From sex to South Africa at book club From sex to South Africa at book club (March 03, 2004)

By Lauren John
Book group facilitator

Race relations in South Africa. Gun control in the United States. And sex after 60 in Berkeley!

All these topics will be discussed this year by the Menlo Park Library's Fiction/Nonfiction Book Club. Thanks to the Friends of the Menlo Park Library, the group is free and open to people of all ages -- whether or not they've read the book. The library makes sure there are extra copies of each book available -- so readers can borrow instead of buy.

"How many times have you read a book and wanted a forum to express that opinion in depth? That is what happens at our monthly gatherings," says member Bill Russ.

While the group has focused on historical fiction, this year we will concentrate more on contemporary issues, with authors that include South African Nobel prize winner J.M. Coetzee and Montana ranch-wife-turned-writer, Judy Blunt. There will be classic works, too, by John Steinbeck, James Joyce and Thornton Wilder.

Says member Susan Huch: "The thing I enjoy most about the group is the diversity of ages, which leads to a diversity of opinions. But I have to say that another perk is that we usually share a surprise refreshment treat related to the theme of the book."

Lauren John says she is thrilled to live within walking distance of the library and "three terrific independent bookstores" -- Kepler's, Feldman's and Wessex Books.

INFORMATION

Menlo Park Library's Fiction/Nonfiction Book Club meets the second Tuesday of the month, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the lower-level meeting room at the library, 800 Alma St., near Ravenswood Avenue, in Menlo Park. All are welcome whether you have read the book or not. For information, call 858-3468, or go to menloparklibrary.org, and click on Come to the Library, Events & Clubs.

Book selections for March, April

** March 9: "Breaking Clean" by Judy Blunt (2002). A contemporary memoir by a Montana ranch wife and daughter who finds that her life is too isolated and limited.

** April 13: "Crossing to Safety" by Wallace Stegner (1987). In this novel, two couples meet during the Depression years in Madison, Wisconsin, and become devoted friends despite vast differences in upbringing and social status.

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