Books Club picks for July range from a poignant novel set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War to an examination of favorite All American Dishes, state by state. And there’s a special treat for fans of Adriana Trigiani. She’s on board for a special Shelter Island Public Library chat with her fans via Zoom.
Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction, mystery, classic literature, or even exploring regional cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Come together with fellow book lovers and indulge in the joy of reading and community.
Meantime, the library’s summer reading program, “Read the World,” is underway. Stop by the Circulation Desk to sign up and learn about prize offerings.
Shelter Island Book Club: ‘The Mountains Sing’
Join the Shelter Island Book Club on Tuesday, July 11, at 5 PM for a discussion of “The Mountains Sing” by Nguyen Phan Que Mai. Led by Suzanne Louer at the Shelter Island Public Library, this group focuses on well-regarded contemporary fiction.
“The Mountains Sing” is a gripping multigenerational tale set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. It follows Tran Dieu Lan, who had to flee her family farm with her six children during the Land Reform as the Communist government rose in the North.
The story also explores the coming-of-age journey of her young granddaughter, Huong, as her family gets entangled in the conflict. This poignant novel sheds light on the human costs of the Vietnam War from the perspective of the Vietnamese people themselves, emphasizing the power of kindness and hope.
Cookbook Club: All American Dishes
The library’s Cookbook Club invites you to a culinary adventure with “All American Dishes: State by State.” This month, the club encourages participants to choose a state and discover the iconic foods and popular dishes associated with it.
The meet-up at the library is Wednesday, July 12, at 5 PM. Prepare a dish that represents your chosen state and bring along a copy of the recipe to share. Newcomers are welcome to join this evening of delicious food and community bonding.
Barbara Pym Book Club: ‘An Academic Question’
This author-focused group, organized by SIPL Director Terry Lucas, invites you to delve into the world of Barbara Pym’s works.
Join the group on Saturday, July 29, at 2 PM for a Zoom chat on “An Academic Question.” This comedy of manners set in academia explores themes of happiness and success through satirical elements.
Engage in thought-provoking conversations and gain a deeper understanding of Pym’s literary style. Please follow this link to register.
Mystery Book Club: ‘A Slow Fire Burning’
Calling all mystery enthusiasts! Join the Mystery Book Club, led by Jessica Montgomery and Jocelyn Ozolins. On Monday, July 31, at 5:30 PM, they host a Zoom discussion of “A Slow Fire Burning” by Paula Hawkins. You can use this link to register.
Here’s a synopsis: When a young man is found murdered in a London houseboat, questions arise about three women who knew him but harbored separate connections to the victim. Secrets, resentment, and simmering tension intertwine, begging the question: how long can secrets smolder before they explode into flame?
Immerse yourself in this gripping mystery and explore the perspectives of the characters through multiple points of view.
Adriana Trigiani in a special Q&A
Exciting news for fans of Adriana Trigiani! On Tuesday, July 25, at 4 PM, the Shelter Island Book Club has a special event lined up.
Following their recent read of Trigiani’s “All the Good Left Undone,” the author herself will join the club for a Q&A session.
Whether you choose to participate in the library Community Room or via Zoom, prepare for an enjoyable time filled with wonderful stories and laughter. Use this link to sign up.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with Adriana and gain insights into her writing process.
Shakespeare in Community
Fans of the bard have two online events to look forward to in July. First, on Saturday, July 1 at 12:30 PM, unravel the beauty and intricacy of his mastery in an engaging discussion, “Understanding Shakespeare’s Verse.”
Explore how Shakespeare crafted his works using blank verse, which does not rhyme but follows the rhythm of iambic pentameter. Discover the magic behind his use of stressed and unstressed syllables, and delve into the linguistic nuances that make his writing so timeless.
Then, on Saturday, July 29, at 12:30 PM, immerse yourself in Shakespeare’s dark satire, “Timon of Athens.” This poignant yet humorous play challenges our perception of happiness and wealth. Witness the downfall of Timon, a wealthy and generous man who falls into financial ruin after his friends abandon him.
Explore the themes of friendship, betrayal, and the true nature of happiness in this thought-provoking masterpiece.
Both events take place via Zoom; please register using the library’s online calendar.
