We met last Monday to discuss Little Bee. After eating chili, cornbread, salad we held the discussion during dessert ( apple cake, peace cookies). Only one member really didn't like the book- not real enough. Most of us found the son to be rather annoying and not realistic. And we learned that our knowledge of Nigeria and it's history was somewhat limited. Overall all ( but one ) liked the book and it generated quite a bit of discussion. We found lots of other topics to talk about too. Our next book is The Help by Kathryn Stockett. While driving today on the public radio I listened to a show discussing the privatization of public libraries ( trying to reduce costs etc) not much in the plus column for doing so. Basically the way the private company would reduce costs is to eliminate the staff, reduce pensions, limit health insurance etc. And there wasn't even a mention about who would get to decide which books to buy for circulation. The other topic was banned books. Interesting how some people feel they should limit not only what they or their children read but what others can....it was a very provoking talk. And there was an author whose book had been banned discussing the reasons (one of which he couldn't understand at all) and how he always tried to support those who wish to keep "banned" books on the shelf available for others to read.

It is a beautiful sunny fall day and I sit inside working on my laptop. Finished The Writing Circle which was well written and had a twist at the end. Might be a good discussion book for a reading group. Have started a young adult book TTYL which is written in text messaging "language". Interesting format but I am getting a bit weary of it. Will start my book club book next. Article in the NYT regarding the demise of picture books for children. Sad comment that parents today are pushing young children into books without pictures in the misguided (my view) belief that their children will learn faster, be able to compete better and eventually get into that great college. Please. Let kids be kids. I think there is a trend to push the first born into things too soon ( I know I did and I have seen friends do it also) and having learned with the first backed off with the second. There is definitely a place for picture books. And kids will learn to read soon enough, hopefully with joy.

Last week was Banned Books Week. I always find it interesting to see, over the course of years, what is considered taboo. And I also find it interesting, or disturbing, how few of the books I have read. That seems to call for (another) list of what to read. And I can add that to the piles of books I have bought or borrowed to be read. Our last book group meeting was lots of fun with a very dynamic and interesting discussion. For once we didn't chit chat about kids, or family stuff or school or politics we just jumped right into the discussion. Really enjoyable. Our next book is Little Bee. Right now I am finishing Susan Witting Albert lastest Holly Blues. Oh while mentioning lists ( I am a list person) Reading Group Guides just announced their 2010 list of Great Group Reads. More books. Never enough time.