We are seven handsome and charming* guys who meet at a different restaurant every month or so, having read a book in common, and discuss whatever we want--generally the assigned book, but usually many other timely topics as well. We rotate the responsibility to suggest titles, but the group has the final say. Our book club rules: 1) Anything goes, fiction or nonfiction; 2) paperbacks are preferred; and 3) staying under 300 pages is desirable (N.B., we violate this one all the time). We rate all books and restaurants on a 5-point scale.

* All other adjectives were vetoed.

July 27, 2009

From Here to Eternity by James Jones (Cafe Brenda)

A modified-vegetarian place, Cafe Brenda offered a refreshing break from our usual restaurant venue, and most everybody gave the place a pretty good rating. From Here to Eternity got a good reception from everyone (and was deified by one), and we talked about the realities of Army life and the many words evidently required to convey those realities with accuracy. But, really, we liked it. Next up is Elizabeth Strout, Olive Kitteridge, a collection of short stories. Other books considered: Cold Mountain, Ship Fever, Servants of the Map, and Shakespeare's Kitchen. The next book will be suggested by Bill.