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.

October 11, 2019

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison (The Fitz)

Most of us were confounded by this book.  We picked it because it was by Toni Morrison and highly rated by others.  But we found it a tough slog, partly because the relationships among the many characters were confusing and because the obscure plot wandered in and out of fantasy.  One of us simply quit after a couple of chapters.  On the bright side, the writing sparkled with wit and the myriad of dialogues rang true.  Overall, high expectations, but disappointing experience.

Of course, our conversation roamed over the waterfront, as usual.  Politics, travel, downsizing, etc.  The restaurant's menu was unassuming but most of us liked the pizzas and sandwiches.  And the modest prices.

The next book is Graham Greene's The Power and the Glory.  Other titles considered were Cormac McCarthy's The Road and Eliza Griswold's Amity and Prosperity.  We'll meet on November 11.  Peter will suggest the next book.
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