Local girl makes good! The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland

 What a fun and interesting discussion we had about Rachel Beanland's new book, The House is on Fire. And very far-reaching, from the reputation for cowardice that Virginia men had as a direct result of climbing over the women to escape this very fire, to the way the names are inscribed on the monument and much in-between. We are so lucky to have among us smart, engaged and interesting people who can share such good conversation! 

Of course the book was great, it went right along with a good story, told well with characters that kept one's interest. Because the event that inspired the book happened right here in Richmond, it has a particular cache, but it is a good read for anyone. Rachel's first book Florence Adler Swims Forever also got some kudos, 

I tried to get Rachel to come talk with us but no luck. Here is an interesting story about her talking about the book - what a strange situation! 

https://forward.com/fast-forward/559619/rachel-beanland-florida-jcc-book/

We are skipping our June meeting because there are a lot of people out of town. Ashley has volunteered to host our July meeting which will be on July 15. The book is The Expendable Man by Dorothy B. Hughes, one of our Christmas swap books. It is not long, but it can be hard to find. The Richmond Library has it, the Henrico Library did not the last time I checked. 

See you all then! 

Covenant of Water - A Generational Story set in history

 Thanks to Lynn who very kindly hosted our discussion of Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese. It is always a pleasure to see everyone particularly in such lovely surroundings. And we had a great discussion about the book, which most people really liked. I found it tedious in parts when the details just piled up. That being said, the story was so fascinating in its positioning in history, and so well written with compelling characters and interesting interactions. All in all a good read! 

Our next book is A House on Fire by Rachel Beanland. I have been trying really hard to get Rachel to come to our next meeting but she has not responded. If anyone else has a good in, please use it! And we have our next meeting on May 13, which might be a bit soon for people since I am so slow getting this out - we could move back a week if that is easier. I can host unless someone else wants to volunteer - my place is tiny! 

Let me know what you think about the date! See you soon.