My Life in France by Julia Child - an easy book co-authored with Julia's nephew, about her time living in France. It chronicles the publication of her first few cookbooks and the start of her PBS television series. It's by no means a "deep" read but interesting and for anyone who likes to cook, it will make you want to go out and try some of her recipes.
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón We really enjoyed this book (well at least those of us who read it). Amazed that it's a translation from the original Spanish, the words weave a beautiful story of a young boy becoming a man, with many strands that come together like a spider's web, where no detail goes unused. Definitely one of our overall favorites.
The Stone Diaries by Carol Shields Okay I missed this meeting so have no idea what the ladies talked about. I did read the book though on a flight home from California and enjoyed it. A bit odd at first (told from the first person, even during the birth of said person, eventually I grew accustomed to the voice of the story teller as it followed her life from birth to death. Not one of my all time favorites but definitely worth a read.
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
I missed this gathering too - I know, my bad. But I really enjoyed this book as it tells the story of Lily and Snow Flower, two girls growing up in 19th century China. They're bound by a promise and it follows their story from the time of that promise (including the unbelievable foot binding experience), through death, with all the happiness and misfortunes that fell in between. It totally reminded me of The Good Earth and makes me want to go read that classic tale again.
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Everyone who read this book (and you who didn't know who you are) really enjoyed it. It's definitely one of my personal favorites of the year with the best ending to a story I've read in a long while, thinking about it still brings a smile to my face. Water for Elephants tells the story of Jacob and his experiences with a traveling circus during the Great Depression as told by him, while he sits somewhat neglected and bereft of dignity in a nursing home during the present day. I think it would be a great companion piece to Grapes of Wrath, which we read a few years ago.
2006 - 2007 Season
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult - Wow! This is a heavy, heavy book that will make you wonder about your own parenting style and what's best for you, your children and your family. A difficult subject matter but it makes for a lively discussion.
Light on Snow by Anita Shreve - this was a good, and easy read though the subject matter wasn't so much. I find Anita Shreve books to be quick reads and this was no exception. She does create some lovely images (e.g., Vermont in the winter) that stay with you long after you finish.
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards - okay I have to admit, I didn't finish this one but Becky (my teen) liked it though she had to say it pissed her off because of the actions of the main character.
Such a Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess - I have to admit, I didn't read this book. We picked it because of a local connection (her sister lives in the next town. But my teenage daughter enjoyed it and felt it appropriate more for 13 year-olds than "your age" as she put it.
The Other Bolelyn Girl by Philippa Gregory - this was great - made for some discussion but for those who like romance novels but don't like history - it's a great way to make the latter go down with a spoonful of sugar. I love historical fiction and this kept me riveted.
