Book clubs registered at the Westport Public Library have many different formats. Many of our clubs are affiliated with larger organizations, such as the Y or the Westport Women’s Club, but many are small groups of friends that just enjoy a good book and discussion. We have clubs that are solely women, one that is solely males, several that are couples groups, and even one comprised of third graders and their moms. One of our reference librarians was recently asked to suggest some titles for a mother-daughter book club consisting of senior citizens and their daughters. A few of us here at the library put our heads together and came up with the following selections.
What better choice to start off with than the WestportReads selection, The Housekeeper and the Professor. This is a book that spans all ages, so we think it would be perfect for the mother-daughter club. Math, baseball and relationships that bind us together are at the heart of this enchanting little book.
Stones for Ibarra by Harriet Doerr was written when the author was in her seventies. Her first novel, it won the National Book Award in 1984. It is the story of an American couple living in Ibarra, Mexico, the Evertons, who learn much about life and its challenges from the villagers there.
Ann Patchett books are always a good choice for book clubs. In Bel Canto, a group of rich and powerful hostages form unexpected bonds. Beautifully written with great characters, this story not only draws you in, but will stay with you long after you have finished it. Patchett’s most recent novel, Run, is about family, love and loss. This compelling story about the Doyles of Boston is also filled with lots of interesting characters.
Alice Munro is known for her award-winning short stories. Her daughter, Sheila, has written a biography of her mother in which she shares what it was like to grow up with such a well known author. In Lives of Mothers & Daughters: Growing Up with Alice Munro, Sheila often refers to real life places and situations that appear in Alice’s work. Why not read this along with one of Munro’s short story collections for an interesting view of how authors find their inspiration?
Our Speaking of Books collection has many great titles available for a mixed generation book club. Book club favorites such as The Glass Castle, Water for Elephants or Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, are all excellent choices for such discussion groups. If you would like more suggestions for your book club or a discussion guide to get you started, ask me or anyone at the reference desk. Do you have any favorites we should add to our list?
