Monday, March 30, 2009

Wild Swans

Here are some questions to consider as you begin our April selection, Wild Swans.

Does the book succeed in being primarily a memoir rather than a historical document?

How does the book convey the horror of Communist China?

What is your abiding memory of the book″

How do you view the relationship between Chang′s parents; What do you admire/dislike about the family′s attitude to their problems?

Questions are from harpercollins.com.au.

Savannah Grey Presentation

Fourteen attendees listened to Jim Jordan tell us about the 4 years of research and writing that went into his book, Savannah Grey. He found a professional editor to help him cut the book into readable size, but never found a publisher. His book is self-published, although available in many area bookstores. He has marketed it primarily through public speaking engagements.
On the topic of the plot, Mr. Jordan pointed out that he wanted to draw attention to the role of free "persons of color" in the antebellum south. Not all these people were black. He also explained why a certain pivotal character in the book had to die.
We all look forward to Mr. Jordan's next book, a work of nonfiction on one of the historical characters in Savannah Grey. Beyond that, we were told to look forward to the sequel to Savannah Grey.
Our next meeting is on April 16 when we will discuss Wild Swans: Three Daughter of China by Jung Chang.