Hi Neighbor!
I never considered joining a book club. What would be the point I thought? Isn’t reading a solitary activity? Plus, I’m not a fan of reading with a deadline and especially don’t want to have someone else decide what I read. Grumpy, huh?
Just for the heck of it, because the book sounded interesting, I moved my grumpy aside last month and joined a virtual club. As I started reading, my analytical brain along with my critical voice were silenced. The book provided an escape during a month I needed entertainment. And most surprisingly, so too did the online book club.
I met articulate people with interesting perspectives. They were well read, asked great questions of the group that prompted me to think more deeply about my reactions. I don’t want it to sound like everyone was a member of Mensa. Maybe they do belong. But the conversation was informal, informative, and fun.
It reminded me of a group of college friends I wish I’d stay in touch with. We’d talk late into the evening, trying to make sense of the world, current events, literature, ourselves. I loved it and apparently still do. Sharing ideas, questioning the motivations of characters and the writer. Formulating and substantiating our opinions, albeit informally. Laughing together at a few of the more ridiculous developments in what proved to be an interesting, promising but ultimately implausible plot line.
The hour flew by. Not only did I wish the discussion could have continued longer but I’m really looking forward to the next club meeting online. I’m glad I gave something new a try. Even if the book wasn’t great literature, the discussion was absolutely worth the time.
Turning the page,
Jane
From all of us at MLN: Have a HAPPY THANKSGIVING!