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.

June 12, 2022

The Tyranny of Merit by Michael Sandel (Lat 14)

This book offers an insightful analysis of the impact of the meritocracy honored by western societies in the post-WWII era.  Its side effects, including the creation of meritocratic "losers", has sparked a shamed and disgruntled class of citizens, feeding today's angry populist backlash.  Although the author has few practical suggestions for turning things around, the book is an important contribution to civil discourse.  We gave it high ratings.  The restaurant, with its array of lively Asian-based dishes, was also popular with our group.

Our next book is Walter Abish, How German Is It?  Also considered: Burial Rites by Hannah Kent and Euphoria by Lily King.  We plan to meet on July13 at Tongue in Cheek in St Paul.  Don suggests the next title.

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