Yesterday was the book chat at my local public library, or what they call a “Community Book Tasting”. I love to hear other reactions to books, and to hear what people are currently reading. I really appreciate the comments from a young man, former military, who reads a little of everything from what he’s said in both book chats. He reads science fiction, but his current book is Karin Slaughter’s Pretty Girls. He’s only one-third in, but he’s liking it. He’s never read one of her books before. It’s fun to observe him during the discussion because he looks up the books on his phone as people talk about them. I read one of the group reads, Sandwich by Catherine Newman. Then, I talked about Crooks by Lou Berney.
Our next Book Tasting is Saturday, Oct. 11, but I told the leader I’d only be there if it rains. That’s the same day as the Apple Butter Day in Groveport, and Linda and I are already planning to go to that.
Here are the group selections for October 11, though.
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn. The bestselling author of The Rose Code returns with an unforgettable World War II tale of a quiet bookworm who becomes history’s deadliest female sniper. Based on a true story. I tried this when it first came out, and I just couldn’t get into it.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. For fans of A Man Called Ove, a charming, witty and compulsively readable exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope that traces a widow’s unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus. Probably what I’ll read if I read for next month. I didn’t read it when it was such a big hit.
These Days by Lucy Caldwell. An “exquisitely lyrical” (Louise Kennedy) WWII novel from a singular Irish writer following two sisters over the course of four nights as they reckon with their futures in crumbling Belfast. Or, maybe I’ll read this one.
The Wrong Family by Tarryn Fisher. From the author of the New York Times bestseller The Wives comes another twisted psychological thriller guaranteed to turn your world upside down—an instant bestseller! Not for me. I don’t read psychological or domestic thrillers.
I’ve only been to two book chats, but I already. know which of the two leaders picked which books. One of the librarians loves World War II books, and the other loves psychological thrillers.
Sounds fun. I did like Kate Quinn’s THE BRIAR CLUB. Pass on this one, though.
I agree, Jeff. I loved The Briar Club, but this one just was too detailed for me.
I would pick Remarkably Bright Creatures from this also. Except I read it already, put me in the fan category. I think I’ve seen it’s coming out as a movie starring Sally Field.
There were so many fans of that book, MM. Someday, I’ll read it, but These Days is waiting for me at the library.
Hi Lesa
I have heard THESE DAYS read on BBC Sounds, I thought it was brilliant. I bought the book, but as I didn’t have time to read it immediately I lent it to a friend who grew up in Belfast. She loved it too.
So if it were me, I would choose this one.
That’s the one I’m picking, Rosemary. I picked it for the setting and the fact I know nothing about the blitz in Belfast. It’s already waiting for me at the library! Thank you for your recommendation and that of your friend.
Remarkably Bright Creatures – is such a great book. I don’t understand why you haven’t read it already. I know you seem to prefer cozies but this is close to one – but so much more.
Because everyone says it’s such a great book, Kathy, and I’m stubborn. I’ll get around to it someday.
A book tasting – what a fantastic idea!
I love it, Ellen. I used to do something similar, and now I’m not responsible for it so it’s even better!