May Newsletter

Hi All,

Despite the difficulty of the subject matter and the technical nature of the writing, Awakenings turned out to stimulate a great discussion.  The overall rating was a 2.8.  We could all easily recognize the significance of this book as it relates to Oliver Sacks ground breaking insight into the importance of treating individuals as such instead of just treating a “dis-ease” in medicine.  It is truly a “classic” in its genre.  Thanks to Beth for asking some key questions and for Sue K. for hosting our gang.  As always, hats off to the snack (and wine) volunteers.

The next meeting is at 7 PM on Wednesday, June 15th to discuss The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce.  We will meet at Grace’s.  Let her know if you are coming.  Jill G is leading the discussion.  Please bring an extra layer in case we can be outside for a lovely June evening.  We could probably use another appetizer and some more wine.  So far snack volunteers are:

Appetizers:  Diane and Sue K

Desserts:  Jill B and Beth

Wine:  Barb, Jen, Marilyn

We have set a tentative date of Wednesday, July 20th for our summer big food meeting to discuss The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair by Joel Decker.  June, Grace and Diane will head up the organizing crew.  Details will follow, but we are currently looking for a volunteer to lead the discussion.  

There is sad news about neighbor, Doug Okulewisc.  Many of us knew Doug as the man who walked extensively in the park and always had his camera at the ready.  Doug was a loner and unfortunately passed away in his home recently.  Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.  

Looking forward, I would like you to start thinking of a few things in the coming months.  Once our awesome WNY summer weather hits, the fall planning meeting will be on us before we know it.  The last few years we have not been able to agree upon a true classic for our “long classic” read.  Several people have mentioned that they would like to see us tackle a “classic” regardless of length.  Grace suggested Vanity Fair, but we can sure consider others.  Since our new rating system takes into consideration the likelihood that a book can stand the test of time and become a classic, surely there are some books written in the last several hundred years that are worth our attention!  Also, please think about whether the co-ed meeting should be kept in its pre-holiday time slot or moved to mid winter when there is less going on.

I think that is all for now.  

Jan