It has been at least 365 days since U.S. G.I.R.L.S. have convened together for a literary discussion, so we were elated when hostess, Kim announced that we would be meeting at Iguana On Park Restaurant in historic Riverside/Avondale to discuss Daines Reed's debut novella, "Trust".
It was an overcast Saturday with a pleasant breeze in the air when we gathered on the restaurant's portico. Kim ordered various appetizers and guacamole for everyone to enjoy while we mingled and chatted. To open the meeting, Kim prepared the place settings with 2 sheets of paper and asked each of us to "construct" a new title and cover for the book. Although we are not artists, we all did well in conveying our (sounds of me clearing my throat) varying opinions of the book.
Kim then began with the questions she outlined around the various themes of the book. She wanted to know if we identified any other themes or sub-themes. There were responses from Celeste, Karen and others adding domestic violence, substance abuse, geriatrics...etc. We all felt the themes was "all over the place" and no one theme was fully developed or characterized.
Kim shared her experience of taking care of her parents, and how she could relate to that theme. She shared how caregiving can be very overwhelming, particularly when it happens to be a parent. Roz then shared her current experience of assisting a family member during an illness
Everyone had an opinion about EVERYTHING, and yet again, this a "badge" of a well seasoned book club. Regardless of the topic, we can have an intellectual and meaningful exchange.
There is one thing about literature - no matter how we rate a book, every book has a resounding message, theme or topic. Daines Reed has reiterated to readers that although her novella, "Trust" is a work of fiction; (in more ways that one) financial literacy is important and educating one's self is the key to building and retaining wealth.
Kim presented everyone with lovely "VitaBath" bath gels and bombs as parting gifts. They were uniquely packaged and bagged. Such a wonderful treat!! Who does not like a good "self-care" relaxing bubble bath??
THANK YOU, Kim for taking us across the state line, to Georgia to spend some time with a group of friends, in a book club. It was a literary journey that we will be reflecting upon for some time.
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