Ka Saundra started 2018 with a bang! Behold The Dreamer by Imbolo Mbue, our first selection for the year was also an Oprah Book Club pick, but Ka Saundra put her own spin of our meeting by combining the themes of relationship with the study guide and devising her OWN (tee heee) set of discussion questions, and they were exceptional!!
The novel tackles several issues that are prevalent in today's society; Immigration, marital discord, prostitution, drug abuse, family discord and corporate corruptness combined with legalized gansterism.
We began with discussing the marriage of Jende and Neni and there was an overall consensus that the cultural differences played a major role with our answers, particularly when we compared and contrasted with Clark and Cindy.
We had much discussion about the family dynamics of both couples and agreed that they shared a mutual love of their children, although expressed in totally different manner.
Neni's blackmailing of Cindy (although illegal) added a little comic relief to the novel. I don't think we saw it coming. We knew Neni was smart, but not diabolical!! We knew it was wrong, but some of us could not resist cheering for the novel's "underdog".
The discussion continued on a lively track when we discussed relationships and everyone had a viewpoint and added to the discussion. The pivotal moment for many of us was when Jende "struck" Neni and she was on the floor. Although we have read many books with violence towards women, it is always a "jar to our souls" to read any domestic violence sections. These narratives are always difficult to read. Although we do not condone or promote violence, we all expressed our wish that Neni had defended herself.
The book left us wanting more. For example, what was the author's rationale for alluding to Cindy Edwards' "rapist" father? Other than a place of emotional refuge, could the church have played an additional role in the novel? Also, should Clark have been charged for the misappropriation of Lehman funds? These questions as well as
several other aspects of the novel, lead some of us to believe there may be a sequel in the works.
Ka Saundra left us all with a "wondering" question. What do we feel will be Jende and Neni's outcome in Africa and rich residents? Will they become "The Great African Wallstreet Hope"? This book club has high hopes for them!!
Before adjourning, many of us opened our Valentine gift bags from Ka Saundra. We were surprised to see Peterbrooke's Chocolate Covered Popcorn, candles and cozy footies. All perfect for cuddling up with a good book.
Thank you Ka Saundra for taking us to Harlem, Wallstreet and Cameroon...this is one trip we will not forget!!
