BOOK DISCUSSION
We are excited to announce our book selections for the 25/26 year! Thanks to everyone who suggested a book and the discussants who have graciously volunteered their time.
Our vision as a book group is to inspire a vibrant community of lifelong learners who connect through the joy of books, ideas and inclusive dialogue. Our gatherings are an open forum where anyone can participate in thoughtful conversation about the selected book. With the exception of one event that is virtual, all discussions are open to all, without RSVP or cost. No time to read the book but want to join? We’ve listed some quick tips to get up to speed below.
Questions? Please reach out to anyone on the Committee.
Chair: Elizabeth Pierce
Co-Chair: Carol Cotton
Members: Julie Carlson, Linda Daniels, Jeni Flynn, Leah Gilbert, Donna Kolkey, Fran Nelson, Shelby Van Meter, Cheryl Popp, Ellen Rosenstein, Ciji Ware, Arliss Willis
Quick Tips for Non-Readers
No time to read the book but want to join us? Here are some quick ways to prepare prior to the discussion:
Start with a Summary: Wikipedia summaries offer a quick overview of the book’s storyline, characters, and themes. You’ll also find helpful links to learn more about the author and related topics.
Explore Thoughtful Reviews: Search “[book title] + book review” to find critiques from respected sources. Reviews help you understand the book’s strengths, weaknesses, and context—and may introduce you to related works.
Hear Directly from the Author: Authors often appear on podcasts and interviews to discuss their books. Listening can give you insight into their motivations, background, and behind-the-scenes stories.
Follow the Author Online: Check the author’s social platforms for interviews, book updates, and personal perspectives. These pages often link to additional resources worth exploring.
During the Session, Listen First: Let those who read the book guide the discussion and share their takeaways first. This gives you richer context and helps you respond thoughtfully.
October 16, 2025, at 4pm
The Secret War of Julia Child by Diana R. Chambers reveals the chef’s surprising past as a WWII spy. Blending fact and imagination, this biographical novel explores how espionage shaped her life. We’ll discuss the book and how authors mix real events with fiction and the ethical choices involved in balancing historical accuracy with storytelling. Discussant Ciji Ware.
November 20, 2025, at 4pm
Fox & I: An Uncommon Friendship by Catherine Raven is a beautifully written, wise, and intimate memoir, by a biologist about what she learned from a wild fox. Nature writing at its best! “I learned as much about the meaning of friendship from this book as I have from any work of nonfiction I’ve ever read.” NYT review. Discussant Julie Carlson.
January 15, 2026, at 4pm
Re imagining The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the novel James by Percival Everett gives voice to Jim, exploring race, freedom, and humanity through his eyes. Witty, sharp, and deeply moving, this novel invites us to reconsider a classic American tale from a radically new and necessary perspective. Join us to unpack layers of satire, sorrow, and strength. Discussant Fran Nelson.
January 29, 2025, at 10am
Betsy Cornwell joins us virtually to discuss her newest book, Ring of Salt. After fleeing a controlling relationship, teenage outsider Eilis finds refuge in a mysterious Irish girls’ school that may be harboring secrets—and sea witches. Ring of Salt blends feminist themes with folklore in a haunting tale of autonomy, identity, and the power of found family. Contact Chair Elizabeth Pierce to gain virtual access to the event.
February 19, 2026, at 4pm
The Door by Magda Szabó is a haunting, award-winning novel set in postwar Hungary that explores the intense bond between a writer and her enigmatic housekeeper, Emerence. First published in 1987 and later released by the NY Review of Books, it was also adapted into a 2010 film starring Helen Mirren. Discussant Shelby Van Meter.
April 16, 2026, at 4pm
A discussion celebrating the wit and wisdom of Nora Ephron through her essay collections I Remember Nothing and I Feel Bad About My Neck. We will explore Ephron’s humorous take on aging and womanhood. We also recommend watching the film Heartburn. Script by Ephron; directed by Mike Nichols. Based on her novel of the same title. Discussants Carol Cotton and Linda Daniels.
May 21, 2026 at 4pm
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is a heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a grieving widow and a clever octopus. As their bond grows, buried secrets come to light in this unique and uplifting novel about connection, loss, healing, and second chances. Discussant Elizabeth Pierce.