I’m very much an enthusiast for localism. Lately I’ve been interested in local book clubs, and thanks in large part to meetup.com I’m now juggling no less than three. In theory, at least. All in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, near my home.
The only one I’ve attended so far is the North Brooklyn Classics Book Club. Having once started a book club myself, I admire the scope of their initial ambition. They started early this year with no less than three months devoted to War & Peace (yes JMay, I believe they used the Volohonsky & Pevear translation). I guess that was a bit too ambitious, because by the time I showed up they’d moved on to lighter fare, and I was able to finish The Maltese Falcon in two or three days, in time to attend the June meeting. I’m not so interested in For Whom the Bell Tolls (this month’s pick), but in August I think we’re moving on to Mrs. Dalloway, and I can get on board with that.
People like to connect with their neighbors, it seems. The discussion doesn’t always gel but it’s always worth a shot. If you’re nearby and interested, come join us.