As the world moves faster, there’s one object that will always hold appeal: the letter. The epistolary novel, one told through letters, has long held its place in literary works. The exchange of mail and messages still carries a mysterious and romantic allure: long-distance mail or notes never sent; friendships and romances built upon correspondence.
Anne Nesbet recently took the time to answer some questions from Reading Group Choices. Her book Cloud and Wallfish is featured in our 2019 Guide.
RGC: Noah and Claudia’s nicknames, Cloud and Wallfish, are unique and feature creative word-play. Did you consider any other nicknames for Noah and Claudia when writing the book? What made you decide on “Cloud” and “Wallfish”?
Anne Nesbet: I just looked back at my first file names for what eventually became Cloud and Wallfish,
Fog, steep hills, the towers of the Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco is an iconic city. And the same is true when it comes to book culture. The city’s long literary history and diverse mix of cultures means there’s no shortage of places for readers to find a group or club that fits their interests, or to try something new.
We’ve rounded up some options for SF readers to discuss their next great book in good company.
Reading Group Choices is pleased to share the Women’s National Book Association (WNBA) Great Group Reads 2018 list, part of their National Reading Group Month initiative!
This annual month-long celebration provides an opportunity for reading groups worldwide to celebrate their accomplishments and plan for the future. It’s also a perfect time to join or start a reading group! Every October, WNBA organizes events nationwide and announces an annual list of book selections for reading groups: Great Group Reads.
America for Beginners by Leah Franqui
As Wide as the Sky by Jessica Pack
Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance by Ruth Emmie Lang
Dear Mrs.
To say that Women & Children First is just an independent bookstore is only the beginning of the story. Opened in Chicago in 1979, the store will celebrate 40 years next year and has maintained its place as one of the largest and well-known feminist bookstores in the country.
More than its wide selection of children’s books, literary journals and zines, and LGBTQ fiction and nonfiction, it serves as an inclusive space and haven for the community.
(And they were awarded an honorary street name!)
In 2014,
Robert Kurson recently visited Reading Group Choices and took the time to answer a few questions. His newest book, Rocket Men, tells the riveting inside story of three heroic astronauts who took on the challenge of mankind’s historic first mission to the Moon.
Reading Group Choices: What book changed your life?
Robert Kurson: The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker
RGC: What book did you most recently recommend to someone else?
