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Book Discussion Groups - Archives

        

December 19, 2010

The Usual Suspects: The 39 Steps

buchan-thirty-nine-steps-bo.jpgSunday, December 19, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The 39 Steps by John Buchan. Adventurer Richard Hannay is thoroughly bored with his life until a murder is committed in his flat. This 1915 thriller inspired many other novelists and filmmakers including Alfred Hitchcock.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

November 21, 2010

The Usual Suspects: Still Life

still-life.jpgSunday, November 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery Still Life by Louise Penny. Chief Inspector Gamache of the Sûreté du Quebec is called to a tiny hamlet south of Montreal to investigate the suspicious hunting "accident" that claimed the life a local woman.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

October 17, 2010

The Usual Suspects: Murder in the Marais

Murder-in-the-Marais.jpgSunday, October 17, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery Murder in the Marais by Cara Black. Aime Leduc, a intrepid young French-American detective, is hired to investigate the grisly murder of an old Jewish woman in the Marais district of Paris.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

September 26, 2010

The Usual Suspects: Dance Hall of the Dead

Dance-Hall-of-the-Dead.jpgSunday, September 26, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery Dance Hall of the Dead by Tony Hillerman. When two young boys suddenly disappear, Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police, must observe the strange laws of the Zuñi while tracking their brutal killer.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

August 15, 2010

The Usual Suspects: In a Dry Season

In-a-Dry-Season.jpgSunday, August 15, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award winning mystery In a Dry Season by Peter Robinson. DCI Alan Banks investigates when a dried up reservoir reveals the unidentified bones of a brutally murdered young woman that has lain there for half a century.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

July 11, 2010

The Usual Suspects: The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

The-sweetness-at-the-bottom.jpgSunday, July 11, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley. Flavia de Luce, an eleven-year-old girl with a passion for concocting poisons in post-WWII England investigates when a man is left dead in the family garden and her father is the main suspect.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

June 20, 2010

The Usual Suspects: In the Woods

In-the-Woods.jpgSunday, June 20, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the award-winning mystery In the Woods by Tana French. Twenty years after witnessing two violent disappearances from their Dublin suburb, detective Rob Ryan investigates a chillingly similar murder that takes place in the same wooded area.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

May 18, 2010

Pageturners: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Guernsey.jpgTuesday, May 18, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. 288 pages. As Juliet and her new correspondent exchange letters, she is drawn into the world of this man and his friends, all members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, a unique book club formed in a unique, spur-of-the-moment way—as an alibi to protect its members from arrest by the Germans. Crazy title for a book and a mouthful, but this little book will keep you reading and wanting to plan a trip to Guernsey.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.
        

May 16, 2010

The Usual Suspects: The Face of a Stranger

The-Face-of-a-Stranger.jpgSunday, May 16, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery The Face of a Stranger by Anne Perry. Victorian sleuth William Monk wakes up in a hospital with no memory, and is assigned to investigate a "gentleman's" brutal murder even though he's forgotten his professional skills.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

April 20, 2010

Pageturners: The Bastard of Istanbul

The-Bastard.jpgTuesday, April 20, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak. 360 pages. Beautifully imagined—it's as much family history as national history that drives this vital and entertaining novel. And it's the powerful and idiosyncratic characters that drive the family history. And, as you hear in your mind's ear, it's Shafak's vibrant language that drives the characters. Shafak was recently acquitted of the charge of "denigrating Turkishness" because of her frank look at Turkish-Armenian antipathy.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.
        

April 11, 2010

The Usual Suspects: Consigned to death

Con_Death_ppr_cover.jpgSunday, April 11, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the mystery Consigned to Death by Jane Cleland. Antiques appraiser Josie Prescott is the prime suspect when her client, whom she believes to be in possession of paintings looted by the Nazis, is found murdered.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
        

March 21, 2010

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Unnatural Causes

Unnatural-Causes.jpgSunday, March 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Unnatural Causes by P. D. James. Superintendent Adam Dalgliesh’s much anticipated holiday at his aunt’s country cottage ends abruptly with the macabre discovery of the handless corpse of a crime-writer in this third title of the series.  

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

March 16, 2010

Pageturners: The White Tiger

white-tiger.jpgTuesday, March 16, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga. 276 pages. This first novel by Indian writer Adiga depicts the awakening of a low-caste Indian man to the degradation of servitude.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

        

February 21, 2010

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Gorky Park

Gorky-Park.jpgSunday, February 21, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Gorky Park by Martin Cruz Smith. Moscow detective Arkady Renko must battle the KGB, FBI, and the NYPD to solve the murders of three corpses found frozen in the snow at a Moscow amusement center.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

February 16, 2010

Pageturners: Beneath a Marble Sky

Beneath-a-Marble-Sky.jpgTuesday, February 16, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors. 324 pages. In 1632, the Emperor of Hindustan, Shah Jahan, consumed by grief over the death of his empress, Mumtaz Mahal, ordered the building of a grand mausoleum to symbolize the greatness of their love. Against scenes of unimaginable wealth and power, murderous sibling rivalries, and cruel despotism, Princess Jahanara tells the extraordinary story of how the Taj Mahal came to be, describing her own life as an agent in its creation and as a witness to the fateful events surrounding its completion.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

        

February 12, 2010

Booklover's Bash

book_heart.jpgFriday, February 12, 2010
6:00 to 8:00 pm
The Great Hall

What's at the top of your reading list? Come and exchange your favorite titles and authors with other readers and get ideas for your book club, while enjoying some wine, cheese and good conversation with fellow bibliophiles. For even more ideas, meet Nina Sankovitch who read a book a day for an entire year.

Enter through upper level entrance.
        

January 17, 2010

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: In the Bleak Midwinter

InTheBleakMidwinter.jpgSunday, January 17, 2010
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book In the Bleak Midwinter by Julia Spencer-Fleming. The police chief of a small Adirondack town and its new female Episcopal priest form an unusual investigative partnership when a newborn infant is left at the church door and its young mother is found murdered.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

January 12, 2010

Pageturners: The Housekeeper and the Professor

Housekeeper.jpgTuesday, January 12*, 2010
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa. 180 pages. This Westport READS selection will open our eyes to the effects of memory loss, the joys of math, the intricacies of Japanese baseball, and the ties that define a family. Watch for the special events that will supplement the discussion.

*Note that this is the second Tuesday.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

WestportREADS is funded by Jerry A. Tishman.

        

December 20, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: 4:50 from Paddington

4-50-from-Paddington.jpgSunday, December 20
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of 4:50 from Paddington by Agatha Christie. When Elspeth McGillicuddy witnesses what appears to be a woman being strangled on a train and no one believes her she turns to her old friend Jane Marple to help solve the puzzle.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Agatha Christie website.
        

November 22, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Murder on the Ballarat Train

murder-on-the-ballarat-trai.jpgSunday, November 22
2:00 pm
Seminar Room
Note: date change

Discussion of Murder on the Ballarat Train by Kerry Greenwood. 1920s' Australian lady detective Phryne Fisher travels to a popular resort by train. When some of the passengers are poisoned with chloroform, Phryne is left to piece together the clues.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.
        

November 17, 2009

Pageturners: The Madonnas of Leningrad

Madonnas.jpgTuesday, November 17
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Madonnas of Leningrad by Debra Dean. 240 pages. A strong storyline, with a heavy dollop of fact, in this case the history and contents of the Hermitage Museum in Leningrad/St. Petersburg. The characters themselves are obviously important to the tale, but the essence of the story is the nature of memory itself. Bit by bit, the ravages of age are eroding Marina's grip on the everyday. And while the elderly Russian woman cannot hold on to fresh memories — the details of her grown children's lives, the approaching wedding of her grandchild — her distant past is preserved: vivid images that rise unbidden of her youth in war-torn Leningrad.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

        

October 20, 2009

Pageturners: The Water Is Wide

The-Water-is-Wide.jpgTuesday, October 20
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Water Is Wide by Pat Conroy. 272 pages. The island is nearly deserted, haunting, and beautiful. Across a slip of ocean lies South Carolina. But for the handful of families on Yamacraw Island, America is a world away. Here is Conroy's extraordinary drama based on his own experience–the true story of a man who gave a year of his life to an island and the new life its people gave him.

Books by Pat Conroy.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

        

October 18, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Devil in a Blue Dress

devil-in-a-blue-dress.jpgSunday, October 18
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Devil in a Blue Dress by Walter Mosley. 1948, LA: Easy Rawlins is a black war veteran just fired from his job, wondering how he'll pay his mortgage, when a man offers him good money to locate a blonde beauty known to frequent black jazz clubs.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

September 15, 2009

Pageturners: The Professor's House

The-Professor's-House.jpgTuesday, September 15
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Professor's House by Willa Cather. 258 pages. On the eve of his move to a new, more desirable residence, Professor Godfrey St Peter finds himself in the shabby study of his former home. Surrounded by the comforting, familiar sights of his past, he surveys his life and the people he has loved--his wife Lillian, his daughters, and Tom Outland, his most outstanding student and once, his son-in-law to be. Enigmatic and courageous--and a tragic victim of the Great War--Tom has remained a source of inspiration to the professor. But he has also left behind him a troubling legacy which has brought betrayal and fracture to the women he loves most.

Novels by Willa Cather.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

        

September 13, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Long Goodbye

the-long-goodbye.jpgSunday, September 13
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler. 1950's, LA: A down-on-his-luck war veteran fleeing the authorities asks Philip Marlowe for help, making the detective an accessory in his wife's murder in this classic noir mystery.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

August 18, 2009

Pageturners:
The Good Thief/An Novel

the-Good-Thief.jpgTuesday, August 18
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti. 327 pages. An orphan named Ren, raised by monks is adopted by a stranger who seems to know something about Ren's past. Ren is so likable and earnest that you can't help but hope his story ends well. The main themes are family, secrets, and what constitutes as "goodness" or right; also about friendship and growing up. Great historical fiction and adventure.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org.
New participants always welcome.

Books by Hannan Tinti in the Library catalogue.

        

August 16, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Last King of Texas

the-last-king-of-texas.jpgSunday, August 16
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Last King of Texas by Rick Riordan. When a San Antonio professor is found shot to death, P.I. Tres Navarre, Ph.D., agrees to take his place. Police assure him they already have a suspect, and all Tres has to do is walk in the dead man's shoes.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.
        

July 21, 2009

Pageturners:
The Art of Racing in the Rain

theartofracingintherain.jpgTuesday, July 21
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

As a part of the Dog Days of Summer events, discussion of the book The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. 336 pages. A story about life, written from a dog's perspective. It is about the hard times and the good; it will make you cry and laugh. The actions and reactions that occur become clear and the emotions run heavy at times. Racing in the rain becomes an aspect of life and coping with the setbacks and joys of living.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. . New participants always welcome.

This is the second in in the Dog Days of Summer. Check out the other programs on Thursday, July 23, Tuesday, July 28, Thursday, July 30, and Monday, August 3!

Library catalog.

        

July 12, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Sempster’s Tale

the-sempster-paperback.jpgSunday, July 12
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Sempster’s Tale by Margaret Frazer. Dame Frevisse, a Benedictine nun, seeks to recover the gold of a murdered Duke, aided by a seamstress and her Jewish lover. Their mission is jeopardized when a crucified body stirs up anti-Semitic sentiment.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
Author's website.

Library catalog.

        

June 21, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group:
Father Brown: The Essential Tales

father-brown.jpgSunday, June 21
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Father Brown: The Essential Tales by G.K. Chesterton. Father Brown may seem like a pleasantly doddering priest, but he brings even the most elusive criminals to justice his keen observation skills and understanding of human frailties.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

June 16, 2009

Pageturners:
The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit

the-Man-in-the-White-Sharks.jpgTuesday, June 16
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit by Lucette Lagnado. 340 pages. This poignant and breathtaking memoir from an award-winning Wall Street Journal reporter recounts the exile of her family from Egypt and her father's heroic and tragic struggle to survive his riches to rags trajectory.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. . New participants always welcome.

        

May 19, 2009

Pageturners: Harlem Renaissance

Harlem-Renaissance.jpgTuesday, May 19
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Harlem Renaissance by Nathan Irvin Huggins. 384 pages. The 1920s may be utterly distant. Yet during that decade, there was a cultural flowering in the American Negro community. Centered at Harlem, Huggins takes us to that place and time. The narrative is enhanced by one key trait. This book was first published in 1971. The research that went into it was done in the late 60s. Several influential persons of 20s Harlem were still around and the text gives their direct experiences, from interviews with the author. In this way, Huggins provides a primary text for future students and historians.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.

        

May 17, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax

the-unexpected-mrs-pollifax.jpgSunday, May 17
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax by Dorothy Gilman. Emily Pollifax is a widow with grown children. Tired of endless garden club meetings and wanting to do something good for her country, she joins the CIA and becomes embroiled in Cold War intrigue.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

April 21, 2009

Pageturners: The Beach House

The-Beach-House.jpgTuesday, April 21
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book The Beach House by Jane Green. 341 pages. Known in Nantucket as the crazy woman who lives in the rambling house atop the bluff, Nan doesn't care what people think. At sixty-five-years old, her husband died twenty years ago, her beauty has faded, and her family has flown. When she discovers the money she thought would last forever is dwindling and she could lose her beloved house, Nan knows she has to make drastic changes.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821 or email Sue Madeo at smadeo@westportlibrary.org. New participants always welcome.

        

April 19, 2009

Murder 203: Connecticut's Mystery Festival

murder203_header.jpg







Sunday, April 19
2:00 pm and 3:00 pm
McManus Room
Westport Public Library

Connecticut now has its own major event for the mystery-minded! Murder 203 is a two day festival organized by the Easton and Westport Libraries for fans and writers with Guest of Honor Linda Fairstein. Attendees will enjoy panel discussions, book signings, writing tips from the professionals, and a unique opportunity to mingle with authors and fellow crime fiction enthusiasts.

2:00 pm: WE DIDN’T MAKE IT UP!
Kate Flora, M. William Phelps and Mary-Ann Tirone Smith discuss true crime writing. Free. No registration needed for this event at the Westport Library.

3:00 pm: WHAT’S THE WORD?
Mystery publishing professionals Russell Perreault and Sheryl Stebbins share their insiders’ view of the latest trends in the mystery marketplace. Free. No registration needed for this event at the Westport Library.

For furthur information on the festival, visit murder203.com.
For further information, phone Jane Murphy at 203-291-4836.

        

April 18, 2009

Murder 203: Connecticut's Mystery Festival

murder203_header.jpg







Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19
Westport and Easton Libraries

Connecticut now has its own major event for the mystery-minded! Murder 203 is a two day festival organized by the Easton and Westport Libraries for fans and writers. Attendees will enjoy panel discussions, book signings, writing tips from the professionals, and a unique opportunity to mingle with authors and fellow crime fiction enthusiasts at the Cocktails and Crime reception on Saturday evening.

Thirty-five authors are scheduled to attend, headed up by Guest of Honor Linda Fairstein. Fairstein is a veteran sex-crime investigator who pens the very popular Alexandra Cooper mystery series.

The event is $65 if you register before March 2nd. After March 2nd, registration is $75. Meet-the-Authors continental breakfast Saturday and Sunday morning is included in the registration fee as well as lunch on Saturday and admission to Cocktails and Crime. To register for this event, visit murder203.com.

For further information, phone Jane Murphy at 203-291-4836.


        

March 17, 2009

Pageturners: The Secret Life of Bees

secret-life-of-bees.jpgTuesday, March 17
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Set in South Carolina in 1964, The Secret Life of Bees , by Sue Monk Kidd, is the moving tale of Lily Owens a 14 year-old girl who is haunted by the memory of her late mother. To escape her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father, Lily flees with Rosaleen, her caregiver and only friend, to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother's past. Taken in by the intelligent and independent Boatwright sisters, Lily finds solace in their mesmerizing world of beekeeping, honey and the Black Madonna.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.
Author's website.

        

March 15, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Golden Spiders

the-golden-spiders.jpgSunday, March 15
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the bookThe Golden Spiders by Rex Stout. A twelve-year-old boy shows up at Wolfe’s brownstone with an incredible story. Soon the great detective finds himself hired for $4.30 and wondering why the last two people to hire him were murdered.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

February 17, 2009

Pageturners: Three Cups of Tea

Three-Cups-of-Tea.jpgTuesday, February 17
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

After his failed attempt to ascend K2, Greg Mortenson was taken in and nursed back to health by the people of an impoverished Pakistani village. In Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time, by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin, the story of his promise to return one day and build them a school is told. From that rash, earnest promise grew one of the most incredible humanitarian campaigns of our time.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.
Three Cups of Tea website.

        

February 15, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group:
Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death

the-quiche-of-death.jpgSunday, February 15
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Quiche of Death by M.C. Beaton. The irascible Agatha Raisin has moved to a picture-book English village. She buys a quiche for the village quiche-making contest which poisons a judge and then she becomes the killer’s next target.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

February 3, 2009

Twilight Book Discussion

twilightminicover.jpgTuesday, February 3
7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of the book Twilight by Stephenie Meyer and how it differs from the movie. Refreshments will be served.
        

January 20, 2009

Pageturners: Loving Frank

LovingFrank.jpgNote: Date change due to Inauguration day
Wednesday, January 21
10:30 am, Seminar Room and
7:30 pm, McManus Room

In Loving Frank, Nancy Horan's first novel, she draws on years of research to weave little known-facts into a compelling narrative portraying the conflicts and struggles of Mamah Borthwick Cheney as she strives to justify her clandestine love with Frank Lloyd Wright. She is forced to choose between the roles of mother, wife, lover, and intellectual, seeking to find her own creative calling in the world.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

January 18, 2009

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: In a Strange City

in-a-strange-city2.jpgSunday, January 18
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of In a Strange City by Laura Lippman. Every year on Poe's birthday the "Poe Toaster" visits the author's gravesite and leaves roses and cognac. When a man is killed at the ceremony, reporter Tess Monaghan becomes a prime player in the drama.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

December 21, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group:
The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency

1_no_1_ladies_detective_age.jpgSunday, December 21
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith. The first book in this beloved series tells the story of the delightfully cunning and enormously engaging Precious Ramotswe, who is drawn to her profession to “help people with problems in their lives.”

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Author's website.
        

November 25, 2008

Pageturners: Robinson Crusoe

robinson-crusoe.jpgTuesday, November 25
Note: date is out of sequence
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe tells the story of a young man who yearns to escape the mundane world and set sail for a life of adventure in faraway places. Defying his father's wishes he leaves on board a ship, and then finds himself marooned on a tropical island where he wrestles with his fate and ponders the nature of God and man.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

November 22, 2008

Women of Mystery

Rosemary-Harris-crop.jpgJane-Cleland-crop.jpg
Hank-Phillippi-Ryan-crop.jpgSaturday, November 22
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Gardens, Antiques & Love—What else does a woman need?
Three accomplished writers of cozy mysteries join in a panel discussion.

Rosemary Harris's Pushing Up Daisies is the first in series of mysteries featuring master gardener/amateur sleuth, Paula Holliday. Jane K. Cleland is the author of the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries, which have been referred to as an Antiques Roadshow for mystery fans. Hank Phillippi Ryan, whose book Prime Time was the Agatha winner for Best First Novel.

Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Hank Phillippi Ryan's website.
Rosemary Harris's website.
Jane Cleland's website.

        

November 16, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group:
The Friend of Madame Maigret

friend-of-madame.jpgSunday, November 16
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Friend of Madame Maigret by Georges Simenon. Maigret attempts to prove that a murder has actually been committed without a corpse and he begins to suspect that his wife’s earlier strange encounter with a woman and her baby may hold the key.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
About the book.
        

October 21, 2008

Pageturners: Restless

restless.jpgTuesday, October 21
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss Restless by William Boyd. An absorbing historical thriller, the story unfolds on parallel tracks as Sally Gilmartin, born Eva Delectorskaya, a Russian émigré recruited into the British Secret Service in 1939, reveals her clandestine past in an autobiography that she gives to her daughter, Ruth, a graduate student and single mother living a dull civilian life in Oxford in 1976.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

October 19, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: A Test of Wills

a-test-of-wills.jpgSunday, October 19
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of A Test of Wills by Charles Todd. Ian Rutledge resumes his position at Scotland Yard, bringing nightmares and ghosts home with him from the French battlefields.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Author's website.
Book reviews.

        

October 6, 2008

PLAYCLUB

PlayClub logo.jpg Monday, October 6
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
at the Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court, Westport, CT

PlayClub is a collaboration between Westport Library and Westport Country Playhouse to allow you to read and discuss a play before you see the live performance, and have a sneak-peek at the set under construction.

On October 6th, come prepared to discuss the enduring masterpiece, Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck, with a member of the artistic staff of the playhouse. The play is based on John Steinbeck's 1937 tale of two traveling companions, George and Lennie, who wander the country during the Depression, dreaming of a better life for themselves.

Registration required. Call the Playhouse box office at 227-4177, or toll-free at 1-888-927-7529.

To obtain a copy of the play, phone 291-4821.

        

September 21, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Maisie Dobbs

Maisie-Dobbs.jpgSunday, September 21
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear. Maisie’s first assignment as a P.I. forces her to revisit the horrors of the Great War and the love she left behind.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Author's website.
Book Review.

        

September 16, 2008

Pageturners: Summer

summer.jpgTuesday, September 16
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss Summer by Edith Wharton. Considered by some to be her finest work, it created a sensation when first published in 1917, as it was one of the first novels to deal honestly with a young woman's sexual awakening. Eighteen year old, proud and independent Charity Royall is portrayed as a thoroughly contemporary woman.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
About the book.

        

August 19, 2008

Pageturners: Evening

evening1.jpgTuesday, August 19
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss Evening, by Susan Minot. It is a stirring exploration of time and memory, of love's transcendence and of its failure to transcend.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

August 17, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Burglar Who Traded Ted Williams

the-burgler-who-traded-ted-.jpgSunday, August 17
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Burglar Who Traded Ted Williams by Lawrence Block. Paper Chase #3: Bernie Rhodenbarr, burglar-turned-bookseller, must vindicate himself when he is falsely accused of stealing a priceless collection of baseball cards.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

July 15, 2008

Pageturners: A Thousand Splendid Suns

a-thousand-splendid-suns.jpgTuesday, July 15
Note date
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khaled Hosseini. Set in Afghanistan, it is a haunting, compelling story of an unforgivng time, an unlikely friendship, and an indestructible love.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

July 13, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: A Letter of Mary

aletter-of-mary.jpgSunday, July 13
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of A Letter of Mary by Laurie R. King. Paper Chase #2: An archaeologist turns up dead after leaving a papyrus supposedly written by Mary Magdalene with Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

June 17, 2008

Pageturners: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

diving-bell-and-the-butterf.jpgTuesday, June 17
10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, by Jean-Dominique Bauby, translated by Jeremy Leggatt. An extraordinary book about the author's survival of a paralyzing stroke and his determination to live a rewarding life despite this. Made into a movie.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

June 15, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Bookman’s Wake

bookmanswake.jpgSunday, June 15
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Bookman’s Wake by John Dunning. Paper Chase #1: Cliff Janeway, cop-turned-book-dealer, is trying to find “Eleanor Rigby” who has stolen a rare copy of Poe’s "The Raven."

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

May 20, 2008

Pageturners: The Rug Merchant

rug-merchant.jpgTuesday, May 20
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss The Rug Merchant, by Meg Mullins, a debut novel about a lonely Iranian immigrant who discovers an unlikely romance with an American college student.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.
New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

May 18, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Sacred Cows

sacredcows.jpgSunday, May 18
2:00 pm
McManus Room

Author Karen E. Olsen will be on-hand for the discussion of her book, Sacred Cows, the story about the murder of a Yale student and how the investigation by a New Haven reporter leads to her secret life. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Book Review.

        

May 5, 2008

PLAYCLUB

PlayClub logo.jpg Monday, May 5
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
at the Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court, Westport, CT

PlayClub is a collaboration between Westport Library and Westport Country Playhouse to allow you to read and discuss a play before you see the live performance and have a sneak-peek at the set under construction.

Come prepared to discuss a sweetly comic play, The Pavilion, by Craig Wright, with a member of the artistic staff of the playhouse. Craig Wright, an award-winning and Emmy-nominated playwright who has also been the head writer and producer for HBO’s “Six Feet Under” and “Lost.” The Pavilion is a story of high school sweethearts, Peter and Kari, voted the class of 1988’s “Cutest Senior Couple.” But, at the end of senior year, Kari becomes pregnant and Peter runs off. After not seeing each other since graduation, they meet again at their 20th high school reunion wondering if they can turn back time.

Registration required. Call the Playhouse box office at 227-4177, or toll-free at 1-888-927-7529. More information on the Playhouse's production.
To obtain a copy of the play, phone 291-4821.

        

April 15, 2008

Pageturners: The Knitting Circle

knitting-circle.jpgTuesday, April 15
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss The Knitting Circle, by Ann Hood, which is a story about the sharing of tragedies within a knitting circle.

For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.
Book Review.

        

April 13, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Circular Staircase

circularstaircase.jpgSunday, April 13
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Circular Staircase by Mary Roberts Rineheart. This 1908 gothic tale of ghostly happenings, murder and mayhem is the first of the type known as the "Had-I-But Known" mystery.
For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

March 24, 2008

PLAYCLUB

PlayClub logo.jpg Monday, March 24
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
at the Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court, Westport, CT

Discussion of Time of My Life , by Alan Ayckbourn, with a member of the artistic staff of the playhouse. . The comedy is from the playwright, director and company members of last season’s hilarious hit Relatively Speaking. Audience favorite Paxton Whitehead will play Gerry Stanton, family patriarch, who gets together with his sons and their significant others to celebrate their mother’s 54th birthday at their favorite family restaurant. Based on what transpires following the night of the birthday party, time begins to flow differently for each couple.

To obtain a copy of the play, go to the Playhouse website, www.westportplayhouse.org or phone 291-4821. Registration required. Call the Playhouse box office at 227-4177, or toll-free at 1-888-927-7529, or visit 25 Powers Court, off Route 1, Westport.

Westport Country Playhouse.
Co-sponsored by Westport Library and Westport Country Playhouse.

        

March 18, 2008

Pageturners: The Gathering

thegatheringsm.JPG Tuesday, March 18
10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss The Gathering by Anne Enright, a family epic about love, disappointment, and fate. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Book review

        

March 16, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Thirteenth Tale

thirteenthtale.jpgSunday, March 16
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. An aged author who has kept her tragic past a secret summons a biographer, a young woman beset by her own painful memories, for whom she spins a spellbinding tale. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

February 19, 2008

Pageturners: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

wizardofoz.jpg Tuesday, February 19
10:30 am and 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Get ready for WestportREADS events in March and discuss The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. (Barnes & Noble Classics edition). To reserve a copy of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

February 17, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Smilla's Sense of Snow

smillasenseofsnow.jpg Sunday, February 17
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Smilla’s Sense of Snow by Peter Hoeg. In this compelling international bestseller, when a woman questions the death of a small boy she finds herself caught up in a terrifying search for the truth. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

January 22, 2008

Pageturners: Memory Keeper's Daughter

memorykeepersdaughter.jpg Tuesday, January 22
10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Join a discussion about The Memory Keeper's Daughter, which explores the way life takes unexpected turns. The Washington Post writes, "Anyone would be struck by the extraordinary power and sympathy." For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

January 20, 2008

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Death at La Fenice

deathatlafenice.jpg Sunday, January 20
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Death at La Fenice by Donna Leon. Venice Commissario Guido Brunetti investigates the murder of an eminent conductor halfway through a performance in the first book of this critically acclaimed series. New participants always welcome.

        

December 16, 2007

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: Tied Up in Tinsel

tiedupintinsel.jpg Sunday, December 16
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of Tied up in Tinsel by Ngaio Marsh. Roderick Alleyn must separate the glaring truth from the glittering tinsel in one of his most problematic cases. New participants always welcome.

        

November 20, 2007

Pageturners: The Whale Caller

whalecaller.jpg Tuesday, November 20
10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

A discussion of The Whale Caller by Zakes Mda, a most enchanting and accessible book, yet a romantic comedy in which the changing face of post-apartheid South Africa is revealed. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

November 18, 2007

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

murderrogerackroyd.jpg Sunday, November 18
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

Discussion of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie. Hercule Poirot must solve an unusually complicated crime which is resolved in one of the most famous plot twists ever. New participants always welcome.

        

October 21, 2007

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group

Virgin%20of%20small%20plains.jpg

Sunday, October 21
2:00 pm
Seminar Room

The group will meet to discuss The Virgin of Small Plains by Nancy Pickard, this year's Agatha winner, set in Kansas in 1987, where the murder of a teenage girl changes a small town forever. Publishers Weekly called it "mesmerizing." For copies of the book, call 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Book Review

Library Mystery Book Blog

        

October 16, 2007

PageTurners

Places%20in%20Between.jpg

Tuesday, October 16
10:30 am & 7:30 pm
Seminar Room

Discuss The Places in Between by Rory Stewart, a story of the author’s walk across Afghanistan, surviving by his wits, his knowledge of Persian dialects and Muslim customs. New participants always welcome. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821.

Book Review.

        

September 18, 2007

PageTurners Book Discussion

glass%20castle.gifTuesday, September 18
10:30 am and 7:30 pm

Seminar Room

Discuss the moving memoir by Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle, a story of survival despite overwhelming odds. New participants always welcome. For copies of the book, phone 291-482.

Book Review

        

September 16, 2007

Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group

Janissary%20Tree.gifSunday, September 16
2:00 pm

Seminar Room

Discussion of The Janissary Tree by Jason Goodwin, this year's Edgar winner. The New York Times called it "the perfect escapist mystery." For copies of the book, call 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

Book Review

        

August 21, 2007

Pageturners Discuss: Remembering Laughter

rememberinglaughter.gif
Tuesday, August 21
10:30 am & 7:30 pm

Seminar Room

Join a discussion about the bookRemembering Laughter by Wallace Stegner, the book that launched his career. For copies of the book, phone 291-4821. New participants always welcome.

        

August 19, 2007

The Usual Suspects discuss: The Chatham School Affair

chathamschool.jpg
Sunday, August 19
2:00 pm

Seminar Room

The Usual Suspects Mystery Reading Group Discuss The Chatham School Affair by Thomas H. Cook. This genre-stretching mystery is a highly literate tale of forbidden love and its consequences. All are welcome.
To reserve a copy of the book, phone 291-4821.