Broken Glass

October 2, 2021 by Jennie "JayBee"

Fall is a time for change, reflection, and rebirth. Fall has always felt like a time to cleanse the mind, body, soul and of course planting mums and raking leaves. but that is another story...

On this fall morning, we received a reprieve from our fall labor (courtesy of Roz) with a Zoom book club meeting featuring author, J.D. Mason's farewell novel, Broken Glass

We did not waste anytime getting right to the details of expressing our opinions on the love triangle of Luther, Nick and Terri and "hashing" out our thoughts of small town America.

We began our discussion with thoughts on Terri at the beginning of the novel. Everyone basically had the same opinion of Terri and her professional acting career. Roz wanted a comparative analysis between Terri's character and an actress of "today". She began with Kimberly Elise and Sanna Lathan because each of these actresses have achieved some fame, but not on the level or caliber of Halle Berry or Regina King. Another member offered Robin Givens as a "sacrificial lamb" for actresses that compared to Terri and there was an Ahhhhhh moment among the members.

The name of the town, Devastation was discussed and Kim offered up an opinion regarding the name and the town being located in the state of LA. Surely, LA has seen its share of devastation and the naming of the town could have been a "nod" to the area by the author.

Here is the million dollar question: What was Terri thinking by getting involved with two men, who happen to be father and son? Of course there were opinions EVERYWHERE - several members felt that Terri was self-centered and selfish, she was only thinking of herself and immediate gratification. Celeste offered an emotional vantage point by stating that you cannot "determine or control" who you fall in love with. Val was on the side of morality with her disclaimer that she is not being "prudish" however this was just no way for Terri to behave. Simply put, I felt Terri was exhibiting the behaviors of a random Whore, and where were the condoms during these tryst? Someone suggested that the author may have assumed we "concluded" condoms were used, however (if I may approach the bench, your Honor) this Reader would never have assumed this when the author specifically stated that Terri was so anxious to commence with the sexual encounter that she pulled her underwear to the side. "Uhhhhhh, I rest my case,..."

With a dwindling acting career, there were endless discussions regarding other employment opportunities Terri may have available to her. We were not made aware of Terri's educational background or skill set, therefore we could not express any viable options for her career path. It was "implied" that Terri had sufficient liquidity and resources to retire. To this, I say, plan for your future, Terri" and diversify your funds by investing in the stock market, deposit in a money market / Lincoln fund and a tax deferred annuity. Once the investments are solidified, volunteer at the local community theater, join a non-profit board, give back to the community and, possibly start a book club (Teee Heee).

Valerie broached the question regarding readership. Who was J.D. Mason's target audience? We have impressionable young women reading these novels; so I had to look in the mirror and ask myself, would I recommend this book to my 29 or 32 year old nieces? Ummmm, I think not. This book is definitely for "Grown Folks" like the Baby Boomers and Gen Xers, who have had some experiences, learned some lessons and can discern fact from fiction and appreciate it.

Most of the members really enjoyed the book, however some were disappointed with the editing and abrupt ending. Other members felt the book's ending was appropriate, particularly since this is (allegedly) J.D. Mason's final novel. The ending allowed the reader to fantasize their own ending and perhaps formulate a "happily ever after" for everyone.

We closed the discussion by thanking Roz for the meeting and for the wonderful "Touch of Fall" (lovely dish "tea" towel and packaged candy corn) that she mailed to each of us earlier this week. We were all surprised to receive our UPS deliveries!

Jackie announced her book selection for December and requested that all members and guests wear festival holiday PJs for our 9 o'clock meeting.

Val opened up a request for members to volunteer to assist the AnnieRuth Foundation with a upcoming initiative. She was able to garner book club support for January of 2022 and 2023.

Prior to concluding, I introduced a new segment for our meetings entitled,

"Focus on Us...Back Businesses Matter". In support of local Black Owned Businesses, we will be spotlighting a business after each meeting. Today, I began with "Bountifully Sweet Luxe" by Brittney Anderson. We have been following Ms. Anderson and her new business venture since its conception earlier this year. Today, Ms. Anderson is showcasing her home accent products at the "Soul Food Festival" in Green Cove Springs. I asked any members who could, to please show their support - and guess what? Low and behold Maria answered our "call to action"! Here she is pictured at the festival, supporting Brittney.

U.S. G.I.R.L.S. always show up and that is why I am so proud of our sisterhood and how we have evolved over the years! By the way, did I mention that Brittney is the niece of our member, Jackie?

Let's continue to support our local black-owned businesses, write reviews, and spread the message via word of mouth and social medial outlets. If you know a local business you would like featured, let JayBee know and we will put them on our calendar!!

Thank you Roz for taking us to Devastation, LA and giving us Lust, Light, Laughter and some great conversation during these pandemic times. Happy Fall Y'all!!