Super Sad True Love Story

Our November meeting was at my (Rebecca's) house in Santa Cruz, and I'm so grateful that the group is willing to trek here once a year - thanks guys!

We read Gary Shteyngart's novel, Super Sad True Love Story, which was set in the nearish future and which predicts a social and economic picture that isn't a significant stretch from reality - just enough to be disturbing. Note that our group picture shows a growing number of äppärät readers among us (two iPads, one Kindle, and a phone).

In reading this book, we learned that "looking good is the new smart." Just look at us; we're brilliant!!

Rock Paper Tiger

On October 3rd, we met at my house to discuss
"Rock Paper Tiger" by Lisa Brackmann. I chose this book in an attempt to (finally) pick a book that wasn't about food or sex! Instead, this was an action/thriller novel about an female Iraq war veteran living in China, with lots of plot twists, war flashbacks, and forays into the virtual gaming world.

My mission was mostly accomplished -- it was definitely a different kind of book -- but there did still seem to be a lot of talk about dumplings in the book... ;)

Speaking of food, we feasted on yummy bread from Tartine, salad, mushroom-fontina quiche, and for dessert: chocolate-caramel macadamia nut tart and mini cupcakes!

The Help

On July 10, 2010 (wow are we behind on posting!) we gathered at Karen's house to discuss "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett. We had a tasty brunch prepared by Karen, including a farro salad. Lisa brought a chocolate pie (those of you who have read the book know what I'm talking about..... luckily hers was really made of chocolate).

Everyone really liked the book, and the food.