Christmas 2009 Readers Group Report
Last Updated (Monday, 04 January 2010 08:28) Written by Gina Douthwaite
December 17th saw a flock of be-feathered Readers (yes, even Les!) gathering in the Altis. to celebrate our 2nd Christmas together. Sadly, we were not as ‘together' as usual, the excellent turn-out plus the need for elbow room necessitating a split onto two tables.
In the last 6 months, we've explored as many books, starting with a vivid look at life in the ‘South Riding', courtesy of Winifred Holtby. Several members gained further insight into the author's work by visiting her home and gardens in Rudston.
This was followed by Sidney Sheldon's autobiography which sank to the depths of our appreciation, unlike his novels which are, according to his fans, utterly captivating. We must find out.
From the States we moved to the Yemen for a lesson in Salmon Fishing - or perhaps not! Hidden depths, indeed, behind such a strange title.
‘The Guernsey Potato Peel Pie & Literary Society' was not the crusty read we might have expected. In fact, we found quite an appetite for this first and last book by Mary Ann Shaffer, who died shortly before its publication.
‘Pleading Guilty' was another first, this time for Paul Genney, a locally based barrister and father of Adelaide Ellerington! We were thrilled when he agreed to discuss his book with us, especially as the event proved more memorable than we could ever have predicted. We learnt much...even about hiatus hernia though I'm not sure how we got onto that! Thanks, Paul (and others) for a most entertaining evening.
Sadly, we decided against inviting our next author, Barack Obama, whom, we felt, might be little too busy to grace us with his presence in the Altis. Through reading ‘Dreams From My Father', however, we were able to delve into the man's mind, his principles, his attitudes, his quest to find himself ......a complex and difficult read, but worth the perseverance.
‘The Road Home' by Rose Tremain is the present challenge, to be discussed at our January meeting. I look forward to a few quiet hours with this sensitive novel.
My thanks to the members, all of whom read whatever is thrown at them. At the monthly meetings, we have those who listen, those who comment and those who do a bit of both, but without each individual we would not function as we do. We also have one member who has been emailing her literary criticism from Siberia, since the summer. Thanks Alison, your messages have certainly set the tone at crucial times along the way. And a big welcome back!
As ever, we have a waiting list (waiting for you to add your name) and a borrowing option if you should wish (just call 550587).
This might be the time to mention that I have just had a slim volume published - it arrived on Christmas Eve. Actually, it's a very slim volume because it's only half a book, the other half having been written by Roger McGough! Wodger and ME!!! Wow!
Happy reading.
And a very Happy 2010 to you all,
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