Book Group listing
Book Group meetings
Each month we have an open meeting in a hall close to the bookshop. Read more about it here. We usually focus on modern fiction and the discussion regularly attracts around 20 people, men and women, of all ages.
For some, knowing how the book was going to end proved difficult, but it was tremendously atmospheric and powerfully bleak in its description and characterisation. A fascinating novel, beautifully written.
Despite much anticipation for this author, most of the group were disenchanted with the title story and uninspired to explore further. Keen fans of Munro stressed the appeal of the bleak subject matter.
Interestingly the younger women were distressed by the plight of the narrator. The older women accepted that was 'just what happened'. All agreed the writing was beautiful, but some came away from the book more downhearted than others.
An astonishing book enjoyed by all. So much to discuss regarding the science, the history, the relationships, the merging of fact and fiction, and the author's skill in making us believe.
A slim book but so much to discuss - about old age, companionship, loneliness, love, regret, guilt, community, family, commitment, compromise, personal sacrifice.
Almost unanimous in this being a good read, though dated and puzzling. Not representative of a master thriller writer, but many will be reading her other books.
An intelligent, clever, thought-provoking book for some, but the majority of this group felt that it was too much philosophising and not enough plot.
A whole range of responses - beautiful writing, a compelling and moving story, thought some, others felt the characters unengaging and the structure flawed.
Lots of laughter and lots to share in this unlikely tale about parking a car. Some wanted it turned into a sitcom, others were delighted with the design (incorporating a free bookmark), and only a couple gave up on it entirely.
Almost unanimous in our praise for this book - beautifully written, intriguing ideas, wonderful characterisation. Every page a delight, although a few people felt the descriptions overblown and the short chapters disjointed.
An intriguing and entertaining novel raising issues of Aspergers and euthanasia with a touching friendship across generations.