isa bookworm

Ten years ago, Tina, Veronica, Melinda, and I were at one of our Sunday family events, talking  about the books we had read, the ones we loved, and the endless list we still wanted to get to. At one point, we decided to start a book club. 

A decade later, the format has evolved, our group has grown, but at the heart of it—we’re still gathering to talk about books.

Now, I know there are book clubs out there that meet but don’t always read the book. No judgment! But I love that our group shows up having read, ready to dive in. There’s always laughter, a little yelling, and—after reading Parable of the Sower—a very real conversation about apocalypse prepping.

Today, I love that Vonaire still threatens to fight fictional characters (even kids!), that Livia remembers the tiniest but most pivotal details, that Maricel always catches the -isms and makes sure we’re lifting all voices, that Cav and I bond over dark, dystopian futures, and that Justine always brings the “why.” And Denise—after a tough year—reminded us that sometimes, just showing up and staying connected is more than enough.

We like to revisit books we hated (looking at you Smilla’s Sense of Snow—how many ways can one describe ice? And how long was she on that boat?). And The Murmur of Bees—where exactly was that boy going, and why were those bees following him?

But the best moments? When we all fall in love with a book. The ones we’ll always be nostalgic for: Educated by Tara Westover, A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens—and I’m officially adding Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver to that list.

Going virtual during the pandemic turned out to be a gift. We’ve had members join from all over—while getting ready for church, at a ski lodge (hi Marylin!), in the car, or cozy at home with a hot cup of coffee. Whether in Chicago, Florida, Philly, or Barcelona, it always feels like we’re in the same room.

This has been such a beautiful bookish journey for the past ten years, and I can’t wait to see where the next ten take us. Thanks for letting me boss around the discussion questions—and whether you’re a longtime member, thinking of joining, or just looking for your next great read, I hope you find time to enjoy a good book this year. 💛