There is something about our last meeting of the summer that has me feeling nostalgic. It is the feeling of the end of a phase of our literary journey of 2018 as we ready ourselves for cooler temperatures and reading by the fireplace or firepit snuggled under a cashmere throw and sipping gourmet coffees and teas.
Jackie made sure we would not forget this literary season as she closed it out in high fashion by taking us to Murray Bros Caddyshack Restaurant, located in beautiful World Golf Village to discuss Beverly Jenkins' "Heart of Gold". Before the meeting
commenced, JayBee presented Twilla with the hand-painted epicurean bottle that artist,
Tonidean (TD) painted. Twilla was elated that we remembered her in her absence as she was traveling abroad for the summer. JayBee joked that she almost awarded Twilla with the bottle "she" painted so she could keep the Artist's version for herself!!
Jackie started off our meeting by placing a paper mache' gold heart in the center of the table and began our question session by asking which ones of us could reside in the fictional town of Henry Adams. As we looked from one another around the table, it was quite evident that there were not many takers.
JayBee noted that the lure of the town would be its historical roots as a town established by former slaves; one of the first of its kind, and that she could possibly consider residing in such a place if they would construct a Neiman Marcus retail store...(just saying).
The relationship of Reggie and Roni caused the book club to be very harsh towards Reggie and his antiquated attitudes with regards to the roles of men and women in a marriage. Karen was very vocal on the changing roles in marital households and how men are now conforming to these changes. Valerie and JayBee made references to one of the previous installments of "The Blessings" series when and how Roni and Reggie met.
We spent some time on siblings and how the dynamics of their relationships change from childhood to adult. Valerie mentioned that Bernadine was much more forgiving than she would have been, and it is quite possible that Diane may have found herself homeless if Val were in Bernadine's shoes. Okay Val, while in that instance, your heart may not have been gold, surely it would have been at least silver, and not allowed you to evict your own sister to the pitfalls and perails of the vicious streets (I just had to embellish the situation...sorry, I could not resist).
Kim mentioned how the town of Henry Adams reminded her of American Beach, (just
north of Jacksonville) with its rich history and Afrocentric heritage. JayBee thought of Sapelo Island, GA where she and member, Celeste have ancestral roots. Kim went on to elaborate on how she felt Bernadine did not do enough as the "CEO" of Henry Adams to protect the city when it was invaded by "would be" gold prospectors. Kim felt Bernadine should have handled the unruly guests as a mercenary would. Kim was very passionate about her recommendation of good ole' fashion, western inspired "shoot um' up" justice; which surprised and concerned some of us...Tee Heee!
Valerie and Kim had a debate on the issue of parental rules, Zoey's disobedience and repercussions. This is why we love book club...take a listen:
Celeste wanted clarity on the back story regarding the adoption of the children in the 1st installment of "The Blessing" series. Her curiosity surrounded the selection of non-African American children when there are so many in need of homes. Members who have read the series suggested there was a rationale, however it escaped their recall.
We all agreed that Beverly Jenkins' "Heart of Gold" would be an excellent read for older Teens and the elderly. It was a "feel good" book with a message of love, kindness and forgiveness.
Thank you Jackie for a wonderful meeting and setting for our last gathering for the summer of 2018. Nothing like a good read and a road trip!!!!
