Despite loving book clubs like I love my favorite books, I am not the best book club member. Our Books & Brews Club has been reading together since March, 2018, which adds up to about 50 books we’ve read together. Of those 50, I have probably read half the books. Luckily, the other members of our club don’t seem to mind when I haven’t read the book.
When I do read the book, especially if it’s outside my comfort zone, I am always glad I did. For instance, I wouldn’t have been likely to pick up “Five Presidents” by Clint Hill, but when I finally started reading it for February’s book club, I couldn’t put it down. I’m still working on finishing “The Left Hand of Darkness” by Ursula Le Guin, the book we discussed this month. I’ll finish it even though I now have some spoilers.
Next month’s book, “The Guncle” by Steven Rowley, may stay on my to-be-read pile for a while, but I’m looking forward to reading it too. It promises to be a heart-felt story of love and family. I’m told it is also funny, which is a plus.
Books & Brews meets the first Saturday of every month from 1 – 3 pm at Fat Toad Brewing Company. We have a nice core group of members, but are always happy to welcome newcomers. We eat and visit about everything *except* the book for the first hour, then in the second hour discuss the book for as long as we need to. We also share what else we’ve been reading. This piece of the meeting is great for getting recommendations!
Our group has developed into a very nice community of readers. Whether we agree or not, the discussion is always fun and friendly. I encourage you to come to a meeting, even if you haven’t read the book.
Next week, we’ll begin our Summer Reading Program registration! We’ve got activities, game boards, and prizes for every age, so be sure to stop by!