BOOK CLUB:
The Names – Florence Knapp
Tuesday 28th July, 7:15 for 7:30pm
It is 1987, and in the wake of a great storm, Cora sets out with her young daughter to register the birth of her son. Her husband expects her to follow tradition and call the baby after him – but is it right for her child to inherit his name from generations of domineering men? Her choice will shape the course of their lives.
Seven years later, her son is Bear, a name chosen by his sister, hoping he will grow up to be brave and big-hearted. Or he is Julian, the name his mother set her heart on, keen for him to become his own person. Or he is Gordon, named after his father and raised in his cruel image – but is there still a chance to break the mould? Powerfully moving and full of hope, this is the story of three names, three versions of a life, and the infinite possibilities that a single decision can spark.
CLASSIC BOOK CLUB:
Howards End – E.M. Forster
Wednesday 2nd September, 7:15 for 7:30pm
The poor cannot always reach those whom they want to love, and they can hardly ever escape from those whom they love no longer.
We rich can ‘only connect’ is the idea at the heart of this book, a heartbreaking and provocative tale of three families at the beginning of the twentieth century: the rich Wilcoxes, the gentle, idealistic Schlegels and the lower-middle class Basts. As the Schlegel sisters try desperately to help the Basts and educate the close-minded Wilcoxes, the families are drawn together in love, lies and death.
Frequently cited as E.M. Forster’s finest work, Howards End brilliantly explores class warfare, conflict and the English character.
Everyone is welcome – either let us know beforehand or just turn up on the night. If you would like to be added to the emailing list just go to our contacts page and put your details in with ‘Book Club’ in the Subject line. Our book club meetings cost £5 which includes a glass of wine.