3rd Anniversary of the "Wine, Women, and Story" book club, though the club wasn't officially named until May 2007.
We began quite informally. Linda, inspired by a local book enthusiast, called on Sue G. and Kathleen to see if they would be interested in forming a book club. Part of their commitment involved recruiting additional members which Sue G. expertly did (Kathleen we're still waiting!!). I need to call on the memories of the early group to verify who was in attendance at our first gathering. I recall along with Sue G., Kathleen and myself, Nancy, Beth D. and Sharon. We were later joined by Helen, followed by Lori and Beth L. (they started together), then Marta, and most recently Sue A. Have I forgotten anyone? Please ladies, help me set the record straight!
We had few rules, and our traditions evolved over time. Basically our traditions include drinking wine, enjoying dessert, selecting readings randomly (though at times we have tried to be more organized), and rotating meetings among members' homes as well as an occasional restaurant gathering. Sometimes our conversations are directed by book discussion guides, other times they are much more informal.
Our first book was "Shadow of Ashland" by Terence M. Green. This was one of my favorite selections and I had some interesting email chats with the author in preparation for that first discussion. My least favorite? There are 3 that come to mind. Most recently, "Running with Scissors" by Augusten Burroughs, the creepy book my nephew recommended whose title I have long sense forgotten, and the southern belle "light read" whose title I also cannot recall (I think this is called motivated forgetting ladies!).
The analysis of our readings was quite interesting in the early stages. When I initially invited Sue G. and Kathleen in, I didn't make the connection that they are both human service county employees. The members they (aka Sue G.) brought in were co-workers. My awareness of this connection arrived the evening we discussed Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath". I found myself assuming an observer's role as a discussion of the inadequate social services of the time ensued. Let's just say that if the Joad's had only had "Wine, Women, and Story" advocating for them the book would have seen a much happier ending!
Our reading group culture has changed a bit with the addition of Lori and Beth L. They, like myself, are educators. We would like to teach the Joad's to fish while Sue G. and her followers could help them pay the bills while they're learning......
We have been through much together as a group: weddings, (our children's not ours!) new babies (our children's not ours!), sickness and healing, friendship and secrets.
I am looking forward to beginning the New Year with my wonderful book club friends and hope that we can use this blog as a forum to chat about our reading selections, share news, and continue to develop our friendships. Please feel free to contribute what you wish!
Happy New Year Ladies!
Linda
