Monthly Book Group
Each month I host an open meeting in Woodbridge in Suffolk. We used to meet in the town's bookshop but now gather together in a nearby hall. We usually focus on modern fiction and the discussion regularly attracts around 20 people, men and women, of all ages. Everyone is welcome to join in but please let me know you are planning on coming along. Sign up to the e-newsletter here to receive details. Scroll down to take a look at the titles we've read over the year, and view the archive for past discussions.
NEW - Book Group in Framlingham at Ottie and the Bea - details here
Woodbridge Book Group List for 2014
Beautiful, sparse writing presenting complex and sobering issues. A thought-provoking read which prompted a lively discussion.
An astonishing book which puzzled, troubled, amused and moved the group. So many themes to explore - relationships, family, science, animal rights, guilt, grief...
There was too much here for one discussion! Powerful poetic language, humour, vivid characterisation, a huge array of themes and issues to ponder and puzzle over.
Most were puzzled by the book. Some enjoyed the humour, others liked exploring the deeper meaning, a few were disappointed.
A polarity of views: some responded to the humour and insightful writing, fascinated by themes of betrayal and disillusionment, others couldn't relate to the characters.
A divided response - some were frustrated by the fantasy element: what's the point? For others the book spoke to them profoundly about their own childhood.
A bleak account of an unfulfilled life, but most of the group appreciated the truth, realism and beautiful writing.
With so many themes, such a puzzling concept and two gripping narratives, everyone declared this the perfect book group book!
An animated and empassioned discussion with everyone agreeing they couldn't put the book down, even if they felt they wanted to!
Elements of this story of love and loss did not ring true, but most felt that it didn't detract from a beautiful, engrossing, magical tale.
There was almost unanimous disappointment with this book. Powerful monthly magazine short stories did not transfer to a satisfying or coherent novel.