As cooler weather finally settles into the South Valley, it’s during this time—the cooler interval of autumn with its cloudy skies, misty mornings and fallen leaves—that my love of reading re-kindles. And while many extol the virtues of a good book to read on the beach in summer, for me there’s nothing like finding a comfortable chair by the fire, a book in hand and a few quiet moments spent delving into a great story.
Although reading a book is an isolated event in itself, sharing stories most definitely is not. One of the best ways to enjoy a book all over again is by expressing your opinion and hearing others convey theirs at a book club. Several book clubs exist in the South Valley, and if you don’t know where to start, here are a few options.
– Your public library. The Gilroy Library (350 W. Sixth St.) has book clubs for adults. Stop by for information or call (408) 842-8207. The Morgan Hill Library (660 W. Main Ave.) also has book clubs meeting at their facility. Again, stop by to pick up a flyer or call (408) 779-3196.
– In Hollister, there is a lively-sounding group that formed about a year ago called the “Hollister Bookbags,” and is described as “a fun loving group of ladies that enjoy books, movies and more!” Who can argue with a name like that? For more information, visit meetup.com/
Hollister-Bookbags/.
– And if meeting at an actual book store is your idea of nirvana, drop by BookSmart in downtown Morgan Hill at 80 E. Second St. or call (408) 778-6467. The Booksmart book club meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of every month. Stop by and pick up a flyer to see what the next book will be. For an inkling of all BookSmart has to offer, visit mybooksmart.com/joomla/.
Speaking of BookSmart, this independent bookstore has been around the better part of two decades. They not only carry the bestsellers, they offer a toy store in back and a separate café featuring gourmet hot dogs and sausages, sandwiches and ice cream. They present an array of periodic arts and crafts classes as well as book signings with authors. With plenty of seating space, you can while away some leisurely hours at BookSmart and, believe me, I have. With independent booksellers struggling to survive, I encourage you to stop by this dynamic enterprise and meet its creative owners, Brad and Cinda. They’ll treat you like old friends.
From the information I’ve gathered, it appears most book clubs meet monthly. Some have annual or monthly fees, some take turns having members bring drinks, appetizers and dessert. All are guaranteed to provide lively discussions about the latest book.
And if occasionally a book selected isn’t quite your cup of tea, you’ll still enjoy some stimulating conversation and—as often happens—it may rouse your interest in that book, prompting you to go back and read it. Of course we all get more out of the discussion if everyone has read the book, but nobody sends you to “Book Club Jail” if you’ve left a book unfinished. The social component is the real emphasis here.
Recently, I met with the vivacious ladies who comprise the book club I belong to in Morgan Hill. We discussed our latest selection, “The Light Between Oceans,” by M.L. Stedman. (This was Stedman’s first book, and it was a doozy! If you’re looking for an excellent book, here’s a good place to start.)
Since this book is one that’s been described as a “…tale of love and loss,” the group got in touch with its emotional side. We find that happens with each of the books we read. Reading and then discussing books (especially the well written ones) tends to bring tears, laughter and everything in between.
As we say farewell to another summer—and before too long, to another year—I look forward to the shortening days, cooler evenings and a good book by the fire.
Gale Hammond is a writer and freelance photographer who has lived in Morgan Hill since 1983. Reach her at [email protected].
