From Bec re Library Amnesty 2013

Yay!!! Thank-you so much for the heads up. I feel disturbingly elated!
With love Beck.

Best Books 2013 — Goodreads Choice Awards

Maybe worth a look for Xmas downtime!

http://www.goodreads.com/choiceawards/best-books-2013?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=2013-12&utm_content=choiceawards_dec


Sent from my iPad
Ven-nice

Eyrie by Tim Winton

Just to let all of our remote Flowershop Bookclub members who aren't able to join us month to month - our next book is the new release by Tim WInton.  Bec's choice and the abc author interview is highly recommended. See Jennifer Byrne Presents: Tim Winton link http://www.abc.net.au/tv/firsttuesday/s3866109.htm 

We are going to have our xmas meeting on 24th November 3pm. We will be doing or usual book exchange - lucky dip.  I will send out details re our address soon.

A background summary straight from google e-books,
"Tom Keely's reputation is in ruins.  And that's the upside.

Divorced and unemployed, he's lost faith in everything precious to him. Holed up in a grim highrise, cultivating his newfound isolation, Keely looks down at a society from which he's retired hurt and angry. He's done fighting the good fight, and well past caring.

But even in his seedy flat, ducking the neighbours, he's not safe from entanglement. All it takes is an awkward encounter in the lobby. A woman from his past, a boy the likes of which he's never met before. Two strangers leading a life beyond his experience and into whose orbit he falls despite himself.

What follows is a heart-stopping, groundbreaking novel for our times – funny, confronting, exhilarating and haunting. Inhabited by unforgettable characters, Eyrie asks how, in an impossibly compromised world, we can ever hope to do the right thing." (ref: http://books.google.com.au/books/about/Eyrie.html) 

New time

Thanks everyone for indulging my rev head passion and agreeing to move the bookclub time.  See you all at 7 or soon thereafter.  Jen

Bookclub Sunday the 13th.

Well I hope you have all been enjoying the Snow Child.  I finished it a little over a week ago and it is still vivid.  I am very much looking forward to chatting about it.  Now time for a confession.....I am a closet rev head and we have organised bookclub for the day of Bathurst 1000.  Sooooooo  I don't want to change the day but am wondering if anyone would be keen for a bright and early 7 or even 7.30 start.  This would then see me head off a bit early to catch the start of the race.  Ven-nice suggested I could just miss the start.....doh!!!!!  That girl has no idea......

If you don't want to change the time that's fine and I will still come along but will have to bail a bit earlier.  Jen

Gate crasher

Hi Bookclubbers,
Thanks for letting me gate crash.  It was nice to catch up with you all and listen to your rigorous discussions again.  Next month's book sounds exciting. Love your new location.  I will certainly gate crash again.

September Book - The Snow Child

We are reading this interesting novel by Eowyn Ivey. It is a tale with a magical mystery, and we all wait in anticipation for what unfolds. Thank you Jen for choosing.

You have 6weeks to find time to lose yourself in the pages.  It is available through the library, or if you are into e-books it is quite affordable through amazon too.

Next Bookclub is Sunday October 13th - at our new regular haunt, The Crosstown Eatery 8am.  Happy Reading!

Lavender Fields

Thank you Ruthie for gifting us all with lavender; and thank you ladies for a great bookclub discussion. Who would have thought the simple question, "but did you like Grace?", would have provoked so much discussion.

Next book club

Hi all,

Happy to pick the next book.  A friend has recommended The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey.  Plenty available at the library.  Reviews look intriguing.  See you on the 24th. Jen

Next Bookclub Meet Sun 25th August - Crosstown Eatery

Hi Ladies

Just a friendly reminder we have our meeting coming up in just under 2weeks.  So hope you are reading furiously - or surprisingly, have finished!
Jen C can I task you to choose the next title please?
Meeting time 8am
Looking forward to a good chin wag - it has been a while between coffees!!!!
V

Alias Grace .... To The End We Go!!!

Hi Ladies, great to hear the vote to continue. Jen has a week at the beach so she should get through it too. Sara is well on her way too to get thru. Great to hear you loved it Ruthie, and I agree Blind Assassin is in a different grouping entirely.  MA has such a flexibility in transforming her genre and style of writing.
Enjoy!

Some Other Titles to Consider

All of these are Australian authors,

1. Ruth Park's classic novel The Harp in the South is one of Australia's greatest novels. 

2. Craig Silvey, Jasper Jones, Shortlisted for the 2010 Miles Franklin Literary Award.

3. Audrey Niffengener, Raven Girl, Jennifer Byrne has a mini review on the ABCBookclub site

Sent from my iPad

Ven-nice 

Is 'Alias Grace' a Fizzer?

Hi Ladies

Just a quick check in to ask how you are going with Alias Grace?  It is a rather large book and if people are struggling to get into it or find the time to read it.... Maybe we should pick something else to read before we meet again.  There is still 3weeks or so, So it is not too late to have a back up read!

On all accounts while it is a great story, a few people have shared they haven't been mesmerised to the story and therefore drawn back with that, "can't put down" motivation to keep it close at hand for any spare minute of reading opportunity.

Don't be shy - have your say now? I have sourced a couple of other options....

Yours in Reading - V

Brisbane Writers Festival - Who Wants To Go..,

Check out the Program Ladies
http://bwf.org.au/

Postscript, The Paris Wife

If I hadn't said enough already, however the interesting irony of it all is that i didn't comment at all on the fabulous Pauline.  It dawned on me that even though we took time to discuss our views on the dynamic of Pauline, Hadley and Ernest and of course the ethical and seemingly absent moral sensibility of Pauline's actions... How could i have forgotten to comment.

The real question is, was Pauline fiendly calculating to get her man, or was she acting within the norms of the social set she was participating in.  I think it is too easy a justification to allow the polyamorous values of the times give her a moral free pass.  The link i posted at the end of the last blog, is her grandson's attempt to re-caste Pauline's role in the love triangle a little differently.  However all being said and done, Pauline's pursuit of her own attraction and interest of Hemingway was pure betrayal of her friendship to Hadley.  Is there anything worse than the betrayal, it was hard for each of us in the end to have a sense of empathy for all that was Pauline.  Of some solace is, that which she chased and captured and for some length of time had the opportunity to adore, that which she thought she had tamed, was untameable, and her own undoing was not being able to realise, she would never be enough for a man like Ernest Hemingway.  Even from our small window of observation, he was a man who needed his freedom, in an effort to escape his own loneliness.

So no more for now - but i do think others may have something to say in the comments section of this postscript note.

V

July Book - Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood

I hope you all will enjoy this most beautifully constructed faction bringing to life the experience of Grace Marks story.  It is one of Margaret's great pieces, well at least that is my perspective, i really enjoyed reading this book in 2005 and am looking forward to re-reading it for next month's discussion.    As it is a long read, our next bookclub is scheduled for 25th August 8am at Crosstown Eating House.

A cut and paste review from Booktopia,

"In "Alias Grace, " bestselling author Margaret Atwood has written her most captivating, disturbing, and ultimately satisfying work since "The Handmaid's Tale." She takes us back in time and into the life of one of the most enigmatic and notorious women of the nineteenth century. 

Grace Marks has been convicted for her involvement in the vicious murders of her employer, Thomas Kinnear, and Nancy Montgomery, his housekeeper and mistress. Some believe Grace is innocent; others think her evil or insane. Now serving a life sentence, Grace claims to have no memory of the murders. 

Dr. Simon Jordan, an up-and-coming expert in the burgeoning field of mental illness, is engaged by a group of reformers and spiritualists who seek a pardon for Grace. He listens to her story while bringing her closer and closer to the day she cannot remember. What will he find in attempting to unlock her memories? Is Grace a female fiend? A bloodthirsty femme fatale? Or is she the victim of circumstances?" 

Ref: http://www.booktopia.com.au/alias-grace-margaret-atwood/prod9780385490443.html

Enjoy!

The Paris Wife - June Book Review

Does selfishness rather than selflessness need to be present for true brilliance to thrive?

This was one of the questions posed in our discussion as we shared our reflections on Paula McCain's, The Paris Wife.  While this story was written to bring the voice of Hadley Rischardson to life - Ernest Hemingway's first wife and seemingly enduring true love - It was hard to not be engaged in the orbit of Hemingway as the story of their life together unfolded.  With each layer of the story unfolding, Ernest bringing upon each of us in his own way, a visceral response to their story.  Regardless of our opinions of his choices, which at this point i might say Jen, Bec, Ruthie and I all expressed a similar view of complete antipathy toward the man in terms of the principles he chose to guide his moral compass as it related to his relationship Hadley.  Ernest's self-serving justifications  were all flawed with defensive strategies of deflection in the spirit of self-preservation of his own interests it seemed.  The pivotal point of no turning back, which Hemingway seemed unable to reconcile and also was the start of what seemed to be the shifting sands was the loss of a cache of Ernest's works, which would have been under any circumstance a significant loss to any person to have lost all that you had worked on, his writing was him and with the loss, I think he took it personally to a point of convincing himself that maybe Hadley really didn't understand him or value his work enough at all.  Maybe this wasn't what McLain intended to imply and it is just one, my interpretation.  At any rate, a crack was formed that no amount of super-glue was going to fix.  

So, back to the opening statement, i am not certain we really thrashed this very philosophical question around sufficiently, and i do hope we have time in future conversations to hash this one through.  Maybe there is no simple answer.  While Bec with deep thought replied, "yes i think it seems so".and then went on to say more...."their is a real difference with being successful and brilliant, and it seems when one thinks about those who are truly brilliant, those who produce something original and unique....they all have a backstory of being driven and self-focussed, at the cost of some significant impact on relationships". 

When I think about this question, i think there needs to be dark and light to allow for true brilliance to thrive. And so when i think of selfishness and selflessness they are the dark and light of the same substance and shadow - two aspects of the same, yet different. In there substance the actions invoke different responses from those around us and the actions of selfishness and selflessness, usually have a purpose of expectant outcome which involves both receiving, needing and giving of something whether that be of thyself or of a subjective other.   So when it comes full circle, back to the Question and the Story, I think about Hadley and Ernest, "were the same guy" as Paula suggests to us;  Is it not both selfishness and selflessness that sustained them  and helped them thrive and in spite of everything continue to hold each connected across time.  I am left to think without the selflessness of Hadley, and where Ernest is concerned also his other 4 wives, I wonder truly how would his brilliance of been able to flourish.  There is no doubt, self-indulgence, selfishness of focus is an aspect of Ernest's character which the author shone a spotlight on as she gave rise to Hadley's voice.  And yet is seems essential and clear that the commitment and selfless support of Hadley to Ernest's success is something which resonated strongly through the story and gave him a weight to help him stay connected to the world around him, so his brilliance could thrive.  So again, coming back to the question - maybe it is not, either or, perhaps it is, both and.  Did not Gertrude Stein have Alice, Scott Fitzgerald have Zelda, Salvador Dali had Gala, Picasso had Marie-Therese.  To achieve greatness there needs to be an orbit of both existing.  

So now back to the book - the majority of us, were taken with the openness of the character Hadley's and Ernest's voice.  The author did a great job of inviting us into the world of Hadley.  Ruthie was with you Rachelle, and at first felt a little indignant about the author supposing to take on the voice of Hadley and comment upon the facts of her (their) life.  However due to and i think it is far to say, the skill of McLain, Ruth's sense of indignation fell away, as she became immersed in the place, time and people of the story.  Stephanie Deutsch of the Washington Times (2011) in her review writes, "it is a tribute to the writer's ability that the reader's sympathies shift back and forth between the two parties".  

McLain's story composition and combination of fact with literary license was so compelling and sincere we were left wondering what part was fiction vs fact. Yet we all are realistic to appreciate the author could not of know the detail of threads of conversation or reflections Hadley and Ernest had all the while throughout the period of their time in Paris.  And in reviews by the author herself she says as much.  However our conversation at bookclub today still led us to ask the question of each other and so we find ourselves agreeing,  unless these of course are captured in letters and journals - the intimacy of conversations and reflections upon conversations, were probably faction.  
Maybe it is time to read, A Moveable Feast (E. Hemingway), Hadley a Life of Hardly Richardson Hemingway (G. Diliberto), Te Letters of Ernest Hemingway (E. Hemingway).  Not sure how keen everyone is, but here are some starting references if you feel moved.

Our conversation and review then moved to an appreciation of Hadley as a strong and brave woman, especially given a view that although Hadley participated in the social set of the artistic upper middle and bourgeois class, while the allure of being with Hemingway offered her an opportunity to reinvent herself and live differently to that which was bestowed upon her by her family of origin, she still retained a moral and ethical sensibility closer akin to her family of origin.  She wanted to explore life to its fullest, yet was more contained and looking for something steady and stable to offer herself a sense of solidness in relationship.  While in the beginning she received this and offered this to Hemingway, it wasn't to be for the long term.  The environment of the time, the peers they related to were caught up in chasing the edge of experience, playing to excess with a view to stretching conventional ideas to expand new ways of thinking and living.  Or from a cynical view point, one could suggest, due to privilege  being able to challenge conventional ways of living, to meet self-gratifying indulgences.  There is no doubt, the couple mixed with some of the most influential thinkers and artists of the early to mid 1900's.   I think we all at some point were disappointed that Hadley's intellectual contribution in those circles seemed relegated to being wife.  McLain, left an impression of a much stronger thinker, courageous of heart and spirited woman, yet balanced with a quiet demeanour and delicate self-confidence.

What a time to live Paris in the 1920s-'30s.... It was the only way it could end, the story being factual and all, however it was refreshing and we relished that Hadley, found strength in the need to restore her ownself and dignity and walked away.  She could become more of herself because of that decision, than if she had stayed with the belief she couldn't be without him.

Great Book!! Great Writing!! Worth Recommending to Others!!

Ps Here is an interesting link about a re-write of 'Moveable Feast'.  And 1 last comment, a narrative and an ending will always be influenced by the perspective and bias of whose voice is describing it, i am sure you will agree....
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/28/books/28hemingway.html

Rachelle's : Book club Comments

No Worries Rachelle you are welcome anytime. Next Bookclub 25th August - Book, Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood. 

Begin forwarded message:

Hi Venice, I'm bummed that book club is this Sunday! I was hoping to make this month's meeting seeing as I've read the book and all, but we're actually away down the coast for the night.  I would love to hear what everyone has to say about the book, Hadley and Ernest...heady times hey.  I had mixed reactions about the novel, at first I really enjoyed it, but then it seemed to just go on without actually much happening, but this just may have been a result of how long it was taking me to read it. I did persevere, and towards the end started enjoying it again.  ( I couldn't believe some of what Hadley tolerated!)

Anyway I'm disappointed not to be able to join you all, but will try next month's book and see how I go.  All is well at this end. Give my love to all.
Rachelle x

Bookclub Reminder this Sunday

Bookclub - Sun 8 am at crosstown eatery woolloongabba! 
Hope you have enjoyed the Paris Wife! 

A little piece of Gratitude - Take in the Moment

Hi Ladies

Some of you may have already received this from Cheryl.  If not, it is something she sent to on to me and I am so glad i took the time to stop and view.

If you have 10mins or so, i do encourage you to clink on and watch…

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=gXDMoiEkyuQ&vq=medium

Thanks Cheryl

The blog gets active

V, thanks for doing such a great job of pulling all of our wild and random thoughts together on our books and sharing them with the group.  Ruth, so pleased to hear about the position but not sure about the wine and reading.  At the moment a glass of wine sends me straight to sleep.  I have ordered the Paris Wife from the library and it is waiting for collection.  But will have to try and finish Angel's Game first.  My reading will take me from Barcelona to Paris all without the jet lag or the cost!  Have a great long weekend everyone.  Jen

A Few Reflections on May's Book

Thank you for recommending this book Bec...
While it didn't immediately capture all of our reading senses... As a story of family love, Will shares a beautiful honouring narrative about the enduring love he holds for his mother.

We all were left with an appreciation of a woman who lived her life with an intensity of conviction. As Bec put it, "What an amazing woman". And in my summary, for her time, "A fearless feminist - interested in making a difference - giving her children opportunities to help shape their identity".

As a family story though - we were invited into a discussion about our cultural differences between American and Australian middle class. What struck a cord was the apparent different ways of intimacy and level of involvement in each other's lives. The concept of privacy and how one measures a sense of engagement and closeness was interesting.

As i try to write the completeness of our reflections, FlowerShop book lovers I have to admit I can't bring myself to share all our thoughts and impressions about the personal layers of Will's story; It just doesn't seem quite right to comment on the Schwalbe family story given the story being a time immemorial remembrance of a life well lived . Our additional reflections will need to remain linked with the flavour of coffee beans and our spirited conversation.

The Paris Wife - Our June Book

Hadley Richardson-Hemingway met Ernest Hemingway in 1920.  It was a love affair of heart, he knew very early on she had stolen his heart, writing in his journal, "i knew she was the girl i was going to marry".  Let's read the book and see what happens next….

To read more detail about their life together try this link, http://www.thehemingwayproject.com/category/hadley

Next Bookclub Book

Hi All

Thanks for a great yarn on Sunday. I will post a summary yet before I do, I thought I would confirm the title of our next book. Dagmar and Cheryl I really think you will both like this one. Rachelle we have taken your lead and decided to read, The Paris Wife by Paula McLain.  Goodreads give it 4stars so it will be interesting to see what we all think.

A quick blurb, 

A deeply evocative story of ambition and betrayal, The Paris Wife captures a remarkable period of time and a love affair between two unforgettable people: Ernest Hemingway and his wife Hadley. (Ref Goodreads blog)

Date for next meeting 7th July 8am

Location - we think we have found our new haunt... The Crosstown Eating House.

Also just for noting, the July Book is, Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood. It is a big novel so if you finish The Paris Wife get a head start on this fabulous Faction Novel.
A short Blurb,

In Alias Grace, bestselling author Margaret Atwood has written her most captivating, disturbing, and ultimately satisfying work since The Handmaid's Tale. She takes us back in time and into the life of one of the most enigmatic and notorious women of the nineteenth century. (Ref Goodreads blog)

Aug bookclub 25th - put it in your diary now!!! 

Happy Reading...

Posted on Behalf of Bloggers: Jen and Rachelle

Hi Rachelle,

How lovely to hear from you.  As always I am flabbergasted with your ability to combine work, family and friends with any reading at all.

The Paris Wife -  perhaps I will suggest this as the next book for book club and you will already be one step ahead of us!!!

The End of your life book club was a really enjoyable read.  Even though it was sad it was a wonderful observation on life, family and enduring love.  At the same time it overwhelmed me that there are people out there, and real people at that, who are so very bright and such prolific readers.  I cannot imagine getting through the number of books they did.  Mind you one of the central characters suffers from insomnia so that probably helps.  Given I am a good 8-9 hour sleeper a night I don't think I am going to find any extra time soon.

All of the very best and it will be lovely when you are able to join us for a coffee and a chat.

Jen

On 29/05/2013, at 9:28 PM, Rachelle Garton wrote:

Hi Jen,

haven't been keeping up with book club (obviously) but have been intrigued by comments about this book...thinking I may have to read it.  I am currently running a book club with some of my students, so between that and work and kids my personal reading has been neglected.  In saying that, I have recently begun The Paris Wife - a story about Ernest Hemingway and his wife Hadley.  I kind of stumbled across it, started it...and am really enjoying it.

I hope you're all well.

Rachelle x

---

Hi all,  I have completely lost track of when we are catching up again.  I have read (and loved) The End of Your Life Book Club.  Looking forward to good company, good coffee and a good chat.  Just tell me where and when.  Jen 

Bookclub Is Sunday 2nd June at The Crosstown Eating House, Woolloongabba

Hi Ya All

Can you believe it - totally lost track of time..... Bookclub is Sunday at 8am.
Let's meet at The Crosstown Meeting House, 23 Logan Road, Woolloongabba 4102.
Remember we discussed Charles Dickens there, food is interestingly scrummy and the coffee is good. Can't book a table so whoever arrives first grab a good table pls for 5 (6) if we can entice Cheryl to drop by or (7) if Rachelle drops in too!!!

Last time we were here Dagmar made a surprise visit so anything is possible....

Looking forward to seeing you all there!!!!

Ven-nice

Next book club?

Hi all,  I have completely lost track of when we are catching up again.  I have read (and loved) The End of Your Life Book Club.  Looking forward to good company, good coffee and a good chat.  Just tell me where and when.  Jen

Raven Girl - Audrey Niffenegger

Hi Ladies

I just read an interview with the author, Audrey of her newest book through my Good Reads blog feed.  It is an interesting read.

I have copied the summary from their website, 

Reference : http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15842705-raven-girl 

Once there was a Postman who fell in love with a Raven.  So begins the tale of a postman who encounters a fledgling raven while on the edge of his route and decides to bring her home. The unlikely couple falls in love and conceives a child—an extraordinary raven girl trapped in a human body. The raven girl feels imprisoned by her arms and legs and covets wings and the ability to fly. Betwixt and between, she reluctantly grows into a young woman, until one day she meets an unorthodox doctor who is willing to change her.  One of the world's most beloved storytellers has crafted a dark fairy tale full of wonderment and longing. Complete with Audrey Niffenegger's bewitching etchings and paintings, Raven Girl explores the bounds of transformation and possibility.

I have always enjoyed reading Audrey Niffenegger's work - and this new novel certainly has a little fairytale twist in it…. If you want to read the interview, then go to http://www.goodreads.com/interviews/show/856.Audrey_Niffenegger?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=2013-05&utm_content=niffenegger 

Next Bookclub 2nd June 2013

Ok Bookclub cancelled, sorry Bec. It is awesome tho' Bec has finished the book, puts all of us to shame... Great job Bec!!!! Next Meeting 2nd June! Remember to put it in your diary🌺

Bookclub 5th May - is it a goer????

Bookclub tomorrow - hi ladies , not sure if you remember but we scheduled bookclub for tomorrow. How r people going with the book? Do we proceed or reschedule? I know Ruthie is an apology but she does have the book... Rachelle this is just FYI I know you are not a regular! So Jen, Bec and Sara.... How about it? I woul be happy to hold over until first weekend of June, or proceed tomorrow depending on others availability...

Thanks. Have ordered from library and am only 4th in line. Jen

April's Book - The End Of Your Life Bookclub

Hi All, I will write more about the natter from our small gathering today, yet until then.... It was decided we would go with this book. It seems to have captured the interest of us all.

Next date for meeting - Sunday 5th May @ 8am . Location is to be at a new coffee house in Albion - name and address TBA.

Enjoy, I have started already!!!!!


Ven-nice

Looking fwd to Sunday

Thanks for the reminder Ven-nice.  Looking fwd to seeing everyone.  Even though Jane won't be coming along to book club I promise to keep talking books to her :-). Jen

Some Book Options For Consideration....

1. The Idea of Perfection by Kate Grenville
2. The Song of Achilles by Madeleine Miller
3. The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal
4. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
5. The End of Your Life Bookclub by Will Schwalbe

Check them out on google ... Bring your vote

Sent from my iPad
Ven-nice

Reminder Bookclub Meet 14-4-13

Hi Ladies
A reminder we are meeting this weekend on Sunday. Remember new location at the Deli Boundary Street Spring Hill. I hope you all have enjoyed the read!
A sweet good-bye to Jane, who has decided to step out of bookclub. it was lovely to meet you Jane and you are welcome to join us again at anytime - even for a visit!
I will bring a couple of other options to assist with choosing our next read option.
See you all on Sunday!
V

Book suggestion

Dear Ven-nice, Happy Easter!! Hope you are having a lovely time.  The end of your life.. is a book on my list. I heard an interview with the author on the radio last year, liked him and definitely thought it would be a good read.  Their choices are interesting too.

Hi to Jen.

Love bec

A Book We Might Like To Read...

Detail from the BigBookClub website

The End Of Your Life Book Club

By Will Schwalbe

"This a very life affirming book, I found it moving on so many levels. The way the mother lived and died through her books was remarkable. I was inspired and motivated to read many of the books mentioned and also had fond recollections of those I have read myself, knowing how much they have shaped my life as well. The concept of a mother and son deepening their relationship during the cancer diagnosis, treatment and eventually death with the common bond of reading the same book was a simple way of bringing more love and joy into their lives during this very special time. I would recommend this book to everyone". Stephanie, Pharmacist.

 

"The title describes this book very accurately. A son forms a book club with his dying mother and they discuss what they have read while she undergoes treatment. The close relationship between them and his celebration of her life is very moving. The books they read or re-read are listed in an appendix and include classics, children's books, autobiographies, poetry and plays as well as novels. The importance of books in our lives, their necessity, is clearly illustrated. The chapter headings are book titles and the discussions are sometimes surprising, always entertaining. A son's tribute to an extraordinary woman". Marie, Retired.

 

"A journey between mother and son as they face every family's worst fear 'the loss of a family member'. Will Schwalbe has given us a beautiful account of his time with his mother as she battles through the awfulness of her illness. They share a common love which brings them even closer, the love of the written word, how a story can transport, enlighten, sadden and delight. Through their book musings we are allowed to revisit old favourites and share some new delights too. High recommended to all book lovers". Sue, General Manager, TBBC.

April Read - The Importance of Being Earnest

We have all agreed, reading Tolstoy might be a bit of a stretch.  So thank you to Bec, we have had a re-think and agreed to read as our next book, Oscar Wilde's - The Importance of Being Earnest.

The Classic Literature blog page from classiclit.about.com writes,
 " this seemingly frivolous play has a much darker side. Its critique of Victorian society--though delivered in a velvet glove--is every inch a clunking-iron fist. The play is a satire both of the hypocrisies of the society in which Wilde lived, and the damaging effect that these hypocrisies can have on the souls of those live under their rule."

While reading Plays, is not our normal appetite, Oscar Wilde is definitely an author we have all enjoyed in the past.  This piece of work is noted as one of Oscar Wilde's finest.  Looking forward to discussing with you all.

When are we meeting next:  14th April.
Where are we meeting next:  The Spring Hill Deli, Boundary Street, Spring Hill - 8 am.
Who is choosing next:  We didn't discuss - how about ?????? I'll be in touch

Oh and a date for going to the movies - watch your email accounts!

Enjoy Reading!
V

Birdsong - A FlowerShop Club Review of Sorts...

The story of Birdsong, created mixed responses in our readers.  Firstly, thank you to Ruth for choosing a novel which provided a different insight into the suffering and trauma of war on the human spirit and psyche. 

The story which traverses 3 generations, captures within its characters a currency of emotional detachment.  A yearning for closeness and intimacy, yet it seems that the there is an emotional void which is not quite able to be navigated, to allow for true contentment.  The author holds the reader in this emotional neverland only to bring you startling back to a brutal raw awareness of what it means to be vulnerable through his graphic descriptions of the soldiers experience in the trenches. 
My personal reflection is, I appreciated the story, yet the characters' i could not quite connect with.  I could never quite surrender to the voice of the characters and submerge myself in their world.  That was a disappointment for me asafter reading the foreward, where i was mesmorised by the author's story of how he came to write the story, i think it left me wanting.
Ruth noted how she appreciated the new dimension of history provided in relaton to the "tunnelling" as this hadn't been explored as much in other historical fiction pieces she had read on WWI. 
We found ourselves in agreement about not having a strong image of Stephen in our own mind, in spite of the detail provided about his character throughout the book.
We noted how the graphic detail of the warfare was shocking in its detail and at times more than Jen (*wincing as she read) would have preferred to be exposed to, and yet it provided a salient and humbling reminder of the severity of warfare on communities, civilisation and the individual.  The story itself, provided a lot to discuss in terms of the power and impact of war.
The intergenerational story and re-emerging themes related to love and loyalty and the need to be connected, stimulated a great deal of discussion even to discussion about present generations, and what it means to know our history, how it influences and shapes us in the present and future.

A good first read - No regrets!  Although I don't think we are all as positive in our regard for this book as those who have been rating it as "a spectacular...exceptional... best..read".

April Suggestions - From Bec

Hi V, my suggestions for Sunday are

"The importance of being Earnest" - Oscar wild,

"Bleak House" - Charles dickens
"beloved" by toni morrison

Have a nice weekend and hope to talk soon. Enjoy Bookclub chat!

Bookclub 3rd March 8am - Vic Park

Hi All You Groovy Book Lovers
A reminder it is Bookclub this Sunday! Also we might rethink our April Book I have put Bec onto it! Also I am going to invite a potential newby. See you all there!

Sent from my iPad
Ven-nice

Birdsong ... A Start

Can I say I have only read the foreword and I am already having my appetite wet.....I am just hoping Sebastian Faulks can maintain this quality of expression, narrative throughout ! How is everyone else doing?

Sent from my iPad
Ven-nice

Taking a little break...

Hi all,
Sorry I was unable to attend our last Bookclub meeting however, it appears it was a very productive one. It is with regret that I resign from our Bookclub, at least for a little while.  I will deeply miss seeing you all on a regular basis but at the moment, I can not promise to be  faithful to the Bookclub as an active participant.  Over the past months I've found it near impossible to read a novel and the pressure I place on myself to read to meet deadlines has somewhat taken the joy away from what has always been my greatest love. For now, it is time for me to take a break...even if it is just for a short while.  I know you girls will continue to have rigorous debate and lots of fun. I wish you many hours of reading fun, joy and discussion...and coffee!  Yours in books, Cheryl

Brisbane Writers Festival – Margaret Atwood Evening Talk 25th February 2013

Hi All

Thanks to a heads up from Jane, please take some time to consider going to hear Margaret Atwood B speak at Griffith Uni, Southbank on the 25-02-13.  The cost is $35 or less if you are a member of the BWF. For more details check out. http://www.bwf.org.au/

Sent from my iPad

Ven-nice 

Our Year Ahead....How Exciting to have a Plan!!!

We have set ourselves an interesting strategy this year, to help in selection and extend our repetoire by setting particular categories/genres to guide book selection for each month of year.  In the past this has helped us maintain variety and diversity in our reading. It has also helped us all extend our engagement with different styles of writing, introduced us to different conversations about humanity, ways of seeing the world and challenged our thoughts, values, beliefs and cultural understanding the complexity of all that it means to be human.  All in all making our discussions vibrant, rich and a curious exploration of ideas and reflections.

If you have a particular category/genre you are keen to pick for put up your hand early.  We will need a person to have a pick for our April meeting - the date for which is already set so pop it into your diaries : 14th April 8am Venue TBC.  Note the March Book for April Meeting is already pre-selected too.

So here are the categories/genres in no particular order :

Militay War  - "Birdsong" for February (which is actually a story of love and tragedy set on a background of war...*nothing is pure)
Romance/Love - Anna Karenina for March (this is a big read, so start early if you get a chance) (And yes this is also a classic, yet to not disappoint Bec, we agreed not to categorise it as a Classic for this read!)
Classic
Historical Fiction
Fantasy/Sci Fi
Iconic Cult Fiction
Thriller
Auto/Biography
Australian Author
Prize Winner
Seen the Movie But not Read the Book
Young Adult Fiction

February Book Title - Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks

Birdsong is a story which spans three generations, starting it's story at the time of the World War I.  It is a romantic story between young englishman Stephen Wraysford and french belle, Isabelle Azaire.  It is a story about love, loss and determinition in spite of many challenges.  It is critiqued as being, "as sensuous as The English Patient" and as "tragic as A Farewell to Arms". 

438pages long - not too big for those with demanding days. Oh that would be all of us!  Easily available through the BCC Library.  e-Kindle editions available through Amazon - very good price too.

For a review, with author comments, check out the Guardian link http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/jul/13/book-club-birdsong-sebastian-faulks

Next Gathering will be - 3rd March at Vic Park Golf Course - Cafe 8am.

pps Book for March-April is going to be Tolstoy, Anna Karenina.  We are going to kick off with an iconic classic and have made enough time for people to get reading!

Book Club this Sunday... A Lost and Now Found Post from Nov 12

Hi all,
I was hoping to attend the final book club this Sunday but as luck would have it I don't think I'll be able to.  We're at Kim's mum's place all weekend trying to help her get her place (2 1/2 acres) cleaned up for Christmas as all her family will be there for the first time in many, many years.  As well as this I have my annual school friend's Christmas dinner on Saturday night as well as my work Christmas party.  Isn't it typical of this time of year.  I don't think I'll be able to get away for Sunday morning as well, which is really disappointing as I was hoping to make it to our last meeting for the year, and am actually reading the book and wanting to discuss.  I'm not far into it but already my opinion on events has been slightly swayed.
I have been trying to keep up with some of the books and will post some thoughts about them in the next couple of days (am just trying to wrestle this iPad away from a nine month old...can you believe he is 9 months?). But in short I loved The Beloved and not quite finished but am really enjoying All That I Am and and more interested in The TallMan than I thought I would be...in between reading baby cookbooks, books on creating happy toddlers and also managing fears in children.

I wish all of you a wonderful Christmas and a firm promise that I will be back on deck next year.  I'll be back at work two days a week so I'll be more organised and achieve so much more...at least I'm hoping.
Enjoy Sunday. Love to all
Rachelle

First Reading 2013 - February Bookclub

Welcome Fellow Book-Lovers to a year of fantastic literary adventure.....
It was lovely to catch up again after a long sojourn.  Bec, Jen, Ruth & Gyp, Jane and V - we found ourselves enjoying the garden cafe of the UQ Wordsmith Cafe.  We missed Cheryl, Rachelle, Dagmar and Robyn - yet maybe we can hear about what you have been reading on the blog.  Has it been Dickens??? 

There were rare confessions to be had over coffee, by all - and sadly they are not confidential confessions.  None of the FlowerShop Literary Society read any Dickens over the xmas break !!!! How about those not present, did you take up the xmas holiday challenge... AND Succeed????

Onto more interesting matters... Here are a few of the Good Reads, people found time to enjoy instead,  and many more i am not mentioning

• The Shallows by Tim Winton;  Jen says, "an interesting story another Aus classic. Winton does such a lovely job writing Australian stories"
• The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters; Ruth says, "I love a story which is set in historic large old georgian homes.  A good mystery,
• On the Road by Jack Kerouac; Jen says, "for an iconic book, the character's lack of self awareness made it a read which can be quite character self-indulgent at times. An interesting writing style".
• The Elegance of a Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery; Bec says, "I enjoyed the book, an interesting story.  The concierge is a character which didn't appeal, yet overall - the story was enjoyable"
• IQ84 by Haruki Murakami; Ven says, "an interesting read. A story of parallel universes and a love story that spans time yet is embedded in all that is complex in the emotionality of being human.  It is a big book so not for the faint hearted. Yet Haruki always writes in such a tantalising way, he lulls you into a state of dreaming".

Thank you for the coffee, the healthy discussion about all things literary and many other things not!  The next post is about what is our next read!

Next catch up

Evening ladies,

I hope the new year finds you well relaxed, well read and most importantly high and dry.  I have in my calendar that we have book club scheduled for this weekend.  Are we still on?  Had we decided a location?
If we are meeting and it is still ok I would like to bring along my friend Jane as a new book club 'prospect'.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Jen

A New Novel by B. Kingslover